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  • Source Documents and Accounting Equation Notes Class 11th Accountancy

    Source Documents and Accounting Equation

    1. Source Documents

    It is a written document which contains details of the transactions prepared at the time, it is entered into. It is also referred to as supporting document it is of prime importance as in the books of accounts. Transactions are recorded on the basis of an evidence. This evidence being the basis of recording entry are known as a source document, e.g. bills of purchases, invoices for sales, debit and credit notes etc.

    1. Cash Memo

    It is prepared by the seller, for goods sold against cash. Cash memo acts as an evidence for both the seller and purchaser of goods. For the purchaser, for goods purchased against cash and for the seller, for sales made for cash. IT contains details of goods sold, quantity, rate, total amount received, date of transactions, etc.

     

    1. Invoice Bill

    It is prepared by the seller, for goods sold against credit. It contains details such as to whom goods are sold, quantity of goods sold and the total sale amount. One prepares an invoice but receive a bill. These two terms are interchangeable and mean the same thing.

    1. Pay-in-Slip

    It is used for deposition cash or cheque into bank. It is a form which is available from a bank having a counterfoil which is returned to the depositor with cashier’s signature, as receipt. The counterfoil gives details regarding the date and the amount(in cash or cheque) deposited.

    1. Cheque

    A per Negotiable Instrument Act, “A cheque is a bill of exchange drawn on a specified banker and not expressed to be payable, otherwise than on demand and it includes the electronic image of a truncated cheque and a cheque in electronic form”.

    1. Debit Note

    A debit note is made out evidence that a debit was been made to the account of the party named in the debit note. It details the reason for the debit. The effect of a debit note is that the indebtedness to the supplier is reduced or, if the account is already settled, goods can be purchased further without payment.

    1. Credit Note

    A credit note is made out evidencing that credit has been granted to a debtor. The effect of a credit note is that the amount of the customer’s indebtedness is reduced or, if it is already settled, to enable the customer to purchase goods to the value of credit without further payment.

     

    1. Vouchers

    It is a document evidencing a business transaction. A voucher detailing the accounts that are debited and credited is prepared, on the basis of source documents such as cash memo, invoice or bill, receipt, pay-in-slip, cheque, debit and credit notes, etc.

    1. Types of Vouchers

    Basically, vouchers may be classified into two categories as follows:

    • Supporting vouchers these are also known as source vouchers or source documents. These are the documents which come into existence when a transaction is entered into.
    • Accounting vouchers are the secondary vouchers. These vouchers are a written document prepared on the basis of supporting vouchers for accounting and recording purposes, prepared by an accountant and countersigned by an authorized person. These accounting vouchers are prepared for cash as well as non-cash transactions. Accounting vouchers may be classified into two categories a follows:
    • Cash Vouchers which are prepared at the time of receipt or payment of cash are known as cash vouchers. It includes receipt and payment through cheques.

    Cash vouchers further can be of the following two types:

    • Debit Voucher these are prepared to record the transactions involving cash are known as cash vouchers. It includes receipt and payment through cheques.
    • Credit Voucher these are prepared to record the transactions involving cash payments, i.e. when payment is made.
    • Non-cash vouchers or transfer vouchers the vouchers which are prepared for transactions not involving cash, i.e. non-cash transactions are known as non-cash vouchers or transfer vouchers.
    1. Complex Voucher and Compound Voucher Complex voucher/journal voucher transactions withmultiplecredits are called complex transactions and the accounting vouchers prepared for such transaction is known as complex voucher/journal voucher.

    Compound Voucher which record transactions with multiple debits/credit and one credit/debit are called compound vouchers. Compound vouchers are of two types:

    • Debit Voucher showing transactions that contains multiple debits and one credit is called debit voucher.
    • Credit Voucher showing transactions that contains multiple credits but one debit is called credit voucher.
    1. Preparation of Vouchers

    There is no set format of an accounting voucher. The design of the accounting vouchers depends upon the nature, requirement and convenience of the business.

    To distinguish various vouchers, different colour papers and different fonts of printing are used.

    1. Accounting Equation

    A mathematical expression which shows that the assets and liabilities of a firm are equal is known as accounting equation.

    An accounting equation is based on dual aspect concept which states that every transaction has two aspects debit and credit, for every debit there is an equal amount of credit and vice-versa.

    Accounting equation signifies that the assets of a business are always equal to the total of its liabilities and capital (Owner’s equity).

    Accounting equation may be expressed as Total Assets= Total Equities or

    Assets= Internal Equity + External Equity

    Or

    Assets (A) = Capital(C) + Liabilities (L)

    The above equation can also be presented in the following forms:

    Capital = Assets – Liabilities

    Or

    Liabilities = Assets – Capital

    1. Effects of Transaction on Accounting Equation

    Practical steps involved in developing an accounting equation:

    Step 1 Ascertain thevariables (i.e. assets, liabilities or capital) of an equation affected by a transaction.

    Step 2 Find out the effect (in terms of increase or decrease) of a transaction on the variables of an equation.

    Step 3 Show the effect on the appropriate side of an equation and ensure that the total of right hand side is equal to the total of left hand side.

  • Theory Base of Accounting Notes Class 11th Accountancy

    Theory Base of Accounting Notes

    Theory base of accounting comprises of concepts, conventions, principles, rules, standards and guidelines develop, to provide uniformity and consistency to accounting records and enhance is utility, to various users (i.e. internal and external) of accounting information.

    1. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles(GAAP) It refers to the rules or guidelines adopted, for recording and reporting of business transactions, in order to bring uniformity in the preparation and presentation of financial statements.
    2. Fundamental Accounting Assumptions
    • Going concern concept/assumption According to this concept, it is assumed that the business firm would continue its operations indefinitely, i.e. for a fairly long period of time and would not be liquidated in the foreseeable future. All the transactions are recorded in the books on the assumption that it is a continuing enterprise.
    • Consistency concept/assumption according the consistency concept, accounting practice once chosen and followed should be consistently over the years. It directly helps to financial statement to be more understand and comparable. This concept is particular important when alternative accounting practice are equally acceptable.
    • Accrual concept/assumption according to the concept, a transaction is recorded at the time takes place and not at the time when settlement done. In other words, revenue is recorded which sales are made or services are rendered and irrelevant as to when cash is received against the sales.

    Similarly, expenses are recorded at the time when are incurred and it is irrelevant as to when payable.

    1. Accounting Principles

    The various accounting principles are discussed as below:

    • Business entity or accounting entity (separate entity) principle According to this principle, business is treated as a separate entity distinct from its owners. Recording of accounting information is done, considering this principle.

    A separate account by the name of ‘capital’ is maintained for the money invested by the owner in the business. Business owns money to the owner to the extent of his capital just like it owns money to lenders and creditors who are outside parties to the business.

    (ii) Money measurement principle According to this principle, only those transactions which can be expressed in terms of money are recorded in the books of accounts, e.g. sale of goods or payment of expenses or receipt of income, etc. Another aspect of this principle is that the transactions that can be expressed in terms of money have to be converted in terms of money before being recorded.

    (iii) Accounting Period principle accounting period refers to the span of time at the end of which the financial statements of an enterprise are prepared, to know whether it has earned profits or incurred losses during that period and what exactly is the position of its assets and liabilities at the end of that period. It is also known as periodicity principle or time period principle.

