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POLITY CONTENTS
S. NO CHAPTER NAME PAGE NO.
1 Understanding Diversity 8
2 Achieving Equality 19
3 National Symbols 27
4 The Constitution of India 40
5 Democracy 48
6 Local Bodies Rural and Urban 55
7 Road Safety 64
8 Equality 69
9 Political Parties 75
10 State Government 82
11 Media and Democracy 90
12 How The State Government Works 96
13 Citizens and Citizenship 104
14 Secularism 109
15 Human Rights and UNO 116
16 Road Safety Rules and Regulations 125
17 Forms of Government and Democracy 135
18 Election, Political Parties and Pressure 143
Groups
19 Human Rights 150
20 Form of Government 162
21 Local Self Government 168
22 Road Safety 176
23 The Constitution of India 181
24 Central Government 192
25 State Government 207
26 India’s Foreign Policy 221
27 India’s International Relations 231
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Unit 1
Understanding
Diversity
Learning Objectives
• Know the meaning of diversity
• Understand the existence of diversity in India
• Develop a healthy attitude towards others around you
• Understand the differences in the belief systems of people
• Know to accept and respect the unity in diversity
1. Understanding diversity From the below table, we understand

Take a look around your class. Do you see that the three students are different from
any of your classmates who look similar? one another. This shows that people
Look at the table. speak different languages, eat different
kinds of food, celebrate their own
festivals and practice a culture different
from one another. Similarly, people who
live in different parts of our country differ
in their ways of life. These differences
make us unique as Indians. We come
from different backgrounds, belong to
different cultures, worship in different
Student 1 Student 2 Student 3

Mother tongue Tamil Malayalam Hindi
Food Rice Puttu Chappathi
Festival Pongal Onam Holi
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ways, yet we live together. This is known land forms and lifestyles diversity, social
as diversity. diversity, religious diversity, linguistic
diversity and cultural diversity.
2. Diversity in India
India is a home to a civilisation that is 5,000 2.1 L
and Forms and Lifestyle
years old. Different groups of people from Diversity
different parts of the world were attracted
A continent is a very large area of land
towards India over the years because of
with various physical features such as
its wealth. Some came for trade with the
mountains, plateaus, plains, rivers and
local people and others were keen on
seas and various types of weather patterns.
invading its territory. So diverse races of
India has all of them. India is known as
people migrated into India by land and
a sub-continent. These features have an
sea routes over time. Thus the Dravidians,
underlying influence upon the people who
Negroids, Aryans, Alpines and Mongoloids
live in different landforms of the country.
became part of the modern Indian race.
Physical and climatic features
Then, the people who migrated to India
determine the economic activities of a
also moved to other parts of the country.
region. People living in the plains thrive
This movement and migration of people is
on agriculture, while people in the coastal
the reason for India’s rich diversity.
areas take to fishing for their livelihood. In
We will now study the diversity in
mountainous regions, rearing of animals is
India under the following broad headings:
undertaken. Hilly landscapes are supported
UNITY IN DIVERSITY
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Landforms
The surface of Earth is covered with a variety of
different types of landforms.
VALLEY MOUNTAINS PLAIN
ISLAND DESERT COASTLINE
by favourable climatic conditions for the 2.2 Social Diversity

cultivation of coffee and tea. 2.2.1 Interdependence and
Diversity in landforms also impacts the Co-existence
flora and fauna of a region. The plant and A community is a place where people
animal wealth of a place depends upon live together with a common interest or
the natural habitat and the climate that heritage. Our community is made up of
prevails in that region. Food, clothing, peasants, labourers, artisans, parents,
occupation and livelihood of the people teachers, students and many others. For
is closely connected with the region’s a comfortable livelihood, communities
natural surroundings and climate. depend on each other.
• Mawsynram located in Megalaya, is the land of highest rainfall.

• Jaisalmer located in Rajasthan, is the land of lowest rainfall.
Mawsynram Jaisalmer
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2.2.2 Family and Society place of many religions and has become
Families constitute the fundamental unit of the home of many others. Hinduism, Islam,
a society. There are two types of families: Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, Jainism
joint families and nuclear families. Families and Zoroastrianism flourish in India.
live in a harmonious neighbourhood. India is a land of festivals, where people
Hundreds of neighbourhoods collectively from different religions engage in many
form a village and thousands of them group colourful celebrations in different parts
together in a city. The needs of people and of the country and co-exist harmoniously.
the interdependence of communities for The wide variety of festivals celebrated
amenities such as water, food, electricity, in India is a true manifestation of its
education, housing and so on bring us rich culture and traditions. Festivals like
together to live in harmony. Though we Pongal, Deepavali, Holi, Vijayadhasami,
are diverse in our cultural practices, we AyudhaPuja, Navaratri, Durga Puja,
are united and interdependent socially. Dussehra, Ganesh Chaturthi, Bihu,
Kumbamela, Onam, Miladi Nabi,
2.3 Religious Diversity Ramzan, Christmas, Buddha Poornima,
Our Constitution declares India to be a Mahavir Jayanthi, Guru Nanak Jayanthi
secular nation in which all religions are and Rakshabandhan are some of the
treated equally. The freedom of religion is festivals that denote the cultural diversity
our fundamental right. India is the birth of India.
Toda tribal people.
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Pongal Deepavali Onam Miladi Nabi
Christmas Buddha
Poornima
2.4 Linguistic Diversity ruled over the entire country for over three
According to census of India 2001, India hundred years before independence in 1947,
has 122 major languages and 1599 other the English language gained prominence in
languages. Four major Indian language India. In due course, English has emerged
families are Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, as an important language and a medium
Austroasiatic and Sino Tibetian. Tamil is of instruction in schools and colleges. It is
the oldest Dravidian language. widely used in official communication and
Historically, the Portuguese, the Dutch, daily life.
the British, the Danish and the French came
to India for trade and their occupation of Top Five languages spoken in
India or some parts of it has left behind India (as per 2001 Census)
a certain impact upon the culture and Percentage of total
Language
language of the people. Because the British population
Hindi 41.03 %
The Constitution Bengali 8.10 %
of India recognises Telugu 7.19 %
twenty-two languages
Marathi 6.99 %
as official languages.
Tamil 5.91 %
The Government of India has declared
Tamil as the first classical language
2.5 Cultural Diversity
in 2004. Apart from Tamil, five other
The term ‘culture’ refers to customs and
Indian languages have been declared
practices of people, their language, their
as the classical languages, by the
dress code, cuisine, religion, social habits,
Goverment of India.
music, art and architecture.
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Brihadisvara Temple St.Thomas Tajmahal
Cathedral Basilica, Chennai
Sanchi Kandariya Mahadeo Konark Sun Temple The Dilwara

Stupa Temple JainTemple
The culture of a group of people is community. Each of the 29 states and 7

reflected in their social behaviour and Union territories of India has rich traditions
interactions. The group identity fostered and unique ways of artistic expression.
by social patterns is unique to a group.
2.5.1 Popular Dances of India
Art and architecture are an integral
In ancient times, dance was considered as
part of every community. It develops
a way to celebrate, worship and also as a
as a part of culture and tradition of a
gesture of thanks giving and joy. Dances
of India reflect its cultural richness.
About 60 percent of
Music and dance go hand in hand.
the total epigraphical
There are several styles of music practiced
inscriptions found by
in India. The Hindustani music, Karnatic
the Archaeological
music, Classical Tamil Music, Folk Music,
Survey of India (ASI) are from Tamil
Lavani, Ghazl are some of them. There are
Nadu, and most of these are in the
songs from various languages composed
Tamil script.
by blending these different forms of music.
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Sattriya
Kathak
North India
Assam
Manipur
Odisha Manipuri
Yakshagana Andhra pradesh

Karnataka Odissi
Tamil Nadu
Kerala
Kathakali Bharatanatyam Kuchipudi
Not to Scale
Folk dances of India

State Popular dance
Tamil Nadu Karagattam, Oyillattam, Kummi, Therukoothu,
Bommalattam, Puliattam, Kolattam, Thappattam
Kerala Theyyam and Mohiniattam
Punjab Bhangra
Jammu and Kashmir Dumhal
Gujarat Garba and Dandia
Rajasthan Kalbelia and Ghoomer
Uttar Pradesh Raaslila and Chholiya
Assam Bihu
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Activity:
You have read about the diversity that exists in our country. Compare and contrast
two states in this table.
Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh
Dance
Crops
Food
Language
Architecture
3. Unity in Diversity
V.A. Smith called India
Though diversity is visible in every aspect
as an ‘Ethnological
of life in India, we are united by the spirit
museum’, as a great
of patriotism. Symbols such as the National
variety of racial
Flag and National Anthem remind us of
types exist.
our great nation and the need to stay
united. Celebration of landmark events
such as Independence Day, Republic Day
and Gandhi Jayanthi every year brings us
together and keeps the spirit of one nation
India is the land of unity in diversity.
alive within us.
Diversity is a state of being different
India is known for from each other.
‘unity in diversity’. This Landforms and climate have an impact
phrase was coined by on diversity.
Jawaharlal Nehru, the Physical features and climatic
first Prime Minister of independent conditions determine the economic
India, in his book Discovery of India. activities of a region.
Diversity in landforms also impacts
India has a multi-cultural society.
the flora and fauna of a region.
India evolved as a single nation through
Linguistic, religious, social and cultural
common beliefs, customs and cultural
diversity exists in India.
practices. The freedom struggle and the
drafting of our Constitution stands as India is a sub-continent with all the
ample evidence to the spirit of unity of physical features of a continent.
India. According to census of India 2001,
India has 122 major languages and
1599 other languages.
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Culture refers to social behaviour and (a) Manipur (b) Sikkim
practices of a particular society. (c) Nagaland (d) Meghalaya
Classical and folk dances of India 4. W
hich one of the following religion is
exhibit the rich cultural diversity in not practised in India
India. (a) Sikhism (b) Islam
(c) Zoarastrianism (d) Confucianism
5. Recognised official languages of India,
as per VIIIth Schedule of Indian
Constitution
1. Diversity - a range of different (a) 25 (b) 23 (c) 22 (d) 26
people or things. 6. Onam festival celebrated in
2. Inter- - the dependence of (a) Kerala (b) Tamil Nadu

(c) Punjab (d) Karnataka
dependence two or more people
or things on 7. Mohiniyattam is a classical dance of
(a) Kerala (b) Tamil Nadu
3. Co–existence - living in harmony
and peace (c) Manipur (d) Karnataka
8. ‘Discovery of India’ – a book was
4. Linguistics - Scientific study of
written by
language, analysis
(a) Rajaji (b) V.O.C
of language form,
(c) Nethaji (d) Jawaharlal Nehru
language meaning
and language in 9. T
he phrase ‘ Unity in Diversity’ was
context. coined by
(a) Jawaharlal Nehru (b) Ambedkar
(c) Mahathma Gandhi (d) Rajaji
EXERCISES
10. V.A. Smith called India as _________
I. Choose the correct
(a) Great Democracy
answer:
(b) Unique land of diversities
1. I ndia consists of____
States and _____ Union (c) Ethnological museum
territories. (d) Secular nation
(a) 27,9 (b) 29, 7 (c) 28,7(d) 28,9
II. Fill in the blanks:
2. India is known as a
1. G
eographical features and climatic
(a) Continent (b) Sub continent
conditions determine the __________
(c) Island (d) None of these
activities of a region.
3. M
awsynram, the land of highest rainfall
is located in
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2. J aisalmer, the land of lowest rainfall is 3. C
ollect the pictures to show the art
located in _________ and architecture of Tamil Nadu.
3. T
amil was declared as classical language VII. HOTS:
in the year _______
List out the various festivals celebrated in
4. Bihu festival is celebrated in__________
different states.
III. Match the following: VIII. Life Skill:
1. Negroids - Religion Suggest measures to bring unity in your
2. Coastal areas - India school.
3. Zoroastrianism - Fishery
4. Unity in diversity - Indian race IX. Internet Resources:
1. Wikipedia.org/wiki/unity_in_diversity
IV. Answer the following questions:
2. http://www.yourarticlelibrary.com
1. Define diversity.
3. www.readmeindia.com
2. What are the types of diversity?
4. http://www.indiaculture.nic.in
3. Why is India called a sub continent?
4. W
rite the names of three major festivals
celebrated in India.
5. L ist out some of the classical dances
of India.
6.Why is India called the land of unity in
diversity?
V. Answer the following in detail:

1. Explain : Linguistic diversity and
cultural diversity.
2. “ India is a land of diversity, yet we are
all united”. Discuss.
VI. Projects and Activities:

1. “ The occupation of people depends on
the landform of a place”. Give some
examples.
2. R
ead about a state of your choice and
make an album to show the culture
and tradition of people who live in that
state.
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ICT CORNER
UNDERSTANDING DIVERSITY
Lets do this activity to

explore the India’s culture,
art, tradition and land
forms.
Step 1:
Type the URL link given below in the browser OR scan the QR code. You can also
download the “Google Arts & Culture” mobile app from the given app URL.
Step 2:
Click the search button from the right top corner and type any Indian state name to
explore their tradition and heritage.
Step 3:
Scroll down the page and view the famous architectures in 360⸰ view using “Explore
in 360⸰” option.
Step 4:
Search for any important landforms of India and explore them.
Image 1 Image 2 Image 3 Image 4
URL for Google Arts & Culture:

https://www.google.com/culturalinstitute/beta/
URL for Google Arts & Culture mobile app:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.
apps.cultural&hl=en
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Unit 2
Achieving
Equality
Learning Objectives
• Know the meanings of prejudice and stereotypes
• Understand discrimination and inequality
• Become aware of the negative consequences of discrimination
The society that we live in comprises people knowing much about them. It happens
from various social groups who are different when people have false belief and ideas.
in many ways. Since we believe in ‘Unity
in Diversity’, we should have been living Prejudice Pre 1 Judge
peacefully with one another irrespective
The word ‘prejudice’ refers to
of those differences. Often, we see that
prejudgement. Prejudices can be based on
diversity is not accepted, and people
many things like people’s religious beliefs,
harbour attitudes of hostility towards those
the region they come from, the colour of
who are ‘different’ from them. They form
their skin, their accent or the clothes they
opinions about the other groups and this
wear. The types of prejudice are gender
often leads to tension in the society. Such
prejudice, racial prejudice, class prejudice,
‘opinions’ are often ‘prejudiced’.
disability prejudice and so on.
1. Prejudice For example, urban people are more
Prejudice means to judge other people civilised than rural people in attitudes
in a negative or inferior manner, without and behaviour, is one such prejudice.
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1.1 Causes for Prejudice dishwashers and others show a woman
Some common social factors that as the main lead or user of that product.
contributes to the rise of prejudice are On the other hand, all the stunts shown
1. Socialization in a bike advertisement is performed by
2. Conforming behaviours ferocious looking men.
3. Economic benefits
3. Inequality and Discrimination
4. Authoritarian personality
Inequality means difference in treatment.
5. Ethno–centrism
The different forms of inequalities such
6. Group closure
as caste inequality, religious inequality,
7. Conflicts
race inequality or gender inequality give
2. Stereotypes rise to discrimination.
When prejudice gets Discrimination can be defined as
stronger, it develops into negative actions towards people.
a stereotype. Stereotype is a false view Discrimination can happen on the basis
or idea about something. For example, of colour, class, religion, gender etc.
girls are not good at sports. Stereotype is Treating dark-skinned people differently
learned at a very early age, and children from fair-skinned people, giving more
grow to have very strong ideas or opinions importance to people of higher than to
about things, groups or ideologies. As those of lower caste and thinking boys
children grow up, the lines of like and are smarter than girls are all thoughts of
hate for other things, people, cultures, discrimination.
beliefs, languages become sharper.
Article 15(1) of the Constitution states
Example that the State shall not to discriminate
Ragu was hit in his eye against any citizen on grounds only of
with a soft ball and to religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or
everyone’s surprise, he any of them.
started to cry. The others
started to laugh at him; Mani felt sad for End of Apartheid
him but started laughing along with others.
After 27 years in prison,
Now we understand that when we former South African
fix people in our image, we create a President, Nelson Mandela, was freed
stereotype. In the above example, we
in 1990 and succesfully achieved the
have a general opinion that girls cry and
end of apartheid in South
boys don’t cry. When Ragu cried out of
Africa, bringing peace to
pain, others laughed at him.
a racially divided country
Gender-based stereotypes are often
and leading the fight for
portrayed in films, advertisements and
human rights around the
TV serials. Almost all the advertisements
world.
related to detergents, washing machines,
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Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar
• He is popularly known as Baba Saheb.
• He was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and
social reformer.
• He earned his M.A. in 1915 and then obtained a D.Sc at the
London School of Economics before being awarded Ph.D by
Columbia University in 1927.
• He served as the chairman of drafting committee of the
constituent assembly and hence regarded as the father of Indian
Constitution.
• He was independent India’s first Law Minister.
• He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1990.
3.1 Caste Discrimination dresses while boys in such families often

Caste system is the most dominant wear modern dresses.
reason for inequality and discrimination 3.3 Religious Discrimination
in India. In the beginning, the society
Religious discrimination is unequal
was divided into different groups on the
treatment of an individual or group based
basis of occupation, known as Varnas.
on their beliefs. Religious discrimination
Many people in India have fought against has been around for a long time. There
caste oppression. The most prominent have been problems between people of
among them was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He different religions for thousands of years.
belonged to a such depressed family and Some people are not allowed to enter
suffered discrimination throughout his in public places; especially the places of
childhood. He fought actively for equality worship because they belong to another
among the citizens of India. religion. Some religious people often end
3.2 Gender Discrimination up in conflict with each other because of
their rituals and way of life.
Gender discrimination refers to health,
education, economic and political 3.4 Socio-Economic Inequality
inequalities between men and women in In the socio-economic field, the benefits
India. For example, A girl is not allowed to of growth have not been spread evenly.
go to college after finishing her schooling. However, the income inequality is much
Similarly, most of the girls are not allowed higher than the inequality in human
to select a career of their choice rather they development. The low-income districts
are forced into marriage. In some families, are associated with low industrial
girls are not allowed to wear modern development, low agricultural productivity
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Literacy rate – 2011 Census
High Low
S.No. District Name Percentage S.No. District Name Percentage
1 Kanyakumari 91.75% 1 Dharmapuri 68.54%
2 Chennai 90.18% 2 Ariyalur 71.34%
3 Thoothukkudi 86.16% 3 Krishnagiri 71.46%
4 The Nilgiris 85.20% 4 Villupuram 71.88%
Source: Censusindia.gov.in
Sex Ratio – 2011 Census

Number of females per 1,000 males
High Low
S.No. District Name Sex Ratio S.No. District Name Sex Ratio
1 The Nilgiris 1041 1 Dharmapuri 946
2 Thanjavur 1031 2 Salem 954
3 Nagapattinam 1025 3 Krishnagiri 956
4 Thoothukkudi 1024 4 Ramanathapuram 977
Source: Censusindia.gov.in
and low human development. Similarly, 4.

Be open to learning about other

the Districts with literacy rate are found religions.
to be with lower sex ratio.. 5. P
romoting community dining in the
classroom may help the students to
3.5 R
emedial Measures for
sit together without any bias of caste,
Abolishing Inequality and
religion or gender.
Discrimination
6. S
ocialise with people of all types
The remedial measures for abolishing
outside home.
inequality and discrimination in Indian
society are as follows. 7. Effective implementation of laws.
1. W
ider access to quality basic services 3.6 C
onstitution of India and
like healthcare and education for all. Equality
2. Be aware of current gender bias. A Constitution is a set of rules and
3. M
ake women more visible in public regulations guiding the administration of
life and institution to eradicate gender a country. Article 14 of the constitution
disparity. of India provides equality before the law
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ACHIEVERS
Dr. APJ ABDUL KALAM Mr.VISWANATHAN ANAND
(1931-2015)
Avul Pakir Jainulabdeen Abdul Kalam was Viswanathan Anand was born in Chennai in a middle class
born in a Tamil Muslim family in Rameswaram. family. His mother was a big fan of chess and taught him to
He was the 11th President of India and who is fondly play the game when he was just five years old. She encouraged
remembered as People’s President. and motivated him a lot and this laid the foundation for
his future career as a chess player.
He completed his schooling at Ramnad, graduation
from St. Joseph’s College, Trichy, and went on to Anand has won the world chess
study aerospace engineering at the Madras Institute championships five times
of Technology (MIT) after he joined the Defence (2000, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012).
Research Development Organisation (DRDO).
Kalam’s family had

Kalam has written many books. He won the World
become poor at his early
Among them, very famous books Junior Chess Championship
age; he sold newspapers to He was the first recipient of the
are India 2020, Wings of Fire, at the age of 14.
supplement his family Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award
income. Ignited Minds, The Luminous in 1991-92, India’s highest
Sparks and Mission India.. sporting honour.
He became India’s first
He was a recipient of several
grandmaster in 1988. He received the nation’s second
prestigious awards, including
the Bharat Ratna, India’s His outstanding work highest civilian award
highest civilian honour in earned him the title of the Padma Vibushan in 2007.
1997. ‘Missile Man of India’.
Ms. S. ILAVAZHAGI Mr. MARIYAPPAN THANGAVELU
S. Ilavazhagi came from a poor family at Mariyappan was born at Salem in Tamil Nadu. His
Vyasarpadi, Chennai. His father is a daily mother raised her children as a single mother, carrying
wage-earning auto-rickshaw driver. bricks as a labourer until becoming a vegetable seller,
earning about Rs.100 per day.
She participated in the 2008 He suffered permanent disability in his right leg.
World Carrom Championship When he was young despite this setback,
at Palais Des Festivals, Cannes, he completed secondary
She participated and won
France, and bagged her schooling. He says, “I didn't see
the Indian National Carrom In 2016, At the Rio
maiden women’s title. myself as different from
Championship in the same Paralympics, he won the
able-bodied kids.”
year after beating the former gold medal in the men’s
World Champion high jump T-42 event,
Reshmi Kumari. with a leap of 1.89 m.
From the above examples, you will clearly understand that people from diverse backgrounds facing
adverse conditions were still able to achieve greater success in their lives.
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• Prejudice means to judge other people
in a negative or inferior manner,
without knowing much about them.
• Stereotype is a false view or idea
about something.
• Discrimination can be defined as
negative actions towards people.
Discrimination can happen the basis
of colour, class, religion and gender.
• Caste system is the most dominant
reason for inequality and discrimination.
or equal protection within the territory • Gender discrimination refers to health,
of India and prohibits the unreasonable education, economic and political
discrimination between persons.
inequalities between men and women.
Our Constitution says ours is a land
• Religious discrimination is unequal
of diversity; therefore, equality has
treatment of an individual or group
to be ensured for all. Two significant
based on their beliefs.
parameters to ensure equality in society
are respecting diversity and ensuring
freedom. The different kinds of freedom
are freedom to follow their religion, speak
their language, celebrate their festivals • Prejudice: Negatively judging other
and express their views freely. people or seeing other people as inferior
The Constitution is a legal framework • Stereotype: Creating a standard image
of rules and regulations by which a
• Discrimination: When people are not
nation would function. Equality is where
treated equally on the basis of caste,
untouchability is seen as a crime. In
colour, religion, sex etc.,
India, as per the Article 17 of the Indian
Constitution, untouchability is totally • Inequality: Lacking equality, either
abolished and it's any form is forbidden. economic or social or both
Even today, different types of • Constitution: A constitution is a set of

discrimination are reported across the fundamental principles or established
country. Women, peasants, tribes and precedents according to which a state or
people from lower social classes are still other organisation is governed.
striving for equality in India.
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EXERCISES (a) 14(1) (b) 15(1)
(c) 16(1) (d) 17(1)
I. Choose the correct answer:
9. B.R. Ambedkar was
1. Which one of the following is not the
conferred Bharat
reason for Prejudice?
Ratna in the year
(a) Socialization
(a) 1990 (b) 1989 (c) 1988 (d) 1987
(b) Economic Benefits
10. As per the 2011 Census the highest
(c) Authoritarian personality
literate district in Tamil Nadu
(d) Geography
(a) Namakkal (b) Salem
2. Discrimination done on the basis of
(c) Kanyakumari (d) Sivagangai
gender is referred to as
(a) gender discrimination II. Fill in the blanks:
(b) caste discrimination 1.People have false belief and ideas on
(c) religious discrimination others is called ____________.
(d) inequality 2. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was born in_______
3. Gender-based stereotypes are often 3. ______ was the first recipient of Rajiv
portrayed in Gandhi Khel Ratna award, India’s
(a) films (b) advertisements highest Sport honour
(c) TV serials (d) All of these 4. __________ was the independent
4. Name the book/s written by A.P.J. India’s first Law Minister
Abdul Kalam 5. As per the 2011 Census the lowest Sex
(a) India 2020 (b) Wings of Fire ratio was in _____________
(c) Ignited Minds (d) All of these
III. Match the following:
5. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was conferred
1. Prejudice - abolition of untouchability
Bharat Ratna in the year
2. Stereotype - t reating someone less
(a) 1997 (b) 1996 (c) 1995 (d) 1994
fairly than others
6. Viswanathan Anand became India’s
3. Discrimination - equality before law
first grandmaster in the year.
4. Article 14 -
false view or idea about
(a) 1985 (b) 1986 (c) 1987 (d) 1988
something
7. In which sport Ilavazhagi excels
5. Article 17 - judge other people
(a) Chess (b) Wrestling
negatively
(c) Carrom (d) Tennis
8. Which article of the Constitution says IV. Answer the following questions:
discrimination against any citizen on 1. What is Prejudice?
grounds only of religion, race, caste, 2. What is stereotype?
sex, place of birth or any of them is 3. What is discrimination?
not permitted?
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Aatchiyar Kalvi
4. What are the articles that are discussing
the equality in the Indian Constitution?
V. Answer the following in detail:

1. What are the causes of Prejudice?
2. Write any two types of discrimination?
3. Explain the solution to the removal of
inequality and discrimination in Indian
society?
VI. Projects and Activities:

1. Split the class into small groups, discuss
with your peer group on discrimination
and write a report on it.
2. Collect information about any two
famous personalities who faced
prejudice and discrimination.
VII. HOTS:
1. Various discrimination in India. Discuss.
VIII. Life Skill:

1. How can you fight against prejudice
and discrimination in your village?
IX. Internet Resources:

1. http://www.ncsc.nic.in/
(The National Commission for
Scheduled Castes)
2. http://ncst.nic.in/
Scheduled Tribes)
3. http://www.ncw.nic.in/
Women)
4. Censusindia.gov.in
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Unit
1
NATIONAL
SYMBOLS
Learning Objectives
• To know about the natural national symbols of India.
• To understand the importance to protect nature.
• To know the other national symbols and appreciate them.
• To know the about different national festivals and celebrate them
with joy.
Path way
This lesson deals with the natural national symbols and the other national
symbols. It also explains about the different national festivals.
Velan and Ponni went on a forest Velan and Ponni to the officer. The
trip to Pulivanam. The thought that they personal vehicles had to be stopped there
were going to visit the forest, made as they were restricted to go further. After
them ecstatic and they were filled with that they had to travel only by vehicles
excitement and adventurous spirit. run on battaries that are pollution free.
Veena, a wildlife reasearcher was with These vehicles also called as ‘Jeep’ were
them. That forest had a legendary river covered with glass. A jeep was waiting
running across. The forest also had 2,000 for them. The forest officer Manimaran,
metre high mountain. Veena and the team boarded the vehicle.
As per the plan, they had reached “I think you are eagerly waiting
the forest area by a vehicle. “We are to watch the tiger, but it is possible only
waiting for you” said the forest officer when you are lucky enough. Though it
Manimaran, smilingly to the enthusiastic is the tiger’s habitat, there are many
young researchers. Veena introduced birds, insects, reptiles, aquatic life and
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27
amphibians which make the eco-system.
There is a Peacock
So please don’t wait only for the tigers but
Sanctuary at
enjoy watching other animals too. And
Viralimalai in the
remember you shouldn’t speak loudly”
district of Pudukottai
said Manimaran.
(Tamilnadu)
In a few minutes they had a chance
to see a beautiful pond with lotus. The “You know very well that the peacock is our
vehicle was moving slowly. The lotuses national bird. For a long time the Peacock
were smiling back at them. “Lotuses are has a significant place in our culture,
of different types. Those which are pink art and heritage. It’s beauty, stately
are called pink lotuses. The lotus has a appearance and its even distribution all
very special structure” said Veena. over India makes it our national bird”
Just behind a big tree near the said Manimaran.
pond, a peacock was fanning out its The vehicle moved forward silently.
feathers gracefully. Without making They admired the beauty on either side
noise, Velan and Ponni were admiring it. even without blinking.
“Uncle Manimaran, usually peacocks do “We have come very close to the
this during rainy days. Will it rain now?” bank of the river. Now we have to go
said Ponni. along the river. I am going to show you
“Maybe. It dances only during rainy days. a different animal. You have to remain
But once a chieftain Began, wondered silent; only then you can see it. Please
whether the peacock was shivering in take your binoculars” said Manimaran.
cold and covered the peacock with his Veena had instructed the team to
shawl. This chieftain belonged to the bring their binoculars on the visit. Velan
classical Sangam age of Tamils and also and Ponni had borrowed the binoculars
revered as one of the seven most from their neighbours. They focused their
generous personalities of ancient Tamil binoculars towards the gap between the
land. bushes. That gave them a view of the river.
Veena said, “Look, there is something
black like a Gharial crocodile moving”.
They could not see the animal clearly due
to the glare caused by the morning sun.
Manimaran said, “Turn away from the
Sun’s rays and watch carefully. It is not a
Gharial”.
Veena said, “No it does not look like
a fish. It looks like an aquatic mammal –
a river dophin”.
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28
Velan and Ponni exclaimed, “What? in India?” said Velan stunning everyone
Is it a dolphin? Marine acrobatic animal? around.
How can it live in a river? “Though Brahmaputra is 3848 km
Manimaran said, “There are river long, it does not flow across India. So,
dolphins in our country. The dolphins that What Velan said is right” said Veena.
live in the rivers have a long snout similar Manimaran said, “We have seen a
to the Gharial crocodiles. Just like bats, lot of things. Now let us relax. Come, let
they use the ultrasound waves to catch us have these pieces of mangoes.”
their prey. They are essentially blind. “These mangoes are very tasty,
Velan said, “That was an interesting what kind of mangoes are these?” asked
detail”. Veena eagerly.
“Do you know the name of the “This kind of mango is known as
river beside which we are now on?”. ‘Imam pasand’ a variety of mango that
“The rich harvests of the fertile was cultivated during the Mughal reign
plains of Ganges was mentioned in one for the royal family. This is occasionally
of Bharathiyar’s famous songs. Am I on found in the forest. Even this was picked
the same banks of Ganges? My father from the mango grove at the fringes of
asked me to collect some information this forest” said Manimaran. Eveyone got
about this place before visiting it,” said into the vehicle and were ready to go.
Ponni. “Now we are going to see another
“No doubt about it.” wonder” said Manimaran and drove the
“Do you know that this river is vehicle around a big banyan tree with
2,525 km long and is the longest river countless roots around. He travelled
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29
around it for a few minutes and came After climbing the hill they came
back to the starting point. “Such a big across a plain. He parked the vehicle and
banyan tree?” exclaimed Ponni and Velan. asked the team to see something using
“This is a very big banyan tree their binoculars. “Look there,”
and is the oldest in this forest. It is the There was a cone-shaped nest built
habitat of thousands of birds. It is as with dried leaves. Manimaran asked, “Can
famous as the banyan tree in the Indian you guess which animal’s nest is that?
Botanical Garden in Howrah (Calcutta),” I know that birds build nests on
said Manimaran. the ground, but this seems a bit strange,”
said Veena.
“There is another big banyan in
Adyar (Chennai). It is as big as that. I It is a snake’s nest, the nest of king
saw that when I visited the Theosophical cobra”.
Society and wondered at it.” said Ponni. “What? Snakes build nests?” said
“Let us now go slowly because Velan.
there is a herd of elephants climbing the “This is the only reptile that builds
mountains right behind the banyan tree” a nest of its own and reproduces. Thus
said Manimaran. snake’s average length is 18 feet and is
Velan replied at once, “Oh! Aren’t the longest of the poisonous snakes” said
the wild elephants ferocious? Are we in Manimaran.
danger?”. “We have explored the forest and
Manimaran said “First and foremost climbed the hills but we have not seen a
we are not supposed to trouble the wild tiger till now” said Ponni.
animals because the forest is their home. “Don’t worry Ponni. We have come
We can admire them without disturbing across many wonders. The Tiger is a very
them.” shy animal. While descending down the
Manimaran continued “We should hills we may see one on the rocky area
know how to safeguard ourselves from on the slope” said Manimaran.
the encounters of the wild animals. That They had seen many unusual things
is the reason why we try to explore the that day. But they were very disappointed
forests with the guides who belong to the because they had not seen ever a tiger.”
forest tribal community”. “I have visited several forests
“Even though the animals are quite but they are not identical. I got some
huge, they will not harm you unless you new information from Mr.Manimaran and
hurt them”. the tribals. I have visited forestes many
“Let us also climb the hills along times regarding my research. But I was
with the elephants. There is another not able to see the tiger. Don’t worry, we
surprise waiting for you on the top of the will see a tiger some time later comforted
hills” said Manimaran. Veena.
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30
NATURAL NATIONAL SYMBOLS
Lotus-1950
Though it grows in muddy water
it blooms with beauty.
Banyan tree-1950
It is a symbol of pride
and has many medicinal values.
Tiger-1973
It is the largest cat species. India
has 70% of tigers population in
the world.
Peacock-1963
It is native to Asia and the only
bird which has a tail.
Elephant-2010
It is native to mainland Asia and
plays a critical role in maintaining
the regions forests.
River Ganges-2008
It is a perennial river and
many royal capitals flourished on
the banks of this river.
They are friendly bacteria.They are

a major part of the lactic and
bacteria group.
River Dolphin-2010
It is the reliable indicator of the
health of the entire river eco-system.
It is in the endangered list.
Mango - 1950
It is a rich source of vitamins A,C
and D and mainly cultivated in the
King cobra- plains.
Ophiophagus hannah
It is the world’s longest venomous
snake and lives in the rain forests
and plains of India.
The years the symbols were adopted by the Government of India are given.
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31
They descended down the hill and “It is absolutely true” said Veena.
came to the same place where they had They all got back to the vehicle
watched the river dolphins. They parked and were returning. Veena asked the
the vehicle and rested for a while. Ponni team a question. “Do you know, there
came out of the vehicle and watched is something common between all the
wonders you have seen today?”
through the binoculars. She noticed
“What is common?” asked Velan.
something strange. She couldn’t control
herself she whispered “Uncle, look there.” “Please, tell us quickly. We are very
eager to know” said Ponni.
All of them quickly turned to look with
“All that we saw today are our
their binoculars. They saw a tigress with
natural national symbols” said Veena
her three cubs drinking water from the
“You are right, Veena. This didn’t
river. Veena captured the beautiful scene
strike me.” said Manimaran.
with her camera. Nobody dared to see
anything other than the tigress, till it left Other Symbols of our Country
the river bank and vanished away.
“This is the real king of the forest”
National ﬂag:
said Manimaran. The tricolour flag is our National flag. The
three colours are of the same width and are
arranged horizontally.
The saffron at the top
Tamil Nadu’s Natural
represents valour and
Symbols sacrifice. The green at
the bottom represents
fertility and prosperity.
Animal Nilgiri Tahr The white band in
between represents honesty peace and
purity. The Ashoka chakra or the wheel
in navy blue represents truth and peace.
Emerald
Bird Out National Flag’s length and
dove
width proportion is 3:2 respectively and
the Ashoka’s chakra has 24 spokes in it.
Gloriosa
Flower National Emblem
Superba
The four lions on top of the Ashoka
Palmyrah HOTS:
Tree
tree Who has been given the right to
manufacture the National flag?
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32
‘Satyameva Jayate”
Kodi Kaatha Kumaran has been inscribed at
Tirupur its bottom. It means
Kumaran was born in ‘Truth alone triumphs’.
Chennimalai of Erode The National emblem
district. As a youth, he consists of two parts-
actively participated in
the upper and the
the freedom struggle for
lower parts.
India. In 1932, when Gandhiji was
arrested, protests were held against The upper part
the arrest all over the country. When has four lions facing
protests were held for Gandhiji’s the North, South,
release, Tirupur Kumaran took active East and West. This is
part in it. He lost his life when the on a circular pedestal. One can only see
police attacked violently. He held on three lions at a time.
to the tricolor flag even when he died. The lower part has an elephant, a
He was honoured with the title, ‘Kodi horse, a bull and a lion. The ‘Wheel of
Kaatha Kumaran’. The Government of righteousness’ is placed between them.
India has released a postal stamp on his
This emblem is found at the top of the
centenary year to remember Tirupur
government communication, Indian
Kumaran’s sacrifice and dedication to
currency and passport.
the nation.
The four lions,

chosen from the
 The National flag was Sarnath pillar of
designed by Pingali Venkayya Ashoka as our
from Andhra Pradesh. emblem, is now
placed in the Sarnath Museum.
• The first Indian Flag was woven at
Gudiyatham in Vellore district of
Tamilnadu. National Anthem
• This flag was hoisted by Pandit
‘Jana Gana Mana’ is our National
Jawaharlal Nehru on 15th August
anthem. It symbolises the sovereignty
1947 at Red Fort (Delhi)
and intergrity of our nation. This anthem
• This flag is now an exhibit at the was written by Rabindranath Tagore in
St.George’s Fort Museum, Chennai. Bengali. This was transcripted in Hindi
and was accepted by the Constituent
Pillar at Sarnath was chosen to be our Assembly on 24th January 1950.
National emblem. The national emblem
was accepted on 26th January 1950,
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33
The rules to be observed while National Micro organism
singing the Anthem
• This anthem has to be sung at a
duration of 52 seconds.
• Everyone should stand erect while
singing the national anthem.
• One should understand the meaning
while singing.
National song
On 27th December 1911
this National anthem The curd which we consume every
was sung for the first day is curdled from milk by a micro
time during the Congress committee organism called lacto bacillus delbrueckii.
meet held at Kolkata. This was accepted as our national micro
organism in the year 2012. This micro
organism makes the milk undergo a
The song Vande Mataram, chemical reaction and changes the protein
composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, content of the milk. Curd is known for its
was a source of inspiration to the people digestive quality and cooling capacity.
of India in their struggle for freedom. It
has an equal status with Jana Gana Mana. Currency of India- (INR) `
On January 24, 1950, the then President, The Indian currency is the Indian
Dr. Rajendra Prasad came up with a Rupees. The currency released by
statement in the Constituent Assembly, SherShah Sur in the sixteenth century
“the song Vande Mataram, which has was ‘Rupiya’. This ‘rupiya’ has been
played a historic part in the struggle transformed, into ‘Rupees’. The symbol
for Indian freedom, shall be honoured of rupees is `. This was designed by D.
equally with Jana Gana Mana and shall Udhayakumar from Tamil Nadu in the
have equal status with it.” year 2010.
The song was a part of Bankim
National Calender
Chandra’s most famous novel ‘Anand
During the reign of Emperor
Math’.
Kanishka he began following a new
National pledge calendar in the year 78 CE/AD. The
“India is my country. All Indians are year begins from the spring equinox
my brothers and sisters” is our national which falls on March 22nd. During a
pledge. The pledge was written by leap year, it begins on March 21st. Our
Pydimarri Venkata Subba Rao in Telugu. country follows this calendar. The famous
astronomer Meghnad Saha headed the
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Aatchiyar Kalvi
34
Calendar Reformation Committee on 22nd On 26th January 1950, India
March 1957. It was then accepted by the was declared as a democratic state.
committee as our national calendar. Every year this day is commemorated
The National symbols help in as the ‘Republic Day’. The constitution
uniting the diversified sections of India commenced on 26th January 1950. From
and to instill patriotism. August 1947 to 26th January 1950, the
National Holidays Queen of Britain was the honorary head
of India. The day India was declared as
Independence Day a democratic state, the President became
the first citizen of India. On Republic Day,
the President of India hoists the National
flag at the Red Fort New Delhi.
On January 29, the

third day of the Republic
day, the celebrations
Every year, August 15 is celebrated are brought to an end
as the Independence Day to commemorate with the “Beating Reteat” ceremony.
India’s freedom from British rule. This This is performed by the bands of
auspicious day is also marked as a birth Indian Army, Navy and Airforce. The
of the world’s biggest democracy, India. President of India is the chief guest
On the day India gained of this day. Rashtrapati Bhavan will
independence, Mahakavi Bharathiyar’s be illuminated
poem “Aaduvome Pallu Paduvome” and it at 6pm as a
was sung over the AIR (All India Radio) part of the
by T.K.Pattammal, a famous singer celebration.
of Carnatic Music. The celebration of
Independence Day continues every year.
The Prime Minister unfurls the National Gandhi Jayanthi
Flag on the Independence Day at the Red
Fort, New Delhi.
Republic Day
The birthday of Mahatma Gandhi,

the Father of our Nation, was declared
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Aatchiyar Kalvi
35
one of the National festivals. It falls on Exercises
2nd October. In 2007, the United Nations
declared October 2nd as the ‘International
answer
Day of Non-violence’.
1. The National Song
Vande Mataram was composed
by________
a) Pingali Venkayya
Independence - Freedom from control b) Rabindra Nath Tagore
of another country or c) Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
organization. d) Gandhiji
Republic - A country in which the 2. Which is the National Anthem of India?
Head of State is an a) Jana Gana Mana
elected person. b) Vande Mataram
c) Amar Sonar Bangla
Heritage - The art, buildings,
d) Neerarum kaduluduththa
traditions and beliefs
3. Who wrote the most famous novel
that a society considers
Anand Math?
important to its history
a) Akbar
and culture.
b) Rabindra Nath Tagore
Aquatic - Growing or living in or
c) Bankim Chandra Chatterjee
near water.
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Astrophysicist - An expert in astrophysics 4. ___________ birthday is celebrated as
the International Day of non violence?
a) Mahatma Gandhi
b) Subash Chandra Bose
• Tiger, Elephant, River dolphin of Ganges,
c) Sardar Vallabhai Patel
Peacock, King Cobra, Banyan tree,
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
mango, The Ganges and lotus are the
5. The colour of the Asoka chakra found
natural national symbols.
in our National flag is ________
• The constitutional Assembly accepted
the tricolour flag as the national flag on a) sky blue b) navy blue
22nd July 1947. c) blue d) green
• The National Flag, the National emblem, 6. The first flag ever flown after the
the National Anthem and the National Independence is stored in ________
song etc., are the other national symbols. a) Chennai fort Museum
• Independence Day, Republic day, Gandhi b) Delhi Museum
Jayanthi are our important National c) Saranath Museum
festivals. d) Kolkata Museum
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Aatchiyar Kalvi
36
7. The National Anthem was written by 10. The Chakra of the National Flag has
_______ ________ spokes
a) Devandranath Tagore
b) Bharathiyar III. Choose the correct answer
c) Rabindranath Tagore 1. The Lion Capital is now in the ______
d) Balagangadhar Tilak museum (Kolkata/Sarnath)
8. The time taken to play the National 2. The National Anthem was adopted in
Anthem is _______ _______ (1950/1947)
a) 50 seconds b) 52 minutes 3. ________ is declared as our National
c) 52 seconds d) 20 seconds Micro organism (Lacto bacillus /
9. “Vande Mataram” was first sung by Rhizobium)
_______ at the 1896 session of the
National Congress IV. Fill in the blanks
a) Bankim Chandra Chatterjee 1. Saffron – Courage ; White - _________
b) Rabindranath Tagore 2. Horse – Energy; Bull - __________
c) Mahathma Gandhi
3. 1947 – Independence day; 1950 -
d) Sarojini Naidu
________
10. _________ hoists the flag on
Independence day in Delhi V. Choose the Correct Option
a) The Prime Minister 1. Rabindranath Tagore - a.National
b) The President Song
c) Vice President 2. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee - b. National
d) Any Political leader Flag
II. Fill in the blanks.
3. Pingali Venkayya - c. Astro
1. The National emblem was adopted
Physicist
from the Ashoka pillar of __________
4. Meghnad Saha - d. National
2. The National fruit of India is _______
Anthem
3. The National Bird of India is _______
1 2 3 4
4. Our National tree is the ___________ a) a d b c
5. The Flag which was flown in 1947 b) d a c b
Independence day was weaved in c) d a b c
________
VI. Match and choose the wrong
6. The Indian National Flag was designed
pair:
by ________
1. National Reptile – Tiger
7. _______ started the Saka Era
2. National Aquatic Animal – Lacto
8. The longest river in India is __________
bacillus
9. The Indian Rupee symbol was designed 3. National Heritage Animal – King Cobra
by _________ 4. National Micro organism – Dolphin
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37
VII. Choose the wrong sentence: 6. Who wrote the National pledge?
7. What are the animals found in the
1. T
he ratio of our National Flag’s length
bottom of the emblem?
and breadth is 3:2
8. What are the natural national symbols?
e. The Chakra has 24 spokes
9. Where is the peacock sanctuary
f. The Chakra is Sky Blue in colour
located in Tamil Nadu?
2. The National Flag was designed by
X. Activities
Pingali Venkayya
g. The First ever flown Flag after the 1. Draw the natural National symbols as
a scenery / Frame a story
Independence is stored in Kolkata
2. Prepare a logo for your class/school of
Museum
h. The First National Flag was weaved your own
3. What should we do to protect the
in Gudiyattam
endangered plants and animals –
VIII. Choose the correct sentence: Discuss
a. August 15 is celebrated as the 4. Celebrate the national events in your
Independence day school and prepare a news item for a
b. November 26 is celebrated as the local newspaper.
Republic day
c. October 12 is celebrated as Gandhi XI. Life skill activity:
Jayanti Why are certain organisms adopted as
natural National symbols? Analyse.
IX. Answer the following.
1. What do the colours in our National
Flag represent?
2. What are the parts of our National
emblem?
3. What are the salient features of the
National anthem?
4. Draw and define the Indian Rupee
symbol
5. Where do we use our National
emblem?
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38
ICT CORNER
Symbols of India and Indian States
Let us learn about

The Constitution of India
Step 1: Go to play store and install “National symbols” App.

Step 2: Open the app. Click any national symbol like National Flag , National Bird etc. to know
more about the symbol.
Step 3: Click the Back button and scroll below to see “States “. Select states and click Tamil Nadu
for instance.
Step 4: Now you can see the symbols about Tamil Nadu.
Step 1: Step 2
Step 3:
Step 4
URL::
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cdac.symbol
*படங்கள் அைடயாளத்திற்கு மட்டுேம.
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Unit 2
THE CONSTITUTION
OF INDIA
Learning Objectives
• To know about the Cons titution of India
• To recognise the formation of our Cons titution
• To know the salient features of our Cons titution
• To know the fundamental rights and duties of the citizen of India
Pathway
The Lesson speaks about the formation of the constitution of India. It gives guidelines
to govern the country, while ensuring the fundamental rights and duties of the citizens
and how it protects them.
Yazhinian and Sudaroli are brothers. elder brother’s advice. Inspite of Yazh’s
Yazh is student of standard six and Sudar is continuous request Sudar did not reduce the
in standard four. Yazh was preparing for his volume.
class test. Sudar after completing his home Yazh complained to his father that Sudar
assignments was watching an animated did not decrease the volume of the television
series on television. Sudar was watching it in spite of requesting him several times. Yazh
but the noise level disturbed Yazh. Sudar was made it clear that he had a class test the
totally engrossed in the series and laughed following day.
and clapped loudly. Yazh could not concentrate
“Isn’t your brother preparing for his class
on his lessons.
test? Weren’t you wrong in troubling him?”
So he asked Sudar to reduce the volume. continued his father.
But Sudar was not ready to adhere to his
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40
not watch the movie while Yazh studies.” .
“No my child. You can watch the movie
without causing trouble to anyone,” .
“Don’t be angry Yazh. You study and I
promise I will not disturb you.”
Yazh smiled and patted Sudar’s back
and left the place.
Sudar’s mother was watching everything
silently. She said,” Even to run a small family
don’t we need to follow so many rules and
“I was watching the TV. Yazh kept
regulations? How much more of that will we
disturbing and stopped me from watching it.”
need to administer a country?” she exclaimed.
said Sudar.
“It is an ocean Deepa. In order to
“Studying for the test and watching
administer people who follow different
television are not the same” said his father.
religions, speak different languages and
But Sudar was not ready to accept the belong to different castes and culture and
fact. Sudar was consistent that he had all treat everyone equally, we need to have a
rights to watch a film as much as Yazh had
good code of laws and guidelines which we
the right to study.
call as ‘The Constitution of India.’
His father admitted that both had The next day Sudar and Yazh went to
equal rights. But one must not hinder
school. It was the Republic Day also.
another’s freedom. Sudar didn’t realise the
The celebration was a jubilant. The
fact that he was very stubborn.
students and teachers were standing in line
“Look Sudar. You have all rights to watch
around the flag post. Immediately after the
the film” said his father.
hoisting of the flag, a discussion was held
“Yes dad”. with the chief guest for the day, Mr.
“Similarly, Yazh also has the right to listen Arumugam, an expert in social sciences.
to his favourite song on TV Coundn’t he?” “Wish you a happy Republic Day!” wished
“How can that happen? When I watch Mr. Arumugam.
the television he cannot do that.” “Wish you the same Sir.”
“When you can watch a film by “Do you know why do we celebrate the
increasing its volume, Yazh can also hear Republic Day?”
music loudly.” said father. “Our Constitution was framed and came
“How will I watch the movie?”. into existence from 26th January 1950. That
“How will Yazh study?” . is why every year we observe this day as the
Republic Day.” said the history teacher
“Oh! I didn’t think of it. Okay dad, I will
Malarmathi.
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41
“Yes, Sir”
“Why is it necessary?”
“We should not disturb anybody in
public” said Tamilselvi.
“It’s true. Also no one should disturb
us”said Selva
“Yes, I do accept it. But what if someone
compels you to follow some rules? How
would you feel?”
“Yes, it is true. There are other reasons
why this constitution came into existence on “It would be difficult to do so.”
26th January 1950. When the Congress met “How do you feel when you are asked to
at Lahore in 1929, the members of the make your own rules?”
Congress unofficially declared the same day
“We would be proud and pleased to obey
as the Day of Poorna Swaraj or the Day of
our own rules.”
complete self governance. The next year,
26th January 1930 was celebrated as the (Everyone agreed and nodded their
heads)
Independence Day. That day has been
observed as our Republic Day.”
“What do you mean by the “Constitution
of India” asked Nathar.
“Before that, let me ask a few questions.
You answer me. Then I will explain in detail
about the constitution of India.”.
“All right sir.”
(The students were prepared to answer
“The Constitution is an authentic
the questions)
document containing the basic ideas,
“Are you following any rules and principles and laws of a country. It also
regulation at home?” defines the rights and duties of citizens. The
“Yes sir” laws governing a country originate from the
consitutition. Every country is ruled on the
“Are you following any rules at school?”
basis of its constitution”
“Yes sir”
“What are the things that make the
“Are both of them the same or different?” constitution of India?” asked Deepika.
“Mostly, they are different” “The constitution of India is the ultimate
“Is it necessary to follow certain rules in law. We have to abide by it. It explains the
public places?” fundamental concepts of structure, methods,
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powers and the duties of Government bodies. “How many women members were there
It also lists the fundamental rights and duties in the Constituent Assembly?
of the citizens. Directive Principles are also “15 women members were in the
mentioned in the constitution. So it is holistic Constituent Assembly”
in nature.”
“When did they begin to frame the 'The Father of the
constitution?” asked Christopher. Constitution of India’ is
Dr.B.R. Ambedkar.
“The Drafting committee was formed

with eight members and its Chairman was
B.R. Ambedkar; B.N.Rao was appointed as
an advisor. The committee met for the first
time on 9th December 1946. On the same
day, the drafting of constitution of India
started.”.
“In 1946, nearly 389 members of the
“How did they form the Indian
constituent Assembly who belonged to
constitution?”
different parties from different places came
together to frame the Constitution of India. “The constitutions of nearly 60 countries
The Chairman of the committee was Mr. including the UK, USA,former USSR, France ,
Rajendra Prasad.” Switzerland etc., were thoroughly examined
and their best features have been adopted by
“Who were the other significant members
our constitution.”
in the Constituent Assembly?”
“Did they draft it in a short span of time?”
“Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabai Patel,
Moulana Azad, S. Radhakrishnan, Viajalakshmi “No, nearly 2000 amendments were
Pandit and Sarojini Naidu were the members made before the draft was finalised”
in the Constituent Assembly” “When did they complete this work?”
“It took a period of 2 years, 11 months,
and 17 days. It was completed on 26th
November 1949".
“The constitution was accepted by the
Constituent Assembly. So, 26th November is
celebrated as the Day of the Constitution.
isn’t it ?” said Karthikeyan
“Yes” said Mr. Arumugam
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the right to rule. The members of the
parliament and the legislative assembly are
elected by the people. The right to decide is
only in the hands of the representatives.
Sovereignty refers to the ultimate power of
the country.”
“What is the meaning of “Secular?”
“Law allows all the citizens of a country,
the right to follow different faith and religious
“How much was spent to frame the beliefs. All citizens enjoy the freedom of
constitution of India?” asked Nathar. worship. The country does not have a religion
“They spent almost 64 lakhs”. of its own. All the religions in our country hold
the same status.”
“What are the objectives of the
“The Government of India rules through
Constitution?”
the Parliament, doesn’t it?”
“The Preamble of our constitution
“Yes, the Constitution of India provides
stresses on the justice, liberty, equality and
a Parliamentary form of Government, both at
fraternity.”
the centre and the state. In a Parliamentary
“What is a Preamble?” System, the Executive is collectively
responsible to the Legislature. The party
which has the majority forms the government.”
“What are fundamental rights?”
“Fundamental rights are the basic human
rights of all citizens.”
“What are they?”
Fundamental rights
Right to Equality
Right to freedom
Right against exploitation

“The preface of the constitution is the
Preamble. According to it, India is a
Right to freedom of Religion
Sovereign, socialist, Secular democratic
republic.” Cultural and Educational
Rights
“What does it mean by ‘Sovereign’?”
06
Right to Constitutional
“The constitution has granted the people Remedies
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“They are Right to Equality. Right to FACTS
freedom, Right against exploitation, Right to • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, N. Gopalasamy,
freedom of Religion, Cultural and Educational K.M.Munshi, Syed Ahmed sadullah,
Rights and Right to Constitutional Remedies.” P.L. Mitter, N.Madhava Rao, T.T.K,
“You mentioned about Directive T.P. Khaitan were the legal experts of the
Principles. What do you mean by that?” Drafting Committee.
“There are certain guidelines to be • The Chairman of the Drafting Committee
followed while the governments frame law. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was considered the
Though these are not mandatory, they should Chief architect.
be taken into account.” • When the Cons titution was drafted,
“What is Universal Adult Franchise?” there were 395 articles in 22 parts and
“Every Indian citizen has the right to 8 schedules. At present our Indian Cons
vote when they attain 18 years of age, titution contains 448 articles in 25 parts
irrespective of any caste, religion, gender or and 12 schedules.
economic status.” • 101 amendments were made till
“Like fundamental rights, every citizen 16.09.2016.
will have duties too, won't they?”
“Yes, There are duties respecting the HOTS
National flag and National Anthem, respect Prepare a lis t of your immediate duties?
and protect the Constitution, follow our great
leaders who fought for our freedom, to
protect our country, readiness to serve our
country if necessary, treating everyone as
brothers irrespective of their castes, religions, 1.Democracy - a type of government in
languages, races etc., to conserve our ancient which representatives
heritage, and conserve natural elements like are elected by the
forests, rivers and lakes and fauna, to develop
people of that country.
science, humanity and feelings of reformation
to avoid non-violence and protect government 2. Drafting - a Committee set up to
property, parents or guardians providing Committee prepare the draft of the
educational opportunities to children between Constitution
6-14 years etc., have been added as our
duties” Mr.Arumugam concluded his 3.Preamble - an introduction to
discussion. a book or a written
document.
The original copies of the 4. Republic - a country with an

Cons titution of India (Hindi, elected head of state
English) are preserved in 5.Secular - a state which does not
special Helium filled cases in the Library
discriminate anyone on
of the Parliament of India.
religious grounds
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6.Socialist - equal distribution of a EXERCISES
country’s wealth and I. Choose the correct
equal opportunities in answer:
all fields. 1. The Constitution Day is
7.Sovereign - an independent country celebrated on
not subject to any
a) January 26 b) August 15
external power or
influence. c) November 26 d) December 9
2. The Constituent Assembly accepted the
Constitution of India in the year
a) 1946 b) 1950
c) 1947 d) 1949
• 26th January is observed as our 3. There are ___________ amendments
Republic Day. made in the Constitution of India till
• The Constitution is an authentic 2016
document containing the basic ideas, a) 101 b) 100 c) 78 d)46
principles and laws of our country
4. Which of the following is not a
• The father of the Constitution of India is
fundamental right?
Dr. B. R Ambedkar.
a) Right to freedom
• The Preamble of our Constitution
stresses on justice, liberty, equality and b) Right to equality
fraternity. c) Right to vote
• According to the Preamble, India is a d) Right to education
sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic
5. An Indian citizen has the right to vote at
republic
a) 14 years b) 18 years
• All citizens enjoy the freedom of worship
c) 16 years d) 21 years
• The Executive is collectively responsible
for the legislature II. Fill in the blanks:
• Fundamental rights are the basic human 1. _________ was selected as the chairman
rights of all citizens. of the Constituent Assembly
• Directive principles are certain guidelines 2. The farther of the Constitution of India is
_________
which are not mandatory
3. ____________ protects our fundamental
• Universal Adult Franchise is every
rights
Indian citizen’s right to vote when they
attain 18 years of age. 4. The Constitution of India came into
• Every citizen has certain duties too. existence on _____________
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III. Match the following: 3. List out the special features of the
Constitution of India
1.Independence day - a. N
ovember 26
4. What are the fundamental rights?
2.Republic Day - b. April 1
5. List out the fundamental duties that
3. Constitutional Day of - c. August 15
India
you would like to fulfil
4.Right to Education - d. January 26 6. What is Preamble?
7. What do you understand by Liberty,
1 2 3 4
Equality and Fraternity?
a.) c a d b
b.) c d a b 8. Define: Sovereign
c.) d b a c VI. Projects and Activities:
IV. Answer the questions given 1. L et the students work individually or in
under the caption a group to prepare rules for their class.
Constituent Assembly From them discuss and a form a list of
1. In which year was the Constituent rules and regulations for their class.
Assembly formed? 2. List your duties at
2. How many members were in the a) school b) home and c) society
Drafting Committee? 3. Discuss on these topics:
3. How many women were part of the a) Equality b) Child labour
Constituent Assembly? c) Right to Education
4. When was the Constitution of India 4. Kailash Satyarti (India) and Malala
completed? Yusufsai (Pakistan) have been awarded
V. Answer the following questions: the Nobel Prize for Peace (2014) Find
out the reason why.
1. Why was January 26 adopted as the
Republic Day? Life Skill:
2. What is the Constitution of India? Which of the fundamental rights do you
like the most? Why?
Fundamental rights and duties are guaranteed by the constitution. Look at the picture
and share your opinions.
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Unit 1
DEMOCRACY
Learning Objectives
• To know the meaning of democracy
• To know the types of democracy
• To know and appreciate the structure of our constitution
• To know the aims of democracy
‘குடிதழீஇக் க�ோல�ோச்சும் மாநில மன்னன்

அடிதழீஇ நிற்கும் உலகு’
The world will constantly embrace the feet of the great king who rules over his subjects with love.
The teachers of Nallur Government High said this and paused, everyone looked at him
School were doing the final preparations for in wonder.
the programme ‘Let’s know the society’. The “Democracy should be found everywhere,
Singaravelar Hall was filled with students. The
shouldn’t it? So I am going to converse with all
Headmaster Mr. Jeeva welcomed the Chief
of you,” he said. He requested to give a
Guest of the day, Advocate Mr. Rajasekaran.
microphone to the students. Mr. Rajasekar said,
When he brought the chief guest to the hall,
the students observed silence. “First let me ask you a question. Do you
Mr. Britto, the history teacher welcomed know what kind of society did the early man
the gathering. The chief guest, Mr. Rajasekaran live in?”
stood up to address the students. “In the beginning, they were hunters and
“Beloved brothers and sisters! I thank gathered food. Later, they settled near rivers
you for inviting me to this programme. I’m not and practised agriculture,” said Deepika, a
going to speak on this occasion.” When he sixth standard student.
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The students answered together, “After

centuries of struggle and many sacrifices, we
got freedom from British colonialism.”
“We adopted democracy as our ruling
system when our country got freedom,” said
Rajasekaran.
Devarajan asked him, “What is
democracy?”
“When you start a Sports Club, you’ll
share the responsibilities. Then you would
enjoy its benefits, but share the income and
expenditure, wouldn’t you?”
“Yes, when man started to live in groups, “Yes sir”
tribes were formed. Every tribe had its own
chief. These groups fought among themselves Democracy is
for land, water and other resources. Those ‘Government of the
who emerged victorious, formed kingdoms by people, by the people,
uniting the other tribal groups. These for the people’
kingdoms later integrated to form empires.”
– Abraham Lincoln
Arun questioned, “So the chief would
have become the king, wouldn’t he?” “Similarly, the citizens of a country select
“Yes, that was how monarchies ruled by their representatives through elections. Thus,
kings were formed.” they take part in the direct governance of a
country. This is termed Democracy. In a
Suganya asked, “Was this how monarchy
democratic form of government, a
emerged in our country too?"
considerable amount of power lies with the
“Yes, this was how the system of people of that nation. People can participate
monarchy formed throughout the world. Also, in the politics of the country and decision
our country was ruled by kings and emperors making processes. There are different types
and then came under the British rule.” of democracy.”
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“Types of democracy!” “Yes, this system is actually known as

