Power Sharing

Federalism

Gender, Religion and Caste

Political Parties

Outcomes of Democracy
Power Sharing
The Ethnic Composition of
Belgium

59% Dutch speaking; live in

Flemish region.

40% French speaking; live in

Wallonia.

1% German speaking people

Brussels- Capital of Belgium

(Dutch in minority)
 Reasons of Conflict between the French and the Dutch speaking
1. Belgium got its freedom in
1830 and since then the
French- speaking community
had been politically and
socially more dominant in the
country.
2. The French were more
qualified, educated,
relatively rich and socially
and politically powerful.
people
How is the ethnic composition of Belgium very
complex? Explain. (Term-I 2016)
5. This tension was more
visible and more acute in
Brussels where the country
wise majority
Dutch-speaking community
was in minority
3. This gap of prosperity
and development created
tensions between the two
communities during the
1950s and 1960s.
 Decentralisation:Many
Equal number of French and powers of the central
Dutch speaking Ministers in government have been
the central government given to the state
governments

BELGIAN MODEL
of accomodation:
ELEMENTS

Community Government:
Separate Government in
This government has the
Brussels: Where both the
power regarding cultural,
communities have equal
educational and language
representation
related issues

Describe the elements of Belgian model for

accommodating diversities. (2020)
 ETHNIC COMPOSITION OF
SRI-LANKA

74% Sinhala people in majority

and mostly were Buddhist

18% 13%- Sri Lankan Tamil People

in North and Northeastern Part
of the country Most Tamil speaking
were Hindus or
Muslims
Indian Tamil people:whose
forefathers came from India as
plantation workers.

There are about 7 percent Christians, who are

both Tamil and Sinhala
 Sinhala was
recognised as the
official language
disregarded Tamil
Majoritarianism:
A belief that the
majority community
should be able to The new Sinhala
rule the country in applicants were
Guidelines
The 1956 Act given priority in
whichever way it Alienated the
Education and
wants, by Srilankan government
disregarding the Tamil People Jobs
wishes and needs
of minority
The state stipulated
Describe any three majoritarian measures adopted by the Sri
to protect and
Lankan Government to establish Sinhala supremacy. [CBSE 2013, promote Buddhism
2012]
OR
Why did the Sri Lankan Tamils feel alienated? Explain three
measures taken by Sri Lanka, according to an Act passed in 1956.
[CBSE 2012]
 Feeling of alienation among Tamils

The majoritarian measures taken by the Sinhala dominated govt. increased the feeling of alienation
among Sri Lankan Tamils.

● Tamils felt that none of Sinhala dominated major political parties was sensitive to Tamil language
and culture.
● They also felt that Constitution and the Government policies discriminated against them in favour
of Sinhala people.
● They were denied equal political rights, no equal opportunities in getting jobs and their interests
were ignored.
● Govt. was practicing religious discrimination.
● This feeling of alienation strained relations between the Sinhala and Tamil communities.
 1. Recognition of Tamil as official language
2. Equal opportunities for Tamils in government
jobs and educational institutions.
Consequences of
Majoritarianism: Demands of 3. In 1976- Liberation Tiger of Tamil Eelam
Tamils (LTTE), a guerilla organ was formed, to
establish an independent Tamil State Eelam.
4. Regional Autonomy: By 1980s the demand
for independent Tamil State increased in the
North and eastern part of Sri Lanka.
5. Ultimately the distrust between the two
communities led to conflicts and finally turned
into a Civil War, ended in 2009, with the killing
of LTTE leader Prabhakaran
 Bring out any two sharp contrasts between Belgium and Sri
Lankan democracies.

Power sharing in Belgium Power sharing in Sri Lanka

The government gave importance The Elected government adopted

to regional difference and cultural Majoritarian measures and
diversities established sinhala supremacy

Each Community given equal The government mainly supported

power thus no single community sinhalese
could make decisions alone

They adopted such measures, Due to the biased behaviour of the

where everyone was given equal government other groups felt
opportunity alienated resulting in civil war

The capital city Brussels has They only had one government
different government and which was mainly supporting
communities have equal sinhala speakers and was trying to
representation establish their supremacy
 Why is Power Sharing is Desirable?

● It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict

between social groups.

● It is a good way to ensure the stability of

Prudential political order.

Reasons: PS will lead ● Imposing the will of the majority community,

over others may look like an attractive option
to better outcomes in the short run, but in the long run it
undermines the unity of the nation.

● Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.

Moral ● People have the right to be consulted on how
Reasons: spirit of they are to be governed.

democracy ● A legitimate government is one where citizens

through participation, acquires a stake in the
system
Power is shared Power shared
among different among
organs of governments at
government different levels
Forms of
Power
sharing
Power shared Power-sharing
among between political
different parties, pressure
social groups groups and
movement
 ● The power is shared among different organs of
government. Different organs exercise different
powers.
Power is shared
● Generally, power is shared among three organs-
among different
legislature, executive and judiciary and these organs
organs of are placed at the same level.
government
● Each organ checks the others which makes a balance
of power among various institutions.
● Separation of Powers: Different organs have different
separate powers to exercise. Such separation of
powers ensures that none organ becomes too
powerful.
 ● In this system, power is shared among governments
at different levels.
● Central/Union Government for the entire country at
Power shared national level
among ● States Governments/Provincial Or Regional
governments at Governments at state level while
different levels ● municipality and Panchayats at the local level
● This division of powers involving higher and lower
levels of government is called vertical distribution of
power sharing. Holds the Spirit of federalism
 The competition among different political parties ensures that
Power-sharing power does not remain in one hand.
between political
parties, pressure Ensures multiplicity of views through multi party systems and
groups and pressure group, example: Coalition government.
● Businessman, industrialists (e.g. FICCI) farmers (e.g.
movement
All India Kisan Sabha), students (ABVP).

In a democracy, especially, in multi-ethnic society, power is

Power shared
also shared among social grps such as religious and
among
linguistic groups .
different Accommodates social diversities and gives representation to
social groups historically marginalised communities, example reservation in
India, Community government in Belgium.
What are the different forms of power sharing in modern
democracies? Give an example of each of these

● Power Sharing among the Different Organs of Government (i.e.

Horizontal distribution of power) the system of checks and
balances.
● Power Sharing among Governments at Different Levels (i.e. Vertical
distribution of power sharing) In this form of power sharing, power
is shared at the different levels of government.
● Power Sharing among Political Parties, Pressure Groups and
Movements. They form a Coalition Government and thus share
power.
● Power Sharing Among Different Social Groups In a democracy,
especially, in multi-ethnic society, power is also shared amongst
social grps such as religious and linguistic groups- eg Community
government.
1.Power - sharing Topics

Belgium and Sri Lanka

● Mostly 1 Markers- Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka

Concept understanding +
basic facts
Accommodation in Belgium
● 2 markers
Why power sharing is
OVERALL- 4- 6 MARKS desirable?

