Civics Important Questions Chapter - 1 Power Sharing

Civics Important Questions 

Chapter - 1 Power Sharing 

MCQs:

1. Power sharing is:

(a) the very spirit of democracy

(b) separation of powers at different levels

(c) vertical division of power

(d) a type of dictatorship

 Answer: (a) the very spirit of democracy

2. Which one of the following is an example of horizontal power sharing?

(a) Power shared between different levels of government

(b) Power shared among different organs of government

(c) Power shared among different social groups

(d) Power shared among political parties, pressure groups

 Answer: (b) Power shared among different organs of government

3. Majoritarianism is a belief that:

(a) minorities should rule the country

(b) the majority community should rule even at the cost of minorities

(c) power should be shared equally

(d) none of these

Answer: (b) the majority community should rule even at the cost of minorities

4. Which of the following was NOT a measure adopted by the Belgian government?

(a) Equal number of ministers from both communities

(b) State governments were not subordinate to the central government

(c) Different communities could live separately without interaction

(d) A separate government was created in Brussels

 Answer: (c) Different communities could live separately without interaction

5. What led to the civil war in Sri Lanka?

(a) Religious conflict

(b) Conflict between Tamils and Sinhalese

(c) Economic differences

(d) Demand for democracy

 Answer: (b) Conflict between Tamils and Sinhalese

6. The majority population in Sri Lanka is:

(a) Tamils

(b) Buddhists

(c) Sinhalese

(d) Christians

 Answer: (c) Sinhalese

7. In Belgium, which language is spoken by the majority in Brussels?

(a) Dutch

(b) French

(c) German

(d) English

 Answer: (b) French

8. Which among the following is NOT one of the forms of power sharing?

(a) Sharing among different social groups

(b) Sharing among political parties

(c) Sharing among different organs of government

(d) Sharing between males and females

 Answer: (d) Sharing between males and females

9. The community which was rich and powerful in Belgium was:

(a) Dutch-speaking

(b) French-speaking

(c) German-speaking

(d) English-speaking

 Answer: (b) French-speaking

10. Vertical division of power refers to:

(a) Power shared among different organs of government

(b) Power shared among governments at different levels

(c) Power shared among different social groups

(d) Power shared among political parties

 Answer: (b) Power shared among governments at different levels

1. Very Short Answer Questions (1-2 Marks):

• Define power sharing.
• Why is power sharing desirable?
• Name the two major communities of Sri Lanka.
• What is a majoritarianism policy?
• What is the ethnic composition of Belgium?
• What is Ethnic?
• What is Civil War?
• What do  you mean by prudential?

2. Short Answer Questions (3 Marks):

• Explain any two reasons why power sharing is important in a democracy.
• Differentiate between horizontal and vertical power sharing.
• Describe the accommodation policy adopted by Belgium.
• How is the Sri Lankan Tamils' struggle different from the accommodation in Belgium?
• What are the three demands of the Sri Lankan Tamils?

3. Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):

• Describe the various forms of power sharing in modern democracies with examples.
• Compare the different approaches adopted by Belgium and Sri Lanka regarding power sharing.
• How did the Belgium leaders solve the ethnic conflict? What was its result?
• "Power sharing is the true spirit of democracy." Justify the statement with examples.

MCQ Answers

1 - a

2 - b

3 - d

4 - d

5 - b

6 - c

7 - b

8 - d

9 - b

10 - b

Chapter - 5 outcomes of democracy

  Chapter - 5 outcomes of democracy

Meaning of Democracy:

• Democracy is a form of government in which the rulers are elected by the people.
• It is based on the idea that:
• Power should rest with the people,
• Citizens have the right to participate in decision-making,
• Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.

 Definition of Democracy:

Abraham Lincoln's:- “Democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

How Do We Assess Democracy’s Outcomes?

1. Democracy Produces an Accountable, Responsive, and Legitimate Government

• Democracy is based on public discussion and consent.
• Democracy provide responsive government because it is formed by elected representative of people.
• Democracy gives it citizens the right to information about government functioning.
• Democracy genrate trust among citizens.
• Democracy ensures that decision making will be based on norms and procedures.
• People have the right to choose their leaders and can hold them accountable.
• Democratic governments are legitimate — they are elected by the people and follow the law.