“Yes, there are various types of Direct Democracy,” said Rajasekaran.
democracy in practice around the world. “What do you mean by Representative
Among those, direct democracy and Democracy?”
representative democracy are the most “Imagine that your Sports Club has more
popular forms of government.” number of members now. Is it possible for
hundreds of them to gather and discuss to
The birth place of take various decisions?”
democracy is Greece.
“No sir”
“In that case, all the members should be
“What is Direct Democracy?” asked
represented by a group of representatives,
Sirajudeen.
shouldn’t they?”
“In a Direct Democracy, people have the
“Yes,” agreed the students in union.
power to frame laws. If we consider your
Sports Club as an example, you all can discuss
DEMOCRACY
and amend laws and rules. The perspective
of each member is considered and each one
Representative
expresses his view. But how will you take a Direct Democracy Democracy
final decision?” - Switzerland – India, USA,
England
“The choice of the majority will be
accepted. The others will also give their
Laws & Rules Laws & Rules
consent,” said Selva.
Elected
In a Direct Representatives
D e m o c r a c y,
only the Votes Votes
citizens can
make laws. All
changes have
to be approved
The people The people
by the citizen. The politicians only rule
over parliamentary procedure.
Switzerland has had a long history of a “Those group members will administrate
successful direct democracy. the sports club on behalf of all the other
members. To select these representatives,
elections are held. For example, many contest
HOTS for the post of the Head, Secretary, Treasurer
Is it possible to practise Direct Democracy in India? and members of the administration group.
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In the end, those who gain the maximum “Yes. In a highly populated country like
number of votes will be given the posts. On India, if people want to live peacefully, they
behalf of the other members, they obtain the have to follow certain rules and regulations,
power to take decisions in a democratic rights and duties properly. Hence, the
manner. This is termed as Representative constitution of India guides us in all these
Democracy.” aspects and plays an important role in
maintaining law and order.”
REPRESENTATIVE
DEMOCRACY In 2007, the UNO
General Assembly resolved
to observe 15th September as
Parliamentary Presidential the International Day of Democracy.
Democracy Democracy
• India • USA
“What are the rights given in our
• England • Canada Constitution?”
“Our Constitution ensures freedom,
“What is meant by democratic decision
equality and justice to everyone.”
making?” questioned Judith.
“What other features are found in our
“In the system of democracy, the power
constitution?”
to take decisions does not lie with the Head.
On the contrary, a group holds the power, but “It defines the political principles, the
adheres to the rules and regulations. All the structure of the government institutions and
members of the group hold open discussions methods to follow these rules and regulations,
and take final decisions only when everyone the powers and responsibilities. And also, it
is convinced. This is called democratic way of fixes the Rights and Duties and the Directive
decision making.” Principles of the citizens.Thus our constitution
provides a structure to us.”
“Are there rules and regulations to
govern our country like the rules and “Is the constitution of India such a
regulations of this group?” detailed one?” asked Tamizhselvi in
amazement.
“Indian Constitution is the longest written
constitution in the world. It is drafted by the
Drafting Committee of the Constituent
Assembly headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
That is why we call him the ‘Chief Architect
of our Constitution’ Rajasekaran concluded.
The students clapped with joy and
thanked him for the simple explanation of
democracy.
Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly
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Aims of Democracy responsibility to protect the welfare of the

Democracy is defined as “Government of people.
the people, for the people and by the people.”
World Democracy
New zealand is the first country to allow
women to vote (1893). Voting rights to
women were given in 1918 and 1920 in the
UK and USA respectively. At the same time,
the wealthy alone were given the voting
rights in India. Many leaders like Mahatma
Gandhi kept insisting on giving voting rights
In a democracy, the power is vested in to all. Now in India, all the people above 18
the hands of the people. For that, the people years of age enjoy Universal Adult Franchise.
should have rights to take decisions. Everyone
cannot participate in decision making. So, the The world statistical
representative government elected by the data on democracy declares
people to form a democratic system, all those that 79% of the Indian
who attain the age of 18 are given the voting citizens have faith in the democratic
rights to elect the representatives. At the system. Hence, India ranks first among
the democratic countries of the world.
same time, the representatives have the
Oldest Democracies in the World
Sl. No. Democracy Period Location Significance

Greek 5th century Foundation of political
1 Greece
Democracy BC (BCE) philosophy
Roman
300 BC – 50 Italian Peninsula, Loads of expansions of the
2 Empires
BC (BCE) Rome growth of civilization
Democracy
San Merinos Earliest written constitution
3 AD (CE) 301 Italy
Democracy still in effect
The oldest and longest
The Iceland
4 AD (CE) 930 Thingvellir functioning parliament
Democracy
in the world.
The Isle Between Great
Self governing possessions
5 of Man’s AD (CE) 927 Britain and
of the crown
Democracy Ireland
British 13th Century
6 England Magna Carta of 1215
Democracy AD (CE)
AD (CE) United States of The oldest standing
7 US Democracy
1789 America democracy
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3. ________ is celebrated as the

International Democracy Day.
a. September 15 b. October 15
1. Democracy -
a government formed by
c. November 15 d. December 15
the people
4. Who has the right to work in a direct
2. Election -
a process by which a
Democracy?
representative is chosen
a. Men b. Women
3. Decision - to make up one’s mind
c. Representatives d. All eligible voters
4. Government -
a group of people with a
authority to govern a country II. Fill in the blanks.
1. Direct Democracy is practised in ________
2. The definition of democracy is defined
by ________.
• "Government of the people, by the people
for the people" is defined as democracy. 3. People choose their representatives by
giving their ________.
•
Direct democracy and Representative
democracy are the types of democracy. 4. In our country ________ democracy is
in practice.
• Our constitution ensures freedom, equality
and justice to everyone. III. Answer the following.
• Indian constitution is the longest written 1. What is Democracy?
constitution in the world. 2. What are the types of democracy?
• In India, all the people above 18 years of 3. Define: Direct Democracy.
age enjoy Universal Adult Franchise.
4. Define: Representative Democracy.
EXERCISES 5. What are the salient features of our
I. Choose the correct constitution that you have understood?
answer.
IV. HOTs
1. Early man settled near
1. Compare and contrast direct democracy
________ and practiced
and representative democracy.
agriculture.
a. plains b. bank of rivers V. Activity.
c. mountains d. hills 1. Find out your area's representative’s
names and write down
2. The birth place of democracy is ________
a. MP b. MLA 3. Local body member
a. China b. America
2. Discuss about the merits and demerits of
c. Greece d. Rome
democracy.
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ICT CORNER
Civics - Democracy
Through��
this activity you will know about
��
structure of government of India and
��!
political systems.
Steps:
Step 1: Use the URL or scan the QR code to open the activity page.
Step 2: Click the “political systems” to know government of India.
Step 3: Click the “English” button the map will appear.
Step 4: Choose and click “Tamilnadu” to know about the state government.
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Step 4
*Pictures are indicatives only.
Browse in the link

Web: http://www.elections.in/ (or) scan the QR Code
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Unit 2
LOCAL BODIES –
RURAL AND URBAN
Learning Objectives
• To know about the structure and functions of rural and urban local
bodies.
• To know about the Grama Sabha and the purpose of Grama Sabha
meeting.
• To understand the special features of Panchayatraj.
• To know about the participation of women in local bodies.
• To know about the election of local body and will observe the forthcoming election.
Nandhini is in standard VI. It was her She was about to read the next heading,
custom to read the headlines in the but she had a doubt and asked her father.
newspaper loudly to her parents “Father, what is a corporation?”
Mr. Namburajan and Mrs. Manimegalai.
“The Government of Tamil Nadu will
They would clear her doubts. Sometimes,
declare certain municipalities based on
children from their neighbourhood would
population and high revenue. That’s how
also join her and each one will read an article
Nagercoil has to be declared as a corporation
loudly. As it was a Saturday, Johnson, Maran
too”, said her father Namburajan.
and Anwar were also in Nandhini’s house.
Nandhini started to read an article from the “Oh, if that is so, are there other
newspaper. corporations that exist already?”
“Nagercoil Municipality to become “Yes, there are twelve corporations in

corporation soon” Tamil Nadu”, said Namburajan.
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The List of corporations in Tamil Nadu “There are villages as well as cities in
1. Chennai 2. Madurai 3. Coimbatore Tamil Nadu, aren’t there?”
4. Tiruchirapalli 5. Salem 6. Tirunelveli “Yes, father”.
7. Erode 8. Thoothukudi 9. Tiruppur “Won’t the needs of villages and cities
10. Vellore 11. Dindigul 12. Thanjavur differ? Our constitution has provided certain
structures to fulfill the needs of the people.
CHENNAI
VELLORE Accordingly, the urban local bodies are
categorized into City Minicipal Corporations,
Municipalities and Town Panchayats, while
SALEM
ERODE the rural local bodies are categorised into

COIMBATORE TIRUPPUR TIRUCHIRAPALLI Village Panchayats, Panchayat Unions and
THANJAVUR
District Panchyats. These are together known
as local bodies.”
DINDIGUL
MADURAI
Bay of Bengal
“Oh, are there so many divisions?”
TIRUNELVELI “Yes, I’ll tell you about them. Didn’t I tell

I
UD
H UK you about the City Municipal Corporations?”
OT
T HO
NOT TO SCALE
“Yes, father”.
The Chennai “Those areas which have a population

of more than one lakh and a high amount of
Corporation which was
revenue and is found in the level below the
founded in 1688 is the
City Municipal Corporation is called a
oldest local body in India. Municipality.
• Walajahpet
Municipality (Vellore
District) is the first
Municipality in Tamil Nadu.
• Kanchipuram District has the

most number of municipalities.
“You mentioned something about

“Father, what about the place we live in” towns”.
enquired Maran. “A Town Panchayat has about 10,000
“We live in a Panchayat, Maran”. population. A Town Panchayat is between
a village and a city.
“What is a Panchayat?”
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There is something special about the also elected. A Block Development Officer
Town Panchayat. Can anyone tell me what is (BDO) is the administrative head, of a
it?”, asked Namburajan. Everyone was gazing Panchayat Union.
at him. But none answered.
The services are provided on the
“Well, I’ll tell the answer myself. Panchayat Union level.
Tamil Nadu was the first state to
Villupuram District
introduce a town Panchayat in the whole of
India”. has the highest number of
Panchayat Unions (22),
All were amazed on hearing it.
while The Nilgiris and Perambalur
A City Municipal Corporation has a
Commissioner, who is an Indian Districts have the lowest number (4).
Administrative Service (IAS) officer.

Government officials are deputed as District Panchayat
Commissioners for the municipalities. A District Panchayat is formed in every
The administrative officer of a Municipality
district. A district is divided into wards on the
is an Executive Officer (EO).
basis of 50,000 population. The ward
“You mentioned about Panchayats and members are elected by the Village
Panchayat Unions”. Panchayats. The members of the District
The Village Panchayats are the local Panchayat elect the District Panchayat
bodies of villages. They act as a link between Committee Chairperson. They provide
the people and the government. Villages are essential services and facilities to the rural
divided into wards based on their population. population and the planning and execution of
The representatives are elected by the people. development programmes for the district.
The Elected Representatives The local bodies are governed by the

1. Panchayat President representatives elected by the people. The
constituencies are called wards. People
2. Ward members
elect their ward members.
3. Councillor
The Mayor of the City Municipal
4. District Panchayat Corporation and the Municipal Chairperson
Ward Councillor are the elected representatives of the people.
Panchayat Union. The people elect them. The Corporation
Many village Panchayats join to form a Deputy Mayor and the Municipal Vice
Panchayat Union. A Councillor is elected Chairperson are elected by the ward
from each Panchayat, isn’t it? Those councillors councillors” finished Namburajan.
will elect a Panchayat Union Chairperson “What are the benefits of local bodies,
among themselves. A Vice Chairperson is uncle?”
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“There are many benefits. The services assign these works to their subordinate
provided can be divided as obligatory officers or other servants. Thus, they all work
functions and discretionary functions. These in various levels to get these public works
are provided by the local bodies. done”.
Functions of the village Panchayat “Will the Government provide funds for
Obligatory Functions these services, father?”
• Water supply “The Government directly allots funds
• Street lighting for these works. The local bodies also collect
• Cleaning roads revenue”.
• Drainage & sewage pipes system
Revenue of the Village Panchayat
• Laying down roads
• Activation of Central and State • House tax
Government schemes • Professional tax
Discretionary Functions • Tax on shops
• parks • Water charges
• Libraries • Specific fees for property tax
• Playgrounds, etc. • Specific fees for transfer of
immovable property
Functions of the City Municipal
• Funds from Central and State
Corporation
Governments, etc.
• Drinking water supply
Revenue of the City Municipal
• Street Lighting
Corporation
• Maintenance of Clean Environment
• Primary Health Facilities • House Tax
• Laying of Roads • Water Tax
• Building flyovers • Tax on shopping complexes
• Space for markets • Professional Tax
• Drainage System • Entertainment Tax
• Solid waste management • Vehicle Charges
• Corporation schools • Funds by Central and State
• Parks Government, etc.
• Play grounds
Activity
• Birth and Death registration, etc.
“So, who does all these works?” • Distinguish between rural and
urban revenue and functions.
“As per the decisions taken in the city
• Find out from your home: The taxes
Hall meetings, the commissioner or officers paid by your family.
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“How are the Grama Sabha meetings These are called Special Grama Sabha
held, uncle?” asked Maran. meetings.
“Grama Sabha meetings? In movies, I Activity

have seen elders sitting under trees and
The teacher guides the student to visit
discussing important matters and take the Grama Sabha meeting.
decisions,” said Johnson.
“Mahatma Gandhi advocated Panchayat
“No, no, both are different. A Grama Raj as the foundation of India’s political
Sabha is formed in every Village Panchayat. system, as a form of government, where
It is the only permanent unit in the Panchayat each village would be responsible for its own
Raj System. Grama Sabha meetings are held affairs. The Panchayat Raj Act was enacted
even in smaller villages. The Grama Sabha is on April 24, 1992”.
the grass root level democratic institution in a
Village Panchayat”. April 24 is National
Panchayat Raj Day.
Special features of Panchayat Raj

• Grama Sabha
• Three tier local body governance
• Reservations
• Panchayat Elections
• Tenure
• Finance Commission
Those who have attained the age of 18 • Account and Audit, etc
“Thank you very much, uncle. We really
years and whose names are found in the
learnt a lot about local bodies”, said the
electoral roll of the same Panchayat can take
children gratefully.
part in a Grama Sabha meeting. The Grama
Sabha meetings are conducted four times a “I’m very happy that I could share so
year. Officers like the District Collector, the much with you today. That’s enough of
Block Development Officer, teachers etc., also reading newspapers. Go out and play now”,
participate in this meeting. The people can said Namburajan.
freely express their needs and grievances”. The children ran out to play joyously.
When are these meetings convened?
Activity
January 26, May 1, August 15 and
The Central Government gives awards
October 2.
to the best performing Village
Apart from these days, the meetings can Panchayats. Find out if your village has
be convened as per need or during emergency. received such awards.
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Role of women in the Local Self

Think it over
Government
• Do you think the above numbers
All local bodies have a reservation of 33%
are stable? Find out about the recent
for women. In the 2011 Local Bodies election,
changes.
38% seats were won by women. As per the
• What is the number of votes cast by
Tamil Nadu Panchayats (Amendment) Act,
rural and urban voters in a local body
2016, 50% reservation for women is being
election?
fixed in Panchayat Raj institutions.
Activity HOTS
Why are there only 31 district panchayats, but
Find out about the ward members of
32 districts?
your area. Talk to the women members
and discuss about their participation
and experiences. Works carried out by local bodies
durings natural disasters and out
Local Body Election break of diseases.
The tenure for the representatives of local

self Government is 5 years. The election to the
Local Bodies is held once in five years by the
State Election Commission. Every state has a
State Election Commission. The Tamil Nadu
State Election Commission is situated in
Koyambedu, Chennai.
Tamil Nadu
Village Panchayats - 12,524
Panchayat Unions - 385
District Panchayats - 31
Town Panchayats - 561
Municipalities - 125
City Municipal Corporations - 12
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2. _________ is National Panchayat Raj Day.

a) January 24
b) July 24
Corporation - மாநகராட்சி
c) November 24
Municipality - நகராட்சி d) April 24
Town Panchayat - பேரூராட்சி 3.
The oldest urban local body in India is
Village Panchayat - கிராம ஊராட்சி __________.
Panchayat Union - ஊராட்சி ஒன்றியம் a) Delhi

b) Chennai
c) Kolkata
d) Mumbai
•
Local bodies are structures to fulfill the 4.
__________ District has the highest
needs of people. number of Panchayat Unions.
• Panchayat, Panchayat Union and District a) Vellore

Panchayat are rural local bodies. b) Thiruvallore
c) Villupuram
•
Town Panchayat, Municipality and
d) Kanchipuram
Corporation are urban local bodies.
• Grama Sabha is the only permanent unit 5.
The head of a corporation is called a
in a village Panchayat. __________.
• Panchayat Raj System strengthened the a) Mayor

local bodies. b) Commissioner
c) Chair Person
• The election of local bodies take place in
d) President
every five years.
1. __________ is the first state in India to

Exercises
introduce town Panchayat.
answer. 2. The Panchayat Raj Act was enacted in the
1.
________ is set up with several village year __________.
panchayats
3. The tenure of the local body representative
a) Panchayat Union is __________ years.
b) District Panchayat
c) Taluk 4.
__________ is the first municipality in
d) Revenue village Tamil Nadu.
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III. Match 7. List out a few means of revenue of village

Panchayats.
1. Grama Sabha - Executive Officer
8.
When are Grama Sabha meetings
2. Panchayat Union - State Election
convened? What are the special on those
Commission
days?
3. Town Panchayat - Block Development
9. What are the special features of Panchayat
Officer
Raj system?
4. Local body election - Permanent Unit
10. What is the importance of Grama Sabha?
IV. Answer the following.
V. HOTs
1. Is there any corporation in your district?
1. Local bodies play an important role in the
Name it.
development of villages and cities. How?
2. What is the need for local bodies?
VI. Activities
3.
What are the divisions of a rural local
1.
Prepare a questionaire to interview a
body?
local body representative.
4. What are the divisions of a Urban local
2. Discuss; If there is a contribution to the
body?
improvement of your school by local body
5. Who are the representatives elected in a representatives
Village Panchayat?
3.
If I were a local body representative,
6. List out a few functions of corporations. I would.....
4. Find out the number of local bodies in
your district and list them.
Name
Village Panchayat District Town
of the Municipality Corporation
Panchayat Union Panchayat Panchayat
District
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ICT CORNER
Civics - Local body
��
Through this activity you will know about
��
the local body structure of India.
��!
Steps:
Step 1: Use the URL or scan the QR code to open the activity page.
Step 2: Click the “panchayat Raj” to know about panchayat rules and acts.
Step 3: Click the “Scheme” to know about state and central schemes of
panchayat raj.
Step 4: Click the “map” option to know how many panchayat raj in tamilnadu.
Step 4
Browse in the link

Web: https://www.tnrd.gov.in/index.html (or) scan the QR Code
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Unit 3
ROAD SAFETY
Learning Objectives
• To understand about the importance of road safety.
• To know about the road rules and traffic signals.
• To learn about the road safety measures and strategies and ensure the
safety of lives.
‘Caution and care, make accident rare’
Traffic rules are the laws that govern how, Parents and teachers ensure the safety of
when and why you are allowed to drive any the children at home and school. But who
vehicle. The traffic safety course education keeps them safe on the road? Therefore
plays an important role in shaping the attitude
educating children about road safety is very
and behaviour of children and young people
important. Teaching about road safety to
ensuring to become responsible drivers,
children can be started as soon as they are old
passengers, pedestrians and cyclists.
Keeping the children safe at all times can enough to step out of the home.
be tricky when you cannot be with them always.
Three types of traffic signs – Mandatory, Cautionary and Informatory
I. Mandatory road signs are the ones that give order regarding do's and don’ts and are to
be followed strictly. These are generally circular in shape.
No entry One Way No right turn No left turn No U turn
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II Cautionary road signs are the ones that warn the road user regarding the road situation
ahead. Cautionary signs are generally in triangular shape.
Narrow Bridge Cross road School Left hand curve Men at work
III Informatory road signs are the ones that give information regarding directions, destination,
etc. Informatory signs are generally rectangular in shape.
Petrol Pump Hospital Eating Place Parking Railway station
Blue circles give a positive instructions, about what is to be done.
Red rings or circles give negative instructions. What should not be

done.
Know your signals • You may turn left while the signal is
What do the three colours red, red, if it is not prohibited by a sign.
amber and green signify? But give importance to pedestrians
and other traffic.
AMBER means CAUTION-You may move
on if the amber appears after you have
already crossed the stop line or when you
feel that your stopping may cause accident.
Anyhow be extra careful.
GREEN means GO – Proceed ahead ensuring
RED means STOP- Wait behind the stop line.
that the way is clear.
• If there are no lines, stop before the
• You can make a right or left turn if
traffic light at the intersection so
not prohibited by signs, but take
that traffic light is clearly visible.
special care and give way to
• Wait until a green signal appears pedestrians crossing the road.
before proceeding.
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• GREEN ARROW means that you can

go in the direction shown by the
arrow.
Cross roads and pedestrian
crossing
Children have a tendency just to sprint
across the street, as they like. Educate the
children to never run across or along the
road. Children can get distracted easily and
leave their parent’s hand to run or sprint
away.
Pedestrian
Children should cross only at pedestrian
crossing. Do's
• Walk on any side of the road if there
Pedestrian Crossing
are footpaths.
The pedestrian
crossing was instituted in • On roads without footpath walk on
Britain in 1934. The roads were marked your extreme rightside facing the
by dotted lines. On the pavement there oncoming traffic.
were striped Belisha beacon light poles • Use zebra crossing, foot over bridge &
named after Britain’s Minister of transport subways to cross the roads.
L. Horre-Belisha . The Zebra crossing
with black and white stripes was
developed after the Second World War.
Road signs, markings, traffic signals

and other traffic devices are there to guide
the road users and hence are the languages
of the road. Every road user, whether a
pedestrian, two-wheeler rider, driver of four-
wheeled vehicle should have knowledge
regarding these traffic controlling devices
• Where such facilities are not available
and should be aware of what they signify.
be extra cautious while crossing the
Traffic signs are there to regulate
road.
traffic, warn about hazards and to
• Children below 8 years of age should
guide the road user.
cross the road with the help of elders.
Always use pavements • Cross the road when the vehicles are
Children must use the pavements when at a safe distance.
walking on the road. • Wear light coloured dresses during
night.
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Don’ts Don’ts
• Don’t cross the road hastily by running.
• Don’t cross the road in front of or in
between parked vehicles.
• Don’t try to cross the road from blind
corners, turnings where you are not
visible to the vehicle drivers.
• Don’t jump over the railings to cross
road. • Don’t indulge in any kinds of stunts
• Don’t load the cycle with another
Staying safe on a bicycle person or heavy goods.
Most children use bicycle to go to • Don’t ride holding onto other fast
schools. So they should be aware of the moving vehicle.
road rules and road safety. Moreover they While commuting in School
should maintain their bicycles in good
transportation
condition.
Dos
• Get up early and start early from home.
• Board the bus from the designated
bus stop in a queue.
• Once inside the bus, behave properly.
• Hold on to the railings of the bus.
• Alight only at the designated bus stop.
• Get down only when the bus has
stopped completely.
Do's • If the driver is not following the road
• Cycle must be fitted with standard safety norms, bring it to the notice of
gadgets – bell, brakes, rearview mirror, school authorities/parents or traffic
both front and back mudguard painted helpline.
white, reflective tapes affixed at the Don’ts
front and back.
• Cycle on the extreme left side of the
road or use service road, if available
• Avoid busy roads.
• Keep a safe distance from fast
motorized vehicles.
• Give proper indications before stopping
or turning.
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• Do not rush or run to catch your bus. Exercise

• Do not stand on the steps of the bus. I Answer the
• Do not make noise that may distract
the driver. following
• Do not put any part of the body outside 1. Prepare slogans for
the bus. road safety
• Do not get in or get down from a 2. Identify the following signs.
moving bus.
As pillion rider/co-passengers
a. b.
c. d.
• Always wear helmet/seatbelt.
• Do not indulge in talking with the
driver.
• Children above 12 years of age should 3. Discuss about the statistics of 2017
occupy the back seat. accidents data.
4. Debate: Is wearing helmet necessary?
Play at safe places
5. Draw posters related to road safety.
• Do not play on roads.
• Look for a playground or vacant land
to play
• Do not play around a vehicle parked
inside your school premises/colony or
near your residence.
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Unit -I
Equality
Learning Objectives
To understand the meaning of Equality

To know the importance of Equality
To learn the different types of Equality
To know the various Articles of our constitution that have guranteed Equality
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Introduction: Kinds of Equality
Nature has made man inequal in colour, Social equality
height, talent, physical strength etc., and the
natural inequalities can never be rectified.
Even the twins looking like the similar are not
equal in their abilities. Man made inequalities
on the basis of caste, money religion etc can
be rectified. It is universally accepted that
people are differed in their capacity, ability,
attitude etc but at the same time, it is also
Social equality means that all citizen are entitled
accepted that they should be given equal
to enjoy equal status in society. There should
opportunities for the development of their
not be any discrimination of caste, creed, colour
skills and talents.
and race. All should have equal opportunity to
What is Equality? develop their personality and to complete goals.
Equality is ensuring individuals or groups Civil Equality
that are not treated differently or less
Civil equality is enjoyment of civil rights by all
favourably on the basic of specific protected
citizen. There should not be any discrimination
characteristic, including areas of race, gender,
of superior or inferior, the rich or the poor,
disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation
caste or creed. Equal rights should be available
and age.
to all the persons and nobody should be denied
According to Prof Laski “Equality does not enjoyment of any rights. Rule of law is in force
mean identity of treatment, the sameness in England and in the eyes of law all are equal
of reward. It means first of all absence of and equal treatment is given to all by the rule of
social privilege, on the second it means that law. In India the same rule of law is followed.
adequate opportunities are laid upon to all”.
Importance of Equality Rule of law was advocated by

A.V.Dicey, the British legal luminary.
Equality is a powerful moral and political
ideal that has inspired and guided human
society for many centuries. The concept of Political Equality
equality invokes the idea that all human
All the democratic countries including India
beings have equal worth regardless of their
have guaranteed the political rights to all
caste, colour, gender, race or nationality. The
citizens. It includes
democratic ideals such as liberty, equality etc
are meaningful and effective only when they Right to vote
are implemented with justice.
Right to hold public Office
Right to criticise the government
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not mean that women and men have to become
the same, but that their rights, responsibilities
and opportunities will not depend on whether
they are born male or female.Gender Equality is
the equal right of both men and women to have
access to opportunities and resources. They
have right to participate in the economic sphere
and make important decisions. Women with
their talent and hard work have proved that
their ability is not less than men in any aspect.
Nowadays, women are successfully working in
many fields like Border security force, Indian
Air Force, etc. For the uplift of women 50%
Citizens should have equal opportunity reservation has been given for women in local
to actively participate in the political life. These bodies.
rights can be enjoyed through the Universal
UNICEF says Gender Equality “means
Adult Franchise. In India the voting right is
that women and men, and girls and boys, enjoy
given to all the citizens who has attained 18years
the same rights, resources, opportunities and
of age without any discriminations. India is the
prolictions. It does not require that girls and
first country to give right to vote to women from
boys, or women and men, be same, or that they
the very first general election held in the year
be treated exactly alike.”
1952. In Switzerland the right to vote is given to
women in 1971. Any person who has completed As of 2017, gender equality is the fifth of
the age of 25 years can contest in the election. seventeen sustainable development goals of the
Right to criticise the government is also very United Nations.
important right and the people can express their
resentment through demonstrations. The value Efforts were made by many social
of the vote of the Prime Minister and value of activists from the 19th century onwards.
vote of common man in general election is same The noted champions of this cause were
which denotes political equality. Raja Rammohan Roy, Ishwar chandra
Vidyasagar Dayanand Saraswati,
Gender Equality
Mahadev Govind Ranade, Tarabai
All human beings, both men and women, are Shinde, Begum Rokeya Sakhawat
free to develop their personal abilities and Hussain. They worked hard to get equal
make choices without any limitations. woman status to the women.
were not given equal rights and they were
considered as weak as compared to man and Human dignity
they were placed in a secondary position to
Dignity means self – respect. Human dignity is
men. They should be treated equally. It does
the most important human right from which all
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other fondamental rights derive. Dignity is the We can promote equality by
quality of being honourable, noble and excellent.
Treating all fairly
Every human being should be regarded as a very
valuable member of the community. Creating an inclusive culture
Ensuring equal access to opportunities
Equality of Opportunity and Education
Enabling to develop full potential
All the individuals should have similar chances
Making laws and policies
to receive education. They should have similar
opportunities to develop their personality.We Education.
need equality to get equal treatment in society. If Conclusion
we treat equality we can earn respet and dignity.
India is a the largest democratic country in the
Equality in Indian constitution world. Equality and justice are the pillars of
democracy. Justice can be achieved when people
Almost the constitution all the countries in
are treated equality. Equality is so important
the world have guaranteed equality. Likewise,
because it preserves the dignity of an individual.
the constitution of India has also guaranteed
Equality is an important principle for a society
equality to all citizens by providing Articles
to function.
form 14-18.
Summary
Article 14 – guarantees to all the people
equality before law. Liberty and Equality are the two fundamental
concepts of democracy.
Article 15 – deals with the prohibition
All people should be equal before law and
of discrimination.
everybody should be given equal chance
Article 16 – provides equality of and opportunity to participate in political
opportunity in matters relating to life.
employment. Civil equality implies equality of all before
Article 17 – abolishes the practice of law.
untouchability . Gender equality means both the men and
women should be treated equally.
Article 18 - abolishes the titles conferred
to citizen. The various laws programmes of the
government aim at gender equality.
Equality before law and equal protection of law

have been further strengthened in the Indian
constitution under Article 21.
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Glossary
1. Equality absence of any privilege to anybody சமத்துவம்
2. Rule of law rule based on law சட்டத்தின் ஆட்சி
3. Monarchy government by a single person முடியாட்சி
4. Privileges special concessions சலுகைகள்
5. Discrimination difference பாகுபாடு
4. Inequality created by man on the basis of

Evaluation
caste, money, religion etc is called as____
a. Natural inequality
b. Manmade inequality
c. Economic inequality
I. Choose the correct answer d. Gender inequality
1. Which one of the following does not come 5. In Switzerland, the right to vote is given to
under Equality? women in the year
a. Non discrimination on the basis of a. 1981 b. 1971
birth, caste, religion, race, colour, gender. c. 1991 d. 1961
b. Right to contest in the election.
c. All are treated equal in the eyes of law. II. Fill in the blanks
d. Showing inequality between rich and 1. Civil equality implies equality of all before
poor. _________.
2. Which one of the following is comes under 2. The Indian constitution deals about the
political Equality? Right to equality from Article _______ to
a. Right to petition the government and _______.
criticize public policy. 3. Right to contest in the election is a _______
b. Removal of inequality based on race, Right.
colour, sex and caste.
c. All are equal before the law. 4. Equality means, absent of ________
d. Prevention of concentration of wealth in privileges.
the hands of law. III. Give short answer
3. In India, right to vote is given to all the 1. What is Equality?
citizens at the age of ____________
2. Why is gender Equality needed?
a. 21 b. 18 c. 25 d. 31
3. What is civil Equality?
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IV.Answer in detail
1 Write about the importance of Equality.
2. What is political Equality?
3. How does the Constitution of India protect the Right to Equality?
HOTs
How can we eliminate inequality at school level?
I.Life Skills
Write the correct answer.
Enumeration of Different types of equality Type of equality

1. There should not be any discrimination
among the citizens on the basis of status,
caste, colour, creed and rank, etc.
2. Equality of all before the law.
3. Right to vote, right to hold public
office and right to criticize the
government.
4. My ability is not less than men in any
aspect.
Reference books
1. Eddy Asirvatham, Misra, K.K, Political Theory, S.Chand & Company, New Delhi, 2004.
2. Agarwal, R.C, Political Theory, S.Chand & Company, New Delhi, 2009.
3. Kapur, A.C. Principles of Political Science, S.Chand & Company, New Delhi, 2000.
4. Johari, J.C, Contemporary Political Theory, Sterling Publishers, New Delhi, 2000.
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Unit -II
Political Parties
Learning Objectives
To define what political party is and to understand the importance of

the political party
To know the role and function of a political party
To understand the party system in India and the role of opposition
party
Student Siva : Good morning Mam. May I come in?