Forms of Power Sharing

➔ “Power Sharing is the very spirit of democracy”. Justify the statement. (2015)
➔ My friend’s grandfather had gone to Belgium during the 1950's and 1960’s and worked in a
chocolate factory.He expressed that ‘he witnessed tensions between the Dutch speaking and
French Speaking communities during this time in Belgium ‘. Justify his statement with two reasons.
(2 Marks)
 11
Which of the following features are common between India and Belgium in forms of power
sharing?

(A) power is shared among government at different levels

(B) Power is shared among different organs of government
(C) power is shared among different social groups
(D) power is shared among different parties and takes the forms of competition

A,B,C,D B,C and D

A and C A, C and D
 11
Which of the following features are common between India and Belgium in forms of power
sharing?

(A) power is shared among government at different levels

(B) Power is shared among different organs of government
(C) power is shared among different social groups
(D) power is shared among different parties and takes the forms of competition

A,B,C,D B,C and D

A and C A, C and D
 12
Consider the following statements about the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka:
A. Major social groups are the Sinhala- speaking (74%) and Tamil-speaking (18%)?
B. Among the Tamils, there are two sub-groups, Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
C. There are about 7% Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.
D. Most of the Sinhala-speaking are Hindus or Muslims and most of the Tamil-speaking are Buddhists.
Which of the above statements are correct?

A, B, D A, B, C

B, C, D A, B, C, D
 12
Consider the following statements about the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka:
A. Major social groups are the Sinhala- speaking (74%) and Tamil-speaking (18%)?
B. Among the Tamils, there are two sub-groups, Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
C. There are about 7% Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.
D. Most of the Sinhala-speaking are Hindus or Muslims and most of the Tamil-speaking are Buddhists.
Which of the above statements are correct?

A, B, D A, B, C

B, C, D A, B, C, D
 13
Assertion (A): Democracy is not simply ruled by majority opinion.

Reason (R): The majority always needs to work with the minority so that governments function
to represent the general view.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 14
Assertion (A): Power Sharing is good.

Reason (R): It leads to ethical tension.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 14
Assertion (A): Power Sharing is good.

Reason (R): It leads to ethical tension.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

15
The area in yellow color is
called____and language majorly Wallonia region, Dutch
used is____

Flemish region, French

Wallonia region, French

Flemish region, Dutch

15
The area in yellow color is
called____and language majorly Wallonia region, Dutch
used is____

Flemish region, French

Wallonia region, French

Flemish region, Dutch

Federalism
 WHAT IS FEDERALISM

Power is divided between different levels of Government.

Mostly between a central authority and various constituent unit

Central Government State Government

● Governments at the level of

● Government for the entire country
provinces or states
● usually responsible for a few
● Looks after much of the
subjects of common national day-to-day administration of
interest. their state.

Describe any three features of ‘federal

government’. (2020)
 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN UNITARY AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

2023- 3 marks- Distinguish Unitary Federal

between unitary and federal
systems of government. One level of government Two or more level of governments

Subunits are subordinate of

State govts have their own independent
central government
power

Examples: Sri Lanka, France, The USA, India, Canada, Brazil,

Spain, Italy Belgium
 MAIN FEATURES OF FEDERALISM

Describe the main features of federalism. (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015)

OR
State any three key features of federalism in India. (2020, 19, 17)
 Features of federalism

1.There are two or more levels (or tiers) of

government.
2.Different levels of Government govern
the same citizens but have Separate
Jurisdiction
3.Authority of each level is
Constitutionally Guaranteed- specified in
the constitution
4.The fundamental provisions of the
constitution cannot be changed by one level of
government.
5.Judiciary acts as an Umpire if dispute arises
between levels of government
6.Financial Autonomy ensured :Sources of
revenue for each level of government are clearly
specified to ensure its financial autonomy
7.Dual Objectives of Federalism:
1. to safeguard and promote unity of the
country
2. accommodate regional diversity.
Ideal Federal Structure:
1. Agreement to live together
2. Mutual Trust
 Types of Federation

There are two kinds of routes through which federations have been formed.

COMING TOGETHER FEDERATION HOLDING TOGETHER FEDERATION

● Involves independent States coming together
on their own to form a bigger unit, so that by
pooling sovereignty and retaining identity they
can increase their security.
● USA, Switzerland and Australia.
● All the constituent States usually have equal
power and are strong vis-à-vis the federal
government.
● A large country decides to divide its power
between the constituent States and the
national government.
● India, Spain and Belgium are examples
● the central government tends to be more
powerful vis-à-vis the States.
● Very often different constituent units of the
federation have unequal powers. Some units
are granted special powers.
 What makes India a Federal Country?

State any three key features of

federalism in India. (2020, 19, 17)
1. The Constitution originally provided for
a two-tier system of government,
the Union Government or what we call
the Central Government, representing
the Union of India and the State
governments.

2. Later, a third tier of federalism was

added in the form of Panchayats and
Municipalities.

3. Separate jurisdiction
 3 Fold Distribution of Legislative Power

Union State Concurrent Residuary

List List List Powers

❖ Only the Union ❖ It includes all

❖ Only state those subjects
Govt. can make ❖ Both the Union
governments can which are not on
laws on the and the State
make laws. the above three
subjects governments can
❖ It includes the lists. It is generally
mentioned in this make laws on the
subjects of state new subjects like
list like subjects in the list
and local computer, cyber
❖ It includes the
importance like- world.
subjects of ❖ Subjects of
police, commerce,
national common interest
irrigation ❖ Union
importance like – education,
defence, foreign forest,trade union, government has
affairs, banking, marriage etc. the powers to
currency. make laws.
Which one of the following
subjects comes under the
legislation of Centre and State in
India?
(a) Education
(b) Forests
(c) Banking
(d) Trade (2022)
2023- The Indian constitution provides 3 lists to
distribute the legislative power. State any two subjects
that are included in the union list. In which list the
subject “Education” is included and why? (3 Marks)

2023- Explain the three fold distribution of legislative

powers between the Union Government and the State
Governments.
All States in the Indian Union do not CASE OF UNION
have identical powers. Some States TERRITORIES
enjoy a special status.

States such as These are areas which are too small

● Assam to become an independent State but
● Nagaland which could not be merged with any
● Arunachal Pradesh of the existing States
● Mizoram
Enjoy special powers under certain provisions of
the Constitution of India (Article 371) due to their
peculiar social and historical circumstances
These territories do not have
the powers of a State
Indians who are not permanent
residents of this State cannot buy
land or house here
The Central Government
has special powers in
running these areas
 4. The fundamental provisions of the constitution cannot be unilaterally changed by
one level of government.

POWER SHARING: Basic to the structure of the

constitution

The Parliament cannot on its

own change this arrangement.

Any change to it has to be first

passed by both the Houses of
Parliament with at least
two-thirds majority.

Then it has to be ratified by the

legislatures of of at least half of the
total States.
 How is Federalism Practiced in India?