 2. Democracy and Economic Growth and Development:- Economic growth can be defined as an increase in the value of goods and services produced in an economy over a period of time.

• Democracy does not guarantee fast economic growth.
• Economic development depends on:- Country's population size, global situation,cooperation other countries, economic prioities adopted by the country.
• But it accommodates the needs of the people better than other forms of government.
• The growth rate of poor democracies is usually slightly better than that of poor dictatorships.

 3. Reduction of Inequality and Poverty:-  

• Democracy is based on:- 1- Political equality, 2- Economic equality.
• Democracy is expected to reduce inequality and poverty, but:
• In practice, a small number of rich people have more power and wealth.
• Democracies have not been very successful in reducing economic disparities.

4.  Accommodation of Social Diversity

• Democracy helps in peacefully handling social differences.
• In the eye of law all citizens are equal.
• Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion.
• It allows various communities to live together and respects minority rights.
• A democratic government tries to resolve conflicts through discussions, not violence.

5. Dignity and Freedom of the Citizens

• Universal adult franchise.
• Democracy gives people a sense of freedom, dignity, and self-respect.
• Equality and freedom are the foundation of democracy.
• "Each and every citizen of the country has the right to seek justice from the judiciary if they face exploitation."
• Especially for women and disadvantaged groups, democracy has improved status and respect.
• Equal status and equal opportunity.

Practice questions 

Short Answer Type Questions (2-3 Marks):

1. What is meant by "accountable government" in a democracy?
2. How does democracy accommodate social diversity?
3. Give two reasons why democracy is considered better than dictatorship.
4. What are the expected economic outcomes of democracy?
5. How does democracy enhance the dignity of citizens?

Long Answer Type Questions (5-6 Marks):

1. Explain any five outcomes of democracy.
2. How can democracy lead to the reduction of inequality and poverty? Give examples.
3. How do we assess the outcomes of democracy? Explain with examples.
4. Democracy is seen as a better form of government. Explain how it ensures dignity and freedom of citizens.
5. Describe the role of public opinion in making democracy accountable.

MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)

1. Which one of the following is an expected outcome of democracy?

A. Increase in military power

B. Equal distribution of wealth

C. Accountable, responsive, and legitimate government

D. Fast decision-making

Answer: C. Accountable, responsive, and legitimate government

2. Democracy is based on the idea of:

A. Hereditary power

B. Freedom and equality

C. Centralized control

D. Religious domination

Answer: B. Freedom and equality

3. Which one of the following is a sign of a healthy democracy?

A. People have no right to question the government

B. Rulers are elected through free and fair elections

C. Judiciary is controlled by the executive

D. Military rules the country

Answer: B. Rulers are elected through free and fair elections

4. In actual practice, democracies:

A. Have eliminated poverty

B. Have successfully reduced all economic inequalities

C. Are not very successful in reducing economic inequality

D. Guarantee equal income for all

Answer: C. Are not very successful in reducing economic inequality

5. Which of the following best indicates the success of a democracy?

A. Elimination of all political parties

B. Increasing economic inequalities

C. Regular and fair elections

D. Rule by a single strong leader

Answer: C. Regular and fair elections

Click here to download Chapter - 5 Outcomes of Democracy

Chapter - 4 Political Parties

Chapter - 4  Political Parties

Why Do We Need Political Parties?  Political parties are essential for a democracy. 

• Contest elections.
• Form and run governments.
• Shape public opinion.
• Provide access to government machinery and welfare schemes.

A political party is: A Political Party is a group of people who become together to contest election and  hold power in the government.

"An organized group of people who share similar ideas and policies about how a country should be governed, and who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government."

Partisan: A partisan is a person who is strongly committed to a particular political party, group, or ideology.

Main Functions of Political Parties:

• Contest Elections.
• Put forward policies and programmes.
• Make laws.
• Form governments (if they win majority).
• Act as opposition (if they lose).
• Shape public opinion.
• Link between people and the government.

Necessity of Political Parties :-  Political parties are essential for the smooth functioning of a democracy. Here's why we need them:

1. Representation of Interests

• Parties bring together people with similar ideas and interests.
• They help represent different sections of society (farmers, workers, businesspeople, etc.).