Teacher Ms.Aadhi: Good morning Siva. Always you will be on time. Why are you so late today?
Siva: Sorry mam. I was delayed due to a procession.
Ms. Aadhi: What is it about? Who arranged this procession?
Siva : My uncle said “That is the work of the political party”.
Ms. Aadhi: Oh. I see!
Siva : What is political party mam? Why are they doing so?
Ms. Aadhi: Wait. Today I am going to teach about political parties. Let us know all
about that.
In earlier times, emperors and kings ruled India. The king was the supreme head of the Legislative,
Executive and Judiciary branches. Governance was in the hands of one person. The welfare of the
people depended on the ruler. People had no rights to do against the ruler. Later foreign powers made
India as their colonies. The colonies became states after Independence was declared.
In 1950 India became a democratic country. A vibrant democracy needs a strong political party
system. Party System is a modern phenomenon. In a democracy people are able to voice their opinions
on any subject.
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What are Political Parties? A party is recognized if
it has been engaged in political activity for
Political parties are the voluntary associations of
five years.
individuals with broad ideological identity who
agree on some policies, formulate an agenda its candidates secure at least six percent of
and programme for the society. Political parties total votes in the last general election.
seek to implement their policies by winning Characteristics of Political Parties
people’s support through election. Parties vary
in size and in the ways they organize themselves Political parties
as well as in their policies. consist a group of persons of common goals
Any political party has three basic components and shared values.
the leader have its own ideology and programme.
the active members capture power only by constitutional means.
the followers endeavour to promote the national interest

and national welfare.
Importance of political parties
Party ‘manifesto’
Political parties are the backbone of democracy.
Parties are not part of the formal arrangement During the campaign
of a government but they are essential elements before election, the
to form the government. They formulate public candidates announce the
opinion. They serve as intermediaries between programmes and policies that their
the citizen and the policy makers. party will undertake if voted to power.
Provide
loyal opposition ,
accountability
& stability
Nominate
Select and nominate
individuals to elected
office Organize
Organize political campaign,
rallies and announcement
of Manifesto to win
Functions public office
of the
Political Parties Inspire
Put forward different
policies and programmes
for the welfare of the people
Co -ordinate
Connect the society and the
state. co-ordinate among
members elected to office
Govern
Form and run the
government and
develop public policy
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Types of Party System Party system in India
There are three major types of party system. Countries that follow a federal system have two
Single Party System: a system in which a kinds of parties. India’s party system originated
single political party has the right to form in the late 19th century. In fact India has the
the government. Single party is existed in the largest number of political parties in the world.
communist countries such as China. North In India we find the existence of political
Korea and Cuba. parties at three levels. They are National
Bi – Party System: In Bi –Party system the parties, Regional parties, and Registered but
power is usually shared between two parties. Of unrecognised parties (independent candidates).
the two parties one becomes the ruling party Every party in the country has to register with
and the other becomes opposition. eg Bi-Party Election Commission.
system can be seen in U.K. (the Labour Party
Election Commission –
and the Conservative Party) and in U.S.A (the
Statutory body
Republican Party and the Democratic Party)
T h e
Multi – Party System
Election
When the competition for power is among Commission of India
three or more parties, the system is known as is an autonomous,
multi party system. This type of party system constitutional
is in existence in India, France, Sweden and authority responsible for administering
Norway etc. elections. Its head quarter is located in
New Delhi.
TO FORM A POLITICAL PA
HOW RTY?
Must have atleast Must write a

Must get registered
100 members. Each member Party Constitution
with
needs to hold a
Election Commission
voting card.
of India
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Criteria for Recognition
The Election Commission of India has some criteria for the recognition of political parties in India.
Regional / State Independent

National Parties Parties candidate
A candidate who
A party that secures A party that secures wishes to contest in
atleast 6% of the valid atleast 6%of the either of the
votes in Lok sabha valid votes in the
election or assembly state legislative Parliamentary, State
elections in four states. assembly election. Assembly but does
they must win one
not have an
They must win 4 seats
in Lok sabha from any Lok Sabha seat for affliation with the
every 25 seats or
State/States.
atleast 2 seats in
other parties, may
Legislative assembly. contest the election
It has to win 2% of needs to win a as an Independent
seats in Lok sabha
from atleast 3
minimum of 3% of candidate.
the total number of
different states in the seats in Legislative
latest general election. Assembly.

Recognized parties Majority Party
Parties that fulfill these criteria are called
The Political Party whose number of candidates
recognized parties. They are given a unique
elected is more than the others is called the
symbol by the Election Commission.
majority party. The Majority Party forms and
A registered but unrecognized political runs the government. They select and appoint
party cannot contest election on its own symbol. their ministers to run the government. They play
This party has to choose one symbol form free a decisive role in making laws for the country.
symbol 'poll panel' announced by the Election
Commission.
Free symbols ‘Poll panel’

As per the Election Symbols order 1968,
symbols are either reserved or free.
• A reserved symbol is meant for a
recognized political party.
100
• A free symbol is reserved for Minority Party
unrecognized party.
Those with lesser number of elected candidates
are called the minority party.
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Opposition Party In a Multiparty system a single party sometimes
may not secure the majority required to form
The party which gets second largest number
the government. In such a case, some parties
of seats next to the majority party in the
join together to form the government. Such
election is called the Opposition party. An
government is called Coalition Government.
effective opposition is very essential for the
successful operation of the democracy. They Electoral Symbols and its importance
are as important as that of ruling party. They
An electoral symbol is a standardised symbol
check the autocratic tendencies of the ruling
allocated to a political party. They play an
party. They critically examine the policies and
important role in elections. They can be
bills introduced by the government. They raise
easily identified, understood, remembered
their voice on the failures and wrong policies.
and recognized by the voters. The Election
They highlight important issues which are not
commission has stopped allotting animals
acted upon the Government. The leader of the
as symbols. The only exceptions are the lion
opposition party enjoys the rank of Cabinet
and the elephant. The symbol of nationally
Minister.
recognized parties is standard throughout
Coalition Government India. That symbol will not be allotted to any
other party or individual.
State parties are allotted to certain symbols
that no other party can use the symbol in that
particular state but which different parties in
different states can use the same symbol. (e.g
Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and Jharkhand Mukti
Morsha in Jharkhand use bow and arrow as
their symbol).
National Party Regional /State Party

National parties are political parties which Regional parties are political parties
participate in different elections all over India. which participate in different elections
but only within one state.
It should be strong enough in at least four states. It should be strong enough in at least
one or two states.
It has an exclusive symbol throughout the A symbol is reserved for it in the state
country. in which it is recognized. But the same
symbol can be allotted to different
parties in different states.
It resolves State, National and International It promotes regional and state interest.
issues.
Both National and Regional parties trigger the growth of the nation and work for the welfare of the
people.
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Summary
Modern age is an age of mass society and of large population and party system is a modern
phenomenon.
A group of people with broad common interest who organize to win elections, control government
and thereby influence government policies.
There are three major types of party system (i.e.) single party system, Bi - party system, and Multi
- party system.
In India we have Multi – party system.
Individual citizen who are not members of a party may also be elected. They are known as
Independents.
Election Commission is responsible for free and fair elections in India.
Glossary
1. Democracy Government by the people ஜனநாயகம்
2. Election manifesto a public declaration of policies and தேர்தல் அறிக்கை
aims by political parties
3. Opposition party a party opposing to the other parties எதிர்க்கட்சி
4. Federal system system of government in which several கூட்டாட்சி அமைப்பு
states form a unity but remain inde-
pendent in internal affairs
5. Election commis- a body for implementation of election தேர்தல் ஆணையம்
sion procedures
6. Electoral symbols symbols allocated to a political party தேர்தல் சின்னங்கள்
7. Cabinet Minister member of a parliament or legislative அமைச்சர்
assembly cabinet
2. Which system of government does India

Evaluation
have?
a) Single–party system
b) B1-party system
c) Multi-party system
I. Choose the correct answer: d) None of these
1. What is meant by B1-party system? 3. Recognition of a political party is accorded
a. Two parties run the government. by ___________.
b. Two members run a party.
a) The Election commission
c. Two major political parties contest
b) The president
election.
d. None of these.
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c) The supreme court IV Consider the following statements:
d) A committee Tick ( ) the appropriate answer
4. Political parties are generally formed on 1. Which of the following statement is/are
the basic of ____________. correct?
a) Religious principles a) Every party in the country has to register
b) Common interest with the election commission.
c) Economic principles b) The commission treats all the parties
d) Caste equally.
c) Election commission allots a separate
5. Single-party system is found in ________.
symbol for recognized parties.
a) India
d) All the above.
b) U.S.A
2. Assertion: Majority party plays a decisive
c) France
role in making laws for the country.
d) China
Reason: The number of candidates elected
II Fill in the blanks: is more than the others in the election.
1. ________form the back bone of democracy. a. R is the correct explanation of A.
2. Every party in our country has to register b. R is not the correct explanation of A.
with __________________. c. R is wrong A is correct.
3. Political parties serve as intermediaries d. A and R are wrong.
between the -----------------and-----------
V Answer in one or two sentences:
4. A registered but ------------------ political
party cannot contest election on its own 1. What are the basic components of a
symbol. political party?
5. The leader of the opposition party enjoys 2. Name the three major types of party
the rank of _______________. system.
3. Name the countries which follow Bi – party
III Match the following:
system.
A B 4. Write a note on Coalition Government.
1. Democracy criticize the
VI Answer the following :
government policies
2.Election forms the government 1. Write any four functions of political party?
commission 2. When is a political party recognized as a
3. Majority party rule of the people National Party?
4.Opposition free and fair election
party
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Unit -I
State Government
Learning Objectives
Recognise the difference between Parliament and State Legislature

Understand the election procedures
Know the powers and functions of Governor and Chief Minister
Wonder how the Government works
Identify the three main organs of the government – the legislative,
executive, and judiciary
Teacher: Good Morning my dear students.

Students: Good morning teacher / sir.
Teacher: (after taking attendance) All are present today. Very good. Coming Monday we have a
function in our school. All Should be present on that day without fail.
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Yogitha: Do we have any cultural programme?
Teacher: Yes. We are going to open the new building of our school.
Students: Yeah! We are going to a new class room!
Muthu: Who will be the Chief guest?
Teacher: We have invited our MLA as the chief guest for the opening ceremony.
Rahim: MLA. I have heard. But I don’t know who is he?
Teacher: MLAs are representatives of the people. He is one among us. He is the Member of
Legislative Assembly.
Saran: What is Legislative Assembly? Will
you explain in detail?
Teacher: Sure. (showing pictures of fort St.
George, Assembly session, Chief
Minister and other ministers)
Meena: What is that building? Where is it? It
looks like a fort.
Teacher: Yes. You are correct. It is a fort in

Chennai. First English fortress in
India. The fort currently houses the
Tamil Nadu legislative assembly and
Secretariat of Tamilnadu.
Legislative Assembly has the lower house where all the MLAs meet to discuss various
matters related to the welfare of the state.
Kayal: Who will be there in that Legislative Assembly?
Teacher: Listen! India has separate system of administration for the Union, States and Union
territories. Do you know how many states and union territories are there in India?
Ravi: Shall I tell? 29 states and 7 union territories including our capital territory Delhi?
Am I right teacher?
Teacher: Exactly. As I said already power is divided between two sets of governments one at the
central in Delhi and separate governments for all the states. This is called as federal
system.
India is a Parliamentary democratic

republic where the President of India
is the Head of Indian Union and the
Prime Minister and all the Ministers
are responsible for smooth running
of the government. This is called
central government.
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Nila: Do we have a separate government for states?
Teacher: Yes. All the states and union territories have separate governments to run its own
administration. Governor, Chief Minister and all the ministers constitute the
Government. The member of the Parliament is called MP whereas the member of the
Legislative Assembly is called MLA. Both the Central and State Governments work
according to our constitution.
John: Oh! Is MLA going to inaugurate the function? Who appoints him?
Teacher: No my child. MLAs are not appointed. They are elected by the people through general
election. In the previous lesson we have studied about the political parties. Do you
remember? These political parties play a vital
role in election. For election, the entire state is
divided into several constituencies on the basis of
the population. Political parties nominate their
candidates to each constituency. All the people
residing in that constituency who has completed
18 years of age cast their vote. The candidate
who gets the more number of votes is declared
as elected and becomes MLA. The Election
Commission of India conducts and monitors
the elections. After the election the party which
gets the more number of MLAs is declared as the
majority party. The Governor calls the leader of
the majority party to form the state government.
In simple words a party whose MLAs has won
more than half the number of constituencies in Electronic Voting Machine
the state are called ruling party and forms the government. And the party which gets
the total number of seats next to the majority party, acts as an opposition party in the
legislature. But all the MLAs of other political parties who do not belong to the ruling
party are called opposition party.
Shanmi: It’s very interesting to hear. Who are all included in the State Government?
Teacher: The Governor, the Chief Minister, Council of Ministers. The Governor is appointed
by the president of India for the term of five years. The leader of the majority party is
appointed as the Chief Minister by the Governor. The Chief minister in consultation
with the Governor, constitutes a cabinet which includes members of
his party as ministers. The term of the office is five years.
Laya: Teacher! Shall I become the Governor? Or Chief Minister?
Teacher: Why not? My child! That is very simple. To become a Governor, you
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should be the citizen of India and
should have completed 35 years of
age and should have sound mind.
And should not hold any public
office of profit.
To become a Chief Minister, you

should have completed 25 years of age and should be an MLA or in case of an MLC
should have completed 30 years of age.
Arya: Who is an MLC? I never heard.
Teacher: Usually a state Legislature has two houses. Upper House and Lower House. This is
called Bi-cameral Legislature. Upper House is called Legislative Council. The members
are called MLCs and they are not elected directly by the people. The Lower House is
called Legislative Assembly. The members are called MLAs. As I said earlier they are
directly elected by the people.
In India some of the states have two houses in their state legislature. But in Tamil Nadu
we have Lower House only. This is called unicameral Legislature.
Ammar: Oh! Now can you please tell me the powers and functions of Governor and Chief
Minister?
Teacher: Sure. The Governor is an integral part of the State Legislature. Governor is the head of
the state executive and he has enormous powers. All the administration is carried on in
his name. He is the chancellor of Government universities in the state. All bills become
law only after his assent. He appoints important officials of the state government such
as advocate General, Chairman and members of State Public Service Commission,
State Election Commissioner, Vice chancellors of state universities etc.
The Chief Minister is the real executive head of the state administration. He allocates the
portfolios among the ministers. The Council of Ministers are collectively responsible
to the State Legislature. All the ministers work as a team under the Chief Minister. The
Chief Minister formulates programmes and policies for the welfare of the people of the
state. The council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Legislative Assembly of
the state.
The three main organs of government are the legislative, executive and judiciary. The
legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch enforces the laws, and the judiciary
interprets the laws.
Nandhu: Judiciary. Are you saying about the courts teacher?
Teacher: Yes. The High courts are the highest judicial organ at the State level. It is an independent
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body. As per the constitution there
shall be a High Court in each state.
The state high court consists of a
Chief Justice and other judges. The
number of Judges in the high court
is not uniform and fixed. President
appoints the Chief Justice and can
hold the office until he completes
the age of 62 years. Apart from High court there are district courts and tribunals.
They ensure justice to the people without any bias. Apart from this, Family Courts are
established to settle the disputes relating to marriages and family affairs.
Lok Adalat (people’s court) also have been established by the Government of India to
settle dispute through conciliation and compromise.
Children: This topic is very interesting to hear. Thank you very much teacher.
Teacher: Thank you children. A cultural programme is being allotted to our class for the
inaugural function. So let us think. We have to practice and perform well.
Summary
India is divided into 29 states and 7 Union territories. Each state has a legislative assembly.
State executive comprises the Governor and the Chief Minister with his Council of Ministers.
The head of the state is the Governor. And he is appointed by the President for a period of five
years. He is an integral part of the State Legislature.
The real executive power in a state in India vests with the Chief Minister. The leader of the majority
party is appointed as Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers are collectively responsible to the State Legislature.
The High courts are the highest judicial organ at the state level. State High courts have jurisdiction
over the whole state.
Glossary
1. Legislative law making body சட்டமன்றம்
2. Cabinet the committee of senior ministers மந்திரிசபை
3. Executive administrative நிர்வாகம் சார்ந்த
4. Judiciary a system of courts of law நீதித்துறை
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II Fill in the blanks
Evaluation
1. The Governor is appointed by the
_____________.
2. The leader of the majority party is appointed
I Choose the correct answer as __________in the state assembly.
3. ____________is the highest judicial organ
1.What is the minimum age for becoming a of the state.
member of the State Legislative Council? 4. MLA stands for ______________.
a.18 years b. 21 years 5. _____________ is a particular area form
c. 25 years d.30 years where all the voters living there choose
their representatives.
2. How many states does India have?
6. The elected representatives who are
a. 26 b.27 c.28 d.29
not the member of ruling party are
3. The word State government refers to called_________.
a. Government departments in the states
III. Match the following
b. Legislative Assembly
c. both a and b MLAs - Secretariat
d. none of the above Governor - 7
Chief Minister - Head of the state
4. The overall head of the government in the
Union territories - Legislative Assembly
state is the___________. Fort St. George - leader of the Majority
a. President b. Prime Minister party
c. Governor d. Chief Minister
IV. C onsider the following statements:
5. Who appoints the Chief Minister and other
Tick the appropriate answer
Ministers?
1. Which of the following statement is/are
a. President b. Prime Minister not correct?
c. Governor d. Election Commissioner To become a governor, one
6. who becomes the Chief Minister? a. should be the citizen of India
b. should have completed 25 years of age
a. Leader of the Majority party
b. Leader of the opposition party c. should have sound mind
c. Both d. should not hold any office of profit.
d. None i. a&b ii. c&d iii. a iv. b
7. what are the three branches of the state 2. Consider the following statements and
government? state true or false.
a. Mayor governor, MLA a. MLAs are together responsible for the

b. Panchayat, municipality, corporation working of the government.
c. Village, City, State
d. Legislative, executive and judiciary
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b. All the MLAs of other political party VII. HOTs
who do not belong to the ruling party 1. Name some departments of the
are called opposition. government.
c.
MLAs are not the representatives of 2. Tabulate: qualification, appointment and
people. any two powers of governor, Chief Minister
3. Find out the correct meaning of bicameral and MLAs.
legislature.
VIII. Activity
a. It means that there are cameras in the
1. Make a list of the name of the Governor,
legislature.
Chief Minister and other Ministers with
b. It means that the legislature has men and
their departments.
women members.
c. It means that there are two houses like 2. Write an essay on ‘If you were the Chief
upper house and lower house. Minister of the state’.
d.It means that the governor is the leader 3. Make a student Legislative body in your
over the members of the legislature. class. (allocate the departments and do
4. Assertion: India has a federal system of periodical review).
government.
Reason: According to our constitution the
power is divided between central and state
governments.
a. A is correct and R explains A
b. A is correct and R does not explain A
c. A is correct and R is wrong
d. Both are wrong
V. Answer in one or two sentences

1. What are the qualifications to become the
Governor of a state?
2. Who are called oppositions?
3. Write a note on Lok Adalat.
4. What is a constituency?
5. Who appoints the chief minister and other
ministers?
VI. Answer the following in detail

1. Describe the powers of the Governor.
2. Who is an MLA?
3. What is the role of Chief Minister and other
Council of Ministers at the state level?
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ICT CORNER
State Government
Let’s know about our state

government departments
PROCEDURE :
Step 1: Type the following URL http://www.tn.gov.in or scan the QR code given below to
view the home page of the Government of Tamilnadu website.
Step 2: Click ‘Departments’ which is listed below the title ‘Government’.
Step 3: You can see the list and link of various departments of our Government.
Step 4: Click on a particular department to know about its Minister’s name with image,
Secretary to.
Government, their contact numbers, department profile..etc…
Step 4
State Government URL:
http://www.tn.gov.in or scan the QR
*Pictures are indicative only
*If browser requires, allow Flash Player or Java Script to load the page.
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Unit -II
Media and Democracy
Learning Objectives
Understand media and its classification

Analyse the role of media in facilitating interaction between the
government and citizen
Know the ethic and responsibility of media
Gain a critical sense of the impact of media on people’s lives and
choices.
"Let noble thoughts come to us from every side"
Introduction: public informer, educate and custodian of

public interest. Let us discuss about Media
Traditionally, India has many folk form
and its role.
of communicating with people in rural
areas. Harikatha, and koothu are originally What is Media?
a religious media from in which the stories
Every individual person is a medium
were propagated. It is a collective form
of expression. An individual interacts
of music, dance, speech, storytelling with
through the media to reach other individual
comic interludes. It has tremendous effect
and institutions. Media is generally the
in communicating the messages straight
agency for inter-personal communication.
into the hearts of the people. Then socially
Media includes every broadcasting and
relevant messages were passed through this
narrowcasting medium. Media is the plural of
medium. Modern methods to address small
the word medium. Such a medium or media
and medium gatherings include seminars,
allows to communicate messages, thoughts,
dramas, public meetings and workshops etc.
ideas, views, etc.
Print media has been referred to as Peoples
University because they perform the role of
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Classification of Media
Narrowcast Media Cable Television, Direct mail, Seminar
Broadcast Media Films, Television, Radio
Print Media Newspapers, Magazine, Journals, Books, Posters, Reports
Web Media Google website and Blogs
Social Media Twitter, Facebook, whatsApp and Instagram
This communication can be classified working of all the above three systems. This
into:- fourth pillar of democracy ensures that all
people living in far off areas of country are
Personal communication – these are
aware of what’s happening in rest of the
meant for personal use, like letters, telephone,
country. In fact, mass media is the most
cell phone, E-mail and fax.
important vehicle for information, knowledge
Mass communication –these are and communication in a democratic polity.
used for communicating with the masses.
Importance of the Media
Newspapers, Radio, TV, Collectively they are
termed as media. Media is very powerful
entity on the earth. It is
Printing press was invented by a mirror which shows
Johannes Gutenberg in 1453 various social, political
and economic activities
Fourth Pillar of Democracy around us. People depend
on the media for various needs including
entertainment and information. Media keeps
the people awakened and it has become one of
the major instruments of social change. Media
not only bring out the day to day happenings
in the world, but also exposes the strength and
weakness of the government. It also advertises
the various products produced by the private
companies. It creates the awareness. All
the TV channels broadcasts national and
international news. Social problems are
portrayed in many cinemas. Media provide
a balanced report on any matters. It fights
The four pillars of democracy are against the socio-political evils and injustice
Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, and Media. in our society while bringing empowerment
Media ensures the transparency in the to the masses and facilitating development.
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code of conduct which should be reflected in
All India Radio (AIR) their reporting and writing. Sensational and
Officially known as Akashvani since distorted news should be avoided.
1956 (voice from the sky) is the radio
broadcaster of the Government of
India launched in 1936.
Media and public opinion

The media plays a prominent role in
the formation of public opinion (general
opinion of the public on particular issue). It
is the powerful tool in contemporary times. It The fundamental objectives of media
has become a part of the everyday life of the are to serve the people with news, views,
people. They play a significant role in shaping comments and information on matters of
a person’s understanding and perception public interest in a fair, accurate, unbiased and
about the events occurred in our daily lives. decent manner and language. An awakened
The mass media play a significant role in and free media is very much essential for the
providing honest, intelligent and usually function of the government.
unbiased accounts of events. The newspaper
reflects the response of the people to the It has right to collect information from
government policies. Thus print media and any primary authentic sources which are
electronic media helps the people to express important to the society and then report
their opinion on important social issues. the same with the aim to inform not to
create sensation. The media has a massive
responsibility in providing factual coverage.
Role of Media in Democracy

Media is the back bone of democracy.
In our democratic society mass media is
the driving force of public opinion. Media
strengthens the democratic value. It enlightens
and empowers the people. It can educate
Ethic and Responsibility the voters and ensures that government is
transparent and accountable. Media carry
Ethics is a code of values which govern every report of action of administration of
our lives. So they are very essential for moral the government. Based on the information,
and healthy life. In the context of media the citizen can learn about the functioning of
ethics may be described as a set of moral the government and day to day happenings
principles. The media is expected to follow a taking place around them.
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Conclusion
Theory of Democracy
Democracy means rule by the people. The media, in the contemporary world
It combines two Greek words. Demos of information and technology plays a very
refers to citizen. Kratos means either significant role in educating masses. The
power or rule. media should always keep in mind, that it
should not publish anything which corrupts
the public mind and disturbs social peace.
It arranges the debate on current affairs
For healthy society sharing of views, free
so that we can get the different views for the
flow of information, free communication
same issue. Media reminds the government
and expression plays a crucial role. Media,
of its unfulfilled promises to the public. It
being powerful and important instruments
educates masses in rural areas. Parliamentary
of expression have got lot to contribute. Mass
democracy can flourish only under the
media have made the world smaller and
watchful eyes of media. Media not only
closer.
reports but acts as a bridge between the state
and public. Thus the media acts as a watch day Summary
of the democratic government. A democracy
A medium is a means or way of
without media is like vehicle without wheel.
communication; media is the plural of
Local Media medium.
Modern media such as TV, radio, newspaper,

and the internet reach millions of people all
over the world. So the common term used
for them is mass media.
Changing technology helps media to reach

more people.
Media has brought the world closer to us. It

brings the news and happenings from across
the world to the public in a fair and realistic
way.
In a democracy, the media plays a very

Usualy the media reports the news which
important role in providing news.
of national and global importance where as
local media addresses public locality. It is working out to be an effective tool to
create public opinion on issues by improving
Name some local media of your awareness among the masses.
locality.
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Glossary
1. Broadcast transmit by radio or television ஒளிபரப்பு
2. Polity system of government ஆட்சி அமைப்பு
3. Contemporary present –day சமகாலத்தில்
4. Ethics moral principles நெறிமுறைகள்
5. Unbiased impartial நடுநிலையான
6. Authentic genuine/original உண்மையான

Evaluation
1. ___________ have made the world smaller
and closer.
2. Every individual person is a medium of
I. Choose the correct answer __________.
3. Printing press was invented by
1.
Which one of the following comes under
______________.
print media?
4. ____________ is a code of values which
a. Radio b. Television
govern our lives.
c. Newspaper d. Internet
5. ____________is the radio broadcast of the
2. Which one of the following is the broadcast Government of India.
media?
a. Magazines b. Journals
c. Newspaper d. Radio Narrowcast media - films
Social media - posters
3.
Which invention has brought the world
Print media - seminar
closure?
Web media - google web site
a. Typewriter b. Television Broadcast media - facebook
c. Telex d. none of these
IV. Consider the following statements:
4. Which is mass media?
Tick the appropriate answer
a. Radio b. Television
c. Both a & b d. None of these 1. Assertion: Print media has been referred
to as peoples University
5.
why is it necessary for media to be
independent? Reason: They perform the role of public
informer, educate, custodian of public
a. to earn money
interest.
b. to encourage company
c. to write balanced report a.
A is correct and R is the correct
d. none of these explanation of A
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94
b. A is correct and R is not the correct VI. Answer the following in detail
explanation of A
1. How can we classify media?
c. A is wrong and R is Correct
d. Both are wrong 2. In what ways does the media play an
important role in a democracy?
2. Find the odd one
3. What are the advantages of media?
a. newspapers b. magazine c. journals d.
VII. HOTs
twitter e. posters
3. consider the following statements and 1. Is Media necessary? Why?
choose the correct answer form the codes 2. What do you know about the term press
given below. conference?
a. Media is generally the agency for inter- 3. In what ways media affects our daily lives?
personal communication.
4. Media is a boon or bane.
b. Media is very powerful entity on the
earth. VIII. Activity
c. Media plays a prominent role in the 1. Focus on a particular news. Collect
formation of public opinion. information about that news from various
d. Media does not have any responsibility media. Compare and write down the
i. a,b and c are correct similarity and differences
ii. a,c and d are correct 2. Prepare an album – ‘the growth of media’
iii. b,c and d are correct (from early period to till now).
iv. a,b and d are correct 3. Prepare a newspaper and circulate in your
V. Answer in one or two sentences class.
1. What is media?
2. How does the public get the news about the
decision that are taken in the Legislative
Assembly?
3. What are the importance of local media?
4. Media is the fourth pillar of democracy.
Justify
5. State any two responsibility of media.
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95
Unit - 1
How The State