● Linguistic States
● Language Policy
● Centre state Relations

Explain the factors that make federal

government in India so attractive. [CBSE
2016-17]
 How is federalism practised? The Success of Federalism

Constitutional Democratic Successful Federation

provisions Politics
Linguistic States

The creation of linguistic States was the first and

a major test for democratic politics in our country

● Since independence in 1947, many new states have been created on federal
principles. Some states were created on the basis of languages spoken by people.
● The first linguistic state was Andhra Pradesh created in 1953 after a strong movement
led by Potti Sriramulu for the creation of a separate state for Telugu speaking people.
● Nagaland, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh and Telangana were created to
maintain their ethnic identity and their geographical location.
● The leaders feared separatist tendencies if linguistic states were created but the fear
proved false because the formation of linguist states has made India more united and
has eased the administration.
 Language Policy

● India does not have a national language but it is spoken by around

40% of the population.
● Hindi is the official language of the Union Government and it is
officially promoted also by the govt.
● English was adopted as a secondary language for 15 years for till
1965 but it still continues just because of the demand of the
Non-Hindi speaking states.
● There are 22 scheduled languages listed in the 8th schedule of the
constitution.
● States are allowed to have their own official languages.
● A candidate opting for central government job can opt for any of
the scheduled 22 languages.
Centre – State Relations

Before 1990
One-Party Rule: In the first 30 years of India’s
independence, only one party (congress)ruled at the
center without a break and had governments in most of
the states. The states did not desire or feel the need to
exercise their federal powers.
● Misuse of Power of article 356 dismiss the state
governments: The central governments used to
undermine the authority of state governments and
dismissed the rival party ruled states. It Undermined
the very spirit of federalism.
Centre – State Relations

Challenges before 1990 Challenges after 1990

Political scene was dominated by one Now the Centre and majority of State
party both at the Centre and in the Governments belong to different political
States. parties in coalition.

As and when the ruling party at the state A number of regional parties have
level was different the parties that ruled become powerful and play a crucial role
at the Centre tried to undermine the at the Centre and States
power of the States.

The Central Government would often The era of coalition government at the
misuse the constitution to dismiss the Centre has inculcated respect for
State Government that were controlled federal autonomy.
by rival parties.
 Decentralisation

When power is taken away from central

and state governments and given to local
government, it is called decentralization.
In 1992 the constitution was amended to
introduce three tier system of Panchayati
Raj more powerful and effective.

Basic Idea behind Decentralization

● Problems and issues which are best settled at the local
level
● People have better knowledge of problems in their
localities. Describe the rationale behind the
● Better ideas on expenditure and efficiency implementation of Decentralisation
in India. [CBSE OD, 2020]
● People directly participate in decision making.
● This inculcates a habit of democratic participation
 Describe any three steps taken to strengthen local
self-governments, by the Constitutional Amendment, 1992.

The 73rd (for Panchayats) and the 74th (For Municipalities) Constitutional amendments introduced
three-tier system known as Panchayati Raj at rural level and Municipalities at urban level.
● Regular Elections: It is Mandatory to hold regular elections to local
government bodies.

● Reservation of Seats: Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the
executive heads of these institutions for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled
Which five provisions Tribes and Other Backward Classes. At least one-third of all positions are
of the constitutional
reserved for women.
amendment of 1992
really strengthened
the third tier of ● State Election Commission: An independent institution called the State
democracy in India? Election Commission has been created in each State to conduct panchayat
Explain. (2015, 2013,
and municipal elections.
2012)

● Revenue: The State governments are required to share some powers and
revenue with local government bodies
Describe any three steps taken by the Indian Government towards decentralisation of
power in 1992. [CBSE OD, 2020]

Describe any three steps taken to strengthen local self-governments, by the

Constitutional Amendment, 1992. [CBSE 2019, 18]

Explain the three major provisions of the Constitutional Amendment of 1992 which
really strengthened the third tier of democracy in India? [2016, 2015]

“Local governments have made a significant impact on Indian

democracy. At the same time there are many difficulties”. Explain.
(2012)
2.Federalism

Topics
● 1 Markers- Subjects
What is Federalism?
● 2 / 3 markers

What make India a Federal

OVERALL- 6-7 MARKS Country?

How is Federalism practiced?

Decentralization in India

➔ Explain the three fold distribution of legislative powers between the Union Government and the
State Governments.
➔ Mention any two reasons to state that India is a federal country.(2 Marks)
➔ The Indian constitution provides 3 lists to distribute the legislative power. State any two subjects
that are included in the union list. In which list the subject “Education” is included and why? (3
Marks)
➔ Distinguish between unitary and federal systems of government.
➔ The exact balance of power between the central and the state government varies from one
federation to another.” Substantiate the statement with suitable examples. (3 Marks)
 11
Consider the following statements on the practice of federalism in India. Identify those which
hold true for decentralization after 1992.

A. Local governments did not have any power or resources of their own.
B. It became constitutionally mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
C. The state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government
bodies.
D. No seats are reserved in the elected bodies for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other
backward classes.

B and C A and C

A and D B and D
 11
Consider the following statements on the practice of federalism in India. Identify those which
hold true for decentralization after 1992.

A. Local governments did not have any power or resources of their own.
B. It became constitutionally mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
C. The state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government
bodies.
D. No seats are reserved in the elected bodies for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other
backward classes.

B and C A and C

A and D B and D
 12
In a ‘Holding together federation’:

A. A large country divides its power between constituent states and the national government.
B. The Central government tends to be more powerful vis-a-vis the States.
C. All the constituent states usually have equal powers.
D. Constituent states have unequal powers.
Which of the above statements are correct?

A, B, C and D A and D

B and C A, B and D
 12
In a ‘Holding together federation’:

A. A large country divides its power between constituent states and the national government.
B. The Central government tends to be more powerful vis-a-vis the States.
C. All the constituent states usually have equal powers.
D. Constituent states have unequal powers.
Which of the above statements are correct?

A, B, C and D A and D

B and C A, B and D
 13
Assertion (A): The local government structure goes right up to the state level.

Reason (R) : A few gram panchayats are grouped together to form what is usually called a
panchayat samiti or block or mandal.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 13
Assertion (A): The local government structure goes right up to the state level.

Reason (R) : A few gram panchayats are grouped together to form what is usually called a
panchayat samiti or block or mandal.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 14
The system of Panchayati Raj involves:

(a) Village, State and Union levels

(b) Village, District and State levels

(c) Village and State levels

(d) Village, Block and District levels

 14
The system of Panchayati Raj involves:

(a) Village, State and Union levels

(b) Village, District and State levels

(c) Village and State levels

(d) Village, Block and District levels

 15
Here are three reactions to the language policy followed in India. Which of the following holds
true in the case of India?

(a) The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.

(b) Language based states have divided us by making everyone conscious of their language.

(c) The language policy has only helped to consolidate the dominance of English over all other
languages.
 15
Here are three reactions to the language policy followed in India. Which of the following holds
true in the case of India?

(a) The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.

