Keyword To Remember
- Democracy
A form of government in which people elect their representatives to make decisions and govern on their behalf. - Representative Democracy
A system where people vote to elect leaders who represent them in government. - Preamble
The introduction to the Constitution of India which states the values and goals of the country. - Equality
The principle that all individuals are equal before the law and should be treated the same regardless of caste, gender, religion, or wealth. - Fraternity
A sense of brotherhood and unity among all citizens of the country. - Justice
Fair treatment of all people in legal, social, and economic matters. - Universal Adult Franchise
The right of all adult citizens (18 years and above) to vote in elections, regardless of gender, caste, religion, or income. - Majority Rule
A principle in democracy where the decision supported by more than half the people is accepted. - Minority Rights
Protection and respect for the views and interests of smaller or less powerful groups in society. - Conflict
A situation where different groups have opposite views or interests. - Tolerance
Respecting and accepting others’ opinions, religions, and lifestyles, even if different from one’s own. - Compromise
A solution to a disagreement where both sides agree to give up something to reach an agreement. - Coersion
Using force or threats to make someone do something against their will. - Authoritarianism
A system of government where a leader or group holds all power and citizens have little freedom. - Dictatorship
A form of government where one person or a small group holds complete control without fair elections. - Government
The organization through which laws are made and enforced and public services are managed. - Constitution
A written set of rules and laws that explains how a country is to be governed. - Election
A process through which people vote to choose their leaders. - Citizen
A person who legally belongs to a country and has rights and responsibilities there. - Participation
Taking part in activities such as voting, decision-making, or discussions in society or government. - Voting
The act of making a choice among candidates in an election. - Rights
Legal entitlements that people have in a democracy like the right to vote, freedom of speech, etc. - Duties
Responsibilities that citizens are expected to perform, such as obeying laws and voting. - Unemployment
The condition of being without a job despite being willing and able to work. - Illiteracy
The inability to read and write. - Poverty
A situation where people lack enough money or resources to meet basic needs. - Grassroot Level
The lowest level of government, usually at the village or community level. - Central Government
The national-level government responsible for governing the entire country. - State Government
The government that operates within a specific state and manages its affairs. - Gram Panchayat
The local self-government system in Indian villages. - Judiciously
Wisely and thoughtfully; making decisions with good judgment. - Well-being
A state of being healthy, happy, and comfortable. - Social Harmony
A peaceful and cooperative society where people live respectfully with one another. - Self-discipline
The ability to control one’s actions and behavior for the good of the community. - Governance
The act of governing or managing the affairs of a country, state, or community.
Something To Know
A. Tick (✔ ) the correct option.
- Conflicting interests lead to
(a) understanding
(b) harmony
(c) flexible stand
(d) clashes
Answer – (d) clashes
- In an atmosphere of discord and division, what is the best way to settle disputes?
(a) firm stand and rigidity
(b) fight for one’s rights
(c) open confrontation
(d) adjustment and accommodation
Answer – (d) adjustment and accommodation
- Democratic way of life demands that
(a) majority should not accept what the minority says.
(b) minority should ignore the view point of majority.
(c) opinion of the minority should be respected.
(d) majority and minority both should stick to their stands.
Answer – (c) opinion of the minority should be respected.
- Which one of the following is against the spirit of democracy?
(a) harmony and balance
(c) social equality
(b) dictatorship
(d) economic equality
Answer – (b) dictatorship
- Identify the undemocratic method of problem solving.
(a) discussion
(b) coersion
(c) persuasion
(d) compromise
Answer – (b) coersion
B. Fill in the blanks.
- Our country is _________________ governed by the people through their representatives.
Answer – indirectly
- A democratic government is a government ___________________ the people, ___________________ the people and _______________ the people.
Answer – of, by, for
- When elected representatives govern the country on behalf of the people, it is called _______________ democracy.
Answer – representative
- There is no place for _________________ and _________________ in a democracy.
Answer – coercion, violence
- Democracy paves the way and prepares the citizens to _________________ the disputes.