2. Contest Elections

• Political parties nominate candidates and contest elections.
• Without parties, every candidate would be independent and it would be hard to form a stable government.

3. Formation of Government

• The majority party (or alliance) forms the government.
• Helps in maintaining accountability and responsibility.

4. Policy Making

• Parties bring different policies and programmes.
• Voters choose among them based on their needs.

5. Role of Opposition

• The party (or parties) not in power act as the opposition.
• They criticize wrong policies and keep a check on the ruling party.

6. Link Between People and Government

• Parties act as a bridge between the people and the government.
• They raise public issues and shape public opinion.

Types of Party Systems:

• One-party system – Only one party controls the government (e.g., China).
• Two-party system – Power shifts between two major parties (e.g., USA, UK).
• Multi-party system – Several parties compete; often coalition governments (e.g., India).

Why Do Different Countries Have Different Party Systems? :- Different countries have different party systems because of their unique historical, social, cultural, and political situations.

1. History of the Country

• Some countries had revolutions or strong freedom movements that led to the rise of a single dominant party (e.g., China – Communist Party).
• Others developed democratic traditions with multiple parties (e.g., India).

2. Social and Cultural Diversity

• Countries like India are socially and culturally diverse, so many parties emerge to represent different castes, religions, regions, and languages.
• In homogeneous countries, fewer parties are needed.

3. Nature of the Electoral System

• First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system (like in India or the UK) often leads to a multi-party or two-party system.
• Proportional representation (like in many European countries) allows even small parties to win seats, encouraging multi-party systems.

4. Federal vs. Unitary Structure

• In federal countries like India, state-level parties also become important, leading to a multi-party system.
• In unitary systems, fewer local parties may emerge.

National Political Parties in India (Current List)

1. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)

• Ideology: Right-wing, Hindu nationalism, conservative.
• Symbol: Lotus
• Currently the ruling party at the central government.
• Formed: 1980, reviving the erstwhile Bharatiya Jana Sangh
• Founder member: Syama Prasad Mukherjee

2. Indian National Congress (INC)

• Ideology: Centre-left, secularism, social democracy.
• Symbol: Hand
• Major opposition party.
• Formed: 1885

3. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)

• Ideology: Social justice, represents Dalits, OBCs, and minorities.
• Symbol: Elephant
• Formed: 1984
• Founder member: Kanshi Ram

4. Communist Party of India (CPI)

• Ideology: Leftist, socialist, supports working class.
• Symbol: Ears of corn and a sickle
• Formed: 1925

5. Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI-M]

• Ideology: Marxist-Leninist, pro-labour, anti-capitalist.
• Symbol: Hammer, sickle, and star
• Formed: 1964 

6. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP – Sharad Pawar faction)

• Ideology: Centre-left, secular, democracy.
• Symbol: Clock
• Formed: 1999

7. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)

• Symbol: Broom
• Formed: 2012
• Idealogy: Governance Reforms, Anti-Corruption

8. National People Party (NPP)

• Symbol: Book 
• Formed: 2013
• Founder: Purno Agitok Sangma.

9. All India Trinamool Congress (AITC)

Symbol:Flowers and Grass

Formed: 1 January 1998

Founder: Mamta Banerjee

What Makes a Party "National"? -   A party must:

• Win 6% or more votes in at least 4 or more states in Lok Sabha or Assembly elections.
• AND win at least 4 seats in the Lok Sabha.

State Party (Regional Party) :- A State Party is a political party that is recognized by the Election Commission of India as a party that mainly operates in one state and has influence only within that particular region or state.

Recognition Criteria: To be recognized as a State Party, a political party must:

• Get at least 6% of the valid votes in the Legislative Assembly election of the state, and
• Win at least 2 seats in the state Legislative Assembly  OR
• Win at least 3% of the total seats or 3 seats (whichever is more) in the Legislative Assembly.