(b) Language based states have divided us by making everyone conscious of their language.

(c) The language policy has only helped to consolidate the dominance of English over all other
languages.
Gender, Religion a
nd Caste
Sex (Biological)
V/S
Gender (Social
expectations)
 SEXUAL DIVISION OF LABOUR

A system in which all work inside the

home is either done by the women of the
family, or organised by them through the
domestic helpers.But when these jobs are
paid for, men are ready to take up these
works i.e, cook, tailor

Explain the sexual division of labour.

PUBLIC/PRIVATE DIVISION 1. Private division of Labour - It is meant for work inside
house. Women are responsible for daily household chores,
bring up and look after children.
2. Public division of Labour – It refers to all work done
outside home. Men perform these works. When Jobs are
paid for, men are ready to take up these works
3. Outside work done by women (not valued and
recognised)
In villages – Women bring water, collect fuel wood and
work in fields
In urban areas – Poorer women work as domestic
helpers. Middle class women work in offices
 A feminist believes in the equal rights for women. There have
been agitations with the demands like-
Feminist movements
● Raising the political and legal status of women
● Voting rights for women
● Improving educational and care opportunities
● Some Radical demands of equality of women in personal
and family life
 Women face disadvantage, discrimination ‘Gender division is' not based on biology but
and oppression in various ways even today. on social expectations and stereotypes.’
Assess the statement by giving five suitable Support the statement. [CBSE 2016-17]
arguments. [CBSE 2018] Or
What is Gender division ? How is it practised
? What are its consequences ?

Explain any five methods to raise the

political representation of women in
Suggest any one way to increase
India. [AI 2019]
the participation of women in the
legislative domain of
India. [2020 C]
Women still lag much behind men in
India despite some improvements since
independence. Analyse the statement.
[CBSE 2019, 32/1/1] What percentage of reservation
is given to women in local
administration in India?
Describe the ways of discrimination [2020]
faced by women in India. [2020]
Ours is a patriarchal Low female literacy rate : (2011 census)
society (ruled by father) 65.46% for women and 82.14 % for men.
where women face Parents prefer boys over girls in sending
disadvantages, schools. Girls drop out before going for higher
discrimination and studies.
oppression in many ways
● Low proportion of women in paid jobs
There is very small share of women of women in highly paid and
valued jobs
Discrimination
against women in
India

● Unpaid work of women is not valued

An Indian woman works one hour more than an
average man yet her unpaid work is generally
not given importance.
Ours is a patriarchal ● Crime against women:
society (ruled by father) Urban areas are becoming unsafe for women.
where women face Women face domestic violence, exploited and
disadvantages, harassed at work places.
discrimination and
oppression in many ways
Disparity in salaries and wages for the same job:
The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976 provides for equal
wages for the same work yet women are paid less than men
Discrimination in almost all areas of work – from sports and cinema to
against women in factories and fields
India

● Preference for son and sex-selective

abortions:
The abortions- have led to decline in child sex
ratio which is at 940 per thousand boys (2011
census)
 Women’s Political Representation

The proportion of women in the legislature has been very low.

➔ Central Legislature: The percentage of elected

women members in Lok Sabha has touched 14.36 %
of its total strength for the first time in 2019.
WOMEN'S POLITICAL
REPRESENTATION ➔ State Legislature: Less than 5% of its total strength is
women.

➔ Local Government: 1/3rd of the seats are reserved

for women in Panchayats and Municipalities.
Solution WOMEN RESERVATION BILL

Women's organisations and activists have been demanding a

similar reservation of at least one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha
and State Assemblies for women.

★ A bill with this proposal has been pending before the

Parliament for more than a decade.

★ There is no consensus over this among all the political

parties.

★ Women’s Reservation Bill 2023: Bill seeks to

provide 1/3rd seats for women, including in
SC/ST Constituencies- State Legislature and
Parliament
Religion,Communalism and Politics

Gandhiji’s views on religion and politics

Religion can never be Religion is a moral

separated from politics. force’ that can unite
He was not referring to different segments of
any particular Religion. society

Politics must be guided by the

moral and ethical values of all
religions.
Political acts towards religion are
not wrong as long as they treat
every religion equally.
Religion, Communalism and Politics

Communalism

Belief that people belonging

to the same religion should
form a nation, and in this
process the power of state is
used to establish domination
of one religious group over
the other.

Communal politics is based on

the idea that religion is the
principal basis of social
community
Different forms of Communalism:

1. Communalism in everyday beliefs- It so common that people fail to notice that

they have developed a routine thinking on communal lines- superiority of their
religion,
prejudices and stereotypes of religious communities.

2. Urge to form a separate political unit- Quest for political dominance results in the
belief in majority-dominance for those in majority and the minority start to desire
for a separate political unit based on their identity.

3. Political mobilization on religious lines- It refers to attempts made to bring the

target Religious community together. It involves the use of sacred symbols, use of
religious leaders, emotional appeals and plain fear from other religions. During
elections special appeals are issued to woo the voters of one religion in preference
to others.

4. The ugly form of communalism- It involves Communal violence, riots, and

massacre. India suffered some of the worst communal riots at the time of partition.
 Suggest any one way to create communal
harmony among various communities of
India.[2020]

Describe any three problems of

communalism in Indian politics. [2020]

'Communalism can take various

forms in politics'. Explain.
[2020]
OR
What form does communalism
take in politics? [2015]
 ● There is no official religion for the Indian state.

● The preamble contains the word 'Secular' (added

by 42nd constitutional amendment, 1976)

Secular
● Article 25-28 – right to practice, profess,
provisions of
propagate any religion
the Constitution

● Article 15 and 16 prohibit discrimination on

ground of religion, caste etc

● Constitution also allows state power to intervene in

matters of religion to ensure equality within religious
communities. Example- ban on untouchability (Art 17).
Mention any three features of 'secularism’ described in
the Indian Constitution. [2020]

What is a secular state ? Explain factors which make India a

secular state. [CBSE 2016-17]
OR
“Secularism is not an ideology of some political parties or
persons, but it is one of the
foundations of our country.” Examine the statement. [CBSE
2018]
Caste and Politics Decline of Caste System (reasons)
Economic development, education, occupational mobility etc
have been weakening the Caste-hierarchy

● Leaders like Jyotiba Phule, Gandhiji, B R Ambedkar

Explain the major factors
and Periyar Ramaswami Naicker worked to
responsible for the rigid caste establish society which is not based on Caste
system disappearing from India.Give inequalities
two suggestions of your own.
● Urbanisation and growth of literacy and education
has helped in the weakening of Caste institutions
● Occupational mobility (choice of occupation) is
breaking the old notion of Caste hierarchy
● Weakening of the position of landlords in villages
has also contributed to the decline Caste hierarchy
● The Indian Constitution also prohibits Caste based
discrimination.
Caste and Politics Caste has not yet disappeared from India
How has caste system in modern India
undergone great change? Explain.
[2023]
"Caste system is still prevalent in
the Indian society.” Suggest any
one measure to
abolish it. [2020]
Explain the factors that have led
to the weakening of the caste
system in India. [2019 C,
2014, 2016, 2017]
● Most people still prefer marriage within their own
caste or tribe
● Untouchability has not ended completely despite
constitutional prohibition
● The effect of centuries of advantages and
disadvantages continue to be felt today
● Those Caste groups still lag behind which were
denied access to education
● Caste continues to be closely linked to economic
status.
● Example – Larger presence of upper caste
among the urban middle class.
Caste and Politics Forms of Casteism in Indian Politics

Casteism is rooted in the belief that Caste is the only basis

of social community. Political parties and candidates use
caste difference to win elections

● Political parties choose candidates in elections

considering the case composition of the electorate
(the voters) What forms can caste
take in politics?
● Different castes and tribes are given representation
when govt is formed

● Caste sentiments are used by political parties and

candidates. They are seen as their representatives.