Answer – mutually resolve
C. Match the following:
- India a. right to cast vote
- Goal of democracy b. live and let live
- Universal Adult Franchise c. government at national level
- Union Government d. well being of each individual
- Positive attitude e. democratic government
Answer –
Column A | Column B | Answer |
1. India | e. democratic government | 1 → e |
2. Goal of democracy | d. well being of each individual | 2 → d |
3. Universal Adult Franchise | a. right to cast vote | 3 → a |
4. Union Government | c. government at national level | 4 → c |
5. Positive attitude | b. live and let live | 5 → b |
D. Answer the following questions in brief.
- What is the most positive attitude in a conflicting situation?
Answer – The most positive attitude is “live and let live” through adjustment and accommodation.
- Mention an outcome of conflicting situations.
Answer – Conflicting situations may lead to misunderstanding, rigid stands, and sometimes clashes.
- Who organises, supervises and controls activities around us?
Answer – The government at various levels organises, supervises, and controls activities around us.
- What is the outcome of tolerance and self-discipline?
Answer – It brings harmony and balance in society.
- Give example of any two elected representatives of the people at various levels of government.
Answer – Members of Parliament (MPs) and Gram Panchayat members.
E. Answer the following questions.
- State three points on the right which forms basis of democratic government.
Answer – Right to vote.
Right to equality.
Right to freedom of speech and expression.
- Whose view should be accepted when so many people are involved in taking a decision and why?
Answer – The majority view should be accepted in a democracy, but the minority view must be respected to ensure fairness and harmony.
- Why did India opt for representative democracy? Explain.
Answer – Due to India’s vast population and diversity, direct participation was not practical. Hence, people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
- Mention any three advantages of a democratic set up.
Answer – Promotes equality and justice.
Encourages public participation.
Maintains peace and prevents authoritarianism.
- How do people guard their own rights and freedom granted to them by the Constitution? Explain.
Answer – People guard their rights by staying informed, voting wisely, protesting peacefully, and holding government accountable through media and public platforms.
Value Based Question
As a citizen of India, should you pay your taxes honestly and regularly? As a citizen of India, should you pay your taxes honestly and regularly?
- Study the above diagram carefully and suggest ways and means to bring a change in the attitude.
Answer – Conduct awareness programs.
Promote civic education.
Encourage transparent governance.
Lead by example as responsible citizens.
- Why should we pay taxes honestly and regularly?
Answer – Taxes help the government provide public services like roads, schools, and healthcare. Honest tax payment supports national development and shows responsible citizenship.
Map Skill
On the outline political map of the world, locate and label the following:
(a) The oldest representative democracy ̶̶ USA
Answer – Do it yourself
(b) The country with largest number of voters ̶ India
Answer – Do it yourself
(c) A country which has given voting rights to its women in 2015 ̶ Saudi Arabia
Answer – Do it yourself
(d) The country which is considered the birth place of direct democracy ̶̶ Greece
Answer – Do it yourself
(e) The country which gave its women the right to vote as late as in 1928 ̶ UK
Answer – Do it yourself
Something To Do
- Read the Preamble very carefully. Identify the key concepts or words which depict the key goals/ideas/ salient features of the Indian Constitution. Now discuss them in the class and try to list the top five which are most essential in a democratic set up.
Answer – Justice
Liberty
Equality
Fraternity
Sovereignty
- Divide the class into four groups. Let each group prepare a presentation against any one of the following topics.
The right to vote should not be given to-
(a) the poor people
(b) the women
(c) the uneducated people
(d) the corrupt people
On the day, when presentation is made in the class by the concerned group, all others should raise points against the topic. At the end, the teacher should conclude the debate in favour of ‘Universal Adult Franchise’.
Answer – After group presentations opposing voting rights for certain groups, the teacher can conclude:
Every adult citizen deserves the right to vote regardless of education, gender, or wealth. Discriminating against any group violates the basic principles of democracy and human dignity. Hence, Universal Adult Franchise must be protected and promoted.
Additional Questions And Answers – 01
Fill in the Blanks (with Answers)
- Democracy is a government of the people, by the people, and __________ the people.
Answer: for - The right to vote in India is known as __________.
Answer: Universal Adult Franchise - The __________ government works at the national level.
Answer: Central/Union - A positive attitude in democracy is based on __________ and __________.
Answer: adjustment, accommodation - In democracy, the view of the __________ is accepted, but the __________ is also respected.
Answer: majority, minority - The smallest unit of democratic governance in villages is the __________.