Examples of State Parties:

Party Name                                                             State

DMK                                                             Tamil Nadu

Shiv Sena (UBT)                                             Maharashtra

TMC (Trinamool Congress)                             West Bengal

BJD (Biju Janata Dal)                                      Odisha

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)                                 Delhi, Punjab (Now also a National Party as of 2023)

Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress (YSRCP) Andhra Pradesh

Challenges to political parties

Political parties are very important for democracy, but they also face many challenges. These challenges affect their functioning, transparency, and credibility.

1. Lack of Internal Democracy

• Parties don’t hold regular elections within the party.
• Ordinary members have no voice in decision-making.
• Power remains in the hands of top leaders.

2. Dynastic Succession

• Leadership is often passed to family members, not based on merit.
• Reduces chances for talented and hardworking people from outside the family.
• Example: Political families dominating parties.

3. Use of Money and Muscle Power

• Rich candidates can buy votes or use muscle power to win elections.
• Criminals sometimes enter politics.
• Election becomes unfair and corrupt.

4. Lack of Meaningful Choice for Voters

• Most parties offer similar promises, no real difference in policies.
• Sometimes, even candidates from different parties keep switching parties, confusing voters.

5. Corruption and Misuse of Power

• Some parties misuse government power for personal or party gain.
• Bribery, scams, and favoritism reduce people’s faith in democracy.

 How Can Political Parties Be Reformed?

1. Legal Reforms by the Government

• The Election Commission of India (ECI) has made it compulsory for candidates to:
• File income tax returns.
• Give details of their criminal records (if any).
• Anti-defection law prevents elected MLAs/MPs from switching parties.

2. Internal Democracy

• Parties should hold regular internal elections.
• Members should have a say in decision-making.
• Encourage young and honest people to become leaders.

3. Transparency in Funding

• Keep transparent records of donations.
• Avoid black money.
• Government can help by giving state funding to reduce money power.

4. Reduce Dynastic Politics

• Leadership should be open to all, not just family members.
• Promote merit-based leadership.

5. Public Pressure and Awareness :- People, media, and civil society can demand reform.

• RTI (Right to Information)
• Social media
• Public campaigns

6. Reserve seat for women:

KEY Words

Affidavit:- A signed document submitted to an officer, where a person makes a sworn statement regarding her personal information.

Defection:- Changing party allegiance from the party on which a person got elected (to a legislative body) to a different party. 

Click here to download Civics Chapter - 4, Political Party

Gender, Religion, and Caste Chapter - 3

 Gender, Religion, and Caste Chapter - 3 

1. Gender and Politics

• Public and Private Division: Traditional roles assign men to the public sphere (work, politics) and women to the private sphere (household, caregiving).
• Women's Political Representation: Women are underrepresented in political institutions like Parliament and State Assemblies.
• Feminist Movements: Advocated for gender equality in laws, workplaces, and personal rights.
• Government Initiatives:
• Reservation for Women: One-third seats in local government (Panchayats and Municipalities) are reserved for women.
• Laws for Gender Equality: Equal wages, anti-harassment laws, etc.

Sexual Division of Labour

Sexual division of labour refers to the unequal distribution of work between men and women based on societal norms and stereotypes. It is a common practice in most societies, where different types of work are assigned to men and women.

Traditional Division of Labour

• In most patriarchal societies, men are expected to work outside the home (public sphere), while women are expected to take care of household work (private sphere).
• Women’s work, such as cooking, cleaning, child-rearing, and other domestic tasks.

 What is Feminism?

Feminism is a movement that advocates for gender equality in all aspects of life—political, economic, and social. It challenges gender discrimination and fights for equal rights, opportunities, and freedoms for women and marginalized genders.

Who are Feminists?

Feminists are people who support the idea of gender equality and work towards eliminating gender-based discrimination. They can be of any gender and belong to different social, political, and cultural backgrounds.

2. Religion and Politics

• Secularism in India: India does not have an official religion and treats all religions equally.
• Communalism: The use of religion in politics leading to conflicts.
• Communal Politics: When political parties appeal to religious identities for votes.
• Government Policies:
• No Official Religion: Unlike some countries, India is a secular state.
• Freedom of Religion: Every citizen has the right to practice, preach, and propagate any religion.
• Intervention in Religion: Government can regulate religious practices (e.g., banning untouchability).