    According to this principle, the life of a business is divided into smaller periods so that its performance can be measured on regular basis or intervals.

    (iv) Full disclosure principle according to this principle, there should be reporting of all the significant information relating to the economic affairs of the business and it should be complete and understandable. The information disclosed should be material and significant which in turn results in better understanding.

    (v) Materiality principle materiality principles states the relative importance of an item or an event with respect to the particular business.

    Information is material, if it has the ability to influence or affect the decision-making of various parties interested in accounting information contained in financial statements.

    It is a matter of judgment to decide whether a particular information is material for a business or not. Also, it depends on the nature and/or amount of that item.

    (vi) Prudence or conservation principle the concept of conservation (also called ‘prudence’) provides guidance for recording transactions in the books of accounts and is based on the policy of playing safe.

    Thisprinciple states that ‘Do not anticipate profits but provide for all possible losses’. In other words, we should make provisions for probable future expenses and ignore any future probable gain until it actually accrues.

    (vii) Cost concept or historical cost principle according to this principle, assets are recorded in the books at the price paid to acquire it. Assets are recorded in the books of accounts at their cost price which includes cost of acquisition, transportation, installation and making the asset ready for use and this cost is the basis for all subsequent accounting of such assets.

    (viii) Matching cost or matching principle according to this principle, expenses incurred in an accounting period should be matched with revenues during that period, i.e. when a revenue is recognized in a period, then the cost related to that revenue also needs to be recognized in that period to enable calculation of correct profits of the business.

    The matching concept thus, states that all revenues earned during an accounting year, whether received during that year or not and all costs incurred whether paid during the year or not should be taken into account while ascertaining profit or loss for that year.

    (ix) Dual aspect or duality principle dual aspect is the foundation or basic principle of accounting.

    According to this principle, every transaction entered by a business has two aspects, i.e. debit and credit. There may be more than one credit. However, the total of all debits and total of all credits will always be equal words, we can say that for every debit, there is always an equal credit.

    (x) Revenue recognition principle (realization principle) the concept of revenue recognition requires that the revenue for a business transaction should be included in the accounting records only when it is realized. Revenue is assumed to be realized when a legal right to receive it arises, i.e. the point of time when goods have been sold or service has been rendered.

    According to this principle, revenue is considered to have been realized at the time when a transaction has been entered and the obligation to receive the amount has been established.

    (xi)Verifiable objective concept/objectivity concept (objective by principle) according to this principle, accounting information should be verifiable and should be free from personal bias. Every transaction should be based on source documents such as evidences should be objective which means that they should state the facts as they are, without any bias towards either side.

    Also Read: TS Grewal Solutions for Basic Accounting Terms Class 11 Accountancy Chapter 2

    1. System of Accounting

    The systems of recording transactions in the books of accounts are generally classified into two types:

    • Double entry system is based on theprinciple of ‘dual aspect’ which states that every transaction has two aspects, i.e. debit and credit. The basic principle followed is that every debit must have a corresponding credit. Thus, one account is debited and the other is credited.
    • Single entry system this system is not a complete system of maintaining records of financial transactions. It does not record two field effect of each and every transaction. Only personal accounts and cash book are maintained under this system instead of maintaining all the accounts. No uniformity is maintained under this system while recording transactions. The single entry system is also known as accounts from incomplete records.
    1. Basis of Accounting
    • Cash basis of accounting under the cash basis of accounting, entries in the books of accounts are made, when cash is received or paid and not when the receipts or payment becomes due. Revenue is recognized at the time when cash is received and not at time of sale or change of ownership of goods. Expenses are recorded only at the time of actual payments. The difference between total revenue (receipts) and expenses (payments) is profit earned or loss suffered.
    • Accrual basis of accounting under accrual basis of accounting, revenue is recognized when sales take place or ownership of goods and services changes whether payment for such sales is received or not, is not relevant. Accrual basis of accounting is based on realization and matching principle.
    1. Meaning of Accounting Standards

    Accounting standards are the written statements consisting of uniform accounting rules and guidelines issued by the accounting body of the country (such as institute of Chartered Accountants of India) that are to be followed in the preparation and presentation of financial statements.

    However, the accounting standards cannot override that provision of applicable laws, customs, usages and business environment in the country.

    1. Utility of Accounting Standards
    • Basis of preparing financial statements
    • Uniformity in accounting methods
    • Sense of confidence to various users
    • Help to auditors
    • Simplifying accounting information
    • Render reliability to financial statements
    1. Meaning of IFRS

    International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and issued by International Accounting System Board (IASB). IASB replacedInternational Accounting Standard Committee (IASC) in 2001. IASC was formed in 1973 develop accounting standards which have global acceptance and make different accounting statement of different countries similar and comparable.

    1. Objective of IASB
    • To issue accounting standards which facilitates transparency and comparability to facilitate rights decisions.
    • To promote use of these standards.
    • To look into the concerns of small and medium enterprise having difficulties in implementation of IFRS.
    • To bring uniformity in national accounting standards and IFRS.
    1. Benefits of IFRS
    • Helpful to global enterprises
    • Helpful to investors
    • Helpful to industry
    • Helpful to accounting professionals

  • Introduction to Accounting Class 11 Notes Accountancy

    Introduction to Accounting Notes

    1. Book-Keeping Accounting and Accountancy Book-Keeping-It is an art of recording in the books of accounts, the monetary aspect of commercial and financial transactions. Book-Keeping is a part of accounting; it is concerned with record keeping or maintenance of books of accounts.

    Accounting is a wider concept than book-keeping; it starts where book-keeping ends. Accounting is an art of recording, classifying and summarizing the financial data and interpreting the results thereof.

    Accounting Accountancy refers to the entire body of the theory and practice of accounting; it is the systematic knowledge of accounting. It tells us why and how to prepare the books of accounts and how to summarize the accounting information and communicate it to the interested parties.

    1. Objectives of Accounting
    • Systematic recording of business transactions
    • Calculation of profit and loss
    • Ascertainment of financial position
    • Providing accounting information to its users for decision-making
    1. Functions of Accounting
    • Maintaining systematic records
    • Communicating the financial results for decision-making
    • Meeting government regulation
    • Protecting business assets
    • Assistance to management
    • Stewardship or trusteeship
    • Control
    1. Accounting Process and Cycle

    Accounting process starts with identifying financial transactions, involves recording, classifying and summarizing and ends with interpreting accounting information and communicating the result to various concerned parties by preparing final accounts.

    The Complete sequence beginning with the recording of the transactions and ending with the preparing of the final accounts, is called accounting cycle.

    1. Is Accounting Science or an Art?

    Accounting is both an art as well as a science. Accounting is an art of recording, classifying and summarizing financial transactions. It helps us in ascertaining the net profit and financial position of the business enterprise.

    Accounting is also a science as it is an organized knowledge based on certain principles.

    1. Branches of Accounting
    • Financial accounting the process of identifying, measuring, recording, classifying, summarizing, analyzing, interpreting and communicating the financial transactions and events is known as financial accounting. The purpose of this branch of accounting is to keep a record of all financial transactions.
    • Cost accounting it is the process of ascertaining and controlling the cost of a product, operation or function. The purpose of cost accounting is to analyse the expenditure, so as to ascertain the cost of various products manufactured by the firm and fix the prices. It also helps in controlling the costs and providing necessary coasting information to management for decision-making.
    • Management Accounting it is the use of accounting techniques for providing to help all levels of management in planning and controlling the activities of business to enable decision-making.