Government Works
Learning Objectives
Students acquire knowledge in
▶ The State executive.
▶ Powers and functions of the Governor.
▶ Powers and functions of the Chief Minister.
▶ Legislative Assembly and Council.
▶ State Judiciary.
Introduction expiry of his full term, the President can dismiss

him from office. The Governor may also resign
There are two sets of government in our on his own interest. His term of office may be
country – the central government and the state extended and he may be transferred to another
government. There are 29 state governments in State. However, the State Government cannot
our country; every State has a government to remove the Governor from his post. To be the
run its own administration. The States have their Governor, a person must be a citizen of India
own executive and legislature and Judiciary. The and should have completed 35 years of age. And
state executive consists of the Governor and he cannot be a member of the Parliament or the
the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief State legislature. He should not hold any office
Minister. The Governor is an integral part of the of profit.
State legislature.
While appointing the Governor,
The State Executive the President acts as per the
advice of the Union Cabinet.
The Governor
The State Government is also
The Constitution consulted when the appoint-
provides for the post of the ment is to be made. Generally, a person is not
Governor as the Head of a appointed Governor in his own State.
State in India. He is appointed
by the President of India. He
Powers and functions
is the constitutional Head
of a State. The Governor is ■ The Governor is the Chief Executive in a
appointed for a term of five years. But before the State. All the executive powers of the State are
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vested upon him and decisions are taken in in a State. Therefore, he is responsible for
his name. He appoints the Chief Minister and maintaining relation between the Central
Council of Ministers. Government and the State Government. The
■ He makes some important appointments Governor may advise the Council of Ministers
of the State Government, such as, the when faces difficult situations. The President
Advocate general, Chairman and members declares emergency in a State on the basis of
of the State Public Service Commission and the report of the Governor regarding the law
others. and order situation in the State. The Governor
■ The President imposes emergency in a State takes independent decisions while exercising
under Article 356 on the basis of the report of discretionary powers. He may seek information
the Governor. The Governor also acts as the from the Council of Ministers regarding various
Chancellor of State Universities. activities of the Government.
■ He summons and prorogues the sessions of The Chief Minister
the State legislature and he can dissolve the
The Governor appoints
Legislative Assembly.
the leader of the majority
■ Money bills can be introduced in the State party in the State Legislative
Legislative Assembly only with the approval of
Assembly as the Chief
the Governor. The Governor may promulgate
Minister. He is the head of the
ordinances when the Legislative Assembly
State Council of Ministers. The
or both the Houses of the legislature (when
Chief Minister has no fixed term of office. He
there are two Houses) are not in session.
remains in office so long as he gets support of the
■ The Governor may nominate one member
majority members of the Legislative Assembly.
from the Anglo- India Community to the
When he loses support in the legislature, he has
Legislative Assembly if there are Anglo-
to resign. The resignation of the Chief Minister
Indian people in a State and when they are
means the resignation of the whole Council of
not duly represented in the State legislature.
He may also nominate 1/6 members of the Ministers in the State.
Legislature Council from among persons The Chief Minister must be a member of
who are experts in the fields of science, the State Legislature. If he is not a member of
literature, arts, social service and cooperative the State legislature at the time of his taking
movement. over charge, he must be so within a period of
■ The annual budget of the State Government six months.
is laid before the legislature with the Powers and Functions
approval of the Governor. The Governor
must give his assent to all the bills passed ■ The Chief Minister is the chief administrator
in the legislature including money bills. The of the State. All major decisions of the State
Contingency fund of the State is also placed Government are taken under his leadership.
at the disposal of the Governor. ■ The Chief Minister plays an important role in
Position of the Governor the formation of the Council of Ministers. On
the advice of the Chief Minister, the Governor
The position of the Governor of a State
appoints the other Ministers.
is compared to the President of India as a
nominal executive. But the Governor is not ■ The Chief Minister supervises the activities
always a nominal executive. He can exercise of different ministries and advises them
his powers in the real sense on some occasions. accordingly. He also coordinates the activities
He acts as an agent of the Central Government of different ministries.
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■ The Chief Minister plays an important role At present, only seven states in
in making policies of the State Government. India have Legislative Council in
He has to ensure that the policies of the their legislature. They are Bihar,
government do not go against public interest. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra,
His voice is final in policy decisions of the Karnataka, Jammu & Kashmir,
State Government. Andhra Pradesh and Telengana
■ He plays an important role in making higher
appointments of the State Government. The of the members of the Legislative Council are
Governor appoints different higher officials nominated by the Governor of the State.
of the State Government on the advice of the The Legislative Council is a permanent
Chief Minister and his Council of Ministers. house. One-third of its members retire every
two years and elections are held to fill the vacant
The Legislature seats. The members are elected for a term of six
years. To be a member of the Legislative Council,
In India, the State Legislature consists
one must be a citizen of India and should have
of the Governor and one or two houses. The
completed 30 years of age. He cannot be a
upper house is called the Legislative Council
member of the Legislative Assembly or either of
while the lower house is called the Legislative
the houses of the Parliament. The Chairman is
Assembly.
the presiding officer of the Legislative Council.
In his absence, the Deputy Chairman presides
over its meetings. They are elected from among
the members of that house.
Legislative Assembly
The people who make the laws of a
state government are called ‘Members of
the Legislative Assembly’ (MLA). MLAs are
chosen from different constituencies. For the
election of MLAs the entire state is divided into
different constituencies. These constituencies
are called the legislative constituencies. One
legislative constituency may have one lakh or
Legislative Council even more people. One MLA is chosen from
The Constitution provides that the total each legislative constituency to represent that
strength of the Legislative Council must not be legislative assembly.
less than 40 and not more than 1/3 of the total Election to the Assembly
strength of the Legislative Assembly of the State.
Different political parties compete in the
The members of the Legislative Council are
elections to the legislative assembly. These
elected indirectly. One third of its members are
parties nominate their candidates from each
elected by the local government bodies like the
constituency. The candidate is that person
District Panchayat and Municipalities. Another
who contests for the election and asks people
one third is elected by the members of the
to vote for him. A person has to be at least 25
Legislative Assembly. One twelfth is elected by
years old to contest for election to the legislative
the graduates of the constituency and another
assembly. One person can stand for election in
one twelfth by the teachers of secondary
more than one constituency at the same time.
schools, colleges and universities. One sixth
Even if a person does not belong to any political
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party, he can contest election; such candidate is list. However, during state emergency, it cannot
called an independent candidate. Every party exercise its legislative power.
has its own symbol. Independent candidates The assembly has control over the State
are also given election symbol. The members of council of Ministers. The State council of
legislative assembly (MLA) are elected directly ministers are responsible or answerable to
by the people. All people residing in the area of the Assembly for its activities. The Assembly
a legislative constituency who are 18 years of may pass a no confidence motion against the
age can cast a vote in the legislative assembly council of Ministers and bring its downfall if
elections. it is not satisfied with the performance of the
According to the Constitution, a Legislative council of Ministers. The legislative Assembly
Assembly cannot have more than 500 members has control over the finances of the state. A
and not less than 60 members. Some seats money bill can be introduced only in the
in the Legislative Assembly are reserved for Assembly. The government cannot impose,
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The increase, lower or withdraw any tax without
Governor can nominate one member from the the approval of the Assembly. The elected
Anglo-Indian community.The members of the members of the Legislative Assembly can take
Legislative Assembly are elected for a term of part in the election of the president of India
five years. But the Governor can dissolve the and all members can take part in the election
house before the expiry of its term and can of the members of the Rajya Sabha from the
call for fresh elections. The meetings of the state. The Assembly also takes part in the
Assembly are presided over by the Speaker amendment of the Constitution on certain
who is elected from among the members of the matters. So the government has three basic
Assembly. In his absence, the Deputy Speaker functions: making laws, executing laws and
conducts its meetings. ensuring justice.
The States Council of Ministers
How laws are made in State
The leader of the majority party in the Government?
election is chosen as Chief Minister. In Tamil
Several kinds of rules and laws have been
Nadu there are 234 legislative constituencies.
made for all people of our country. For instance,
The party with more than 118 elected candidates
there is a law that you cannot keep a gun
(MLA) are invited by the governor to form the
without having a licence for it. Or that woman
Government. The Chief Minister (who also
cannot marry before the age of 18 years old and
should be an MLA) chooses his ministers from
the MLAs of his party. Ministers for various men cannot marry before the age of 21 years.
departments headed by the Chief Minister is These rules and laws have not been made just
called the State Government. So it is said that like that. People elected their government who
the party which got majority seats in the election thought carefully before making such laws. A
forms the government. lot of such laws are made by the state and central
government.
The working of the State Government In the legislative assembly meetings, MLAs
After being elected to the legislative discuss a number of topics like public works,
assembly the MLAs are expected to regularly education, law and order and various problems
participate in its sittings. The legislative faced by the state. The MLA s can ask questions
assembly meets 2 or 3 times in a year. The main to know the activities of ministries, which the
duty of the Legislative Assembly is to make laws concern ministers have to answer. The legislative
for the state. It can make law on the subjects assembly makes laws on certain issues. The
mentioned in the state list and the concurrent process of law making as follows:
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made by the legislative assembly- Collectors,
The State legislature follows the
Tahsildars, Block Development Officers,
same procedure for passing an
Revenue officers, Village Administrative
ordinary or a money bill like
Officers, Policemen, Teachers and Doctors,
that of the Parliament. In State
etc. All of them are paid salaries by the state
legislatures also, the Legislative
government. They have to follow the orders of
Assembly which is the lower house is more
the state government.
powerful than the Legislative Council which
is the upper house. Judiciary of State
High Courts
Executing Laws
It is the job of the state’s council of ministers The High court stands at the apex of the
to execute the law. The legislative assembly of State Judiciary. As per the constitution there
Tamilnadu is located at Chennai. The place shall be a High Court in each state. But there
where a state’s legislative assembly is located may be a common High Court for two or more
and where its council of ministers function is states and Union Territories. The State High
called the capital of that state. Court consists of a Chief Justice and such other
The state government has several lakhs Judges as the President may appoint from time
of government employees to execute the laws to time it necessary. The number of judges in
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the High Courts is not uniform and fixed. The constitutional law, it can take up the case and
President appoints the Chief Justice of High decide it itself.
Court in consultation with the Chief Justice of ■ The High Court controls all the subordinate
India and the Governor of the state. courts in the State.
A Judge of High Court must have the
following qualification:
■ Like the Supreme Court, the High Court also
acts as a Court of Record.
■ He must be a citizen of India
■ He must have at least ten years’ experience as For the purpose of judicial administration,
head of the judicial office in the territory of each state is divided into a number of districts,
India. each under the jurisdiction of a district judge.
■ He must have at least ten years’ experience as The district court Judges were appointed by
an advocate in one or more High Courts. the Governor. In the exercise of the above
mentioned powers, the High Court enjoys
A Judge of High Court holds the office
full powers and freedom to act within its
until he completes the age of 62 years. A Judge
jurisdiction. The constitutional safeguards have
of the High Court can be removed from office
ensured its independent working.
only for proven misbehaviour or incapacity and
only in the same manner in which a Judge of the Recap
Supreme Court is removed.
■ There are 29 state governments in our country.
Power and Functions of the High
Every State has a government to run its own
Court
administration.
■ The High Court has been empowered to ■ The Constitution provides for the post of the
issue writs of Habeas corpus, Mandamus, Governor as the Head of a State in India.
Prohibition, Certiorari and Quo Warranto
for the enforcement of the fundamental rights ■ The Chief Minister plays an important role
and for other purposes. in making higher appointments of the State
Government.
■ Every High Court has a general power of
superintendence over all the lower courts ■ The people who make the laws of a state
and tribunals within its jurisdiction except government are called ‘members of the
military courts and tribunals. Legislative Assembly’ (MLA).
■ If a case is pending before a sub – ordinate ■ The High court stands at the apex of the State
court and the High Court is satisfied that Judiciary. As per the constitution there shall
it involves a substantial question of the be a High Court in each state.
GLOSSARY
the body of voters who elect a
Constituency த�ொகுதி
representative for their area
power or authority to interpret and apply
Jurisdiction அதிகார வரம்பு
the law
an organized body having the authority to
Legislature சட்டமன்றம்
make laws for a political unit
Promulgate announce widely known பிரகடனம்
Prorogues to suspend or end a legislative session தள்ளிவை
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III. Match the following.
Evaluation
1. Governor Lower House
2. Chief Minister Nominal Head
3. Legislative Assembly Upper House
I. Choose the correct 4. Legislative Council Real Head
answer.
1. The Governor of a state is IV. State true or false.
appointed by
1. Chief Minister is the chief administrator of
a) President b) Vice President
the State.
c) Prime Minister d) Chief Minister 2. The Governor nominates two members of
2. The State Council Minsters is headed by the Anglo- Indian Community to Legislative
a) The Governor b) Chief Minister Assembly.
c) Speaker d) Home Minister 3. The number of judges in the High Courts is
not uniform and fixed.
3. Who can summon and prorogue the sessions
of the State legislature? V. Choose the correct statement.
a) Home Minister b) President 1. The State Legislative Assembly participates in
c) Speaker d) The Governor the election of
4. Who does not participate in the appointment i) President
of the High Court Judge? ii) Vice – President
a) Governor iii) Rajya Sabha members
b) Chief Minister iv) Members of the Legislative Council of
c) Chief Justice of the High Court the State
d) President of India
a) i, ii & iii are Correct
5. The age of retirement of the Judges of the b) i & iii are Correct
High Court is c) i, iii & iv are correct
a) 62 b) 64 c) 65 d) 58 d) i, ii , iii & iv are correct
VI. Answer the following in one or two
1. ________ States are there in India at present.
sentences.
2. The tenure of the Governor is normally
________ years. 1. Name the two houses of the State legislature?
3. The District Judges are appointed by ________ 2. Write the qualifications of the members of the
4. The Governor is the ________ Head of the Legislative Assembly?
State. 3. How is the Chief Minister appointed?
5. Minimum age for elections as MLA ________ 4. How is the Council of Ministers formed?
years.
VII. Answer the following in detail.
1. Discuss the powers and functions of the Chief
Minister.
2. Discuss the powers and functions of the
Legislative Assembly.?
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3. Write about the powers and functions of the ■ Om Prakash Aggarawala, S.K. Aiyar The
High Court? Constitution of India, Metropolitan Book
Company Ltd., Delhi 1950
VIII. Project and Activity.
List out the name of the Tamil Nadu Governor
and Chief Minister, Ministers and Governors INTERNET RESOURCES
and Chief Ministers of the neighbouring
states. ■ www.tnrajbhavan.gov.in/
■ www.tn.gov.in/
REFERENCE BOOKS ■ indiancourts.nic.in/
■ The Constitution of India, Government of

India, Ministry of Law and Justice, 2011
ICT CORNER
HOW THE STATE GOVERNMENT WORKS
Through this activity students

will explore the Indian Parliament
Virtually
Steps
• Enter the following URL or scan the QR code to land in Lok Sabha official website.Select
“Members” tab to explore the sitting members of the parliament.
• Scroll the middle section of the page to know the cabinet members of different departments
that governs India.
• Hover the mouse over the “pie chart” to know the strength of the different parties that
constitutes the central government.
• Click “Virtual tour” from the lower section of the page and view the structure of the
parliament.
Website URL:
https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in/Home.aspx
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Unit - 2
Citizens and Citizenship
Learning Objectives
Students acquire knowledge in
▶ Meaning, definition of citizens and citizenship
▶ The Constitutional Provisions of India
▶ Acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship
▶ Nature of overseas citizenship of India
▶ Rights and responsibility of a citizen
Introduction Indian Citizenship Act, 1955

Civics is the study of government. The
This act is to provide for the
word ‘Citizen’ is derived from the Latin word
acquisition and termination of
‘Civis’ which means resident of a City State of
Indian citizenship.
Ancient Rome. After the disappearance of City-
State system, it has been used to mean a member
of the State. The citizens of a state enjoy full civil Acquisition of citizenship
and political rights.
The citizenship Act of 1955 prescribes
Citizen and Citizenship five ways of acquiring citizenship. They are by
birth, descent, registration, naturalisation and
Citizen is a person of a country who is
incorporation of territory.
entitled to enjoy all the legal rights and privileges
granted by a state and is obligated to obey its 1) By Birth
laws and to fulfill his duties.
Citizenship is the status given to the citizens a. A person born in India
which provide them the right to legally live in a on or after 26th January
country as long as they want. 1950 but before 1st July
1987 is a citizen of India
Types of Citizen by birth irrespective of
There are two types of citizens, Natural and the nationality of his Parents.
Naturalised citizens. b. A person born in India on or after1st July
1. Natural citizens: are the citizens by birth. 1987 is considered as a citizen of India only
2.
Naturalised citizens: are the one who if either of his Parents is a citizen of India at
acquires citizenship. the time of his birth.
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c. Those born in India on or after 3rd d. he is a good character and has an adequate
December 2004 are considered citizens of knowledge of a language specified in
India or one of whose parents is a citizen of the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution.
India and the other is not an illegal migrant (presently 22 languages)
at the time of their birth.
5) By incorporation of Territory
2) By Descent a. If any foreign territory becomes a part of
a. A Person born outside India on or after 26th India, the Government of India specifies
January 1950 but before 10th December the persons who among the people of the
1992 is a citizen of India by descent, if his territory shall be the citizens of India.
father was a citizen of India at the time of Such persons become the citizens of India
his birth. from the notified date. For example, when
b. A person born outside India on or after 10th Pondicherry became a part of India, the
December 1992 is considered as a citizen of Government of India issued the citizenship
India if either of his parents is a citizen of (Pondicherry) order, 1962.
India at the time of his birth.
c. From 3rd December 2004 onwards, a
person born outside India shall not be a Loss of Indian Citizenship
citizen of India by descent, unless his birth Part II of the Constitution of India (Article
is registered at an Indian consulate within 5-11) prescribes three ways of losing citizenship.
one year of the date of birth.
Renunciation: (is a voluntary act) when a
3) By Registration person after acquiring the citizenship of another
country gives up his/her Indian citizenship.
a. A Person of Indian origin who is ordinarily
resident in any country or place outside Termination: (takes place by operation of
undivided India. law) When an Indian citizen voluntarily
b. A Person of Indian origin who is ordinarily acquires the citizenship of another country;
resident in India for seven years before he/she automatically ceases to be an Indian
making an application for registration. citizen.
c. A Person who is married to a citizen of Deprivation: (is a compulsory termination)
India and is ordinarily resident in India for The citizenship is deprived on the basis of
seven years before making an application an order of the Government of India in cases
for registration involving acquisition of Indian citizenship by
fraud, false representation or being disloyal to
4) By Naturalisation the Constitution.
The Central Government may, on an
application, grant a certificate of naturalization
Nationality and citizenship
to any person
Nationality is the status of
a. if he is not a citizen of any country where
belonging to a particular nation
citizens of India are Prevented from
by origin, birth basically, it’s
becoming subjects or citizens of that
an ethnic and racial concept.
country
Nationality of a person cannot be changed.
b. a citizen of any country, renounce the
Citizenship is granted to an individual
citizenship of that country
by the government of the country when
c. he has either resided in India or been in
he/she complies with the legal formalities.
the service of a Government in India or
Citizenship can be changed.
throughout the period of twelve months
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Single citizenship beliefs and opinions of others, defending the
country, respect and obey state and local laws
Our Indian Constitution provides for only and so on)
Single citizenship, that is, the Indian citizenship.
But federal states like USA and Switzerland Alien and immigrant are two terms that
has dual citizenship. (National citizenship are used to refer to non-nationals of a country.
and the State citizenship). In India, all citizens Alien refers to all non-citizens or non-
irrespective of the state in which they are born nationals residing in a country.eg. tourists,
or reside enjoy the same political and civil rights foreign students
of citizenship all over the country. Immigrant refers to alien who has
been granted the right to reside and work
permanently without restriction in a
As per the order precedence particular country.
President is the first citizen of
our country. Qualities of a good citizen
■ Loyalty to the Constitution.
Overseas Citizenship of ■ Obeys laws.
India ■ Contributes to society and community and
performs civic duty.
Non - Resident Indian
An Indian citizen who is residing outside ■ Quality of goodness and justice.
India and holds an Indian passport.
■ Respecting diversity.
Person on Indian Origin
A person whose any ancestors was an Indian nationals Global Citizenship
and who is presently holding another country's
citizenship.(other than Pakistan, Bangaladesh, Sri
Lanka, Bhutan,Afghanistan. China and Nepal). The Global citizenship is an idea that everyone,
PIO scheme was rescinded w.e.f. 09-01-2015
no matter where they live is part of a worldwide
Overseas Citizen of India Card Holder community rather than as the citizen of
It is an immigration status permitting a foreign
citizen of Indian origin to live and work in particular nation or place. All people have rights
the Republic of India indefinitely. (Except the
citizen of Pakistan and Bangladesh). There are and civic responsibilities. It is fundamental in
no voting rights for an OCI card holder. enabling young people to access and participate
in shaping modern society.
Rights and Duties of Citizen

Our Constitution confers the following
rights for the citizen of India.
■ Fundamental Rights
■ Right to vote in the election to the Lok
Sabha and the State Legislature
■ Right to hold certain public offices
■ Right to become the Member of Parliament
and State Legislature.
According to 42 Amendment of our
Constitution, a set of Fundamental Duties are
prescribed for all citizens of India. (For e.g.
paying taxes honestly, respecting the rights,
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for the people of India to promote the feeling
Overseas Indians’ Day
of fraternity and unity among them to build an
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas integrated Indian nation.
(PBD) Sponsored by Ministry of
Recap
External Affairs of Government
of India is celebrated once in ■ Citizen is a person of a country who is
every two years, to “mark the contributions entitled to enjoy all the legal rights and
of Overseas Indian Community in the privileges granted by a State.
development of India”. The day commemorates ■ Part II of the constitution of India, Articles
the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi in India from 5 – 11 deals with the Citizenship of India.
South Africa.
■ Indian Citizenship Act of 1955 provides for
the acquisition and termination of Indian
Conclusion citizenship.
Our Constitution of India has introduced ■ Our Indian Constitution provides for Single
Single citizenship and provides uniform rights Citizenship.
Glossary
acquisition act of acquiring முயன்று அடைதல்
amendment a minor change திருத்தம்
Constitution Law determining the fundamental அரசியலமைப்பு
political principles of a government
fraternity brotherhood சக�ோதரத்துவம்
Resident inhabitant குடியிருப்பவர்
a. The Prime Minister

Evaluation b. The President
c. The Chief Minister
d. The Chief Justice of India
I. Choose the correct II. Fill in the blanks.

answer. 1. ____________ of a state enjoy full civil and
1. Which of the following is not political rights.
a condition for becoming 2. Our Indian Constitution provides for only
the citizen of India? ______________citizenship.
3. An Indian citizen who is residing outside
a. Birth b. acquiring property
India and holds an Indian passport are
c. descent d. naturalization called__________________.
4. All have right and __________responsibility
2. ______________of the Constitution of India
citizens.
deals with the Citizenship.
5. ___________ is an idea enabling young
a. Part II b. Part II Article 5-11 peopel to access and participate in shaping
c. Part II Article 5-6 d. Part I Article 5-11 modern society.
3. Who is called the first citizen of India?
III. State true or false.
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1. USA has single citizenship. d. Both A and R are wrong.
2. OCI card holder has voting rights in India.
V. Answer the following in one or two
3. Citizen of India can enjoy Fundamental
Rights guaranteed by our constitution. sentences.
4. Nationality can be change and citizenship can 1. Name the types of citizens?
not be changed. 2. What are the Rights that a citizen can enjoy
in our country?
IV. Consider the following statements. 3. Mention any three qualities of a good citizen.
Tic ( ✓ ) the appropriate answer. 4. Name the five ways of acquiring citizenship?
1. Indian Citizen of a person can be terminated if 5. What do you know about the citizenship Act
a. a person voluntarily acquires the citizen- of 1955?
ship of some other country.
VI. Answer the following:
b. a person who has become a citizen
1. On what grounds that the citizenship of a
through registration.
person is cancelled?
c. the Government of India is satisfied that
citizenship was obtained by fraud. VII. Student Activity.
d. a citizen who is by birth indulges in trade a. Tabulate: How will you be a good citizen inside
with an enemy country during war. the classroom and outside the classroom.
a. I and II are correct. b. My responsibility as a Good Citizen (write
b. I and III are correct any three points)
c. I, III, IV are correct.
d. I, II, III are correct. At Home At School
2. A ssertion: When Pondicherry becomes the
part of India in 1962, the people lived there
became Indian citizens.
Reason. It was done by one of the provisions To myself To the Environment
of the Act of 1955 - by incorporation of
Territory.
a. R is the correct explanation of A
b. R is not the correct explanation of A
c. A is wrong but R is correct.
ICT CORNER
CITIZENS AND CITIZENSHIP
Steps
• Enter the following URL or scan the QR code to land in Ministry of Home Affairs official website.
• Select “Act/Rules/Regulations” tab to explore constitutional procedures to become an Indian
citizen.
• Select “Required Documents” tab from bottom section to know about important documents.
• Click “Sample Forms” and explore the format to apply for citizenship.
Website URL:
https://indiancitizenshiponline.nic.in/Home.aspx
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Unit - 1
Understanding
Secularism
Learning Objectives
▶ To understand the meaning of secularism
▶ To know the importance of secularism
▶ To develop the appreciation of the rights guaranteed in the Constitution
▶ To analyse the importance of secular education
▶ To discuss the constitutional provisions related to secularism
India will be a land of many faiths, equally honoured and respected, but of one national outlook.
- Jawaharlal Nehru
Introduction
India is a land of multi-religious faith
and multi-cultural beliefs. It is the birth place
of four major religions; Hinduism, Jainism,
Buddhism and Sikhism. In our country people
of diverse religions and beliefs have been living
peacefully for a long time. Modern nation-
states are multi-religious states, hence there is a
need for tolerance of all religions. The concept
of secularism is aimed at creating a society in
which people of religious beliefs or people who
do not belong to any religion can live together
in harmony and peace.
Rajaram Mohan Roy, Sir Syed Ahmad
Khan, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi ■ The term secularism is
and B.R. Ambedkar were some of the noted derived from the Latin word
individuals held high in public regards who 'saeculum' meaning ‘an age’ or
contributed towards the spread of secularism in ‘the spirit of an age’.
the various spheres of Indian society. Secularism ■ George Jacob Holyoake a
British newspaper editor coined the term
is invaluable for a society like India which is
secularism.
characterised by religious diversity.
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109
What does Secularism mean? The Characteristic Features of
Secularism means an attitude of a Secular State
tolerance towards other religions and peaceful Principle of Liberty – the state permits the
co-existence of citizens belonging to different practice of any religion.
faiths. It is a policy of neutrality and equality by Principle of Equality – the state does not
the states towards all religious communities. give preference to any religion over another.
Secularism is the principle of separation
of state and religion or more broadly no Principle of Neutrality – the state remains
interference of the state in the matters of neutral in religious matter.
religion and vice-versa. This means that every A secular state is the one in which the state
citizen is free to propagate, practice, and profess does not officially promote any one religion as
their faith, change it or not have one, according the country’s official religion and every religion
to their conscience. is treated equally. It gives to every citizen not
only the equal right to freedom of conscience but
Atheism - is a lack of belief in god and gods. also the right to profess, practice and propagate
Secularism - is non – interference of the state any faith of their own choice. The state observes
in religious affairs and vice-versa. an attitude of neutrally and impartiality towards
Objectives of Secularism all religions. In a secular state no one is given
preferential treatment and the State does not
■
One religious group does not dominate discriminate any person on the basis of their
another. religious practices and beliefs. All citizens are
■ Some members don’t dominate other eligible to enter government service irrespective
members of the same religious community. of their faith. There should be absolutely no
■ The state does not enforce any specific religious instructions in educational institutions
religion nor take away the religious freedom and no taxes to support any particular religion.
of individuals.
Importance of Secularism
A simple statement by poet Iqbal illustrates
the secular view “Religion does not teach us The concept of
animosity; We are Indians and India is our home!” secularism evolved in
India as equal treatment
12th Rock Edict, Ashoka of all religions. We need
secular state to maintain
peace and harmony
between people of various
religious ideologies. It is a
part of democracy, which
grants equal rights
The Mughal emperor Akbar followed the

policy of religious toleration. His propagation
Emperor Ashoka was the first great of Din-i-Illahi (Divine Faith) and Sulh-e-Kul
emperor to announce as early as 3rd century (Peace and harmony among religions) were
BC (BCE) that the state would not prosecute advocated for religious toleration.
any religious sect. In his 12th Rock Edict,
Ashoka made an appeal not only for the Constitution and Secularism
tolerance of all religious sects but also to Secularism is the part of Indian Constitution.
develop a spirit of great respect towards them. The makers of the Indian Constitution were
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110
aware that a strong and united nation could be c. The state will not accord any preferential
built only when all sections of people had the treatment any of them.
freedom to practice their religion. So secularism
d. No discrimination will be shown by the
was accepted as one of the fundamental tenets
state against any person on account of his
for the development of democracy in India.
religious faith.
The word secularism was not mentioned
in our Constitution when it was adopted in a. I t creates fraternity of
1950. Later on in 1976, the word secular was the Indian people and
incorporated in the Preamble through the 42nd gives assurance the
Amendment of the Indian Constitution. (India
dignity of the individual
is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic,
Republic) The basic aim of our Constitution and the unity of the nation.
is to promote unity and integrity of the nation
along with individual dignity. The secular Indian state declares public
holidays to mark the festivals of all religions.
There is no state religion in India. The
state will neither establish a religion of its own
nor confer any special patronage upon any Mosaic of Constitutional Provisions
particular religion. The freedom of religion Article 15 – prohibition of discrimination on
guaranteed under the Indian Constitution is grounds of religion, caste, sex or place of birth etc.,
not confined to its citizen alone but extends to
Article 16 – equality of opportunity in public
aliens also. This was pointed out by the Hon’ble employment.
Supreme Court in the case Ratilal Panchand V
Article 25(1) – guarantees the freedom of
State of Bombay in 1954.
conscience and the right to profess, practice and
propagate religion individually.
Article 26 – Freedom to manage religious affairs
Article 27 – The state shall not compel any
citizen to pay any taxes for the promotion of any
particular religion.
Article 28 – on religious instruction or religious
worship in certain educational institution.
Article 29(2) – A ban on discrimination in
state-aided educational institution .
Why do we need secular education?
A 19th century Hindu temple in Secularism in education means making
Khajuraho, India incorporates a Hindu spire, public education free from any religious
a Jain cupola, a Buddhist stupa and Muslim dominance. Children as future citizens must
style dome in place of usual shikara. get education which should aim at their
development of character and moral behavior
The Constitution of India has the
irrespective of religious affiliation.
following distinguishing features
Secular education is needed
a. Th
e state will not identify itself with or be
controlled by any religion ■
to remove narrow mindedness and makes
dynamic and enlightened view;
b. The state guarantees to everyone the right
to profess any religion of their own. ■
to develop moral and humanistic outlook;
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111
■
to train the youth to be good citizen;
Akbar’s tomb at Sikandara near
■
to strengthen democratic values like liberty, Agra, India
equality, and fraternity and co-operative
living;
■
to give wider vision towards life;
■
to develop an attitude of appreciation and
understanding of others point of view;
■
to develop the spirit of love, tolerance,
co-operation, equality and sympathy;
■ to synthesise materialism and spiritualism.
Akbar’s instruction for his mausoleum was
Conclusion that it would incorporate elements from
The Indian State is secular and works in different religions including Islam and
various ways to prevent religious domination. Hinduism
Secularism undoubtedly helps and aspires to
enable every citizen to enjoy fully blessings of life, allows us to live in civility. It compels people to
liberty and happiness. The Indian Constitution respect other religion. It grants equal rights to
guarantees fundamental rights that are based the people in respect of their religious faith. It is
on secular principles. It is one of the glowing desirable for a country like India.
achievement on Indian democracy. Secularism
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Recap
■ India is the land of multi – religious country. Hence there is a need for tolerance of all religions.
■ Secularism is the belief that no one should be discriminated on the basis of religion.
■ Secularism is very essential for the smooth functioning of a democratic country.
■ A secular state is one in which the state does not officially promote any one religion as state religion.
■ The Indian Constitution allows individuals the freedom to live by their religious beliefs and
practices.
■ The Indian state works in various ways to prevent religious domination.
Glossary
diversity the state of being diverse பன்முகத்தன்மை
propagate spread and promote widely பரவச்செய்
liberty freedom சுதந்திரம்
equality fairness சமத்துவம்
neutrality impartially நடுநிலைமை
ideology doctrine சித்தாந்தம்
Evaluation
4. Which one of the following describes India as