3. Caste and Politics

• Caste System in India: Traditional division of society based on birth.
• Caste in Politics: Political parties appeal to caste identities for votes.
• Caste-based Discrimination:
• Untouchability was abolished by the Constitution.
• Affirmative action (Reservation in jobs and education for SCs, STs, and OBCs).
• Caste and Modernization:
• Increased literacy and urbanization have reduced caste-based discrimination.
• Social reform movements and constitutional provisions promote equality.

Ways Women Face Discrimination and Oppression

Women face discrimination and oppression in multiple aspects of life due to patriarchal norms, gender stereotypes, and systemic inequalities. Some key areas where this happens include:

1. Economic Discrimination

• Wage Gap – Women are often paid less than men for the same work.
• Limited Job Opportunities – Many industries prefer hiring men for higher-paying or leadership roles.
• Unpaid Domestic Work – Women perform household chores and caregiving without financial recognition.
• Glass Ceiling Effect – Women find it harder to get promotions to top leadership positions.

2. Educational Discrimination

• Lower Access to Education – In some regions, girls are not given the same educational opportunities as boys.
• Early Dropout Rates – Due to child marriage, household responsibilities, or lack of resources.
• Gender Bias in Curriculum – Stereotypical portrayals of men and women in textbooks reinforce inequalities.

3. Social and Cultural Discrimination

• Preference for Sons – In some societies, boys are given more importance than girls.
• Restrictions on Freedom – Women face restrictions on clothing, movement, and decision-making.
• Stereotyping – Women are expected to be soft-spoken, obedient, and primarily caretakers.
• Marriage Pressures – Women are often pressured into early or forced marriages.

4. Political Discrimination

• Low Representation in Politics – Women have fewer opportunities to hold political office.
• Gender Bias in Leadership – Women leaders face more criticism and higher standards than men.
• Lack of Decision-Making Power – Women's voices are often ignored in policymaking and governance.

5. Violence and Harassment

• Domestic Violence – Physical, emotional, and economic abuse within households.
• Sexual Harassment – At workplaces, public places, and even online (cyber harassment).
• Human Trafficking – Women are often victims of forced labor, exploitation, and trafficking.
• Honor Killings – In some cultures, women are killed for marrying outside caste or religion.

6. Legal Discrimination

• Unequal Property Rights – In some societies, women inherit less than men. Lack of Protection Against Abuse – Weak laws or poor enforcement of laws protecting women.
• Discriminatory Divorce and Custody Laws – In some cases, women have less power in divorce settlements and child custody battles.

Women’s Political Representation

Women’s political representation refers to their participation in governance and decision-making roles, such as Parliament, State Assemblies, local bodies, and executive positions. Despite progress, women still face underrepresentation in politics worldwide due to social, cultural, and structural barriers.

1. Why is Women’s Political Representation Important?

• Equality in Decision-Making – Ensures policies are inclusive and address women’s issues.
• Better Governance – Studies show that women leaders focus more on education, health, and social welfare.
• Democratic Strengthening – True democracy is only possible when all groups, including women, are represented.
• Economic and Social Development – Women's leadership boosts economic growth and social progress.

2. Barriers to Women’s Political Representation

• Patriarchal Mindset – Women are often discouraged from entering politics.
• Lack of Party Support – Political parties prefer male candidates over women.
• Violence & Harassment – Women politicians face threats, abuse, and discrimination.
• Financial Constraints – Election campaigns require funds, and women often have limited financial resources.
• Household Responsibilities – Women are burdened with family duties, limiting their political involvement.

3. Women’s Political Representation in India

• Lok Sabha (Lower House of Parliament) – Women’s representation is low (about 15% in 2024).
• Rajya Sabha (Upper House) – Women hold around 10-12% of seats.
• State Assemblies – Women’s representation varies, but it is generally lower than 10% in many states.
• Local Government (Panchayati Raj) – 33% reservation for women has led to increased participation.

4. Government Initiatives to Promote Women in Politics

• 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments (1992) – 33% reservation for women in Panchayati Raj & Urban Local Bodies.
• Women’s Reservation Bill (108th Amendment, 2023) – Proposes 33% reservation for women in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies (pending implementation).
• Political Party Quotas – Some parties have introduced internal quotas for women candidates.
• Awareness & Leadership Programs – Training women to become political leaders.