    The purpose of management accounting is to assist the management in taking rational policy decisions and to evaluate the impact of its decisions and actions. Management accounting not only includes cost accounting but also covers other areas such as capital expenditure decision, capital structure decisions, dividend decisions.

    • Social responsibility accounting is the process of identifying, measuring and communicating the social effects of business decision to various users to enable judgments and decision-making by them. It is accounting for social costs and social benefits.
    • Human resource accounting it is the process of identifying, measuring and communicating the value of investment made in human resources of an enterprise.
    1. Advantages of Accounting
    • Financial information about the business
    • Assistance to management
    • Replaces memory
    • Facilities comparative study
    • Facilities settlement of tax liabilities
    • Facilitates raising loans
    • Acts as an evidence in court
    • Helps at the time of insolvency
    • Helps in ascertaining the value of business
    • Helps in ascertaining the net result of operations
    • Helps in ascertaining financial position
    1. Limitations of Accounting
    • Accounting is not fully exact
    • Accounting does not indicate the realizable value
    • Ignores the qualitative elements
    • Ignores price level changes
    • Window dressing
    • Not free from bias
    1. Different Roles of Accounting
    • As a language
    • As a historical record
    • As current economic reality
    • As an information system
    1. Accounting Information

    Accounting is a service activity. Its function is to provide qualitative information, primarily financial in nature, about economic entities that is intended to be useful in making an economic decision.

    1. Qualitative Characteristics of Accounting Information
    • Reliability
    • Relevance
    • Understandability
    • Comparability
    1. Types of Accounting Information
    • Information relating to profit or surplus
    • Information relating to financial position
    • Information about cash flow
    1. Users of Accounting Information

    Users of accounting information may be categorized into internal users and external users.

    • Internal Users
    • Owners
    • Management
    • Employees and workers
    • External Users
    • Investors and potential investors
    • Unions and employee groups
    • Lenders and financial institutions
    • Suppliers and creditors
    • Customers
    • Government and other regulators
    • Social responsibility groups
    • Competitors
    1. Basic Accounting Terms
    • Business transaction it means a transaction or event entered into by various parties and recorded in the books of accounts. It can be a cash transaction or a credit transaction.
    • Account it is a summarized record of transactions relating to a particular head at one place. In an account, not only the amounts of transactions are recorded but their effects and directions are also recorded.
    • Capital is the amount invested by the owner in the business. It may be in the form of cash of kind. In accounting ‘business’ and ‘owner’ and separate and distinct entities. Hence, capital is the liability of the business towards the owners in accounting, such liability is also called internal liability or internal equity or owner’s equity.
    • Drawings It is the amount withdrawn by the owner in cash or assets from the business for personal use. Drawings reduce the capital of the owner in the business.
    • Liabilities It means the amount owed (payable) to the business to outsiders are called external or outside liabilities or simple liabilities. For example, creditors, overdraft etc.

    Liabilities can be classified as

    • Current Liabilities These are the liabilities which are payable within a year. E.g. Creditors, bills payable, short-term loans etc.
    • Non-Current Liabilities Anything not classified as current liability is non-current liability. These are payable after a period of more than one year. E.G. debentures, long-terms etc.
    • Assets are property (movable or immovable) or legal rights owned by an individual or business. These are the economic resources of an enterprise that can be usually expressed in monetary terms. Assets can be classified into
    • Current Assets These are the assets which are purchased to convert them into cash within a short period of time, i.e. one year e.g. debtors, stock.
    • Non-Current Assets Anything not classified as current asset is non-current asset. These are the assets held by the business not with the purpose to resell but are held either as investment or to facilities business operations, e.g. fixed assets such as land, building, machinery, long-term investments, etc.
    • Fixed Assets
    • Tangible assets these are the assets which have a physical existence, e.g. land, buildings, furniture, vehicle etc.
    • Intangible assets these are the assets which do not have physical existence, i.e. they cannot be seen or touched, e.g. trademarks, copyrights, patents, goodwill etc.
    • Receipts The amount received or receivable by selling assets, goods or service is known as receipts. The receipts are categorized into two parts:
    • Capital receipts The amount received or receivable by selling assets is known as capital receipts, e.g. sale building, furniture.
    • Revenue receipts The amount which is received or receivable against the sale of goods or services is known as revenue receipts.
    • Expenditure it is the amount spent or liability incurred for acquiring assets, goods and services. Types of expenditure are
    • Capital Expenditure It is the expenditure incurred to acquire assets or improving the quality of existing assets which will increase the earning capacity of the business. These expenditure give benefit to the business for more than one accounting year. E.g. purchase of machinery.
    • Revenue Expenditure It is the amount spent to purchase goods and services that are consumed during the accounting period. Revenue expenditure does not increase the earning capacity rather maintains the existing earning capacity.
    • Deferred revenue expenditure it is revenue expenditure in nature but provides benefits for more than one accounting period, e.g. heavy advertising expenditure to promote a new product will give benefit for more than one accounting period and hence, is a deferred revenue expenditure.
    • Expenses Cost incurred by a business in the process of earning revenue are known as expenses. It is a value which has expired during the accounting period. It may be
    • Prepaid Expense
    • Outstanding Expense
    • Income it is increase in economic benefits during an accounting period in the form of inflow of assets or decrease of liabilities, that result in increase in internal equity other than those relating to contribution from equity participants.
    • Profit Excess of revenue of a business over its cost is termed as profit. Profits are generally of two types:
    • Gross Profit it means excess of operating revenues over direct/operating expenses.
    • Net Profit it means the excess of revenue over expenses and losses. It increases owner’s equity.
    • Gain it is a profit of irregular or non-recurring nature. It is a profit that arises from events or transactions which are incidental to business such as sale of fixed assets, winning a court case, appreciation in the value of an asset etc.
    • Loss the excess of expenses of a period over its related revenues is termed as loss. It decreases owner’s equity. It also refers to money or money’s worth lost (or cost incurred) without receiving any benefit in return. e.g. cash or goods lost by theft or a fire accident, etc. It also includes loss on sale of fixed assets
    • Goods are the articles or things in which a business deals. It is a term that applies to all the items held for sale. They are thus stock-in-trade of an enterprise which is purchased or manufactured with a purpose of selling. For a furniture dealer, furniture is good, for a vehicle dealer, vehicle is goods.
    • Purchase The term purchase is used for purchases of goods and not fixed assets. Goods are articles purchased for resale or for producing the finished product which are also to be sold.

    The term ‘purchases’ includes both cash and credit purchases of goods. Goods purchases for cash are termed as cash purchases and goods purchased on credit are termed as credit purchases.