● Universal adult franchise and the principal of

one-person-one-vote has compelled political leaders
to give importance to even those people treated as
low or inferior.
Caste and Politics Elections are not always related to Caste effects

1. No parliamentary
constituency has a 2. No party wins the votes of all the bits of a
clear majority of one Caste or community (sometimes called 'vote
single Caste. Vote of bank's)
other castes also
matter

3. Sitting MP or MLAs also lose 4. Many candidates from the same Caste
elections from the same divides the votes while many voters have no
constituency as the same voters candidate from their castes.
vote against them.
Caste and Politics Factors other than Caste that influence politics

Caste is not the only factor that influence politics. Some other factors also
decide the voting preference.

● Voters having strong attachment with any political party votes for the party
discarding the Caste aspect
● Rich and poor or men and women from the same Caste vote very
differently.
● People from the same Caste or community may have different interests
that decides voting preferences.
● Assessment of the performance of the government and popular rating of
the leaders are often decisive in elections.
Caste and Politics Politics in caste

● Politics also influences Caste or we can say that Castes

also get politicised. Politicisation of Castes can take
following forms.

● Each Caste group tries to become bigger by

incorporating within it neighboring Castes or sub-castes.

● Castes or community’s coalition to have dialogue and

negotiation.

● New Caste groups like backward and forward have

come up in political arena.
 Describe the influence of Politics in the
Caste system. [2020C]

"Sometimes elections are all about

caste in India.” How can this situation
be avoided?[2020]

Mention the problem of 'Casteism' in

Indian politics. [2020]
3. Gender, Religion and Caste Topics

Gender, Religion and

Caste-Public/Private
● Picture Based Question
● Often comes in some
division,Women’s political
sets representation
● Most neglected
Religion, Communalism and
OVERALL- 2- 3 marks Politics – Communalism,Secular
State

Caste and Politics - Caste in

politics, Politics in caste

1. Explain any three constitutional provisions that make India a secular

State.(2023 - 2Marks)

2. “Women face discrimination in various ways in our society.” Explain any two
ways.(2023 - 2 Marks)
 11
What is the primary reason behind the minimal representation of women in public
life and politics?

A) Biological differences between men and women

B) Women's lack of interest in public affairs

C) Social expectations and stereotypes

D) Women's preference for domestic work

 11
What is the primary reason behind the minimal representation of women in public
life and politics?

A) Biological differences between men and women

B) Women's lack of interest in public affairs

C) Social expectations and stereotypes

D) Women's preference for domestic work

 12

what is one proposed solution to the low representation of women in elected

bodies, particularly in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies?

A) Imposing legal obligations to reserve one-third of seats for

women

B) Encouraging women to voluntarily participate in politics

C) Leaving the issue to the discretion of individual political

parties
D) Implementing training programs for women interested in
politics
 12

what is one proposed solution to the low representation of women in elected

bodies, particularly in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies?

A) Imposing legal obligations to reserve one-third of seats for

women

B) Encouraging women to voluntarily participate in politics

C) Leaving the issue to the discretion of individual political

parties
D) Implementing training programs for women interested in
politics
 13
Assertion (A): Gandhiji believed that politics must be guided by ethics drawn from religion.

Reasoning (R): Ideas, ideals, and values drawn from different religions can play a positive role in
politics, and political acts are not wrong as long as they treat every religion equally.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 13
Assertion (A): Gandhiji believed that politics must be guided by ethics drawn from religion.

Reasoning (R): Ideas, ideals, and values drawn from different religions can play a positive role in
politics, and political acts are not wrong as long as they treat every religion equally.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct Both A and R are true but R is not the correct
explanation of A. explanation of A.

A is true but R is false. A is false but R is true.

 14

1. Gender division - A, Religion - B, Secular state - C, Caste - D

2. Gender division - C, Religion - D, Secular state - A, Caste - B

3. Gender division - D, Religion - C, Secular state - B, Caste - A

4. Gender division - B, Religion - A, Secular state - D, Caste - C

https://vdnt.in/EUVBn https://vdnt.in/EWh2p https://vdnt.in/EV1ed
 DOWNLOAD CLASS 10
20 PYQS [2013-2023]

LEAST TO THE MOST REPEATED

ALL SUBJECT CHAPTERWISE

 DOWNLOAD CLASS 10
COMPETENCY BASED QS

DAILY HANDWRITTEN NOTES

ASSERTION & REASONING

SESSION PDFS
 DOWNLOAD CLASS 10
TEST SERIES SOLUTION

3 SCIENCE & 3 SST

3 BASIC MATHS & 3 STANDARD

MATHS

3 ENGLISH & 3 HINDI [A & B]

Political Parties
 Political Party

A group of people who come up together to contest elections

and hold power in the Government

What do you understand by political parties? Explain three

components of a political party.
 Components of Political Parties

Followers
Leaders

Active Members
 Functions of Political Parties

Contest elections ❏ Elections are fought mainly among the candidates

put up by political parties.
❏ Parties select their candidates in different ways.

❏ Parties recruit leaders, train them and then make

Form and run Governments them ministers to run the government and make
Policy Decisions

Form Policies and programmes ❏ Parties put forward different policies and
programmes and the voters choose from
them.
 Functions of Political Parties

Parties play a decisive role in ❏ Laws are debated and passed in

making laws for a country the legislature
❏ Members of a party follow the
direction of Party leadership

Role of Opposition ❏ It voice different views and criticise government

for its failures or wrong policies.

Parties Shape Public Opinion ❏ It voice different views and criticise government
for its failures or wrong policies.
Necessity of Political Parties

★ Every candidate in the elections will be independent.

★ So no one will be able to make any promises to the

people about any major policy changes.
★ The government may be formed, but its utility will
remain ever uncertain.
★ Elected representatives will be accountable to their
constituency.
★ But no one will be responsible for how the country will
be run.

“Modern democracies cannot exist without political

parties.” Evaluate the statement with the help of relevant
arguments./ NECESSITY OF POLITICAL PARTIES
 How many parties should we have?