5. Global Comparison

• Rwanda – 61% of Parliament seats are held by women (highest in the world).
• Scandinavian Countries – Sweden, Norway, and Finland have 40%+ women in politics due to strong gender equality policies.
• USA & UK – Women’s representation is improving but still below 30% in many areas.

6. How to Improve Women’s Political Representation?

• Implement Women’s Reservation Bill in Parliament & Assemblies
• Encourage More Women to Join Politics & Leadership Roles
• Stronger Anti-Harassment Laws for Women Politicians
• Financial & Training Support for Women Candidates
• Breaking Gender Stereotypes & Changing Public Mindsets

Relation Between Religion, Communalism, and Politics

Religion, communalism, and politics are deeply interconnected, especially in countries like India, where multiple religions coexist. While religion and politics can work together for social harmony, communalism can lead to conflicts and division in society.

1. Religion and Politics

Religion plays a significant role in politics in many countries. It can be both positive and negative in governance.

Positive Aspects

• Religious Values in Politics – Many political leaders follow ethical and moral principles inspired by religion.
• Social Welfare – Religious groups often contribute to education, healthcare, and charity work.
• Secularism and Equal Rights – Democratic countries allow all religions to practice freely.

Negative Aspects

• Religious Influence on Laws – Some laws may be biased towards one religion.
• Religious Polarization – Politicians may favor one religion to gain votes.
• Discrimination Against Minorities – Some religious groups face oppression in certain political systems.

2. Communalism and Politics

Communalism refers to a political ideology where one religious group is promoted over others, often leading to conflicts and division.

Features of Communalism in Politics

• Political Parties Appealing to Religious Groups – Some parties favor a particular religion to gain votes.
• Religious Conflicts – Tensions between communities due to political manipulation.
• Hate Speech & Violence – Some leaders use religious sentiments to spread hatred.
• Demand for Separate Political Representation – Some communities demand special privileges based on religion.
• Example: Partition of India (1947) – Communal tensions between Hindus and Muslims led to the division of India and Pakistan.

3. How Communalism Affects Democracy?

• Threatens National Unity – It creates divisions among people based on religion.
• Weakens Secularism – Secularism means treating all religions equally, but communalism promotes religious favoritism.
• Leads to Riots & Conflicts – Political communalism has led to many violent incidents.
• Discriminatory Policies – Governments may create biased policies favoring one religion.

Example: Communal Riots in India (1984, 1992, 2002, etc.) – Political involvement in religious tensions led to large-scale violence.

4. How to Reduce Communalism in Politics?

• Strict Implementation of Secularism – Government should not favor any religion.
• Equal Rights for All – Protect religious minorities from discrimination.
• Punishment for Hate Speech – Strict laws against politicians who spread communal hatred.
• Promotion of Interfaith Harmony – Encouraging respect among different religious groups.
• Educating People on Communalism’s Dangers – Awareness programs to stop communal politics.

Download Civics chapter 3 Gender, Religion and Caste

Federalism - Chapter - 2

 Federalism - Chapter - 2

What is Federalism?

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and various levels of government (state, local, etc.).

• Both levels of government have their own powers and responsibilities.
• The central government cannot take away the powers of the state or local governments.

Key Features of Federalism

• Two or more levels of government – Example: In India, we have Central, State, and Local governments.
• Division of powers – The Constitution divides powers between different levels of government.
• Independent functioning – Each level of government has its own area of power and does not interfere with others.
• Written Constitution – Federalism requires a written constitution to clearly define the powers of each level.
• Supremacy of Constitution – The constitution is the final authority, and all governments must follow it.
• Independent Judiciary – Courts settle disputes between different levels of government.

Types of Federalism

Coming Together Federalism:

• Independent states come together to form a union and share power.
• Example: USA, Switzerland, Australia.

Holding Together Federalism:

• A large country divides power among different regions to maintain unity.
• Example: India, Belgium, Spain.

Federalism in India (What makes India federal country?)