    • Purchases return goods purchased may be returned when they are not as per specification, are defective or due to any other reasons. Goods returned are known as purchases or return outwards.
    • Sales it means sale of goods, sales are total revenues from goods or services sold or provide to customers. Sales include both cash and credit sales. When goods for cash, they are termed cash sales and when sold on credit, they are termed credit sales.
    • Sales Return Goods sold when returned by the purchaser are termed as sales return or return inwards.
    • Stock It is the articles which are held by an enterprise for the purpose of sale in the ordinary course of business or for the purpose of using it in the production of goods meant for sale. Stock are of following kinds:
    • Stock of new material it includes stock of raw material used for manufacturing of goods, e.g. stock of cloth to be used for making shirts.
    • Work-in-progress it is a stock that is in the process of being finished, i.e. they are partly finished goods.
    • Trade receivables the term ‘receivable’ includes the outstanding amount due form others. It includes debtors and bills receivables.
      1. Debtors are personsand/or other entities who own to the enterprise an amount for buying goods and services on credit. The total amount standing against such persons and/or entities on the closing date, is shown in the balance sheet as sundry debtors on the asset side.
      2. Bills receivable it means a bill of amount accepted by a debtor, the amount of which be received on the specified date.

    Also Read: Introduction to Accounting Class 11th Accountancy (Commerce) CHAPTER-1

    • Trade Payables The term ‘payables’ includes amounts due to others. Accounts payable include trade creditors as well as bills payable promissory notes.
      1. Creditors are persons and/or entities who have to be paid by the enterprise amount for providing the enterprise goods services on credit. The total amount standard the favour of such persons and/or entities or closing date, is shown in the balance she/he sundry creditors on the liabilities side.
      2. Bills Payable it means a bill of exchange amount of which will be payable on the spate date.
    • Cost the amount of expenditure incurrent attributable to a specified article, product is known as cost.
    • Discount it is any type of reduction in the primary goods sold.

    Discount is generally of two types:

    1. Trade Discount it is offered at a percentage of list price, at the time of separate goods. The objective of allowing trade distribute is to persuade the buyer to buy more goods.
    2. Cash Discount the objective of allowing the discount is to encourage the debtor to paid dues promptly.
    • Voucher it is a documentary evidence in support of a transaction, e.g. cash memo, invoice of receipts, debit/credit notes etc.

  • Constitutional Design Chapter 3 Study Materials

    Chapter 3 What is Constitutional Design

    Social Science Civics [Class IX]

    Content’s

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  • Extra Questions of What is Constitutional Design Class 9th Social Science Civics

    Q.1. In which way was the system of ‘apartheid’ oppressive? [Important]

    Ans. The apartheid system was particularly oppressive for the blacks. They were forbidden from living in white areas. They could work in white areas only if they had a permit. Trains, buses, taxis, hotels, hospitals, schools and colleges, swimming pools, public toilets etc. were all separate for the whites and blacks. They could not even visit the churches where the whites worshipped. Blacks could not form associations or protest against the terrible treatment.

    Q.2. What was the appeal made by the black leaders to the fellow blacks after the emergence of the new democratic South Africa?

    Ans. After the emergence of the new democratic South Africa, black leaders appealed to fellow blacks to forgive the whites for the atrocities they had committed while in power. They urged the people to build a new South Africa based on equality of all races, and of men and women, on democratic values, social justice and human rights.

    Q.3. What is meant by the term ‘Constitution’? [Important]

    Ans. The constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are accepted by all people living in that country. It is the supreme law that determines the relationship among the people living in a territory (called citizens) and also the relationship between the people and government. It specifies how the government will be constituted and who will have the power to take different decisions.

    Q.4. Describe the advantages that Indians had when they participated in the legislatures which were set up as a result of the elections of 1937.

    Ans. Although the legislatures set up in India as a result of elections of 1937 were not fully democratic, the experience gained by Indians in the working of the legislative institutions proved to be very useful for the country in setting up its own institutions and working in them.

    Q.5. Give a description of the composition of the Constituent Assembly. [Important] Ans. The Constituent Assembly was elected mainly by the members of the existing Provincial Legislatures. This ensured a fair geographical share of members from all the regions of the country. Congress, which was the dominant party in the Assembly, itself included a variety of political groups and opinions. It represented members from different languages, castes, religions, classes and occupations.

    Q.6. What did Ambedkar mean by ‘Contradiction’ in his concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly?

    Ans. In his concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly Dr. Ambedkar said that India was entering a life of ‘contradictions’ on 26th Jan 1950. By this he meant that in politics Indians would have equality but in social and economic life, there would be inequality. In politics India would be recognising the principle of one man one vote, with one value, but in social and economic life, the principle of one man one value would be denied.

    Q.7. Why was a constitution necessary for a country like South Africa? [CBSE 2010] Ans. The oppressor and the oppressed, i.e. the whites and the blacks were planning to live together, as equals. It was not going to be easy for them to trust each other. They wanted to safeguard their interests. The only way to build and maintain trust was to write down some rules. This set of basic rules was the constitution needed for South Africa.

    Q.8. What do you understand by secularism? Why is India called a secular country?

    [CBSE 2010]

    Ans. India is a country of many religions and it respects all religions. No religion is given the status of state religion and equal respect is given to all beliefs, faiths and practices. Citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion.

    Q.9. What are Constitutional Amendments? State its significance in a democratic country like India. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Constitutional Amendments are changes in the constitution made by the Supreme Legislative body in a country. The constitution of India is a very long and detailed document. Therefore it needs to be amended quite regularly to keep it updated.

    Q.10. What were the difficulties faced during the making of Indian constitution? [2010 (T-1)] Ans. It was drawn up under very difficult circumstances. Making a constitution for a huge country like India was not an easy affair. The country was born through partition. The problem of princely states was left undecided by the Britrish. There were anxieties about the present and future of the country.

    Q.11. State the steps involved in the framing of Indian consitution. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. The drafting of the document called the constitution was done by an assembly of elected representatives called the Constituent assembly Elections to the Constitutuent Assembly were held in July 1946. Its first meeting was held in December 1946. It had 299 members. The assembly adopted the constitution on 26 November 1949 and it came into force on 26 January 1950.

    Q.12. The Preamble of our constitution is a short statement of values. Which country has inspired India to incorporate the Preamble? Why does it start with ‘‘We The People of India?’’ [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Taking inspiration from American model, most countries including India have chosen to begin their constitutions with a importance to the people of India by saying that it is the people who have drawn up and enacted the constitution. It has not been handed down to them by a king or any outside power.

    LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

    Q.1. Regarding the constitution-making, what was the compromise reached at between the blacks and whites?

    Ans. The constitution of South Africa was drawn together by the party of whites which had rules through oppression and the party that led the freedom struggle. The constitution gave to its citizens the most extensive rights available in any country. After long negotiations both parties agreed to a compromise. The whites agreed to the principle of majority rule and that of one person one vote. They also agreed to accept some basic rights for the poor and the workers.

    The blacks agreed that the majority rule would not be absolute. They agreed that the majority would not take away the property of the white minority.

    Q.2. What does the constitution effectively do that makes a country a democratic one?

    Ans. A constitution does many things to make a country a democratic one : (i) It generates a degree of trust and coordination that is necessary for different kind of people to live together.

    (ii) It specifies how the government will be constituted and who will have the power of taking which decisions.

    (iii) It lays down limits on the powers of the government and tells us what the rights of the citizens are.

    (iv) It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

    Q.3. Why did the makers of the Indian constitution have anxieties about the present and the future of the country?