Answer: Gram Panchayat - Democracy helps in eradicating poverty, hunger, illiteracy and __________.
Answer: unemployment - India is the world’s __________ democracy.
Answer: largest - Tolerance and __________ are key features of a democratic society.
Answer: self-discipline - A __________ government does not allow people to participate in governance.
Answer: dictatorship
Multiple Choice Questions (with Answers)
- What is the foundation of democracy in India?
(a) Military strength
(b) Dictatorship
(c) Universal Adult Franchise
(d) Wealth
Answer: (c) Universal Adult Franchise - In which form of government do people elect their representatives?
(a) Monarchy
(b) Dictatorship
(c) Theocracy
(d) Representative Democracy
Answer: (d) Representative Democracy - Which of the following is not a goal of democracy?
(a) Equality
(b) Coercion
(c) Justice
(d) Harmony
Answer: (b) Coercion - What is required for harmony in a democratic society?
(a) Violence
(b) Intolerance
(c) Self-discipline
(d) Rigidity
Answer: (c) Self-discipline - Who makes laws for the country?
(a) Judiciary
(b) Police
(c) Elected representatives
(d) Citizens
Answer: (c) Elected representatives
True or False (with Answers)
- Democracy promotes social, economic and political equality.
Answer: True - The government at the state level makes laws for the entire country.
Answer: False - In a democracy, only the majority opinion is respected.
Answer: False - Voting rights were given to Indian women after a long struggle.
Answer: False - Gram Panchayat is part of grassroots level governance.
Answer: True
Short Answer Questions (2–3 lines)
- What is democracy?
Answer: Democracy is a system of government where people elect their representatives, and everyone has equal rights and freedom. - Why is tolerance important in a democracy?
Answer: Tolerance helps in resolving conflicts peacefully and promotes harmony in a diverse society. - Who governs the country in a representative democracy?
Answer: Elected representatives govern the country on behalf of the people. - What is Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: It is the right of every adult citizen to vote without any discrimination. - Mention one duty of a voter in democracy.
Answer: A voter must cast their vote wisely and responsibly.
Competency-Based (Reasoning and Assertion)
- Assertion: Democracy ensures equality for all citizens.
Reason: Everyone has the right to participate in the decision-making process.
(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
Answer: (a) - Assertion: India has adopted direct democracy.
Reason: People directly vote on all laws and policies.
Answer: (d) A is false but R is true - Assertion: Respecting minority opinion is a feature of democracy.
Reason: It helps prevent dictatorship and promotes inclusiveness.
Answer: (a) - Assertion: Dictatorship is better than democracy during emergencies.
Reason: In dictatorship, decisions are made quickly.
Answer: (c) A is true but R is false - Assertion: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution highlights equality, liberty, and fraternity.
Reason: These values are essential for national integration and democracy.
Answer: (a)
Higher Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions
- Why do you think democracy is better than dictatorship in the long run?
Answer: Democracy promotes freedom, equality, and participation, which lead to long-term peace and development, unlike dictatorship which may suppress rights. - How can citizens ensure good governance in a democracy?
Answer: Citizens can vote responsibly, stay informed, hold leaders accountable, and participate in public discussions and protests. - What could happen if people stop voting in a democracy?
Answer: It can lead to weak leadership, misuse of power, and erosion of democratic principles. - Suggest two ways in which schools can promote democratic values among students.
Answer: By encouraging student councils and organizing debates on civic issues. - How does democracy help solve problems of diversity in a country like India?
Answer: By providing equal representation and encouraging mutual respect among different communities.
Long Questions (40–50 words)
- Explain why democracy is considered a way of life and not just a form of government.
Answer: Democracy teaches tolerance, equality, and participation. It encourages people to respect each other’s rights and resolve conflicts peacefully, not just through political institutions but also in social and personal life. - What are the responsibilities of citizens in a democratic country like India?
Answer: Citizens must vote honestly, follow laws, respect others’ rights, and contribute to nation-building by staying informed and holding the government accountable. - Describe the three levels of government in India with examples.
Answer: The Union government works for the whole country, State governments for individual states (like Haryana), and local governments (like Panchayats) work at village or town level. - Why is it important to respect the opinion of the minority in a democracy?
Answer: Respecting minority opinions ensures fairness, avoids domination by one group, and promotes unity in a diverse society like India. - How does the democratic setup help in solving economic and social issues?