India is a "Holding Together" federation where power is shared among three levels:

• Union Government (Central) – Makes decisions for the entire country.
• State Governments – Have their own laws on state subjects.
• Local Governments – Panchayati Raj and Municipalities govern local areas.
• Residuary  - Residuary powers refer to the powers to make laws on subjects that are not mentioned in the Union List, State List, or Concurrent List of the Constitution. These powers are given to the Central Government (Parliament) under Article 248 of the Indian Constitution.

Examples of Residuary Powers in India

Cyber Laws – The internet and digital crimes were not mentioned in 1950, so Parliament made laws like the Information Technology Act (2000).
Space Technology & Research – ISRO and space laws come under the central government.
Telecommunication – Mobile networks, satellites, and 5G technology regulations.
Nuclear Energy – India’s nuclear policies and power plants are controlled by the central government.

Division of Powers in the Indian Constitution

• Union List (Central Government) – Defense, foreign affairs, banking, railways.
• State List (State Governments) – Police, trade, agriculture, irrigation.
• Concurrent List (Both Central & State Governments) – Education, forests, marriage, trade unions.

Article 371: Special Provisions for Certain States

• Article 371 grants special status and autonomy to certain states to address their unique needs and protect their cultural and economic interests.

Example:

Article 371A (Nagaland): No parliamentary law on religion, land, and culture applies unless the state assembly agrees.

Why is Article 371 important?

It ensures the protection of local cultures, land rights, and political autonomy for states with unique social and economic conditions.

How is Federalism Practised? 

Federalism is practised in different ways to ensure the distribution of power between different levels of government. In India, federalism is implemented through constitutional provisions, power sharing, and decentralization.

1 - Linguistic and Cultural Federalism

• India allows states to have their own official languages (besides Hindi and English).
• States can protect their unique cultures through special autonomous provisions (Article 371).
• Example: Tamil Nadu promotes Tamil as its primary language, and Nagaland has special autonomy under Article 371A.

Language Policy of India

No National Language

• India does not have a national language.
• Hindi and English are the official languages of the central government.

Official Languages (Hindi & English)

• Hindi (written in Devanagari script) is the official language of India.
• English is used for official communication alongside Hindi.

State Languages

• States are free to choose their own official language(s).
• Many states use their regional languages for government work.
• Example: Tamil Nadu uses Tamil, West Bengal uses Bengali, and Maharashtra uses Marathi.

Three-Language Formula

• To promote linguistic harmony, schools follow the Three-Language Formula:
• Hindi (or a regional language in Hindi-speaking states)
• English
• A Modern Indian Language (like Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, etc.)

Protection of Minority Languages

• The Constitution (Article 29 and 30) protects the rights of linguistic minorities.
• States cannot impose a language on people against their will.

What are Centre-State Relations?

Centre-State relations refer to how power and responsibilities are divided between the Central Government and State Governments in a federal system like India.

1. Legislative Relations (Division of Powers)

The Constitution divides subjects into three lists:

• Union List (Central Government) – Defence, foreign affairs, banking, railways.
• State List (State Governments) – Police, trade, agriculture, irrigation.
• Concurrent List (Both Central & State Governments) – Education, forests, marriage, trade unions.

👉 If a conflict arises, the Central Government’s law prevails in the Concurrent List.

2. Administrative Relations (Control Over States)

• States have their own governments, but the Centre can give directions to states on certain matters.
• The Governor (appointed by the President) acts as a link between the Centre and the State.
• During a national emergency, the Central Government takes full control of the state governments.

3. Financial Relations (Distribution of Money)

• The Centre collects most of the taxes (GST, Income Tax) and distributes funds to the states.
• The Finance Commission decides how tax revenue is shared between the Centre and States.

Example: The Central Government gives grants and aid to states for development projects like roads, schools, and health services.

4. Political Relations (Governance and President’s Rule)

• If the state government does not function properly, the Centre can impose President’s Rule under Article 356.
• The Governor can dissolve the state government and allow the Centre to take direct control.

What is a Coalition Government?

A coalition government is formed when two or more political parties join together to form a government because no single party has won a majority in the elections.

Example: If a party needs 272 seats in the Lok Sabha to form the government but wins only 250 seats, it must join hands with other parties to reach the majority mark.