In a democracy any group of citizens is free to form a political party.

• In India, more than 750 parties are registered with the Election Commission of India
• But not all these parties are serious contenders in the elections.
• Usually only a handful of parties are win elections and form the government.

One-party system

● One party controls and runs the government

● No free competition for power
● No opposition
Example – China, North Korea, Cuba
How many parties should we have?

Two-party system (Bi-party system)

● Power usually changes between two main dominant

parties
● Other parties may exist and can also win few seats in
national legislature
● People have choice to vote for any party
● Other parties sit as opposition
Example:USA,UK
How many parties should we have?

Multi-Party System

When more than two parties have a reasonable chance of coming

to power it is called multi-party system. Coming to power can be
two ways-
● Getting majority on alone – One party gains majority and
forms the government.
● Alliance- When several parties join hands to fight elections
together to come to power, it is called an Alliance.
● Example – In 2004 there were 3 such alliances –
1. UPA- United Progressive Alliance
2. NDA- National Democratic Alliance
3. Left Front
‘‘No party system is ideal for all countries
and all situations.” Justify the statement
with arguments.

Differentiate between two party system and multi party

system.
National Parties

In a democracy any group of citizens is free to form a political party.

★ In India, more than 750 parties are registered with the Election Commission of
India
★ But not all these parties are serious contenders in the elections.
★ Usually only a handful of parties are win elections and form the government
 According to this classification, there were seven recognised national
parties in the country in 2019.

All India Trinamool Congress Indian National Congress (INC)

(AITC)

Bharatiya Janata Party

(BJP)

Nationalist Congress Party

(NCP)

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)

Communist Party of India Communist Party of India -

(CPI) Marxist
 Founding Ideology Symbol Leader Area/Region/Present
year position

BJP 1980 Ancient cultural values, Shyama Formed NDA

(Bharatiya Integral humanism, Prasad Presently ruling
Janata Party) Antyodaya, Hindutva Mukherjee Government

INC 1885 Secular, welfare of Jawaharlal Formed UPA in 2004,

(Indian weaker section & Nehru Ruled for a major
National minorities, Centrist Party period
Congress)

BSP 1984 Aims to represent and Kanshi Ram Main base in U.P.
(Bahujan secure power for the presence in
Samaj Party) Bahujan samaj, follows Chhattisgarh,
ideas of Shahu Maharaj, Uttarakhand and
Phule Naicker and Punjab
Ambedkar
 Founding Ideology Symbol Leader Area/Region/Present
year position

AITC(All India 1998 Committed to secularism Mamta In power of West

Trinamool and federalism Banerjee Bengal, 4th largest
Congress) party in Lok Sabha

CPI (Communist 1925 Marxism-Leninism, D. Raja Kerala, West Bengal ,

Party of India) opposed successionism Punjab, Andhra
and communalism, stand Pradesh, Tamil Nadu
for working class farmers
and poor

CPI-M(Communi 1964 Marxism-Leninism, Sitaram W.B., Kerala, Tripura

st Party of opposes new economic Yechury
India-Marxism) policies and new trade

NCP(National 1999 Advocates democracy, Sharad Maharashtra(major

Congress Party) Gandhian Pawar party),Meghalaya,
secularism,demands high Manipur, and Assam
offices in government to
be confined to natural
born citizens
State parties
Parties other than the national parties are classified as state
parties. Also known as ‘Regional parties’

❖ These parties need not be regional in their ideology or outlook,

and play very important role in national politics.

❖ The national parties are compelled to form alliances with State

parties.

❖ Made the Parliament of India politically more and more diverse.

❖ Contributed to the strengthening of federalism and democracy

in our country
 Conditions Required to
become Recognized party

Conditions required to be Conditions required to be

recognised as a National party recognised as a State Party

❖ A party that secures at least ★ Party secures at least 6%

six per cent of the total votes of the total valid votes
votes in Lok Sabha State Legislative Assembly
elections or Assembly elections
elections in four States.
★ Wins at least 2 seats in the
❖ Wins at least four seats in Legislative Assembly
the Lok Sabha is
recognised as a national
party.
 Difference between National Parties and Regional Parties

National Parties Regional Parties

1. National Parties have their influence 1. Regional Parties have their

all over the country or in many states. influence in one state or a few regions.

2. The parties raise national and 2. They raise regional issues.

international issues.

3. They need to secure at least 6% of total 3. They need to secure at least 6% of

valid votes in Lok sabha Elections or total valid votes in an election to
assembly elections in four states and wins Legislative Assembly of a state and wins
at least four seats in the Lok sabha. at least 2 seats.

4. Example- INC, BJP, BSP, CPI

4. Example- Samajwadi Party,
DMK, AIADMK
Evaluate the significant
distinction between the
national and regional parties.
What is meant by a ‘national political party’?

b. State the conditions required to be a national political party.

Write about the main features

c. How many national parties are there in India? Name them.
of the BJP.

Name the national political

party which espouses
secularism and the
welfare of weaker sections
and minorities. Mention
any four features of that
What is meant by a regional political party? State the party.
conditions required to be recognized as a ‘regional political
party’.
Challenges to Political Parties

1 Lack of Internal Democracy

2 Dynastic Succession

3 Money and Muscle Power

4 Problem of Meaningful Choice to

the Voters
 How can parties be reformed?

❏ The Constitution was amended to prevent elected

1 Anti - defection law MLAs and MPs from changing parties.
❏ Many elected representatives were indulging in
DEFECTION in order to become ministers or for
cash rewards

2 File AFFIDAVIT ❏ Supreme court order mandating candidates to file

affidavit declaring assets and criminal cases.

Political parties to be accountable ❏ EC order mandating parties to conduct

3 organizational elections and file income
tax returns.
 A law should be made to regulate the internal affairs of
political parties.

Some Suggestions to
reform Political Reserving Party tickets
Parties

State funding of elections.

 Challenges to Political Parties

Political parties need to face and overcome a number of challenges in order to

remain effective instruments of democracy. Write about such challenges.

illustrate the situations which display a lack of internal democracy within a

political party.
“Dynastic succession is one of the most serious challenges before the political
parties.” Analyze the statement.

Examine the role of money and muscle power among political parties during
elections.
Suggest some broad guidelines that can be kept in mind while devising ways and
means for political reforms in India.
4.Political Parties Topics

Why do we need
Political Parties?
● Guaranteed 5 marker
● Most expected question How many parties
from this chapter should we have?
● OVERALL- 3- 7 marks National Parties

State Parties

Challenges to Political
1. Analyze the need of Political Parties in the Parties
Democracy.(2023 - 3 Marks)
2. Evaluate the significant distinction between the How can Parties be
national and regional parties and assess the reformed?
requirements for a regional party to become a national
party(5 Marks)
3. Explain any five challenges faced by political parties
in India.(2023 - 3 Marks)
4. Explain any five major functions of the political
parties.(2023 - 3 Marks)
11

Why do political parties play a crucial role in a democracy?