I. Choose the correct answer a secular state?
a) Fundamental Rights
1. Secularism means
b) Fundamental Duty
a) State is against to all religions
c) Directive Principles of State Policy
b) State accepts only one religion
d) Preamble of the Constitution
c) An attitude of tolerance and peaceful co-
existence on the part of citizen belonging 5. Right to freedom of religion is related to
any religion a) Judiciary
d) None of these b) Parliament
c) Directive principles of State Policy
2. India is a land of _______
d) Fundamental rights
a) multi - religious faith
b) multi - cultural beliefs 6.
According to Article 28, which type of
education is restricted in state aided
c) Both (1) & (2)
educational institutions?
d) None of these
a) religious instruction
3.
The Preamble of the Constitution was b) Moral education
amended in__________.
c) Physical education
a) 1951 b) 1976 c) 1974 d) 1967
d) None above these
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7. The country will be considered as a secular ii)
The word secularism was not mentioned
country, if it _______ in the Constitution when it was adopted in
a) gives importance to a particular religion 1950.
b) bans religious instructions in the iii) Article 26 deals with payment of taxes for
state – aided educational institutions. the promotion of any particular religion.
c) does not give importance to a particular iv) Akbar’s tomb situated at Sikandara near Agra.
religion a) i, ii only
d) bans the propagation of any religious b) ii, iii only
belief. c) iv only
d) i, ii and iv only
1. Religion does not teach us _______________.
2. Secularism is a part of democracy which 2. Assertion (A): A
foreigner can practice his
grants _________________. own religious faith in India.
3. ______________ is a lack of belief in god Reason (R): e freedom of religion
Th
and gods. is guaranteed by the
4. The basic aim of our constitution is to promote constitution not only for
_______and ______. Indians but also for the
5. Article 15 prohibits _____________on the aliens also.
grounds of religion, caste, sex or place of a) A is true but R is false.
birth. b) Both A and R are true and R is the correct
III. Match the following explanation of A.
1. Atheism - coined the word c) A is false but R is true.
secularism d) Both A and R are true. R is not the correct
2. Children - social reformer explanation of A.
3. Din-i-Illahi - lack of belief in god
3. Assertion (A): Secularism is invaluable in
4. Constitution - future citizen India.
5. Holyoake - Divine faith
Reason (R): India is a multi- religious
6. Rajaram Mohan Roy - 1950 and multi- cultural country.
IV. State true or false
a) A is correct and R is the correct explanation
1. There is state religion in India of A.
2. The term secularism has been derived from
b)
A is correct and R is not the correct
the Greek word.
explanation of A.
3. The Mughal emperor Akbar followed the
policy of religious toleration. c) A is wrong and R is correct.
4. Jainism originated in China. d) Both are wrong.
5. Government of India declares holidays for all
religious festivals. 4. Find out the wrong pair.
V. Consider the following a) Din-i-Illahi - A book
statements and tick the b) Khajuraho - Hindu temple
appropriate answer c) Ashoka - Rock Edict
1. i) Secularism is invaluable for a society like d) Iqbal - Poet
India which is characterized by religious
diversity.
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114
VI. A
nswer the following in one or 2. How can you develop religious tolerance?
two sentences
At home At school
1. Name some of the Indians who contributed to
spread of secularism.
2. What does secularism mean?
3. State the objectives of secularism. In your locality At National level
4. Why is it important to separate religion from
the state?
5. What are the characteristic features of a secular
state?
6. Mention any three Constitutional provisions
related to secularism? REFERENCE BOOKS
VII. Answer the following in detail
1. The Consitution of India, Government of
1. Why we need secular education? India, Ministry of Law and Justice, New
2.
Secularism is necessary for a country like Delhi.
India. Justify.
2. Sekhar Bandyopadhyay., and Aloka Parasher
VIII. Hots Sen., Religion and Modernity in India, Oxford
1.
Will the Government intervene if some Publication, 2017
religious group says that their religion allows
them to practice human sacrifice? INTERNET RESOURCES
IX. Project and Activity
1. http:// legislative.gov.in contitution-of-india
1. Look at the holidays of your school calendar.
How many of them pertain to different 2.
http://legislative.gov.in/ sites/ default/files/
religions? List them based on religions. What part1.pdf
does it indicate?
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Unit - 2
Human Rights
and UNO
Learning Objectives
▶ Understand what human rights are.
▶ Understand the relationship between rights and responsibilities.
▶ Know the importance of Human rights.
▶ Understand that human rights belong to everybody.
▶ Appreciate the meaning and significance of the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights, 1948.
Introduction a. Written Precursors of Human Rights

Documents
Everybody is born equal. Each individual in
the world has the right to lead a dignified life of The Magna Carta of 1215(England) – gave
his or her own choice. Human rights are related to people new rights and made the king subject to
individuals and society. Human rights denotes all
the law.
those rights that are inherent and ensure that we
live as free people and exercise our choices. The The Petition of Right 1628(England) – set out
state’s role is to ensure that people have equal rights. the rights of the people.
What are Human Rights? The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679(England) – an
Human Rights are
act for the better securing liberty of the subject.
rights inherent to all
human beings regardless The English Bill of Rights of 1689 – set out
of race, sex, nationality, certain basic civil rights.
ethnicity, language and
The French Declaration on the Rights of Man
religion. Human rights
include freedom from and Citizen 1789 – a document of France,
slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and stating that all citizens are equal under the law.
expression and fair trial, the right to life work
The US Constitution and Bill of Rights 1791
and education.
- safeguards the rights of the citizens.
Where do Human Rights come
from? b. The Birth of United Nations
A set of basic rights and freedoms has deep
The idea of human rights emerged stronger
roots in European and American countries.
after the Second World War. This War led to
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116
unimaginable violation of human rights. During regular observance commenced from 1950. It
the times of war, human lives lost its value and is also known as modern International Magna
those affected by war had to struggle till the Carta of Human Rights. Its principles have been
end of their life. Atrocities during the Second incorporated into the Constitutions of most of
World War made clear that previous efforts the (more than 185) nations. UDHR has been
to protect individual rights from government translated into more than 500 languages. It is
violations were inadequate. The rights of man the most translated document in the world.
were prevented or eliminated in several parts
of the world due to several factors. It is proved The Cyrus Cylinder 539 BC (BCE)
that the government of some countries alone
could not protect human rights. People wanted
to ensure that never again would anyone be
unjustly denied life, freedom, food, shelter,
and nationality. These voices played a critical
role in the San Francisco meeting in which the
United Nations Charter was drafted in 1945.
Cyrus the Great, the first king of ancient
At this juncture, an International body, the
Persia, freed the slaves and declared that all
United Nations Organisation (UNO) which was
people had the right to choose their own
established on 24th October 1945 took up the
religion and established racial equality. These
issue. Human Rights is an important theme in
and other decrees were recorded on a baked-
all UN policies and programmes in the areas of
clay cylinder in the Akkadian language in
peace and security, development, humanitarian
cuneiform script. It is translated into all six
assistance and economic and social affairs.
official languages of the United Nations and
c. The Universal Declaration of Human its provisions parallel the first four Articles of
Rights (UDHR) the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
One of the greatest achievements of
Human Rights are based on the
United Nations is the creation of human rights
values of
law. To advance this goal, the UN established
a Commission on Human Rights. The a. Dignity – The right to life, the right to
Commission guided by Eleanor Roosevelt’s (wife integrity, the prohibition of enforced labour,
of former US president Franklin D Roosevelt) slavery and degrading punishment.
forceful leadership captured the world’s
b. Justice – The right to fair trial, proportional
attention. Finally, the Universal Declaration
of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted by the punishment to crime, the right not to be
UN General Assembly in 1948. It is a milestone trialed more than once for the same crime
document in the history of Human rights. The c. E
quality – Equality before law. No
Declaration was proclaimed by the UN General discrimination on race, religion, gender,
Assembly in Paris, France on 10th December
age, ability/disability etc.
1948(General Assembly resolution 217A). In
remembrance of every year 10th December Basic Characteristics of Human
is observed as the Human Rights Day and its Rights
Inherent – they are not granted by any
Preamble of UDHR person or authority.
All men are born free and all are equal in status Fundamental – they are fundamental rights
and rights. They are endowed with intelligence because without them, the
and conscience and obliged to promote the spirit
life and dignity of man will
of common brotherhood amongst all men.
be meaningless
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117
Inalienable – they cannot be taken b. Political Rights
away from the individual. Political rights are exercised in the
Indivisible – they can’t be denied even formation and administration of a government.
when other rights have The Civil and Political rights are directly
already been enjoyed . related to modern democracy. They protect
Universal -
they are universal. They the individual from the misuse of political
power and recognise every individual’s right to
apply irrespective of
participate in their country’s political process.
one’s origin or status.
It includes the freedom of expression, and
They are enforceable
peaceful assembly, the right to take part in the
without national border. government of one’s country, the right to vote,
Interdependent -
they are interdependent the freedom of speech and obtain information.
because the fulfillment
c. Social Rights
or exercise of one human
right cannot be had It is necessary for an individual to fully
participate in the society. Social rights are those
without the realization
rights necessary for an adequate standard of
of the other.
living including the right to education, health
Human Rights Day is celebrated annually on care, food, clothing, shelter and social security.
10th December every year. It is to honour d. Economic Rights
the United Nations General Assembly for
The right to participate in an economy that
declaring the human rights universally.
benefits all and to desirable work. Economic
Kinds of Human Rights rights guarantee every person to have condition
There are 30 Articles incorporated in the under which they are able to meet their needs.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This includes the rights to employment and
fair wage, the reasonable limitation of working
These rights are broadly classified into Five
hours, shelter, education and adequate standard
primary categories. They are as follows
of living, and the right to property.
a. Civil Rights e. Cultural Rights
The term civil rights refers to the basic rights The right to freedom of religion and to speak
afforded by laws of the government to every the language and to practice the cultural life of
person. This is the right to be treated as an equal the community, the right to share in scientific
to anyone else. It includes the rights to life, liberty, advancement, and right to the protection of
freedom from slavery and arbitrary arrest. moral and material interest.
The Difference between Human Rights and Civil Rights
Human Rights Civil Rights
Human rights belong to everyone, everywhere, Civil rights are those rights that one enjoys by
regardless of nationality sexuality, gender, race, virtue of citizenship in a particular nation or
religion or age. state.
Civil rights vary greatly from country to the
Human rights are considered universal to all
country's or government to government. It is
human beings and universal in all countries.
related to the Constitution.
No nation may rightfully deprive human rights Different nations can grant or deny different
to an individual. civil rights and liberties.
Human rights are basic rights inherent with birth. Civil rights are creation of the society.
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Human Rights Commission and other members. The President appoints
The Economic and Social Council the Chairperson and other members. They are
(ECOSOC), a principal organ of the United appointed for 5 years or till the age of 70 years
Nations was empowered to setup a commission whichever is earlier. NHRC has five divisions.
for the promotion of human rights. National Law Division, Investigation Division, Policy
level and State level human rights commissions Research & Programmes Division, Training
were established to ensure the protection of Division and Administrative Division. The
human rights. National Human Rights Commission is
a. National Human Rights Commission responsible for the protection and promotion of
human rights in India.
The National Human
b. State Human Rights Commission
Rights Commission
The state Human Rights Commission of
(NHRC) of India was
Tamil Nadu was formed on 17th April, 1997.It
established on 12th
functions at the state level. It consists of three
October, 1993. It is an
members including a Chairperson. A state
independent statutory,
Human Rights Commission can inquire into
and non-constitutional
violation of human rights related to subjects
body. Its headquarter
covered under State list and Concurrent list in
is located in New Delhi. NHRC is a multi-
the seventh schedule of the Indian Constitution.
member body which consists of a Chairperson
(not if NHRC already enquiring)
Chairperson
(Retired Chief Justice of India)
One Member One Member Two Members Deemed Members

(who is,or has been (Who is or has been a (from amongst (Chairpersons of the
a judge of Supreme judge of High Court) persons having following National
Court) knowledge or Commissions)
practical in matters
relating to Human
Rights)
National Commission National Commission

for Minorities for Scheduled Tribes
National Commission National Commission
for Scheduled Castes for Women
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119
Human Rights Organisations
UNO has declared
Many organisations 1978 as International year of women.
around the world have taken 1979 as the International year of children.
their efforts to protect human
rights and for ending human a. Right to Education Act
rights abuses. These Non- Article 21A
governmental organisations provides that the
monitor the actions of governments and pressure state shall provide
them to act according to human right principles. free and compulsory
Some of these organaisations are Amnesty education to all
International, Children’s Defense Fund, Human children aged six to fourteen years.
Rights Watch. b. The Child Labour Act (Prohibition and
Regulation Act 1986)
Indian Constitution Article
It provides no child who has not completed 15
24 - prohibits child labour.
39(f) - provides for children to develop in years of age can be employed
healthy manner. c. The Juvenile Justice Act 2000 (Care and
45 – provides that the state shall endeavor to Protection of Children)
provide early childhood care and education This Act tries to protect children deprived
for all children until they complete the age of
of adequate care and to reform the children by
six years.
adopting child friendly approach.
Child Rights d. POCSO Act 2012
According to Protection of Children from Sexual Offences
Article 1 of the United Act regards the best interest of the child as being
Nations Convention on paramount importance in every state.
the Rights of the Child
1989, 'a child means
every human being
below the age of eighteen
years'. The Convention
on the Rights of the Child was proclaimed by
UN on 20th November 1989.
The child is considered as an important 1098 Child Line
national asset. The future of a nation depends This is India’s first 24
hours’ free emergency
on how its children mature and develop.
phone service for
So protection of children from all kinds of children in need of
exploitation and abuses has become the main assistance. Special care
objective of our society. There are laws in India is given for vulnerable children those affected
protecting the rights of the children. by child labour, child marriage and children
affected by any abuse.
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Women Rights 1995 to implement the Beijing Platform for
Women and girl’s rights are human rights. Action. Only when women and girls have full
Women are entitled to the full and equal access to their rights will true equality exist.
enjoyment of all of their human rights and to
be free from all forms of discrimination. This Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and
is fundamental to achieve human rights, peace Senior Citizen Act 2007
and security and sustainable development. The This Act makes it legal
Charter of the United Nations guarantees equal obligation for children
rights to both women and men. and heirs to provide
maintenance to senior
The Convention on the Elimination of
citizens and parents. Protection and support
All Forms of Discrimination against Women
during old age are envisaged as human rights.
(CEDAW), adopted in 1979 by the UN General
Assembly, is described as an International bill of
Conclusion
rights for women.
In 1995 the Fourth World Conference of Human rights are about equality and fairness
Women, held in Beijing, developed a Platform for for everyone and it ensures that everyone is
Action to recognise women’s rights and improve treated with dignity and respect. The protection
women’s livelihood worldwide, and follow-up of human right is everyone’s responsibility. An
meetings monitored progress towards meeting understanding and respect for human rights
these goals. The United Nations Development provides the foundation for peace, harmony,
Fund for Women (UNIFEM), has worked since security and freedom in our community.
Legislations Provisions
The Hindu Widow Remarriage Act 1856 Legalised widow remarriage.
The Hindu Marriage Act 1955 States that the marriageable age for women is 21.
Ensures the right to women to inherit their
The Hindu Succession Act 1956
parental property.
Provides drastic punishments for those
The Dowry Prohibition Act 1961
ill-treating the bride in the name of dowry.
The Eve Teasing Act 1997 Gives relief to women.
Prohibits the indecent representation of women
Indecent Representation Act 1999
in magazine, newspapers etc.
The Factory Act 1948,
The Plantation Labour Act 1951, The Mines Act 1952 Protects the women workers.
The Maternity benefit Act 1961
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Protects women from harassment by husband
Act 2005 and family members.
Recap
■ Human rights are freedoms that all human beings are entitled to enjoy. They include civil, political,
economic, social and cultural rights.
■ Human rights are inherent, inalienable, interdependent and indivisible.
■ One of the greatest achievements of the United Nations is the creation of comprehensive body of
human rights law.
■ The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1948.
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121
■ Human rights are based on dignity, justice and equality.
■ National level and State Level Human Rights Commissions were established to ensure the
protection of human rights.
■ The protection of human rights is everyone’s responsibility.
GLOSSARY
Nationality People having common origin தேசிய இனம்
humanitarian seeking to promote human welfare மனிதாபிமானம்
brotherhood state of being brothers சக�ோதரத்துவம்
fair trial justify with legal நியாயமான விசாரணை
harmony agreement of opinions இசைவு
heir a person legally entitled to the property வாரிசு/வழித்தோன்றல்
Evaluation
I.
Choose the correct
answer 6. Which one is known as modern International
Magna Carta of Human rights?
1. After the Second World War
___________ has taken a) UDHRC b) NHRC
several measures to protect c) SHRC d) International year for women
the human rights. 7. Who can be appointed as the chairperson of
a) UNO the National Human Rights Commission?
b) Supreme Court a) Retired judge of high court
c) International Court of Justice b) Any retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
d) none c) Any person appointed by the president.
2.
In 1995 women from all over the world d) Retired Chief Judge of any court.
gathered at ________. 8.
How many articles does the Universal
a) Beijing b) New York Declaration of Human Rights contain?
c) Delhi d) none a) 20 b) 30 c) 40 d) 50
3.
The National Human Rights Commission 9. What is the tenure of the Chairperson of the
was constituted in ___________. National Human Rights Commission?
a) 1990 b) 1993 c) 1978 d) 1979 a) 5 years or upto 62 years of age
4. The UNO declared 1979 as the International b) 5 years or upto 65 years of age
year of _________. c) 6 years or upto 65 years of age
a) Girl Child b) Children d) 5 years or upto 70 years of age
c) women d) none 10. Where is the headquarters of the National
5. When is Human Rights Day observed? Human Rights Commission?
a) 9th December b) 10th December a) Delhi b) Mumbai
c) 11th December d) 12th December c) Ahmedabad d) Kolkata
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II. Fill in the blanks d) National Human Rights Commission is a
1.
Each individual has _________to lead a multilateral institution.
dignified life. 2. Which of the following statement is not correct
2. Human Rights are ____________rights. about the National Human Rights Commission?
3. The State Human Rights commission was a) It was established in 1993.
formed on___________. b) In the cases of human rights violation, the
4. Article 24 of Indian Constitution prohibits Commission has no rights to punish the
_____________. culprit.
5. United Nations Organisation was established c) The Chairperson and members are of this
in the year____________. Commission are appointed by the Supreme
III. Match the following Court of India.
d)
The Commission sends its annual report
1. Eleanor Roosevelt - world’s first charter
to the Central Government and State
of human rights
Governments.
2. The Cyrus Cylinder - 1997
3. Assertion : Human Rights day is observed on
3. Eve Teasing Act - freedom from slavery 10th December
4. Child help line - Human Rights Reason : I tcommemorates EleanorRoosevel’s
Commission birthday.
5. Civil right - right to vote a) A is correct but R does not explain A
6. Political right - 1098 b) A is correct but R explains A
IV. State true or false c) A and R are correct
1. Human rights and civil rights are the same. d) A and R are Wromg
2. Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the 4. Consider the following statements
Citizen was proclaimed in India. 1. The State Human Rights commission is a
3. The Human Right Act of 1993 provides multi-member body.
the creation of National Human Rights
2.
The State Human Rights Commission
Commission.
consists of a chairperson and three members.
4. National Human Rights Commission has
Which of the statements given above is /are
empowered to give punishment to the victims.
correct?
5. ___________was empowered to setup
commission for the promotion of Human a) 1 only
rights at National and State level. b) 2 only
c) Both a and b
V. C
onsider the following
statements and tick the d) None
appropriate answer VI. Answer the following in one or
1. Find the wrong statement two sentences
a) National Human Rights Commission is a 1. What are Human Rights?
statutory body. 2. Bring out the importance of UDHR.
b) National Human Rights Commission is a 3. What does Article 45 of Indian Constitution
constitutional body. provide?
c) National Human Rights Commission is an
4. Write about Right to Education Act.
independent body.
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5. State any three legislations passed to safeguard IX. Project and Activity
the welfare of women. 1. Make a list of 10 rights that you enjoy, and the
6. Mention some of the political rights. responsibilities that you have.
7. Name the five primary categories of Human
Rights. REFERENCE BOOKS
VII. Answer the following in detail 1. NCERT - India and the World, 2004
1. Distinguish between Human rights and Civil 2. Arun Ray., National Human Rights
rights. Commissionof India, Khama Publisher, New
2. Describe any five basic characteristics of Delhi,2004
Human rights. 3. Parikshith K. Naik., and Mehrabudin
3. What are the measures taken by the wakman., Human Rights & International
government to protect the children? Organisations, Trinity Publication, 2013
VIII. HOTs INTERNET RESOURCES

1.
To whom does the Universal Declaration of 1. www.shrc.tn.gov.in
Human Rights apply? Why is it important to you? 2. www.nhrc.nic.in
3. www.un.org
ICT CORNER
Human Rights and UNO
Through this activity

you will learn about
pictorial Time Line
events of United Nations
organisation and India.
Step - 1 Open the Browser and type the URL given below (or) Scan the QR Code.
Step - 2 Scroll down and Click on ‘IN FOCUS’
Step - 3 Select any year from the bottom time line (Ex.1948) and select the ‘box’ to
learn more about the UNO and India.
Web URL: https://in.one.un.org/

*Pictures are indicative only
*If browser requires, allow Flash Player or Java Script to load the page
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Unit - 3
Road Safety Rules

and Regulations
Learning Objectives
▶ Understand the importance of road safety.
▶ Analyze the causes for the road accidents.
▶ Recognize the safety measures to be followed while driving.
▶ Develop skills to identify and respond to traffic hazards.
▶ Can move confidently and safely on road.
Introduction
Our entire civilization has been based
upon some of our extraordinary infrastructures
which give us speed and connectivity. The
roads are one of the most crucial inventions
of man. In today’s world transport has become
an integral part of every human being. Roads
minimises the distance but on the other hand Direct Consequences of Accidents:
road accidents injures lakhs of people and Fatality(death), Injury, Property damage.
results in loss of lives. Road safety is primarily Reasons for the Road Accidents
meant about to protect and provide security of Over Speeding – The higher the speed greater
all those who travel on roads. the risk. Most of the fatal accidents occur due
Importance of Road Safety to over speeding. Increase in speed multiplies
Every day the newspapers report of the risk of accident and severity of injury during
accidents of road and mishaps occurring an accident. Tailgating is illegal and dangerous
frequently. Road accidents are undesired habit. (driving too close behind a vehicle)
events that lead to injury or death. These deaths
and injuries result in significant social and
economic costs. The problem does not lie with
roads; it is our carelessness that results in such
misfortune. The loss of life results in the loss of
livelihood. Our traffic is a heterogeneous mix
of slow moving as well as high-speed vehicles
which is the cause for the problem.
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Drunken Driving – Consumption of alcohol been brought under law. These two things
reduces concentration. It hampers vision due to reduce the severity of injury during accidents.
dizziness. And driving under the influence of
Other different factors
alcohol causes accidents. (Random breath test
is done to detect consumption of alcohol) a. Drivers - over speeding, rash driving,
violation of rules, failure to understand signs,
fatigue and consumption of alcohol.
b. Pedestrian - carelessness, illiteracy, crossing
at wrong places, moving on roads and jaywalkers
c. Passengers - projecting their body outside
the vehicle, by talking to drivers, travelling on
footboards, catching a running bus etc.
Distraction to Drivers – Distraction could d. Vehicles – failure of brakes or steering, tyre
be outside or inside the vehicle. The Major burst, insufficient headlights, overloading and
distraction now a days is talking on mobile projecting loads.
phones while driving. The act of talking on phone
e. Road Condition – damaged road, potholes,
occupies a major portion of the brain's function
and the smaller part handles the driving skills. eroded road merging of rural road with
Some other distractions are inattentive or lost highways, diversion and illegal speed breakers
in thought (daydreaming), adjusting mirrors f. Weather Conditions – fog, snow, heavy
while driving, stereo in vehicle, animals on rainfall, wind, storms and hail storms
road, banners and billboards etc.
Safety Measures
■
Always keep to the left - While driving,
keep to the left and allow vehicles to pass
from the opposite direction.
■
Slow down on bends and turn - A very
important thing to keep in mind is to
become cautious and slow down on the
bends.
Red Light Jumping – The main motive behind ■