    Ans. The makers of the Indian constitution had anxieties because making of the constitution for a huge and diverse country like India was not an easy affair. The country was born through partition on the basis of religious differences. At least ten lakh people were killed on both sides of the border in partition related violence. Another problem was that the British had left it to the rulers of the princely states to decide whether they wanted to merge with India or with Pakistan or to remain independent.

    Q.4. Describe how the Constituent Assembly worked to prepare the constitution for India.

    Ans. The Constituent Assembly worked in a systematic, open and consensual manner. First some basic principles were decided and agreed upon. Then a Drafting Committee chaired by Dr. B.R.

    Ambedkar prepared a draft constitution for discussion. Several rounds of thorough discussion took place, clause by clause. More than 2000 amendments were made. The members deliberated for 114 days spread over 3 years. Every document presented and every word spoken in the Constituent Assembly was recorded and preserved. These are called ‘Constituent Assembly Debates’.

    Q.5. In his speech ‘Tryst with Destiny’, Nehru said, ‘Freedom and power bring responsibility.’

    Explain what he meant by this.

    Ans. By saying that ‘Freedom and power bring responsibility’, Nehru meant that it is the responsibility of Indians to not relax with ease after having got the freedom, but to constantly strive to fulfil the pledges taken. He said that the service of India meant the service of the millions who suffered, it meant the embing of poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity.

    Q.6. What is the preamble of the constitution? What is the significance of ‘We the people of India’ and ‘secular’ in the preamble? [CBSE 2010]

    Ans. It is an introductary part of the constitution. It is called the key of the Constitution. “We the people of India” means the constitution has been drawn up and enacted by the people through their representatives. Secular means that citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion. But there as no official religion.

    Q.7. Describe any three fealures of the Indian constitution. [CBSE 2010] Ans. (i) It establishes a Sovereign, Democratic, Republic in India (ii) It establishes a secular state in India (iii) It provides Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties.

    (i) The Constitution begins with a short statement called the preamble. Sovereign means people have supreme right to make decisions on internal as well as external matter. No external power can dictate the government of India. Democratic means a form of government where people enjoy equal political rights, elect their rulers and hold them accountable. Republic means the head of the state is an elected person and it is not a hereditary position.

    (ii) Secular means citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion – Government treats all religions beliefs and practices with equal respect.

    (iii) The Indian constitution provides justice – social, economic and political.

    Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship.

    Equality of status and opportunity.

    Fraternity assuring dignity of the individual and unity and integrity of the nation.

    Q.8. What is constitution? Why do we need a constitution? [CBSE 2010] Ans. It is a set of written rules that are accepted by all the people of a country. It is needed as it is the supreme law that determines the relationship among citizens of a country. It defines how the government will be formed and also limits the powers of the government and defines the rights of the citizens.

    Q.9. The Indian constitution is both rigid and flexible. Explain. [CBSE 2010] Ans. The Indian Constitution is neither wholly flexible nor wholly rigid. It is partly rigid and partly flexible. It is not so flexible as the British constitution is, nor so rigid as the American constitution is.

    Some of the articles of the constitution can be amended by a simple majority of the parliament, e.g. changing the names of states, altering boundries of states, matters relating to citizenship etc. Some of the articles of the constitution can be amended with 2/

    3 majority of the members

    of parliament, e.g. the election of the president of India. If any change in it is intended then it has to be passed first by a majority of the total members in each house of parliament.

    Q.10. Mention the landmark years in the making of the Indian constitution. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. As far back as 1928, Motilal Nehru and eight other Congress leaders drafted a constitution for India. In 1931 at the Karachi Session of Indian National Congress leaders pondered what India’s constitution should be like. Elections held in 1937 to provincial Legislatures and Ministeri all over British India. It was beneficial for Indians to gain experience. That is why Indian Constitution adopted many insitutional details from colonial laws like the Government of India Act 1935.

    Q.11. What is the aim of a socialist state? How can that be achieved? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. We all us generated socially and should be shared equally by society. Government should regulate the ownership of land and industry to reduce socioeconomic equalities. Social inequalities have to be reduced, Government should work for the welfare of all.

    Q.12. What was the African Policy of Apartheid? How could that come to an end? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Apartheid was the name of a system of racial discrimention unique to South Africa. The White Europeans imposed this system on South Africa. The native people of Africa are black. They had 3/4 of the population. The whites treated all non-whites as inferiors. The non-whites did not have voting rights. The blacks were forbidden from living in the white area. Trains, buses, hospitals, schools, hotels, taxis, cinemas etc were all separate for the whites and blacks. The blacks, coloured and Indians fought for their rights-arranged marches protests and strikes. The racist government for tortured them. On 26 April 1994. Apartheid came to an end with the birth of the Republic of South Africa.

    Q.13. Define the following terms mentioned in the Preamble to the constitution of India.

    (a) Sovereign (b) Socialist (c) Secular (d) Republic [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Sovereign means people have supreme right to make decisions on internal and external matters. No external power can dictate to the Government of India.

    Socialist means that wealth is generated socially it should be shared equally by society.

    Secular means that citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion but there is no official religion.

    Republic means the head of the State is an elected person and not a hereditary position.

    Q.14. What is the Preamble? Explain any three guiding principles explained in the Preamble.

    [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Preamble is a short statement of the basic values of the constitution. Taking inspiration from American model, most countries have adopted constitutions with a preamble. The preamble of the Indian constitution reads like a poem on democracy. It contains the philosoply on which the entire constitution has been built ; 1. Democratic–It will have a democratic government where people will enjoy equal rights ; 2. Equality– All citizens will be equal before the law; and 3. Fraternity– All world would behave as if they are members of the same family.

    Q.15. Why do we need a constitution? Give any four points. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. Every country has diverse groups of people. People have differences. Hence the need to have a set of rules. To maintain a trust it as best to write down these rules. Thus the constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are acceptd by all. A constitution.

    1. generates trust and coordination.

    2. specifies how government will be constituted.

    3. lays down limits on the powers of the government.

    4. expresses the aspirations of the people.

  • NCERT Solutions of What is Constitutional Design Class 9th Social Science Civics

    NCERT Solutions for Class 9th Social Science: Chapter 3 Constitutional Design

    Class 9 Social Science Chapter 3 Constitutional Design NCERT Solution is given below.

    Question 1:
    Here are some false statements. Identify the mistake in each case and rewrite these correctly based on what you have read in this chapter.
    (a) Leaders of the freedom movement had an open mind about whether the country should be democratic or not after independence.
    (b) Members of the Constituent Assembly of India held the same views on all provisions of the Constitution.
    (c) A country that has a constitution must be a democracy.
    (d) Constitution cannot be amended because it is the supreme law of a country.

    Answer:
    (a) Leaders of the freedom movement had a consensus that the country should be a democratic nation after independence.
    (b) Members of the Constituent Assembly of India held the same views on the basic principles of the constitution.
    (c) A country that is a democracy must have a constitution.
    (d) A constitution can be amended.

    Question 2:
    Which of these was the most salient underlying conflict in the making of a democratic constitution in South Africa?
    (a) Between South Africa and its neighbours
    (b) Between men and women
    (c) Between the white majority and the black minority
    (d) Between the coloured minority and the black majority

    Answer:
    The most salient underlying conflict in the making of a democratic constitution in South Africa was between the white minority and the black majority.