A) Political parties are responsible for all the problems in democracy and
political life.

B) Political parties help in promoting social and political divisions.

C) Political parties are unpopular and lack visibility among citizens.

D) Political parties provide a platform for contesting elections, formulating

policies, and promoting the collective good.
11

Why do political parties play a crucial role in a democracy?

A) Political parties are responsible for all the problems in democracy and
political life.

B) Political parties help in promoting social and political divisions.

C) Political parties are unpopular and lack visibility among citizens.

D) Political parties provide a platform for contesting elections, formulating

policies, and promoting the collective good.
12
Options:
Which statements are true regarding the
functions of political parties?
A. 1, 2, and 3 are true.
1. Parties contest elections and select
candidates through methods like
members' choice or top party leaders' B. 1 and 2 are true; 3 is false.
selection.
2. Parties put forward various policies and
programs, and voters choose from them. C. 2, 3, and 4 are true.
3. Laws in a country are debated and
passed in the legislature, with members
often following the direction of their D. 1, 3, and 4 are true.
party leadership.
4. Opposition parties only criticize the
government without contributing to
policy-making.
12
Options:
Which statements are true regarding the
functions of political parties?
A. 1, 2, and 3 are true.
1. Parties contest elections and select
candidates through methods like
members' choice or top party leaders' B. 1 and 2 are true; 3 is false.
selection.
2. Parties put forward various policies and
programs, and voters choose from them. C. 2, 3, and 4 are true.
3. Laws in a country are debated and
passed in the legislature, with members
often following the direction of their D. 1, 3, and 4 are true.
party leadership.
4. Opposition parties only criticize the
government without contributing to
policy-making.
13
Which statements are true regarding national parties
in India?

1. National parties have units in various states, and their

1, 2, and 3 are true.
policies are decided at the state level.

2. Every party in the country has to register with the

Election Commission, which treats all parties equally. 1 and 2 are true; 3 is false.

3. Recognised political parties receive special facilities,

including a unique election symbol for official 2, 3, and 4 are true.
candidates.

4. A party securing at least six per cent of the total

1, 3, and 4 are true.
votes in Lok Sabha elections or Assembly elections in
four States and winning at least four seats in the Lok
Sabha is recognized as a national party.
13
Which statements are true regarding national parties
in India?

1. National parties have units in various states, and their

1, 2, and 3 are true.
policies are decided at the state level.

2. Every party in the country has to register with the

Election Commission, which treats all parties equally. 1 and 2 are true; 3 is false.

3. Recognised political parties receive special facilities,

including a unique election symbol for official 2, 3, and 4 are true.
candidates.

4. A party securing at least six per cent of the total

1, 3, and 4 are true.
votes in Lok Sabha elections or Assembly elections in
four States and winning at least four seats in the Lok
Sabha is recognized as a national party.
Outcomes of Democra
cy
 “Democracy is a better form of government than any other form of
government”. Justify the statement. [2019, 16, 15]

Democracy is a form of government, formed on basis of free and fair election.

People choose their representatives through election, it is a government for the
people, to the people and by the people.

★ Promotes equality among citizens

★ Enhances the dignity of the individual Describe any five factors that
make democracy a better form
★ Improves the quality of decision-making of government than other
alternatives. [2019]
★ Provides a method to resolve conflicts
★ Allows room to correct mistakes
★ Provides an accountable, responsive and legitimate govt.

Democracy is a better form of government when compared

with dictatorship or any other alternative
★ Promotes Equality among Citizens: In a democratic society, all citizens are equal before the
law. Every individual has the same weight in electing representatives, regardless of their social
status or economic standing. This helps to ensure that the government is representative of the
entire population, and that the needs and concerns of all citizens are taken into account.
★ Enhances the Dignity of the Individual: Democracy promotes the dignity and freedom of the
individual by granting equal rights to all citizens. Women, as well as individuals from deprived
and discriminated castes, are given equal treatment and respect in a democratic society. This
helps to ensure that all individuals are able to live with a sense of self-respect and autonomy.
★ Improves the Quality of Decision-Making: Democracy encourages open debate and
discussion, which helps to improve the quality of decision-making. By allowing different
viewpoints to be heard and considered, democratic governments are better able to make
informed decisions that benefit the entire population.
★ Provides a Method to Resolve Conflicts: Democracy reduces the possibility of social tension by
providing a peaceful method for resolving conflicts. By allowing for dissent and disagreement,
democratic societies are better able to address grievances and correct mistakes, leading to a
more harmonious social life.
★ Ensures Legitimacy of the Government: A democratic government is considered legitimate
because it receives popular support from the people through regular, free, and fair elections.
This helps to ensure that the government is accountable to the people and that their needs and
concerns are taken into account when making decisions.
★
 How do We Assess Democracy’s
Outcomes?

ECONOMIC OUTCOMES: SOCIAL OUTCOMES

POLITICAL OUTCOMES: ● Economic growth ● Accommodation of
● Accountable and development social diversity
● Responsive ● Reduction of ● Dignity and
● Legitimate inequality and freedom of the
poverty citizens
POLITICAL OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
 How does democracy produce an accountable, responsive
and legitimate government?

★ Democracy produces an accountable government because it

Accountability is answerable to the people.

★ If they do not work according to the wishes of the people,

then the people have the right to change their representatives
at the time of next general elections.

❖ Democracy produces a government, which is responsive to the

Responsive needs and expectations of the people. It can be said that before
taking any decision the government has to keep in mind the views
expressed by the people.

❖ A democratic government is a legitimate government because it is

elected by the people and is formed under the norms provided by the
Legitimate
constitution of the country.
❖ it may be slow, less efficient, not always very responsive or clean
but is people’s government
 Explain the meaning of transparency in democracy. (2017)/
How do democratic governments ensure transparency? Explain.

★ Citizens should have the rights in a democratic set up to find out

Transparency and examine the process of decision making. It is called
transparency

★ People have the right to choose their representatives and exercise

control over them.

★ Democracy also ensure that decision making is based on a set of

norms and procedures.