Use helmets - Make it a habit of strapping
red light jumping is saving time. Studies have the helmet before mounting the bikes.
shown that traffic signals followed properly by
all the drivers saves time and commuters reach
destination safely and
on time.
Avoiding Safety Gears
Use of seat belt in four
wheelers and helmets
for two wheelers have
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■
Never exceed the speed limit - The speed when drunk, never use cell phone while
limit is related to the traffic condition of the driving, avoid listening to too loud music,
area. So maintain speed limit. check your mirrors before changing lanes,
■
Maintain the right distance - Collisions always wear seat belts, always remain calm
occur because we do not maintain adequate while driving and never yell or shout at
distance from the vehicle in the front. So pedestrian or other drivers.
maintain a safe distance from the bigger ■
For pedestrians - Cross only at zebra
vehicles. Keep out of their blind spot (an crossing. The two minutes’ time that you
area not seen through the rear view and waste for the signals are worth your life.
wing mirror) Never cross on red and yellow light. Take a
■ Park the vehicles only along the designated sidewalk and avoid walking on the roads.
parking bays/zones not on the sides of the The 108 Emergency Response Service
high ways. Use parking lights and caution It is a free emergency service
triangle while attending breakdown. providing integrated medical
(ambulance), police and fire
■
Follow the road signs - Road signs are mostly services. If you find any victims
pictorial so it is not hard to comprehend. on road don’t panic. Call 108 for help and 103
■
Some other safety tips are - Never ever drive for traffic accidents.
Broken white line – basic marking on roads. you

may change lanes, and are allowed to overtake a
vehicle or take U turn of it is safe to do so.
Solid white line – seen on areas of strategic

importance. These implies that you are not
allowed to overtake and to stay within the lane.
Single solid Yellow lines – used in areas where

visibility is low. It implies that you can overtake
And should drive on your side.
Double solid yellow lines - used on dangerous

roads or for two-way traffic. It strictly prohibits
anybody from crossing over into the lane.You
can overtake inside your own lane.
Stop line - This is marked before the pedestrian
crossing and sets the deadline where car shoud
stop before traffic signal.
Solid and Broken lines - if you are driving on

the side with the broken line you are allowed to
STOP
BUS
overtake and if you are driving on the side of the

solid line you are not.
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Mandatory Signs
The first category of traffic signs is mandatory signs. Violation of any mandatory traffic sign is
an offence punishable by law by the Roadways and Transport Department.
Stop Give Way One Way No Entry One Way Heavy Vechicles Prohibited
Right Turn Prohibited Left Turn Prohibited U-Turn Prohibited Over Taking Prohibited Horns Prohibited Speed Limit
Bus Stop Compulsory Turn Left Compulsory Ahead Only Compulsory Turn Right Compulsory Ahead Or Turn Right Compulsory Ahead Or Turn Left
Compulsory Keep Left Compulsory Sound Horn
Cautionary Signs
A total of 40 cautionary traffic signs have been added by the Roadways and
Transport Department. The main function of cautionary signs is to warn the driver to take necessary
action to manage the situation.
Right Hand Curve Left Hand Curve Right Hairpin bend Left Hairpin bend Right Reverse Bend Left Reverse Bend
Steep Ascent Narrow Road Ahead Broad Road Ahead Bridge Slippery Road Cycle Crossing
Pedestrian Crossing School Ahead Men At Work T-junction Falling Rocks Level Crossing
Informatory Signs
These signs provide information to the drivers via boards.
Public Telephone Fuel Hospital Railway station Eating Place
Light Refreshment Resting Place Road Closed Park This Side Parking Lot Scooter &
Motor Cycle
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Traffic Signs
Traffic signs are there to regulate traffic,
Lights at Night:
warn about hazards and to guide the road users.
Understanding traffic signs is essential. We
should have a proper knowledge of traffic signs.
The government has made it mandatory for a
person who wants to obtain driving license to
be well versed with the traffic signs. Traffic signs
prevent the undesirable risks posed on the road
to drivers and passengers in the vehicle.
There are three types of traffic signs.
STOP, LOOK, PROCEED SLOW, LOOK, PROCEED
Mandatory Signs – give order and need to be
At night, when traffic has dwindled, the
followed strictly. They are generally in circular traffic police might switch off the signals in
in shape. many intersections which means proceed
Cautionary Signs – warn the user regarding with caution but no need to stop.
road situation ahead. They are generally, in
Traffic Rules in India
triangular shape.
The Motor Vehicle Act 1988 passed by the
Informatory signs – give information regarding
Parliament which came into force in 1989 is
directions, destinations, etc., They are generally
applicable to the whole of India.
in rectangular shape.
• On one-way road the driver should allow the
Traffic Signals
overtaking vehicle through the right. Never
Traffic lights is a signalling device that is
park the vehicle in reverse on a one-way street.
positioned at a road intersection, pedestrian
crossing to indicate when it is safe to drive, ride • On a two-way road, the driver must drive
or walk using a universal colour code. on the left side of the road.
Red – this signal indicates to stop behind the • It is mandatory for the driver to slow down at
stop line. all inter junctions and pedestrian crossing.
Amber (Yellow) – this signal indicates stop. Do • Drivers should not use the horns in
not pass through or start until green shows. If, prohibited areas like hospital zones, school
by mistake, you are caught in yellow signal in zones etc.,
the middle of a large road crossing, continue • It is our responsibility to give way to
with care and do not accelerate in panic. emergency vehicles such as Army convoy
Green – this signal indicates you may go if the fire engine and ambulance.
way is clear. • Driver should use high – beam only when
Steady Green Arrow Signal – this signal may necessary. It is important to dim the lights
be provided in addition to the full green signal. when there are oncoming vehicles or when
This indicates to proceed with caution in the driving closely behind another.
direction the arrow points. • When the driver is slowing down his vehicle,
Flashing Red Signal - it means to come to he has to raise the right arm and swing it up
complete stop. Proceed only when the way is and down gently.
clear. • When the driver stopping his vehicle he has
Flashing Yellow Signal – it indicates to slow to raise the arm vertically for the indication
down and proceed with caution. to the other vehicles behind it.
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• If the driver is turning right, he has to Steps taken by the Government to
extend the arm straight out with the palm prevent Road Accidents
facing front. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
• If the driver is turning left, he has to rotate has taken a number of steps to prevent road
the hand in the anti-clockwise direction. accidents and road accident fatalities.
• In case of emergency, the hazard indicator These include:-
should be used, which will switch on both A multi – pronged strategy has been adopted
the indicators. based on four Es – Engineering, Enforcement,
• On a two-wheeler only one pillion rider is Education and Emergency care for ensuring
allowed. road safety. They are meant to provide better
• The horn should not sound really shrill and safer road engineering, improved vehicular
irritating or loud. Electronic horn is safety standards, training of drivers, improved
permitted. trauma care and creating public awareness.
• Parking vehicles in front of rescue vehicles Improving Vehicular Safety Standards -
such as an ambulance, fire engine or a Trucks are prohibited from carrying protruding
police vehicle is punishable by law and the rods. Anti – locking Brake System (ABS) has
individual doing so has to pay fine. been made mandatory on heavy vehicles.
Induction of ABS/CBS for two wheelers are
304 A of the Indian Penal Code
made mandatory. AHO (Automatic Headlight
The police will file a criminal case under this
On) made mandatory for two-wheelers to make
section, which deals with offences relating to
death due to rashness and negligence of the them more conspicuous.
driver. Pilot Projects for Cashless Treatment of Road
Accident Victims - This project has already
Different colour Number Plates done in the stretch of NH 8 and NH 33. Now it
is used in the vehicle for is proposed to implement this scheme along the

– the President of India and Golden Quadrilateral, North South and East
Governor of States. West Corridors.
is given to a vehicle that is Quick response ambulances are parked in
– used by foreign delegates/ every 50 kms on the National Highways by the
ambassadors. National Highway Authority of India (NHAI).

it means that the car A 24 x 7 call centre to receive calls for ambulances

– belongs to a common has been created and training has been given for
citizen. providing first aid to road safety volunteers.
– is for commercial vehicle. Setu Bharatam - a program was launched
in 2016 for building bridges for safe and
Essential Documents – A driver should possess
seamless travel on National Highways. It aims
the following documents while driving the
vehicle: - to make all National Highways free of railway
level crossing by 2019.
Driving License, Registration Certificate of
the Vehicle, Taxation Certificate, Insurance Speed Governors – This device has a series
Certificate, Fitness Certificate, and Permit. of sensors that can detect how fast a vehicle
is going and if this crosses the limit set by it,
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it restricts the flow of air and fuel to the engine. the road safety campaign was initiated by the
This automatically slows down and stops the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
vehicle from crossing the pre-determined speed. National Road Safety Week in India is organised
Variable Message Signs – These are LED boards by the National Safety Council of India (NSC).
which can display im portant information that It is an autonomous body set up by the Indian
needs to be communicated to commuters. government to engage the public on safety,
These can be used to update road users the health and environment issues. National Road
traffic conditions in case of major breakdowns, Safety Week is observed in the month of January
congestions and so on. every year.
Decade of Action for Road
Safety 2011 - 2020
Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011
-2020, officially proclaimed by the UN General
Assembly. The decade seeks to save millions
of lives by improving the safety of roads and
vehicles, enhancing the behavior of road users
and improving emergency services.
Brasilia Declaration on Road Safety
It is the Second Global High level Conference on
Road Safety co–sponsored by the WHO. Taking
road safety as a serious issue, India signed
Brasilia Declaration in 2015 through which the
participants across the world are committed The international Federation
to improve road safety and ways to reduce the of Red Cross and Red Crescent
traffic deaths by the end of this decade. Societies (IFRC)
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways Suggested 10 points as follows
has released a set of comic books on road safety
called Swachha Safer and Suvarshit Yatra with
the aim of creating awareness among children.
Save LIFE Foundation is an independent,

non-profit, non-governmental and public
charitable trust that is working to improve
road safety and emergency medical care
across India.
Road Safety Week

Road safety week is a national event aimed
at raising public awareness about traffic rules
and ultimately to reduce casualties due to road
accidents. It is also intented to reinforce road
safety behaviour among road users. Celebrating
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Conclusion
Road traffic accident are predictable and therefore preventable. So everyone should strictly follow
the road safety rules and signs.
Start early! Drive slowly!! Reach safely!!!
Recap
■ Road safety is primarily meant about the protection and security of all road users.
■ Road accidents are undesired events. The loss of life or serious injury results in the loss of livelihood.
■ Traffic signs are to regulate traffic, warn about hazards and to guide the road user.
■ There are three types of traffic signs such as mandatory signs, cautionary signs, and informatory signs.
■ The rule of the road regulation was brought into effect from July 1, 1989.
■ The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has taken a number of steps to prevent road accidents.
■ To strengthen the awareness on road safety systems, rules and regulations, Ministry of Transport and
Highways Road Safety Week every year.
GLOSSARY
Commuters passengers பயணிகள்
Billboard a hoarding விளம்பரபலகை
Panic anxiety பதட்டம்
Hazard danger/risk ஆபத்து
Mandatory compulsory கட்டாயம்
Pillion a seat for a passenger இரு சக்கர வாகனத்தின்
behind a motorcyclist பின்னிருக்கை
congestion overcrowding நெரிசல்
Evaluation 2. Pedestrians can cross the road only _____.

a) at anywhere b) near the signals
I. C
hoose the correct c) at Zebra crossing d) none
answer 3. Road Safety Week is celebrated in the month
1. At a red light of ______ every year.
a) You can keep going if the a) December b) January
path looks clear. c) March d) May
b) You must stop and wait for it turn green. 4. For emergency, call _______for ambulance
c) Quickly you can reply your friend’s text message. service.
d) You can attend call. a) 108 b) 100 c) 106 d) 101
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5. What are the causes for the road accidents? III. Match the following
a) Over Speeding 1.Pollution under
b) Drunken Driving control certificate - Zebra crossing
c) Distraction to Drivers 2. One-time
tax for new car - Comic book on
d) All of these
road safety
6. The first category of traffic signs is________ 3. Pedestrian - 6 months
a) Mandatory Signs
4. Brasilia Declaration - 15 years
b) Cautionary Signs 5. Swachha safer - Global conference
c) Informatory Signs IV. State true or false
d) None of these 1. The problem of accidents lies with roads only.
7.
‘Setu Bharatam’, a program was launched 2. Check mirrors before changing lanes.
in______ 3. Flashing yellow signal indicates to slow down
a) 2014 b) 2015 c) 2016 d) 2017 and proceed with caution.
8. Expand ABS: 4. On a two wheeler only one pillion rider is
a) Anti Brake start allowed.
b) Annual Base System 5. The roads are one of the worst invention of
c) Anti – locking Brake System man.

V. Consider the following
d) None of these
statements and tick the
9. Overtaking when approaching a bend is appropriate answer
a) permissible b) not permissible 1. Which of the following statement/s is/are
not correct?
c) permissible with care d) our wish
i) Maintain the right distance to the vehicle
10. When the ambulance is approaching
in the front.
a) allow passage if there are no vehicles
ii) Maintain speed limit, never exceed the
from front side
speed limit
b) no preference need be given
iii) Wearing seat belt is not necessary while
c) allow free passage by drawing to the side driving.
of the road iv) Don’t slow down on bend and turn in the
d) drive behind the ambulance with great speed road.
a) i, iii only b) ii, iv only
II. Fill in the blanks c) i, ii only d) iii, iv only
1. Always keep ___________while driving. 2. Assertion: Drunken driving causes accidents.
2. Mandatory signs are exhibited in
Reason: It hampers vision due to dizziness.
___________shape.
a) A is correct and R is the correct
3. ____________controls the speed of the
explanation of A
vehicle.
4. Higher the speed; ____________ the risk. b) A is correct and R is not the correct
5. Use of _____________in four wheelers and explanation of A
_______for two wheelers has been brought c) A is wrong and R is Correct
under law. d) Both are wrong
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3. Assertion: Road signs are easy to 5. Write a note on Brasilia Declaration on road
comprehend. safety.
Reason: They are mostly pictorial 6. what is the aim of observing Road Safety
a) A is true but R is false. Week?
b) Both A and R are true and R is the correct 7. Write any four traffic rules.
explanation of A
8. How does alcohol affect driving?
c) A is false but R is true.
d) Both A and R are true. R is not the VII. Answer the following in detail
correct explanation of A 1. Explain the factors contributed for road
4. Find the odd one out (road safety rules) accidents.
a) Slow down on the bends 2. Describe the steps taken by the Government
b) Maintain speed limit of India to prevent Road accidents.
c) Use cell phone while driving 3. What are the preventive measures of road
accidents?
d) Avoid walking on roads
5. The following signs represent. VIII. HOTs
1. What is the requirement for a two wheeler
rider during night?
2. Tabulate tips for avoiding driver fatigue.
IX. Project and Activity
1. Tabulate a few basic road safety rules for
children.
2. Demonstrate road safety techniques.
3. Prepare Road Safety Awareness pocket
guide and circulate in school.
H
REFERENCE BOOKS
1. The Motor Vehicles Act, 1988

2. The Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989
3. Ministry of Road Transport & Highways,
Government of India
4. இருசக்கர வாகன ஓட்டிகளுக்கான
சாலைப் பாதுகாப்பு விழிப்புணர்வு கையேடு,
VI. A nswer the following in one or ப�ோக்குவரத்து துறை, தமிழ்நாடு அரசு
two sentences
1. How do you ensure road safety? INTERNET RESOURCES
2. Why road safety is very important to us?
1. http://tnsta.gov.in
3. What are the direct consequences of road
2. http://parivahan.gov.in
accidents?
4. Draw traffic lights signals and indicates the 3. www.tn.gov.in>tnmvr1989
meaning.
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UNIT Forms of Government and
Democracy
1
Learning Objectives
Know the forms of government
Understand the meaning of democracy
Know the merits and demerits of democracy
Know the challenges to Indian democracy
Introduction 1.1.3 Autocracy
We are going to learn from this lesson how A system of government by one person
various forms of government have developed with absolute power.
globally. Today, many countries of the world Example: North Korea, Saudi Arabia
follow different types of governments, but the
modern world prefers democracy. 1.1.4 Oligarchy
A small group of people having control
1.1 Forms of Government of a country or organisation.
The governance of nations differs Example:
Former Soviet Union, China,
significantly based on who has power. There Venezuela North Korea.
are different forms of government: aristocracy,
monarchy, autocracy, oligarchy, theocracy, 1.1.5 Theocracy
democracy and republic. A system of government in which
religious doctrines form the basis of
1.1.1 Aristocracy
A form of government in which power is
in the hands of a small previleged ruling class
(nobels).
Example: United Kingdom, Spain
1.1.2 Monarchy
A system of government in which one
person reigns supreme, usually a king or
queen(constitutional monarchy).
Example: Bhutan, Oman, Qatar
Forms of Government
1. Forms of Government and Democracy 238
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135
government headed by a priest who rules in representatives either directly or indirectly
the name of God or proclaims himself as a through fair and free elections, which are
God. usually held periodically.
Example: Vatican. The term ‘democracy’ is
derived from two Greek words:
1.1.6 Democracy
DEMOS meaning people and
A system of government in which eligible cratia meaning power. Thus,
members in the population vote to elect literally democracy means “the power of
their elected representatives, and the party the people”.
or individual who obtains the majority votes
forms the government. 1.2.2 Deﬁnition
Example: India, USA, France According to Mahatma

Gandhi, “True democracy
1.1.7 Republic cannot be worked by twenty
men sitting at the centre.
A state in which supreme power is held It has to be worked from
by the people and their elected representatives below by the people of every
and which has an elected or nominated village.”
President rather than a monarch.
Example: India, Australia
The term ‘republic’ was

first coined in 500 BCE in
Rome. It is derived from res
publica, a Latin word meaning
public matter.
India became a Republic on 26 January
1950. It is governed in accordance with the 1.2.3 Salient Features of
Constitution adopted on 26 November 1949, Democracy
which came into force on 26 January 1950. 1. Elected representatives of people and
final decision-making power to the
1.2 What is Democracy? representatives.
2. Free and fair elections.
Democracy is a form of government
that allows people to choose their rulers.
Only leaders elected by people should Abraham Lincoln,
rule the country. one of the Presidents of
People have the freedom to express USA, defines democracy
views, freedom to organise and freedom as a government of the
to protest. people, by the people and
for the people.
1.2.1 Meaning of Democracy
Democracy is a system of government Abraham Lincoln
in which the supreme power is vested in the
people of a country and people elect their
239 1. Forms of Government and Democracy
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3. voting right is with equal value to very notable and unique feature of the village
those who have attained the age of 18 administration of the Cholas. The evolution
4. Fundamental rights and protection of towards a democracy is represented by the
individual freedom. following values: freedom, equality, fraternity,
accountability, transparency and trust.
1.2.4 Evolution of Democracy
Democracy began 2,500 years ago in 1.2.6 Types of Democracy
some of the city-states of ancient Greece. There are two types of democracies:
It is important to know that democratic 1. Direct democracy
institutions existed in India as early as the 2. Indirect (representative) democracy
Vedic period. Chanakya’s Arthashastra tells The types of democracy refers to the kind
us that in ancient India, an autonomous village of government or social structures which
community was the basic unit of the local allow people to participate equally.
government. during the later chola preiod
ancient Tamil Nadu, Kudavolai system was a Direct Democracy
When the people themselves directly
express their will on public affairs, the
type of government is called pure or direct
BCE democracy.
Example: Ancient Greek city-states,
Switzerland
ndirect Democracy /
I
Representative Democracy
When the people express their will
on public affairs, through their elected
representatives, the type of government is
called indirect or representative democracy.
1.2.5 Forms of Democratic government
Forms of Democratic government
Parliamentary form of government Presidential form of government

Example: India, England Example: USA, France
Electorate Electorate
Legislature Executive Legislature
Executive
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Example: The prevailing system of democracy India is the largest democratic
in India, USA and UK country in the world. Democracy in India
works on five basic principles. These are
1.2.7 Merits and Demerits of sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic,
Democracy republic.
Merits Every person who is a citizen of India
and who is not less than 18 years of age
1. Responsible and accountable
can exercise their right to vote in India,
government
based on universal adult suffrage. There
2. Equality and fraternity is no discrimination based on a person’s
3. Sense of responsibility among common caste, creed, religion, region, gender and
people education when it comes to providing the
4. Local self-government right to vote.
5. Development and prosperity for all
The Parliament House
6. Popular sovereignty in India was designed by
7. Sense of cooperation and fraternal feeling the British architects Edwin
Demerits Lutyens and Herbert Baker
in 1912-13 and construction
1. Indirect or representative nature of began in 1921 and ended in 1927
democracy
2. Lack of interest in democratic process 1.2.9 Elections in India
and hence lower turnout in elections India has a quasi-federal government,
3. Instability in governance due to with elected representatives at the federal,
fractured mandate state and local levels. The general elections
4. Delay in decision-making process. are conducted by the Election Commission
of India. At the national level, the President
1.2.8 Democracy in India of India, appoints the Prime Minister, who
India has a parliamentary form of enjoys majority in the Lok Sabha, the lower
democracy. The Indian Parliament comprises house of the Parliament of India.
the elected representatives of people and makes
the laws for the country. The participation of
people in the decision making and the consent Two Houses of
of citizens are the two important elements of the
Parliament
parliamentary form of government in India.
Lok Sabha / Lower Rajya Sabha /

House / House of Upper House /
People Council of States
All members of the Lok Sabha are directly

elected through general elections, which take
place once in every five years, in normal
circumstances. Two Anglo Indian members
can be nominated by the President of India to
the Lok Sabha.
Parliament of India
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Members of the Rajya Sabha, the Upper has not faced a serious challenge or a rival
House of the Indian Parliament, are elected so far. In the last hundred years, there has
by an electoral college consisting of elected been an expansion of democracy all over the
members of the legislative assemblies of the world. The various aspects of democracy and
states and the Union Territories of India. The its challenges are:
President of India nominates 12 members for
1. Illiteracy
their contributions to art, literature, science
2. Poverty
and social services.
3. Gender discrimination
1.2.10 The First Elections in 4. Regionalism
5. Casteism, communalism and religious
Democratic India
fundamentalism
General elections to the first Lok Sabha 6. Corruption
since independence Were held in India 7. Criminalisation of politics
between 25 October 1951 and 21 February 8. Political violence
1952. The Indian National Congress
1.2.12 Conditions for the Success
of Democracy in India
Empowerment of the poor and illiterates to
enjoy the goodness of democracy.
Willingness among the elected people
not to misuse their powerful position and
public wealth.
Eradication of social evils and dangers
from which democracy suffers.
Elections in India An impartial and efficient press to form
public opinion.
Presence of strong public opinion.
emerged victorious by winning 364 of the
Feeling of tolerance and communal
489 seats. Jawaharlal Nehru became the first
harmony among the people.
democratically elected Prime Minister of the
Awareness among the people of the
country.
fundamental rights that they are entitled
to enjoy.
British India –General Conscious check and vigilance on the
elections, 1920 working of the elected representatives.
General elections were Powerful and responsible opposition.
held in British India in 1920 to
Indian democracy can be successful and
elect members to the Imperial Legislative
vibrant only when its citizens imbibe and
Council and the Provincial Councils. They
reflect in their behavior the basic democratic
were the first elections in the country’s
values like equality, freedom, social justice,
history.
accountability and respect for all. Their
mindset, thinking and behavior are expected
1.2.11 Major challenges to to be in tune with the essential conditions
Indian Democracy of democracy. They have to appreciate the
opportunities for their desired roles like
Democracy is the dominant form of participation, making the system accountable,
government in the contemporary world. It
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fulfilling obligations, and playing proactive 5. Abraham Lincoln was the President of
roles to actualize the goals of democracy. the ________.
(a) USA (b) UK
Recap (c) USSR (d) India
Government is a group of people who 6. Kudavolai system was followed by

govern a community or unit. (a) Cheras (b) Pandyas
Monarchy is a system of government (c) Cholas (d) Kalabhras
in which one person reigns supreme, 7. Direct Democracy in olden times existed
usually a king or queen.
(a) In the republics of ancient India
Types of democracy refer to kind of
(b) Among the USA
government or social structures which
allow people to participate equally, (c) In the city-state of ancient Greece
either directly or indirectly. (d) Among the UK
When the people themselves directly 8. From which language was the term
express their will on public affairs, the “Democracy” derived?
type of government is called pure or
(a) Greek (b) Latin
direct democracy.
(c) Persian (d) Arabic
Based on universal adult suffrage, every
Indian citizen, above 18 years of age, can 9. In democracy the final authority rests
exercise the right to vote in India. with
(a) The Parliament
(b) The People
EXERCISE (c) The council of Ministers
(d) The President
10. Which one of the country has
I. C
hoose the correct Presidential form of government
answer: (a) India (b) Britain
1. A system of government in which one (c) Canada (d) USA
person reigns supreme, usually a king or 11. The largest democratic country in the
queen, is called________ world is
(a) autocracy (b) monarchy (a) Canada (b) India
(c) democracy (d) republic (c) USA (d) China
2. A system of government with absolute 12. Assertion (A): Direct democracy is
power. practised in Switzerland.
(a) Aristocracy (b) Theocracy Reason (R): People directly participates in
(c) Democracy (d) Autocracy decision making.
3. Former Soviet Union is an example for (a) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R)
_________. explains (A)
(a) aristocracy (b) theocracy (b) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R)
(c) oligarchy (d) republic does not explain (A)
4. Select the odd one (c) (A) is correct and (R) is false
(a) India (b) USA (d) (A) is false and (R) is true
(c) France (d) Vatican
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13. Assertion (A): India has parliamentary
5. _________ was the first Prime Minister
form of democracy.
of independent India.
Reason (R): Indian parliament comprises 6. The first general elections were held in
two houses. British India in the year __________
(a) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R) 7. The Parliament House in India was
explains (A) designed by _________ and _________
(b) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R)
does not explain (A) III. Match the following:
(c) (A) is correct and (R) is false 1. Autocracy - 18
(d) (A) is false and (R) is true 2. Right to vote - Arthashastra
14. The meaning of Franchise is 3. Chanakya - Vatican
(a) Right to elect 4. Theocracy - North Korea
(b) Right to vote for the poor
IV. Give short answers:
(c) Right to vote
(d) Right to vote for the rich 1. Give Abraham Lincoln’s definition for
democracy.
15. The grant of universal franchise creates 2. Mention the forms of democracy.
(a) Social equality 3. Distinguish between direct and indirect
(b) Economic equality democracy.
(c) Political equality
(d) Legal equality V. Answer in detail:
16. Prime Minister of India is appointed by 1. What are the challenges to Indian
democracy? explain.
(a) Lok Sabha (b) Rajya Sabha
2. Explain the conditions necessary
(c) Speaker (d) President
for the success of democracy in India.
17. The President of India can nominate
3. What is your opinion about democracy
(a) 12 members to Lok Sabha in India?
(b) 2 members of Rajya Sabha
VI. Project and Activity
(c) 12 members to Rajya Sabha
(d) 14 members of Rajya Sabha 1. Discuss in the class what is universal
adult franchise? Why is it important?
18. The First general elections after
2. “Democracy is the power of majority
independence in India were held in which respects minority.” Discuss.
(a) 1948-49 (b) 1951-52 3. Conduct a mock election in your class.
(c) 1957-58 (d) 1947-48 4. A group discussion on the merits and
demerits of democracy of India in the
II. Fill in the blanks:
classroom.
1. The Constitution of India was finally
adopted on _________ VII. HOTS
2. The two types of democracy are _______ 1. Will you have the right to equality under
and ________ dictatorship? What would be the attitude
regarding public opinion in such a country?
3. An example for direct democracy is
2. How does democracy lead to a peaceful
_________
and a harmonious life among the citizens?
4. India has a _______form of democracy. Explain.
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VIII. Life Skills
Select a group of countries. Research each country and tell what type of government it has:
Aristocracy, Monarchy, Autocracy, Oligarchy, Theocracy, Democracy, Republic. Then, provide
characteristics of this country that helped you determine the type of government.
Country name Type of government Characteristics of the country’s government
ICT CORNER
Child Help Line
Explore child helpline

1098
Steps:
• Type the URL link given below in the browser OR scan the QR code. You can
also download the “child line” from the given URL.
• Under report a child click a child in distress.
• On the menu bar select vulnerability map.
• When you click on download section you can get and download songs and
videos about helpline.
Child help line
http://www.childlineindia.org.in/1098/b1a-telehelpline.htm
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UNIT Election, Political Parties and
Pressure Groups
2
Learning Objectives
Know about the electoral system in India

Know the different types of elections in India
Understands the meaning of political party
Know the functions of state party and national party
Understand the pressure groups in India
Introduction the preparation of electoral rolls, the

delimitation of constituencies and all
An election is a formal decision-making other matters necessary for securing
process by which a people chooses an their due constitution.
individual to hold public office by voting.
(iii) The state legislatures can also make
provisions with respect to all matters
2.1 Electoral System in India relating to elections to the state legislatures
including the preparation of electoral
The electoral system in India has been
rolls and all other matters necessary for
adapted from the system followed in the
securing their due constitution.
United Kingdom. India is a socialist,
secular, democratic republic and the largest Ku d avol ai
democracy in the world. The modern India was the system
the constitution of India came into force on of voting
26th January ,1950 fol lowed
during the
Articles 324 to 329 in part XV of the
Chola period in Tamil Nadu
Constitution make the following provisions with
regard to the electoral system in our country. Kudavolai
(i) Article 324 of the Indian Constitution 2.1.1 Election Process

provides for an independent Election
At the national level, the head of government,
Commission in order to ensure free
the Prime Minister, is elected by members
and fair elections in the country. At
of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the
present, the commission consists of a
Chief Election Commissioner and two Parliament in India.
Election Commissioners. We celebrate National Voters
Day on 25th January in India.
(ii) The Parliament may make provision
with respect to all matters relating to
elections to the Parliament including
2. Election, Political Parties and Pressure Groups 246
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In representative democracy like ours, elections 2.1.3 Types of Elections in India
are extremely important. Voting in elections are Elections are classified into two types: direct
the best way to make your ‘voice’ heard. and indirect elections.
2.1.2 Introduction of the NOTA
Direct Elections
Option
People directly vote for the candidates in
If the people in a democratic country are the fray and elect their representatives. The
not willing to elect any candidate, they can following are examples of direct elections
vote for the option called NOTA (None Of in which people over the age of 18 years
The Above). Rule 49-O in the Conduct of participate in the electoral process by casting
Elections Rules, 1961, of India describes this their votes.
procedure.
(i) Lok Sabha elections, in which the
Members of Parliament are elected.
(ii) Elections to the state Legislative
Assemblies, in which the Members of
Legislative Assemblies are elected.
(iii) Elections to the local governing
bodies, i.e such as village panchayat,
town panchayat, municipalities,
municipalcorporation are conducted by
Voters Verified Paper Audit Trail the state election commission.
(VVPAT)
Merits
(i) As the voters elect their
Voters Verified Paper representatives directly,
Audit Trail (VVPAT) is the direct elections are
way forward to enhance considered to be a more
credibility and transparency democratic method of
of the election process. This election.
system was first introduced in the 2014
(ii) It educates people regarding the
General Election.
government activities and helps in
choosing the appropriate candidates.
NOTA was first introduced in Also, it encourages people to play an
the General Elections held in active role in politics.
2014. India is the 14th country
(iii) It empowers people and makes the
in the world to introduce NOTA.
rulers accountable for their actions.
Demerits
(i) Direct elections are very exspensive.
(ii) Illiterate voters sometimes get misguided
by false propaganda. Campaigning based
on caste, religion and various other
Symbol used with NOTA option on sectarian considerations pose serious
electronic voting machines in India challenges.
247 2. Election, Political Parties and Pressure Groups
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(iii) Since conducting direct elections is a
How is the President of
massive exercise, ensuring free and fair India elected?
elections at every polling station is a major
challenge to the Election Commission. The President of India is
elected by the members of an
(iv) There are instances of some political
electoral college consisting of
candidates influencing the voters
through payments in the form of cash, 1. The elected members of both Houses
goods or services. of Parliament
(v) Election campaigns sometimes results 2. The elected members of the Legislative
in violence, tension, law and order Assemblies of all the states and Union
problems and affects the day-to-day life territories in India
of people.
NOTE: The members nominated
Indirect Elections
to either House of Parliament or the
Voters elect their representatives, Legislative Assemblies of states are not
who, in turn, elect their representatives eligible to be included in the electoral
this method of election is followed for college.
the election of president of India.
Merits 2.2.2 Types of a Party System
(i) Indirect elections are less expensive. There are three types of party system in the
(ii) It is more suited to elections in large
world namely.
countries.
i. Single-party system in which one
Demerits ruling party exists and no opposition
(i) If the number of voters is very small, is permitted. China, Cuba, the former
there exists the possibility of corruption, USSR (Union of Soviet Socialist
bribery, horse trading and other unfair Republics) are the examples for the
activities. single-party system.
(ii) It is less democratic because people do ii. Two-party system in which only two
not have a direct opportunity to elect, major parties exist, for example, USA, UK.
but they instead do it through their iii. Multi-party system in which there are more
representatives. So, this may not reflect than two political parties, for example,
the true will of the people. India, Sri Lanka, France and Italy.
2.2 Political Parties 2.2.3 Types of Political Parties
Political parties are an essential part of Political parties in India are classified
democracy. Parties are the link between according to their area of influence into two
government and the people. main types:(1) national and (2) state parties.
2.2.1 Meaning of Political Party