Federalism - Chapter - 2 Federalism Chapter -2

Democratic Politics -II (Civics) Class - 10 Chapter - 1 Power Sharing

Civics

Chapter - 1 

Power Sharing

Power sharing is an important concept in democratic governance, ensuring that power is distributed among different groups to prevent any single entity from dominating.

1. Belgium: A Successful Power-Sharing Model

Diversity in Belgium:

• Ethnic Groups: Dutch-speaking (59%), French-speaking (40%), and German-speaking (1%).
• The capital Brussels had a French-speaking majority but was located in the Dutch-speaking region.

Conflict:

• The French-speaking community was economically and politically more powerful.
• The Dutch-speaking population, despite being a majority, felt discriminated against.

Steps Taken for Power Sharing in Belgium ( Accommodation in Belgium) :

• Equal representation: The number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers is equal in the central government.
• Federalism: Power was divided among Central, State, and Community Governments.
• Special Rights for Brussels: Both language groups have equal representation in Brussels.
• Community Government: Separate community governments were set up for linguistic groups to manage cultural, educational, and language-related issues.

🔹 Outcome: Belgium successfully avoided civil conflict through power sharing.

2. Sri Lanka: A Failed Power-Sharing Model

Diversity in Sri Lanka:

• Ethnic Groups: Sinhalese (74%) and Tamils (18%) (Indian Tamils + Sri Lankan Tamils).
• Tamils were mainly Hindus, while the Sinhalese were Buddhists.

Conflict:

• After independence (1948), Sinhalese-dominated government passed discriminatory policies:
• Sinhala was made the official language (1956).
• Government jobs and university seats were reserved for Sinhalese.
• Buddhism was given special status.

No Power Sharing Led to Civil War:

• Tamils demanded equality, but their voices were ignored.
• Tamil groups (like LTTE) started a violent civil war for a separate Tamil state.
• Thousands died, and Sri Lanka faced instability for decades.

🔹 Outcome: Sri Lanka suffered from ethnic tensions and civil war due to a lack of power-sharing.

Why is Power Sharing Important?

• Avoids Conflict in Society: In multi-ethnic and multi-religious societies, power sharing prevents social conflicts.
• Ensures Political Stability: Sharing power reduces the chances of political unrest and ensures long-term stability.
• Upholds the Spirit of Democracy: Democracy is based on the idea that power should not be concentrated in one hand.
• Prevents Majority Domination: It ensures that minority groups also have a say in decision-making.

Forms of Power Sharing

Horizontal Power Sharing:

• Power is shared among different organs of government – Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
• Ensures a system of checks and balances.
• Example: India – The Parliament (Legislature) makes laws, the Government (Executive) implements them, and the Supreme Court (Judiciary) interprets them.

Vertical Power Sharing:

• Power is divided among different levels of government – Central, State, and Local.
• Example: India’s federal system where the central government shares power with state and local governments.

Power Sharing Among Social Groups:

• Different communities, ethnic groups, and minorities are given a say in governance.
• Example: Reserved seats for SCs, STs, and OBCs in India.
• Power Sharing Among Political Parties, Pressure Groups, and Movements:
• Different political parties compete in elections and form governments.
• Example: Coalition governments in India, where multiple parties share power.

Key Words :-

1. Ethnic:

• Ethnic refers to a social group that shares a common culture, language, history, or ancestry.
• Ethnic groups may belong to different religions or races but have a strong cultural identity.
• Example: In Belgium, the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking communities are ethnic groups. In Sri Lanka, the Sinhalese and Tamils are different ethnic groups.

2. Civil War:

• A civil war is an internal conflict between groups within the same country.
• It usually occurs due to political, ethnic, religious, or economic tensions.
• Example: In Sri Lanka, a civil war broke out between the Sri Lankan government (Sinhalese majority) and Tamil militant groups (LTTE) because of discrimination against Tamils.

3. Prudential:

• Prudential means based on careful reasoning, wisdom, and practical benefits rather than emotions or moral arguments.
• In politics, prudential decisions help prevent conflicts and ensure long-term stability.
• Example: Power sharing in Belgium was a prudential decision because it prevented ethnic conflict by giving equal representation to both Dutch and French speakers.

Download Civics Chapter - 1 Complete Notes : -Chapter - 1 Power Sharing