★ Right to information act, passed in 2005. This act aimed to ensure

transparency and accountability in the governance of the country. It
allows citizens to participate in government, and this also
increases communication between the government and the
citizens of India.
 There is overwhelming support of
Democracy all over the world

● It has many Merits which make it most

popular form of government
● People find it the only govt which can be
called as ‘people’s own government ‘.
● The evidence from South Asia shows that
democracy has its support in democratic as
well as non- democratic regimes like China
and North Korea.
● People wish to be ruled representatives
elected by them and think that democracy
is suitable for their country
ECONOMIC OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
Democracies do not appear to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities”.
Justify the statement. [ 2019]
Evidence shows that in practice, many democracies did not fulfil the expectations of
producing economic development in the country. Validate the statement with the help of
relevant examples. (2016)

Democracies are expected to reduce economic disparities. There should be just

distribution of goods and opportunities. But the democracies are not successful in
reducing economic inequalities

● We find growing economic inequalities with some very rich and some
very poor
● A small number of ultra-rich enjoy a highly disproportionate share of
wealth. Their share in the total income of the country is has been rising
● Those at the bottom of the society have very little to depend on.
Sometimes they find it difficult to meet the basic needs of life-food,
clothing, house, education
● The political parties do not appear keen to address the questions of
poverty.
● Example- In Bangladesh more than half of people lives in poverty
 Establish the relationship between democracy and the development.
(2016, 12)/
Economic development depends on several factors along with
democracy. Name them

● Democracies are expected to produce economic development

● Inability of Democracy to achieve higher economic development is a matter of
worry
● The economic development depends on several factors like-
a. Population size of the country
b. Global situations
c. Cooperation from other countries
d. Economic priorities and policies of govt
● The dictatorships are slightly better from democracies in terms of economic
achievements
● But it is better to prefer democracy because it has many other positive
outcomes.
SOCIAL OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY
 Accommodation of social diversity

★ Democracy is best suited to accommodate various social

divisions
How is social diversity
★ Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts
accommodated in
is thus a definite plus point of democratic regimes.
democracy? Explain
★ It develops mechanism to reduce conflicts among different with examples. (2017)
groups

Rule by majority does not become rule by

Majority & Minority Democracy is not simply rule by majority community in terms of religion or race or
Opinion majority opinion linguistic group, etc

Different persons and groups may and can form

a majority, democracy remains democracy only
as long as every citizen has a chance of being in
majority at some point of time
 How does democracy stand better than any other form of government in
promoting the dignity and freedom of the citizens? Explain with examples.
[CBSE (Comptt) 2017)

Discrimination and conflicts among different social groups is very

common in both democratic and non-democratic countries, however in
democratic countries such conflicts are recognised and resolved at least
in principle.
★ Dignity of women : After long struggles by women, democracy
throughout the world has recognised equal treatment and respect
to women. Thus in democracy it becomes easier for women to
wage a struggle against what is now unacceptable legally and
morally.
★ Dignity of Backward caste: Democracy in India had strengthened
the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal
status and equal opportunity. Now caste-based inequalities and
atrocities lack moral and legal foundation.People are aware and
now they value their democratic rights
★ Such benefits and considerations may not be available in
non-democratic regimes
 On the basis of which values will it be a fair expectation that democracy should
produce a harmonious social life? Explain. (2018, 12, 13)

“Democracy accommodates social diversities.” Support the statement with

examples. [2016]

(i) Democracy accommodates various social divisions.

(ii) Democracy reduces the possibility of tensions becoming explosive and violent.

(iii) Ability to handle social differences and conflicts among different groups is a plus point of
democracy.

(iv) Democracy develops procedure to conduct healthy competitions among different groups in a
society.

(v) Democracy respects differences and provides mechanism to resolve them.

(vi) Democracy always accommodates minority view.

Example: Belgium has successfully negotiated differences among its ethnic population. This
reduces the possibility of tensions.
What are the two conditions to accommodate social diversities in a
democracy? Mention any one exception to this. [2015]

Why is democracy not considered simply a rule of majority. Explain

● example of Sri Lanka reminds us that a democracy must fulfil two conditions in order to
ensure social diversity and harmony

● Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion: The majority always needs to work
with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view

● Rule by majority does not become rule by majority community in terms of religion or
race or linguistic group, etc: Different persons and groups may and can form a majority,
democracy remains democracy only as long as every citizen has a chance of being in
majority at some point of time
● An exceptional example of Sri Lanka- Here the policy of majoritarianism is followed.
CRITICISM OF DEMOCRACY
 ‘Democracy is seen to be good in principle but felt to be not so good in practice.’
Justify the statement. (2016, 13)
OR.
‘Some people think that democracy produces a less effective government.’
analyse the statement. (2015)

Democracy is seen to be good in principles but not in practice because of the following
reasons:
(i)The decision-making process in a democracy is time-taking, whereby justice delayed is
justice denied.

(ii) The tyranny of the majority overrides the will of the minority.

(iii) Corruption and red-tapism dominate the functioning of democracies.

(iv) An illiterate and uninformed electorate fails to give itself a legitimate and accountable
government.

(v) The role of charismatic leaders and dynastic politics dominates political cultures.

●
 “Non democratic rulers can be very quick and efficient in decision making and
implementation.” Do you think with this feature of non-democratic government is
a better government than other government. Explain.

● The non-democratic governments can take decisions quickly. But there is a

possibility that it is not accepted by all, as no procedure has been followed
here.
● The citizens has the rights to know the process of decision making. This
factor would often be missing from a non-democratic government.
● Democracy is based on the Idea of deliberation and negotiation this may
lead to delays but the decision taken will be more acceptable to the people
and more effective.
5.Outcomes of Democracy

● Most scoring chapter

● Direct NCERT
Questions

● OVERALL- 2- 7 marks

1. Analyse the conditions under which democracies

accommodate social diversities.(2023 - 5 marks)
2. Analyse the conditions under which democracies
promote dignity and freedom of citizens.(2023 -5 marks)
3. “Democracy stands much superior to any other forms of
governments in promoting dignity and freedom of the
individual.” Support the statement with arguments.(2023
-5 marks)
4. “Democracy produces an accountable, responsive and
legitimate government.” Support the statement with
arguments. (2023 -5 marks)
5. Transparency is the important feature of Democracy
support the statement (2023 -2 marks)
11 Assertion (A): Democracy is an accountable, responsive and
legitimate government.

Reason (R): Democracies have regular, free and fair elections and
decision-making is based on norms and procedures

(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A

(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

(c) A is true, but R is false

(d) A is false, but R is true

11 Assertion (A): Democracy is an accountable, responsive and
legitimate government.

Reason (R): Democracies have regular, free and fair elections and
decision-making is based on norms and procedures

(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A

(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

(c) A is true, but R is false

(d) A is false, but R is true

12
Identify the most correct statement about democracy.

(a) It is free from corruption

(b) Democracy is free from social conflict

(c) It is successful in eradicating poverty

(d) It respects the individual dignity of citizens

12
Identify the most correct statement about democracy.

(a) It is free from corruption

(b) Democracy is free from social conflict

(c) It is successful in eradicating poverty

(d) It respects the individual dignity of citizens

13
Democracy is based on majority rule. The poor make up a large part of the
population. In theory, democracy should be a pro-poor system. What indicates
that this is not the case?

Rule by majority means rule by the major religion.

Rule by majority means rule by the major regional power.

Rule by majority means rule by the majority of common views.

Rule by majority means rule by the major ethnicity.

13
Democracy is based on majority rule. The poor make up a large part of the
population. In theory, democracy should be a pro-poor system. What indicates
that this is not the case?

Rule by majority means rule by the major religion.

Rule by majority means rule by the major regional power.

Rule by majority means rule by the majority of common views.

Rule by majority means rule by the major ethnicity.

https://vdnt.in/AxBTF
surabhi_nerdalert