    Question 3:
    Which of these is a provision that a democratic constitution does not have?
    (a) Powers of the head of the state
    (b) Name of the head of the state
    (c) Powers of the legislature
    (d) Name of the country

    Answer:
    (b) Name of the head of the state

    Question 4:
    Match the following leaders with their roles in the making of the Constitution:

    (a) Motilal Nehru (i) President of the Constituent Assembly
    (b) B.R. Ambedkar (ii) Member of the Constituent Assembly
    (c) Rajendra Prasad (iii) Chairman of the Drafting Committee
    (d) Sarojini Naidu (iv) Prepared a Constitution for India in 1928

    Answer:

    (a) Motilal Nehru (iv) Prepared a Constitution for India in 1928
    (b) B.R. Ambedkar (iii) Chairman of the Drafting Committee
    (c) Rajendra Prasad (i) President of the Constituent Assembly
    (d) Sarojini Naidu (ii) Member of the Constituent Assembly

    Question 5:
    Read again the extracts from Nehru’s speech “Tryst with Destiny” and answer the following:
    (a) Why did Nehru use the expression “not wholly or in full measure” in the first sentence?
    (b) What pledge did he want the makers of the Indian Constitution to take?
    (c) “The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every eye”. Who was he referring to?

    Answer:
    (a) Nehru used the term ‘not wholly or in full measure’ because according to him the task they had undertaken was not complete.

    (b) The pledge that he wanted the makers of the Indian Constitution to take was to dedicate their lives to the service of India, the Indian people and the humanity at large.
    (c) Mahatma Gandhi

    Question 6:
    Here are some of the guiding values of the Constitution and their meaning. Rewrite them by matching them correctly.

    (a) Sovereign (i) Government will not favour any religion.
    (b) Republic (ii) People have the supreme right to make decisions.
    (c) Fraternity (iii) Head of the state is an elected person.
    (d) Secular (iv) People should live like brothers and sisters.

    Answer:

    (a) Sovereign (ii) People have the supreme right to make decisions.
    (b) Republic (iii) Head of the state is an elected person.
    (c) Fraternity (iv) People should live like brothers and sisters.
    (d) Secular (i) Government will not favour any religion.

    Question 7:
    A friend from Nepal has written you a letter describing the political situation there. Many political parties are opposing the rule of the king. Some of them say that the existing constitution given by the monarch can be amended to allow more powers to elected representatives. Others are demanding a new Constituent Assembly to write a republican constitution. Reply to your friend giving your opinions on the subject.

    Answer:
    Attempt on your own

    Question 8:
    Here are different opinions about what made India a democracy. How much importance would you give to each of these factors?
    (a) Democracy in India is a gift of the British rulers. We received training to work with representative legislative institutions under the British rule.
    (b) Freedom struggle challenged the colonial exploitation and denial of different freedoms to Indians. Free India could not be anything but democratic.
    (c) We are lucky to have leaders who had democratic convictions. The denial of democracy in several other newly independent countries shows the important role of these leaders.

    Answer:
    Attempt on your own

    Question 9:
    Read the following extract from a conduct book for ‘married women’, published in 1912. ‘God has made the female species delicate and fragile both physically and emotionally, pitiably incapable of self-defence. They are destined thus by God to remain in male protection − of father, husband and son − all their lives. Women should, therefore, not despair, but feel obliged that they can dedicate themselves to the service of men’. Do you think the values expressed in this para reflected the values underlying our constitution? Or does this go against the constitutional values?

    Answer:
    The given paragraph reflects the patriarchal values. It promotes the idea of inequality of genders. This is contrary to the spirit of equality promoted by the constitution.

    Question 10:
    Read the following statements about a constitution. Give reasons why each of these is true or not true.
    (a) The authority of the rules of the constitution is the same as that of any other law.
    (b) Constitution lays down how different organs of the government will be formed.
    (c) Rights of citizens and limits on the power of the government are laid down in the constitution.
    (d) A constitution is about institutions, not about values.

    Answer:
    (a) True
    The constitution is the supreme law of a country. It is the foundation of a democratic entity. The rules laid down in the constitution are the bases on which all the other laws are framed. Hence, it follows that the constitutional rules have the same authority, perhaps even greater, as any other law of the country.
    (b) True
    The constitution lays down the framework for government formation. It defines in detail the composition and functions of the different organs of government, namely the executive, the judiciary and the legislature.
    (c) True
    The constitution lays down the fundamental rights of every citizen of the country. These rights are enforceable in a court of law. By defining the structure and functions of the different organs of government and by making them independent in their own spheres, yet keeping each organ under check by the other organs, the constitution ensures that there are proper limits to the powers exercised by the government.
    (d) Not true
    A constitution lays down the composition and functions of the different institutions of government, thereby providing the framework and laws for the working of these institutions. However, in providing such laws and frameworks, it is strongly guided by democratic principles and values. Hence, a constitution is as much about values as it is about the institutions based on these values.

  • Notes of What is Constitutional Design Class 9th Social Science Civics

    Constitutional Design class 9 notes
    Q 1. why was Nelson Mandela sentenced to live imprisonment?

    Ans   Nelson Mandela sentenced to live imprisonment because he opposes the apartheid regime in his country.

    Q.2 what is apartheid?

    Ans Apartheid is social discrimination between white and black people.

    • The system of apartheid divided the people and called then on the basis of their skin color.

    Q.3 The apartheid system was particularly oppressive for the blacks-justify.

    Ans. The apartheid system was particularly oppressive for the blacks. They were forbidden for from in white areas using.

    • They could work in white areas only if they had a permit.
    • Trains, buses, taxis etc. were all separate for the white and blacks.
    • They could not even visit the churches  where the white worshipped
    • Blacks could not form associations or protest against the terrible treatment.

    Q.4 What is the constitution and why is it important?

    Ans. The constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are accepted by all people living together in a country people living together in a country.

    • Constitution id the supreme law that determines the relationship among people living in the territory and also the relationship between the people and government. A constitution does many things.
    • It generates a degree of test and coordinates that is necessary for different kind of people to line together.
    • It specifies how the government will be the establishment, who will have the power to take which decisions.
    • It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

    Q.5 Describe the main features of the preamble of Indian constitution.

    Ans. The preamble of the constitution read like a poem an democracy.

    • It contains the philosophy on which the entire constitution has been built.
    • It provides a standard to examine and evaluate any and action of government do find out whether it is good or bad.
    • It is the soul of the Indian constitution.

    Q.6 Why should we accept the constitution made by constitution Assembly more than fifty years ago.?

    Ans. The constitution does not affect the views of its members alone it expresses a broad consensus of its time.

    • Our the last half a century, several groups have questioned some provision of the constitution. But for me large social group a political party has ever questioned the legitimacy of the constitution its
    • The constitutive Assembly represented the people of India finally, the name in which the constitutive Assembly asked give sanctity to the constitution.
    • Nelson Mandela fought against apartheid in South Africa. He became 1st president of the repulic of South Africa and awarded the nobel prize for peace in 1993.
    • Nelson Mandela was imprisoned in 1964 for 28 Years
    • Nelson Mandela was imprisoned in Robben Island , most dreaded prison of South Africa.
    • The new national flag of the Republic of South Africa was unfuled for the first time on April 26, 1994
    • The main object of constitution is to generate trust among the people.
    • India has adopted the parliamentary system of government from Great Britain.
    • Bill of lights was paused in parliamentary of USA.
    • Election to constituent Assembly of india were held in July 1946.
    • The first meeting of the constituent Assembly was held in December 1946
    • Constituent assembly of India had 299 members.
    • The constituent assembly adopted the draft constitution on Nov 26, 1949 & came into effect on Jan 26,

    Q7 The South African constitution inspires democrats all our the world. Explain?