Answer: Through welfare policies, equal opportunity, and public participation, democracy works to eliminate poverty, unemployment, and inequality.
Additional Questions And Answers – 02
Fill in the Blanks Questions and Answers
- Democracy is not just a form of government but a __________ of life.
Answer: Way - The opinion of the __________ is accepted in a democracy, but the minority’s opinion is also respected.
Answer: Majority - India adopted __________ democracy due to its vast population and diversity.
Answer: Representative - The right to vote is based on __________ Adult Franchise in India.
Answer: Universal - The government at the national level is called the __________ government.
Answer: Central or Union - The lowest level of government in India is the __________.
Answer: Gram Panchayat - The Indian Constitution promotes __________ to resolve disputes amicably.
Answer: Equality - The term of a democratic government in India is __________ years.
Answer: Five - Democracy aims to eliminate __________ and dictatorship.
Answer: Authoritarianism - The __________ of the Indian Constitution outlines goals like justice and equality.
Answer: Preamble - The government at the __________ level works within a state’s territory.
Answer: State - Democracy promotes solving problems through discussion, persuasion, and __________.
Answer: Compromise - The __________ Rights in the Constitution ensure equality and freedom.
Answer: Fundamental - People’s participation in democracy includes monitoring government activities and protecting their __________.
Answer: Rights - The democratic attitude of __________ and accommodation helps settle disputes.
Answer: Adjustment
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and Answers
- What is democracy primarily considered?
a) A form of dictatorship
b) A way of life
c) A type of monarchy
d) A military rule
Answer: b) A way of life - What is the basis of people’s participation in Indian elections?
a) Universal Adult Franchise
b) Selective Voting Rights
c) Caste-based Voting
d) Religious Voting Rights
Answer: a) Universal Adult Franchise - What type of democracy is practiced in India?
a) Direct Democracy
b) Representative Democracy
c) Authoritarian Democracy
d) Monarchical Democracy
Answer: b) Representative Democracy - How long is the term of a democratic government in India?
a) Three years
b) Four years
c) Five years
d) Six years
Answer: c) Five years - Which level of government operates at the village level?
a) Central Government
b) State Government
c) Gram Panchayat
d) Municipal Council
Answer: c) Gram Panchayat - What does democracy aim to eliminate?
a) Equality
b) Authoritarianism
c) Freedom
d) Voting Rights
Answer: b) Authoritarianism - Who elects representatives in a representative democracy?
a) The President
b) The People
c) The Judiciary
d) The Army
Answer: b) The People - Which of the following is a goal of democracy?
a) Promoting violence
b) Maintaining social harmony
c) Encouraging dictatorship
d) Ignoring minority opinions
Answer: b) Maintaining social harmony - When did women in India gain equal voting rights?
a) 1920
b) 1944
c) After Independence
d) 1928
Answer: c) After Independence - What is the role of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
a) Outlines laws for punishment
b) Defines goals like justice and equality
c) Lists election rules
d) Describes military duties
Answer: b) Defines goals like justice and equality
True/False Questions and Answers
- Democracy is only a form of government and not a way of life.
Answer: False (Democracy is also a way of life.) - In a democracy, the minority’s opinion is ignored.
Answer: False (The minority’s opinion is respected.) - India is governed through a representative democracy.
Answer: True - Universal Adult Franchise allows only men above 18 to vote in India.
Answer: False (It allows all citizens above 18 to vote.) - The Central Government works only within one state.
Answer: False (It works for the entire country.) - Democracy promotes solving disputes through violence.
Answer: False (It promotes discussion and compromise.) - The term of a democratic government in India is five years.
Answer: True - People’s participation in democracy ends after elections.
Answer: False (It continues through monitoring government activities.) - The Indian Constitution grants equal voting rights to men and women.
Answer: True - Gram Panchayats are the highest level of government in India.
Answer: False (They are the lowest level.)
Short Questions and Answers
- What is democracy?
Answer: Democracy is a way of life and a form of government where people elect representatives, ensuring equality and freedom. - What is Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: Universal Adult Franchise allows all Indian citizens above 18 to vote, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. - What is representative democracy?
Answer: Representative democracy involves people electing representatives to govern and make laws on their behalf. - Name one goal of democracy.