    • South Africa constitution game to its citizen the most extensive rights available in any country.
    • Together they decided that in the search for a solution to the problems, nobody should be excluded, no one should be treated as demon.
    • They agreed that everybody should become past of the solution, whatever they have alone on represented in the past.
    • Thus, the South Africa constitution inspires democrat all ever the would.
    • A state denounced by the entire would tile recently as the most undemocratic one is now seen as a mode of a democracy.

  • Concept’s of What is Constitutional Design Class 9th Social Science Civics

    Democratic Constitution in South Africa

    •  Nelson Mandela, the South African leader of African National Congress, fought a long battle against Apartheid.
    • Imprisoned for 28 years (1964–1992) emerged as the First President of the Republic of South Africa.
    • People struggled against the horrible discrimination practiced against them by the white
      minority rulers.
    • Apartheid finally defeated in 1994 and a new constitution made in 1996.
    • Remarkable constitution, forgot past sufferings, sought co-operation of all the races which make S. Africa based on equality, democratic values and social justice.


    Do We Need a Constitution?

    • Yes. A constitution has written laws accepted by people living together in a country.
    • It generates trust and co-ordination.
    • It specifies how a government should be constituted.
    • It lays down limits on the powers of the government.
    • It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

    Making of the Indian Constitution

    • The process began during the national struggle for freedom.
    • First draft 1928, then 1931. Motilal Nehru and 8 leaders demanded in the draft: universal adult franchise, social justice, right to freedom and liberty.
    • Participation in Provincial Legislatures helped Indians in framing their constitution.
    • Leaders inspired by French Revolution, British parliamentary system and the Bill of Rights of the US.
    • They also learnt what the British were denying Indian citizens. 

    The Constituent Assembly

    • Elections to the Constituent Assembly held in July 1946.
    •  Dr. B.R. Ambedkar appointed the chairman of the drafting committee.
    • Constitution adopted on 26 November 1949, and enacted on 26 January 1950, when India became a republic.
    • The Constitution reflects the best minds of the country. Its members represented mini-India.
      Every law was debated clause by clause and a consensus arrived at.
    • It is the longest written constitution.

  • What is Democracy? Why Democracy? Chapter 2 Study Materials

    Chapter 2 What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

    Social Science Civics [Class IX]

    Content’s

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  • Extra Questions of What is Democracy? Why Democracy? Class 9th Social Science Civics

    SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS 

    Q.1. How can you say that every government that holds an election is not a democracy? Give an example to prove your point. [Important]

    Ans. It is true that every government that holds an election is not a democracy. In many dictatorships and monarchies, there are formally elected parliaments and governments but the real power is with those who are not elected. Pakistan under General Musharraf could not be called a democracy because people there elected their representatives to the national and provincial assemblies but the power to take final decision rested with army officials and with General Musharraf

    Q.2. In China, elections are held after every five years. Inspite of this, China does not have a democratic government. Why?

    Ans. In China, elections are regularly held after every five years for electing the country’s Parliament. The Parliament has the power to appoint the President of the country. It has nearly 3,000 members elected from all over China. Some members are elected by the Army. Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the Chinese Communist Party. The government is always formed by the Communist Party.

    Q.3. In which way is the right to vote denied in Saudi Arabia and Fiji?

    Ans. In Saudi Arabia women do not have the right to vote.

    In Fiji, the electoral system is such that the vote of an indigenous Fiji has more value than that of an Indian Fijian. In both the countries, the right to vote is denied as there is no political equality. In a democracy, each adult citizen must have one vote and each vote must have one value.

    Q.4. Why has India never had a famine of the level which occurred in China in 1958-61?

    Ans. In China’s famine of 1958-61, nearly three crore people died. In those days India’s economic condition was not much better than China. Yet India did not have a famine of the kind China had. The reason was the difference in the economic policies of the two countries. Democratic government in India responded to the food shortage in a way that Chinese government did not.

    If China too had had multi-party elections, an opposition party and a press free to criticise the government, so many people would not have died in the famine.

    Q.5. ‘Democracy is based on consultation and discussion.’ Explain.

    Ans. Consultation and discussion help democracy prosper. A democratic decision always involves many persons, discussions and meetings. When a number of people put their heads together, they are able to point out possible mistakes in any decision. This reduces the chances of rash or irresponsible decisions. Thus democracy improves the quality of decision-making.

    Q.6. Why is it not possible for the people to rule directly but through elected representatives?

    Ans. The people cannot rule directly but only through their elected representatives because, firstly, modern democracies involve such a large number of people that it is physically impossible for them to sit together and take a collective decision. Secondly, even if they could, the citizens do not have the time, the desire or the skill to take part in all the decisions.

    Q.7. Is it possible for any country to become a perfect democracy? Give reasons.

    Ans. No country is a perfect democracy as every democracy has to realise the ideals of democratic decision-making. This cannot be achieved once and for all. This requires a constant effort to save and strengthen democratic forms of decision-making. What we do as citizens can make a difference to making our country more or less democratic.

    Q.9. Why is Democracy considered the best form of government? Give three reasons.

    [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Democarcy is a more accountable form of government.

    (i) It improves the quality of decision-making

    (ii) It enchances the dignity of citizens.

    (iii)It allows us to correct its own mistakes

    Q.10. What is the role of citizen in promoting democracy? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Every citizen should be able to play equal role in decision-making. For this a citizen not only needs an equal right to vote but also needs to have equal information, basic education, equal resources.

    Q.11. Explain any three differences between democratic country and non-democratic country? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. In a Democratic country–

    (i) Each adult citizen has a vote;(ii) Each vote has one value; and (iii) Free and fair elections are held.

    In a non-democratic country — (i) Election do not offer a choice and fair opportunity; (ii) Rulers are not elected by the people; and (ii) The rulers have unlimited power.

    Q.12. Is China a democratic country or not? Give two arguments in favour of your answer.

    [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. China is not a democratic country. (i) Only those who are members of the Chinese Communist Party or eight smaller parties allied to it are allowed to contest elections; (ii) Before contesting elections a candidate needs the approval of the Chinese Communist Party.

    Q.13. Explain any three features of democracy. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. According to a Democarcy— (i) Rulers elected by the people take all the major decisions.

    (ii) Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the corrent rulers; and (ii) This choice and opportunity is available to all the people on an equal basis.

    Q.14. Why is Zimbabwe not considered a democratic country? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. It is ruled by ZANU-PF, the party that led the freedom struggle. Its leader, Robert Mugabe has been ruling the country since independence. Elections are held regularly but always won by the ZANU-PF. President Mugabe uses unfair means in the elections. He has changed the constitution several times to increase the power of the president. Radio and TV are controlled by the government.