Answer: To maintain social, economic, and political equality. - What is the role of the Central Government?
Answer: The Central Government works for the entire country, making laws and managing national affairs. - What is a Gram Panchayat?
Answer: A Gram Panchayat is the government at the village level, managing local affairs and development. - Why is voting important in a democracy?
Answer: Voting allows people to choose representatives, ensuring their voices shape governance and policies. - What does the Preamble of the Indian Constitution outline?
Answer: The Preamble outlines goals like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for India’s democratic system. - How long is the term of a democratic government in India?
Answer: Five years - What is the democratic approach to resolving disputes?
Answer: Democracy resolves disputes through discussion, persuasion, and compromise, avoiding coercion and violence.
Competency-Based Questions and Answers (Reasoning and Assertion)
- Assertion: Democracy promotes equality and fraternity.
Reason: It provides equal opportunities to all without discrimination and encourages mutual respect.
Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason explains the assertion. - Assertion: India practices representative democracy.
Reason: People elect representatives to govern on their behalf due to the country’s vast size and population.
Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason supports the assertion. - Assertion: Universal Adult Franchise is the basis of Indian elections.
Reason: All citizens above 18 can vote, regardless of caste, religion, or gender.
Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason explains the assertion. - Assertion: Democracy maintains social harmony.
Reason: It resolves conflicts through tolerance, discussion, and compromise.
Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason supports the assertion. - Assertion: The Central Government oversees the entire country.
Reason: It handles national-level responsibilities like law-making and defense, unlike state governments.
Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason explains the assertion.
High Order Thinking Skill (HOTS) Questions and Answers
- Why is representative democracy suitable for a country like India?
Answer: India’s vast population and diversity make direct democracy impractical. Representative democracy allows elected officials to govern on behalf of the people, ensuring efficient decision-making while reflecting diverse interests through periodic elections. - How does Universal Adult Franchise strengthen Indian democracy?
Answer: Universal Adult Franchise ensures all citizens above 18 can vote, promoting inclusivity and equality. It empowers diverse groups to participate in governance, strengthening democracy by reflecting varied perspectives and reducing discrimination based on caste or religion. - Why is the democratic principle of “live and let live” important in India?
Answer: In India’s diverse society, the “live and let live” principle fosters tolerance and mutual respect among different races, religions, and castes. It helps resolve conflicts peacefully, ensuring social harmony and unity in a pluralistic nation. - How does people’s participation extend beyond voting in a democracy?
Answer: Beyond voting, people monitor government actions, criticize policies, and protect their constitutional rights. This active engagement ensures accountability, influences governance, and prevents misuse of power, strengthening the democratic process. - Why is the Preamble significant in guiding Indian democracy?
Answer: The Preamble outlines core democratic values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It serves as a guiding principle for governance, ensuring policies align with the goals of inclusivity, fairness, and social harmony in India’s diverse society.
Long Questions and Answers (40-50 Words)
- Explain the importance of democracy as a way of life.
Answer: Democracy, as a way of life, promotes equality, fraternity, and justice, encouraging mutual respect and tolerance. It fosters peaceful conflict resolution through discussion and compromise, ensuring social harmony and empowering individuals to participate in decision-making for societal well-being. - Why did India adopt representative democracy?
Answer: India adopted representative democracy due to its vast size, population, and diversity, making direct participation impractical. People elect representatives like MPs and MLAs to govern, make laws, and address diverse needs, ensuring effective governance and public welfare. - How does Universal Adult Franchise strengthen Indian democracy?
Answer: Universal Adult Franchise allows all citizens above 18 to vote, regardless of caste, religion, or gender. This inclusivity ensures equal representation, empowers diverse groups, and strengthens democracy by reflecting varied perspectives in governance and policy-making. - Describe the role of the Central Government in India.
Answer: The Central Government oversees national affairs, including law-making, defense, and infrastructure development. It coordinates policies for the entire country, ensuring unity and progress, while managing resources and resolving issues that affect India’s diverse population and regions. - How does democracy address social inequalities in India?
Answer: Democracy addresses social inequalities through constitutional provisions like Fundamental Rights, ensuring equality and prohibiting discrimination. It promotes discussion and compromise to resolve conflicts, fostering social justice and empowering citizens to demand fair treatment and opportunities.