    Q.15. How does democracy in a country enhance the diginity of an individual? State three points. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. (i) Democracy is based on the principal of political equality on recognising that the poorest and the least educated has the same status as the rich and the educated.

    (ii) People are not subjects of a ruler they are the rulers themselves.

    (iii) Even when they make mistakes, they are responsible for their conduct.

    Q.16. ‘‘Elections in China do not represent people verdict.’’ Explain. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. In China the elections do not offer the people any serious choice. They have to choose the ruling party and the candidates approved by it. Can it be called a choice? There is only are political party and people have to vote for its candidates.

    Q.17. ‘‘Democracy allows people to correct their own mistakes’’. Support the given statement with three points. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. The advantage in a democarcy is that mistakes made by a government cannot be hidden for long. There is a space for public discussion on these mistakes and there is room for correction.

    Either the rulers have to change their decisions or they can be changed

    Q.18. Explain any three major political changes that took place recently in India’s neighborhood? [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. (i) Pakistan–General Musharaff led a military coup.

    (ii) Nepal–In 2005 the new king dismissed the elected government.

    (iii) Iraq–Sadaam Hussain’s regime was overthrown.

    LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS 

    Q.1. What were the steps taken by Musharraf in Pakistan to empower himself?

    [Important]

    Ans. In Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf led a military coup in October 1999. He overthrew a democratically elected government and declared himself the ‘Chief Executive’ of the country. Later he changed his designation to President and in 2002 held a referendum in the country that granted him a five year extension. This referendum was based on fraud and malpractices. In 2002, he issued a ‘Legal Framework Order’ that amended the Constitution of Pakistan. According to this order, the President could dismiss the national or provincial assemblies.

    Q.2. With reference to Zimbabwe, describe how the popular approval of rulers is necessary in a democracy but not sufficient.

    Ans. In Zimbabwe, since Independence in 1980, elections have been held regularly and always won by ZANU-PF, the party that led the freedom struggle. Its leader, President Robert Mugabe, is popular but also uses unfair practices in elections. His government has changed the Constitution several times to increase the powers of the President and make him less accountable. Opposition party workers are harassed. Public protests and demonstrations against the government are declared illegal. There is a law that limits the right to criticise the President.

    Q.3. On the basis of the various examples given in the chapter, state what should be the four features of a democracy. [V. Important]

    Ans. Four features of a democracy are –

    (i) Representatives elected by the people take all the major decisions.

    (ii) Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current rulers.

    (iii) This choice and opportunity is available to all the people on an equal basis.

    (iv) The exercise of this choice leads to a government limited by basic rules of the constitution and citizens’ rights.

    Q.4. Enumerate the arguments given against democracy.

    Ans. Some of the arguments against democracy are as follows :

    (i) Leaders keep changing in a democracy. This leads to instability.

    (ii) Democracy is all about political competition and power play, with no scope for morality.

    (iii) Since so many people are to be consulted in a democracy, it leads to delays.

    (iv) Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people; so it leads to bad decisions.

    (v) Democracy leads to corruption as it is based on electoral competition.

    Q.5. How does democracy provide a method to deal with differences and conflicts?

    Ans. In any society people are bound to have differences of opinions and interests. These differences are particularly sharp in a country like India which has lot of social diversity. The preference of one group may class with those of the other groups. Democracy provides the only peaceful solution to this problem. In democracy, no one is a permanent winner or a permanent loser.

    Different groups can live with one another peacefully. In a diverse country like ours, democracy keeps our country together.

    Q.6. Write any four diadvantages of democracy. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. (1) Leaders keep changing in a democracy. This leads to instability. (2) Democracy is all about political competition and power play. There is no scope for morality. (3) So many people have to be consulted in a Democracy that it leads tro delays. (4) Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people. It leads to bad decisions.

    Q.7. How does a democratic government rule within limits set by Constitutional Law? Give three reasons. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. A democratic government cannot do whatever it likes simply because it has won an election.

    Every major decision has to go through a series of consultations. Every office bearer has certain rights and responsibilities assigned by the constitution and the law. A democratic government rules within limits set by constitutional law and citizens rights.

    Q.8. What is the significance of the rule of law and respect for rights in democratic country?

    State four points. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. A democractic government cannot do whatever it likes simply because it has won an election.

    It has to respect some basic rules. In particular it has to respect some guarantees to the minorities. Every major decision has go through a series of consultation. Every office bearer has certain rights and responsibilities assigned by the constitutition and the law. Each is accountable not but only to law to other independent officials.

    Q.9. Why is democracy called a ‘‘government by discussion’’? [2010 (T-1)] Ans. It is called a ‘‘government by discussion’’ because a democracy is based on consultation and discussion. A democratic decision always involves many persons discussions and meetings.

    When a member of people together think over a certain matter they are able to point out possible mistakes. This takes time. But there is big advantage in taking time. This reduces rush decisions, problems are not resolved by brutal force but by peaceful discussions. It offers best alternative that we know.

    Q.10. Why does a democratic country always need a constitution? [2010 (T-1)] Ans. All countries that are democratic will have constitutions. After the war of independence against Great Britain the Americans gave themselves a constitution. After the revolution the French people approved a democratic constitution. Since then it has became a practice in all democracies to have a written constitution.

    Q.11. ‘‘Democracy enhances the dignity of citizen.’’ Justify this statement. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. Democracy is based on the principle of political equality on recognising that the poorest and the least educated has the same status as the rich and the educated. People are not subjects of a ruler. They are the rulers themselves. Even when they make mistakes they are responsible for their conduct

    Q.12. ‘‘Democracy improve the quality of decision making.’’ Explain. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts. In any society people are bound to have difference of opinions and interests. These differences are particularly sharp a country like ours which has an amazing social diversity. People belong to different regions speak different languages, practise different religions and have different castes. Preferences of a groups can clash with those of other groups. Democracy provides the only peaceful solution to this problem. In democracy no one is a permanent winner. No one a permanent loser. In a diverse country like India, democracy keeps our country together.

    Q.13. Give any four reasons why democracies resolve conflict in a better way than other forms of governments. [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Democracies resolve conflict in a better way. Reasons — (i) It improves the quality of decision making. It has scope for consultation and discusion. (ii) In a Democracy conflicts are not solved by brutal force but by peaceful solutions. (iii) Even even when people/associations/ government make mistakes for a democracy allows them to correct their mistakes; and (iv) Democracy provides a forum for consultations and discussions to resolve conflicts.

    Q.14. Despite its demerits why is democracy the most preferred form of government? Explain.

    [2010 (T-1)]

    Ans. Despite its demerits democracy is still the most preferred form of government as it is— (i) a more accountable form of government. It responds to the needs of the people because the constitution requires it; and (ii) Better decision came for when many heads together strive to do so, this reduces the chance of rash decisions or irresponsible decisions plus a democracy enhances the dignity of citizens. It is clearly better than any other form of government.

    Q.15. Why is democracy government a better government? Mention four reasons. [2010 (T-1)] Ans. A democratic government is a better government as— (i) it offers better changes of a good decision; (ii) it is always likely to respect people wishes and allows; (iii) different kinds of people to live together; and (iv) even when it fails to do something for the people it allows a way of correcting its mistakes and offers more dignity to all citizens. That is why a democracy is considered the best form of government.