A political party is an organisation formed Political parties
by a group of people with a certain ideology
and agenda to contest elections and hold National State
power in the government. A political party
has three components: a leader, active Ruling
Ruling Opposition Opposition
members and the followers.
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National Parties Parties form and run the governments.
A party which is recognised as a state Those parties that lose in the elections
party in at least four states is recognised as play the role of the Opposition to the
a national party. Every party in the country party or a group of coalition parties in
has to register with the Election Commission power, by voicing different views and
while the Commission treats all the parties criticising the government for its failures
equally. It offers some special facilities to or wrong policies.
state and national parties. These parties are Parties shape public opinion. They raise
given a unique symbol. Only the official and highlight issues of importance.
candidate of the party can use that election
Parties function as the useful link between
symbol. In 2017, there were seven recognised
people and the government machinery.
national parties.
2.2.4 Role of Opposition Parties
State Parties
in a Democracy
Other than the seven national parties,
most of the major parties of the country are In a democracy, there may be a two-party
classified by the Election Commission as system like in the USA or a multi-party system
‘state parties’. These are commonly referred like in India and France. The ruling party may
to as regional parties. A party is recognised have received the mandate of the majority
as a state party by the Election Commission people and the Opposition party represented the
of India based on certain percentage of votes remaining people. The Leader of the Opposition
secured or a certain number of seats won in party occupied a prominent place in all
the Assembly or Lok Sabha elections. democratic forms of the government. He enjoys
the rank of a Cabinet Minister. He opposes the
Recognition to the Parties wrong policies of the ruling party, which affects
For getting recognition as ‘national party’, a the general public. As the Chairman of the Public
party has to fulfill any one of the following criteria: Accounts Committee questions the functioning
of the government departments and examines
i. At least 6% votes in at least four states and
the public money used for the well-being of the
members to the Lok Sabha.
people. Similarly, he plays an important role
ii. In the election of Lok Sabha, at least 2% to select the Chairman and members of the
members from at least three states are Central Vigilance Commission, Chairperson
elected to Lok Sabha. and members of the Information Commission.
iii. Recognition as a state party at least four The Opposition Parties reflect genuine demands
states. and concern of the people to play a constructive
role in a democracy.
Functions of Political Parties
Parties contest elections. In most 2.3 Pressure Groups
democracies, elections are fought The term ‘pressure group’ originated in
mainly among the candidates put up the USA. A pressure group is a group of
by political parties. people who are organised actively for
Parties put forward their policies and promoting and defending their common
programmes before the electorate to interest. It is so called as it attempts to bring
consider and choose. a change in the public policy by exerting
pressure on the government.
Parties play a decisive role in making
laws for a country. Formally, laws are The pressure groups are also called ‘interest
debated and passed in the legislature. groups’ or vested groups. They are different from
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the political parties in that they neither contest yet powerful group to influence the policy
elections nor try to capture political power. decisions. Pressure groups carry out a range of
functions including representation, political
participation, education, policy formulation
and policy implementation.
Examples for Pressure

Groups
1. Federation of Indian
Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (FICCI)
2.3.1 Pressure Groups in India 2. All India Trade Union Congress
A large number of pressure groups exist in (AITUC)
India. But, they are not developed to the same 3. All India Kisan Sabha
extent as in the USA or the Western countries 4. Indian Medical Association (IMA)
like Britain, France, Germany and so on.
5. All India Students Federation (AISF)
6. All India Sikh Students Federation
7. Young Badaga Association
8. Tamil Sangam
9. Tamil Nadu Vivasayigal Sangam
10. Narmada Bachao Andolan
Political Participation
Pressure groups can be called the informal
face of politics. They exert influence precisely by
The pressure groups in India can be broadly
mobilising popular support through activities
classified into the following categories:
1. Business groups such as petitions, marches, demonstrations and
other forms of political protest. Such forms of
2. Trade unions
political participation have been particularly
3. Agrarian groups
attractive to young people.
4. Professional
associations Education
5. Student organisations Many pressure groups devote significant
6. Religious organisations resources by carrying out research,
maintaining websites, commenting on
7. Tribal organisations
government policy and using high-profile
8. Linguistic groups academics, scientists and even celebrities to
9. Ideology-based groups get their views across, with an emphasis to
10. Environmental protection groups cultivate expert authority.
Functions of Pressure Groups in Policy Formulation

India Though the pressure groups themselves
Pressure groups are the interest groups that are not policy-makers, yet it does not
work to secure certain interest by influencing prevent many of them from participating in
the public policy. They are non-aligned with the policy-making process. Many pressure
groups are vital sources of information
any political party and work as an indirect
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and render advice to the government and
therefore they are regularly consulted in the
process of policy formulation.
EXERCISE
2.4 Mobilisation and I. Choose the

People’s Participation correct answer:
2.4.1 Mobilisation 1. India has adapted the electoral system
Mobilising people towards socially productive followed in the
activities that lead to the overall betterment (a) USA (b) United Kingdom
of people’s lives is essential. Sometimes (c) Canada (d) Russia
earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and other such
2. The Election Commission of India is a / an
natural disasters on a massive scale occur and
people’s immediate mobilisation for evacuation (a) Independent body
and emergency relief becomes most essential. (b) Statutory body
2.4.2 Democratic Participation (c) Private body
Democracy can succeed only when smaller (d) Public corporation
local groups and, in fact, every citizen can 3. Which Article of the Constitution
take action that supports the tax and revenue provides for an Election Commission?
collection systems, observance of national norms (a) Article 280 (b) Article 315
in environmental protection, cleanliness, health
and hygiene, sanitary drives and immunisation (c) Article 324 (d) Article 325
programmes like pulse polio. 4. Which part of the constitution of India
However, we must keep ion mind that says about the election commission?
there is no better form of government than (a) Part III (b) Part XV
Democratic government. To create a better (c) Part XX (d) Part XXII
society and nation, the people of India 5. Who accords recognition to various
along with the union and state governments political parties as national or regional
should come together to fight against the parties?
miseries of human life.
(a) The President
Recap (b) The Election Commission
The Prime Minister is elected by (c) The Parliament
members of the Lok Sabha. (d) The President in consultation with
There are two types of elections: direct the Election Commission
and indirect elections. 6. Assertion (A) : Indian Constitution
A political party has three components: a provides for an independent Election
leader, active members and the followers. Commission
Political parties in India are classified
Reason (R): To ensure free and fair
into two types: (1) National Parties (2) elections in the country.
State Parties. (a) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R)
In 2017, there were seven recognised explains (A)
national parties. (b) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R)
The term ‘pressure group’ originated in does not explain (A)
the USA. (c) (A) is correct and (R) is false
A large number of pressure groups (d) (A) is false and (R) is true
exist in India.
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7. NOTA was introduced in the year V. Answer in detail:
(a) 2012 (b) 2013 1. Discuss merits and demerits of direct
(c) 2014 (d) 2015 elections?
8. The term pressure groups originated 2. What are the functions of political
in _____. parties?
(a) USA (b) UK 3. What are the function of Pressure
(c) USSR (d) India groups in India?
9. Assertion (A): A large number of VI. Project and Activity
pressure groups exist in India. 1. Compare the policies, programmes
Reason (R): Pressure Groups are not and achievements of a national party
developed in India to the same extent and a state party.
as in the USA
(a) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R) VII. HOTS
explains (A)
1. “Elections are considered essential
(b) B oth (A) and (R) are true and (R) for any representative democracy”.
does not explain (A) Why?
(c) (A) is correct and (R) is false 2. What is the principle of universal
adult franchise? What is its
(d) (A) is false and (R) is true importance?
3. Discuss merits and demerits of
II. Fill in the blanks: democracy.
1. The Election Commission of India is 4. Discuss the multi-party system.
a body of _______members.
2. National Voters day has been VIII. Life Skill
celebrated on_________. Conduct a mock poll in your classroom.
3. In India _______ party system is
followed.
4. In 2017, there were _________
recognised national parties.
5. Narmada Bachao Andolan is a
___________.
III. Match the following:

1. National - a. Trade
party unions
2. Single-party system - b. USA
3. Two-party system - c. China
4. Pressure groups - d. Seven
IV. Give short answers:

1. Explain the electoral system in
India.
2. Give the meaning of a political party.
3. Distinguish between two-party
system and the multi-party system.
4. What is a pressure group?
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UNIT
Human Rights
3
Learning Objectives
To know about the international efforts for protecting human rights
To understand the basic human rights ensured in the Indian Constitution
To understand about the functions of institutions and issues involved in
human rights
To know about the types of human rights
Introduction non-white man in a

first class carriage and
The lesson travels through the history the person was ordered
of organisations for human rights. The rights to move to a van
ensured by the Universal Declaration of compartment at the end
Human Rights being highlighted. Fundamental of the train. The man who
rights are enshrined in the Indian Constitution had the first-class ticket
and fundamental duties incorporated in the refused to leave and
was thrown off the train
Constitution along with the introduction to
at Pietermaritzburg. Gandhi in SouthAfrica
National and State Human Rights Commissions
Shivering in the winter
and their functions are explained. Extended
night in the waiting room of the station changed
rights like child rights, SC and ST rights, women
the course of his life. He took up the fight
rights, labour rights, etc., are also discussed. against racial oppression. The spirit for active
non-violence started from that moment.
On 7th June 1893, while a person was Mahatma Gandhi made the momentous
on his way to Pretoria, in South Africa a
decision to stay on in South Africa and fight
white man objected the person’s presence of a
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racial discrimination against the Indians. Out of
that struggle emerged his unique way of protest End of Apartheid
nonviolent Satyagraha.
As a human being, Gandhi had all the
rights to travel in the first class compartment.
But he was discriminated because of his skin
colour. Discrimination is not only based on
colour, it is on the basis of race, gender, place of
birth, caste, religion and so on.
Due to these discriminations, people are
prohibited from enjoying their basic human Mandela raises his fist soon after his release
rights. from jail after 27 years
Apartheid was the highest form of
discrimination that existed in South Africa.
Places of residence were determined by
racial classification.
It was the governing policy in the country
by the minority whites over the majority
non-whites. The people of South Africa
protested against racial discrimination.
Inscription at the railway station

Nelson Mandela raised his voice against
apartheid. When he organised defiant
3.1 What are Human Rights? campaigns against the government, he was
imprisoned. Amid growing domestic and
The U.N.O defines Human rights as “The international pressure and with the fear of
right inherent to all human beings, regardless a racial civil war, President F. W. de Klerk
of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, language, released him in 1990.
religion or any other status. Every one is entitled The efforts taken by Mandela and de Klerk
to these rights without discrimination.” put an end to apartheid. In 1994, a multiracial
Human Rights day is celebrated every year general election was held, in which Mandela
on 10th December led the African National Congress to victory
and became President.
The history of human rights has roots
in all the great events of the world and it has
sustained the struggle for freedom and equality 3.2 Universal Declaration
everywhere. The United Nations Organisation of Human Rights (UDHR)
(U.N.O) was formed on 24th October 1945 after
the Second World War. It proposed to deal with
the consequences of war and to prevent such The Universal Declaration of Human
happenings in the future. Rights is a milestone document in the history
of human rights. It was drafted by the
October 24 is UNO day
representatives with different legal and cultural
The Universal Declaration of Human back grounds from all regions of the world.
Rights(UDHR) has played a crucial role in pro- The Declaration was proclaimed by the United
moting human rights. Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10th
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December 1948 (General Assembly resolution Political rights exercised in the formation
217A) as a common standard of achievement and administration of a government. They are
of all people and all nations. The first time it given to the citizens by law. These rights give
sets out the fundamental human rights to be power to the citizens to participate either di-
universally protected and the UDHR has been rectly or indirectly in the administration.
translated into many languages.
3.3 Fundamental Rights in
There are 30 articles in the Universal India
Declaration of Human Rights and it guarantees
freedom of expression as well as civil, political, Fundamental rights are required for the
social, economic and cultural rights. These all round development of a human being. They
rights apply to all people, irrespective of their make the life of people meaningful by giving
race, gender and nationality, as all people are them rights like speech and to live in an area of
born free and equal. their choice.
The fundamental rights are :
3.2.1: Social, Economic and • Right to Equality
Cultural Rights: • Right to Freedom
Social ,economic and cultural rights are • Right against Exploitation
integral part of the human rights law that was • Right to Freedom of Conscience and
developed due to the aftermath of World War Religion
II. • Cultural and Educational Rights for
Social rights are necessary for full minorities
participation in the society. Economic rights • Right to Constitutional Remedies
guarantee every person to have conditions
under which they are able to meet their needs. 3.3.1 Right to Equality:
They are a part of a range of legal principles It refers to equality before law and equal
through which economic equality and freedom protection of law. Prohibition or discrimination
are preserved in a State. on the grounds of religion, caste, races, gender
Cultural rights are human rights that aim or place of birth is offensive and one can seek
at assuring the enjoyment of culture and its justice from court.
components in conditions of equality, human
dignity and non-discrimination.
3.2.2 Civil and Political Rights:

Civil and political rights protect an in-
dividual’s freedom from infringement by the
government, social organizations and private
individuals. These rights ensure one’s ability to
participate in the civil and political life of the
society and state.
The term ‘Civil rights’ refers to the basic Share your views about this picture
rights afforded by laws of the government, to
every person regardless of race, nationality,
3.3.2. Right to Freedom
colour , gender, age, religion etc.,
Six different types of freedom
are mentioned in the Constitution.
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They are: 3.3.4 Right to Freedom of
a. Freedom of speech and expression. Conscience and Religion:
b. Freedom to assemble peacefully without This right gives the citizens freedom to
arms. follow and practice a religion of their choice.
c. Freedom to form associations and unions.
d. Freedom to reside and settle in any part of
India.
e. Freedom to move freely throughout the
territory of India.
f. Freedom to practice any profession and
carry on any occupation, trade or business.
All citizens have the freedom of conscience

3.3.3 Right against Exploitation: or ideas. The citizens also have the freedom
to follow their own ways for practicing any
It is against the law to employ children
religion.
below 14 years of age in mines, factories or
other occupations. Neither contractor nor an 3.3.5 Cultural and Educational
employer can force a worker to do a job against Rights:
the their will. The Constitution gives us the right to
preserve, protect and promote culture. We
have the right to open schools, associations
and societies to preserve and promote our
tradition and culture. Similarly a group of
people may open a school for imparting
religious education to children. The
government also promotes such activities
Differences Between Human Rights and Fundamental Rights

Human Rights Fundamental Rights
• The rights that a human being deserves to • The elemental rights of the citizens of a country,
survive with respect and freedoms. which are listed in the constitution and enforce-
able under the law is known as fundamental
rights.
• Human rights include those rights which
• Fundamental rights includes only those rights
are basic to a real life and are absolute, i.e.
which are basic to a normal life.
it cannot be taken away.
• Human rights are recognised at international • Fundamental rights are guaranteed under the
level. constitution of the country.
Human rights as declared by the UN, suggest minimum standards of rights to be adopted by
Government and these serve more or less like Directive Principles.
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by giving grants. However, such institutions 2. To follow and cherish the noble ideals which
cannot deny admission to anyone based on inspired our National Struggle for freedom.
their caste, colour, creed or even religion. 3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity
and integrity of India.
WRIT is a written order from the court or
4. To defend the country and render national
other legal authority ordering to do an act or
service when called upon to do so.
not to do it.
5. To promote harmony and spirit of common
brotherhood amongst all the people of India,
3.3.6 Right to Constitutional transcending religious, linguistic, regional or
Remedies sectional diversities, to renounce practices
derogatory to the dignity of women.
Fundamental Rights are guaranteed by the
6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of
Constitution. By this right, a person can adopt
our composite culture.
Constitutional means and approach a court 7. To protect and improve the natural environment
if he is denied the Fundamental Rights. The including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife and
court then issues orders which are called ‘Writs’ have compassion on living creatures.
to the government to restore the rights to the 8. To develop the scientific temper, humanism
citizen. The Constitutional Remedies put to and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
right anything which may be wrong in terms of 9. To safeguard public property and to abjure
the Constitution. This right therefore protects from violence.
and safeguards all other rights. 10. To strive towards excellence in all spheres
of individual and collective activity, so that
PreethikaYashini won her right of the nation constantly rises to higher levels of
employment by approaching the endeavour and achievements.
court according to the Right to 11. To provide opportunities for education by
Constitutional remedies. the parent and guardian to their child or
ward upto the age of 14 years.
Maintenance and welfare of
parents and Senior Citizens Act,
2007 is a
legislation
passed in
2007 by the Government
3.4 Fundamental Duties of India. This Act is a legal
obligation for children
These are in the form of duties and and heirs to provide maintenance to senior
responsibilities of citizens. ‘The original citizens and parents.
Constitution which came into force with
effect from 26th January, 1950 did not contain 3.5
National Human
Fundamental Duties.
Rights Commission
These were incorporated in the Constitution
by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976. The
Constitution states eleven Fundamental Duties as
given below:
1. Respect for the Constitution and its ideals
and institutions, the National Flag and the
National Anthem.
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The National Human Rights Commission the SHRC add strength to its functioning in a
is an autonomous body constituted on 12th state. The office is the Human Rights is located
October 1993 under the protection of Human in Chennai.
rights Act,1993. It consists of a chairman and Functions of SHRC
few other members. 3 from judiciary and 4 from
other department NHRC is responsible for the • The SHRC shall enquire into violation
of human rights in respect of matters
protection and promotion of human rights in
specified in the state and concurrent lists.
India defined by the Act as rights relating to life,
• Its objectives and duties are the same as
liberty, equality and dignity of the individual
NHRC, but confined only to the state. It
guaranteed by the Constitution or embodied in
has a chairman and two members.
the international covenants the office is located
• It has the power of a civil court and can
in New Delhi . take cognizance of cases if received or in
Functions of NHRC suo motu.
• To inquire into the violation of human • It can also recommend compensation to
rights or negligence in the prevention of victims.
such violation by a public servant
• To intervene in court proceedings relating 3.6.1 Child Rights
to human rights Apart from the fundamental rights de-
• To undertake and promote research in the scribed by the Constitution, we have to ensure
field of human rights certain other rights.
• To engage in human rights education among A child is a person who has not completed
various sections of society the age of 18 years i.e. a minor as per UNO. This
• To encourage the effects of NGOs and principle is exhibited in Articles 25 of the Uni-
institutions working in the field of human versal Declaration of Human Rights. Based on
rights. these principles, the declaration of the Rights of
the child was accepted and adopted in the UN
3.6 State Human Rights General Assembly on 20th November, 1989.
Commission(SHRC) • Right to life
• Right to family environment
• Right to Education
• Right to benefit from Social security
• Right against sexual exploitation
• Right against sale or trafficking
• Right against other forms of exploitation
like Child labour.
Every state in India has a State Human Right to life

Rights Commission established in accordance A child has the right to survive even before
its birth. The right to survival also includes the
with the power conferred on the state under
right to be born, the right to basic needs of food,
section 21of the Protection of Human Rights Act,
shelter and clothing and a dignified living.
1993. The protection and promotion of human
rights constitute the principal concern of the Right to Family Environment
Commission. Moreover, the procedures A child has the right to live a normal child-
adopted by the Commission to conduct its hood in a family environment. Children who
proceedings, the suo motu actions taken on have been left destitute, abandoned or orphaned
complaints regardless of the sources received also have the right to live. These children can be
and the transparency of the proceedings of given for adoption to caring families.
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Right to benefit from Social security The Right of children To free and compulsory
Children should get financial support from Education (RTE) Act, 2009, means that
the country when their parents or guardians are every child has a right to formal Elementary
unable to provide them with a good standard of Education. This right of children provides free
living by themselves, due to any illness, disabil- and compulsory education till the completion
ity or old age. of elementary education in a neighbourhood
Right to Education school. The child need not pay any kind of
Right to Education Act is an Act of the Par- fee for completing elementary education.
liament of India enacted in 2009 for free and
compulsory education for children from 6 to 14 Right against sale or trafficking of children
years of age as under Article 21A of the Consti- Children should be treated as individuals
tution. with fundamental human rights. Children are
Malala - Nobel vulnerable. There are root causes such as pover-
Peace prize ty, gender discrimination, broken families etc.,
laureate says behind the sale or trafficking of children.
"I loved school.
But everything
c h a n g e d
when the
fundamentalist
took control of our town in Swat Valley.
They said girls could no longer go to school.
I spoke out publicly on behalf of girls and our
right to learn. And this made me a target.
In October 2012, on my way home from
school, a masked gunman boarded my school
bus and asked, “Who is Malala?” He shot me
on the left side of my head. I woke up 10 days
later in a hospital in Birmingham, England.
After months of surgeries and rehabilitation,
I joined my family in our new home in the
U.K. I determined to continue my fight until
every girl could go to school.
Every day I fight to ensure all girls receive 12 The Kavalan SOS App is
years of free, safe, quality education. With launched by the Government
more than 130 million girls out of school of Tamil Nadu for public use
today, there is more work to be done. I hope during emergencies. Anyone
you will join my fight for education and in a critical situation, not only women, can
equality. Together, we can create a world easily and directly access the State Police
where all girls can learn and lead. Control Room using this App.
If you were Malala, what would you have
done? Children are subjected to sale or traffick-
Is Malala's fight necessary? ing for various reasons – economic exploitation,
Are girl children treated and given education sexual exploitation, sexual abuse, drug traffick-
equally? ing and child labour.
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Have you heard about child trafficking? Right against other forms of exploitation like
Conduct a debate on this topic in your class. Child labour
Children are often employed in several
Right against sexual exploitation industries. These children are deprived of their
The state should protect children from childhood, health and education. This will lead
sexual exploitation and abuse, when they are to a life of poverty and want. These children are
forced or persuaded to take part in sexual made to work in glass, match-box, lock-making
activities physically or mentally. factories, rag-picking, carpet – making industry,
POCSO Act - Protection beedi - rolling, mining, stone quarrying, brick
of Children from kilns and tea gardens etc.
Sexual Offences Act Work is mostly gender – specific, with girls
The Protection of performing more home – based work, while
Children from Sexual boys are employed as waged labour. Since these
Offences Act, 2012 children work in agricultural fields, restaurants,
regards the best interest motor repair workshops and home – based
of the child as being of paramount importance
industries, elimination of child labour remains
at every stage.
a challenge.
Salient features of POCSO Act
• The Act defines a child as any person below Kailash Satyarthi is a Nobel
eighteen years of age, to ensure the healthy, Peace Prize recipient and the
physical, emotional, intellectual and social founder of Bachpan Bachao
development of the child. Andolan, and many other
• When the abuse is committed by a person child rights organisations.
in a position of trust or authority vis-à-vis More than 86,000 children in India have
the child, like a family member, neighbours been liberated by him and his team members
or any other acquaintances. from child labour, slavery and trafficking. An
• The statement of the child is to be recorded 80,000 km long Global March against Child
exactly as the child narrates. Labour was led by Kailash in 1998 which
• A child not to be called repeatedly to testify. turned the world’s attention towards the issue
An ordinance providing the death of Child labour. He received Nobel prize for
penalty for rapists of girls below 12 years of peace in the year 2014.
age and other stringent penal provisions for
rape has been promulgated in April 2018. The
Criminal Law Amendment Ordinance, 2018,
amended the Indian Penal Code . Another
salient feature of this amendment is that the
fine imposed shall be just and reasonable to
meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation
of the victim.
The findings of an international survey re-
1098 veals that children with disabilities are 3.4% more
Childline is India's first 24 hours free sexually abused than normal children.
emergency phone service for children in Child Rights in the Indian Constitution
need of assistance. Special care is given for
Article 24 – No child below the age of 14
vulnerable children like those affected by
must be employed in hazardous employment.
child labour, child marriage and children
Article 45 – Free and compulsory education for
affected by any abuse.
all children until they attain the age of 14 years.
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Children are the foundation of any Reservations
nation. When girls get married early, they lose The state of Tamil Nadu provides
many privileges like childhood happiness, 69% of reservation to the Scheduled
availing education and a healthy life. The society Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Most Backward
in turn gets affected by child marriage. Thus Classes / Denotified Communities and
child marriage should be avoided at any cost. Backward Classes in public employment and
in educational institutions. Backward class
3.6.2 Women Rights Muslims are granted separate reservation.
The National Commission for Women
The following table gives us a very clear
(NCW) is constituted in India to review the
picture of the percentage of reservation for
Constitutional and legal safeguards for women,
various communities by the Government of
recommends remedial measures and advises
Tamil Nadu.
the government on all matters of policy affect-
ing the welfare and development of women in Communities Reservation in (%)
the country. Backward Classes 26.5
In modern India, women have held high Backward Class
offices including that of the President, Prime 3.5
Muslims
Minister, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Leader Most Backward
of the Opposition, Union Ministers, Chief Classes/Denotified 20
Ministers and Governors. Communities
Scheduled Castes 18
In Tamil Nadu, ancestral property
rights were given to women through Hindu Scheduled Tribes 1
Succession (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act Total 69
1989.
Under each reserved category and in
The Central Government amended
General category 30% is reserved for women
the Hindu Succession Act in 2005. By this
and 4% is reserved for differently abled persons.
amendment, women are now given equal shares
Special reservation to Arunthathiyars has been
in inheritance of the undivided property.
granted by preferential allotment of seats with
Women's rights under the Constitution in the seats reserved for Scheduled castes. For
of India mainly include equality, dignity, and persons studied in Tamil medium 20% seats are
freedom from discrimination; additionally, offered under each category on priority basis.
India has various statutes governing the rights In Tamil Nadu Transgenders has been
of women. on 1924 at Vaikkam ub kerala classified under Most Backward Classes.
Periyar E.V. Ramasamy agitate for temple entry 3.6.3 Right to Information Act
for dalits . in 1925 he started the self respect
(RTI)
movement.
The Right to Information Act is a
Women Labourers' Welfare and Ambedkar
revolutionary act that aims to promote
Dr B.R. Ambedkar framed many laws for transparency in the government institutions in
women workers in India such as the 'Mines India. This act was enacted in October 2005.
Maternity Benefit Act', 'Women Labour
Welfare Fund', 'Women and Child Labour A common man can demand any
Protection Act', 'Maternity Benefit for government organization to provide
Women Labour', and 'Restoration of Ban on information. The information must be provided
Employment of Women on Underground within thirty days. If not, a fee will be collected
Work in Coal Mines'. as penalty from the concerned official.
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RTI Activists
Activity
List out various jobs in the format given below
and fill in the amount of wages for male and
female employees.
S. No Job / Wages Wages of
Occupation of male female
employee employee
1.
Aruna Roy Nikil Dev 2.
It is one of the most powerful laws of the 3.
country. This act is people friendly; even an 4.
illiterate person can ask any Public Information
5.
Officer to write it down for him. All government
agencies like Municipal Corporations,
Government departments, Government Contribution of Dr.B.R. Ambedkar
Schools, Road Authorities, etc., come under this Dr.B.R. Ambedkar's contribution to labourers.
Act. • Reduction in Factory Working Hours
Through RTI one can get even copies (8 hours a day)
of government documents such as records, • C o m p u l s o r y
reports, papers, etc., Personal information of
Recognition of
individuals and organisations related to the
country’s defence and intelligence, such as BSF, Trade Unions
CRPF, Intelligence Bureau are exempted from • Employment
the RTI. Exchange in India
• Sign the Application form with your full • Employees State Insurance (ESI)
name and address along with the date and • Minimum Wages for labourers
send it through a registered post to the office • Coal and Mica Mines Provident Fund
of the concerned authority.
• If a reply is not received within 30 days, It is a great victory for
an appeal can be filed with the Appellate female workers who stand all the
Authority. time more or less 12-14 hours
3.6.4 Labour Rights per day while they are working
The Constitution ensures right to equality, in shops and commercial malls
equality of opportunity in public employment,
right to form associations and unions, right to
Female workers who are working in
livelihood, prohibits trafficking, forced labour shops and commercial malls are not allowed
and child labour. Article 39(d) ensures equal to sit or even lean on the wall. They were
wages to male and female workers for equal allowed only 5 minutes of break two times
work. a day to take rest.
“The rights of every man are diminished There was a strong voice against
when the rights of one man are threatened” said this inhuman practice among women
John F. Kennedy. Civilized nations of the world workers for a long time. Considering this,
insist on equality. Nations pay more attention the Government of Kerala has decided
on human rights to ensure equality. This helps to redress by amending the Shops and
in maintaining peace, harmony and develop-
Commercial Establishment Act in July 2018.
ment of the country.
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Recap
Discrimination is the partial treatment of people.
UNO's definition of human rights.
History of human rights has its roots from the aftermath of second world war.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Indian Constitution ensures six fundamental rights and eleven duties of a citizen.
Formation and functions of National and State Human Rights Commissions.
Extended rights such as child rights, SC and ST rights, women rights, Right to Information Act
(RTI) and labor laws.
EXERCISE
c) i, ii and iii are true
I Choose the d) ii, iii and iv are true
correct answer 6. Consider the following statements.
1. ‘Apartheid’ was followed by ______________ Assertions (A): Rights and duties are the
a) South Sudan b) South Africa two sides of the same coin.
c) Nigeria d) Egypt Reason (R): We have a right to freedom
of religions. We have to promote harmony
2. ________________ right exercises in and the spirit of the people of other
the formation and administration of a religions.
government.
a) Both A and R are correct and R explains A
a) Social b) Economic b) Both A and R are correct but R does not
c) Political d) Cultural explain A
3. A 10 year old boy is working in a shop. c) A is correct but R is false
Which right can you use to recover him? d) A is false but R is correct
a) Right to equality 7. According to the UNO a child is a person who
b) Right to freedom has not completed the age of ____________
c) Right against child labour exploitation years.
d) Right to freedom of Religion a) 12 b) 14 c) 16 d) 18
4. What is the time limit to get the information 8. Kailash Satyarthi and Malala have been
from RTI Act 2005? awarded Nobel Prize for _____________.
a) 20 days b) 25 days a) Literature b) Peace
c) 30 days d) 35 days c) Physics d) Economics
5. Which of the following statements are true?
i) The State Human Rights commission
was established in 1993. 1. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
ii) It has the power of a civil court. Contains ______________ articles.
iii) It’s power extend beyond the state.
2. The fundamental Duties were incorporated
iv) It can also recommend compensation
in the Constitution by ______________
to victims.
Amendment Act.
a) i and ii are true
b) i and iii are true
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3. The National Human Rights commission V Answer in detail
was established on ______________. 1. Write a paragraph about UDHR.
4. Indian state to implement women ancestral 2. What are fundamental duties? How would
property Act in 1989 was ______________. you follow these in your school premises?
III Match the following 3. How does the National Human Rights
Commission protect our rights?
1 Right to Vote Cultural Rights 4. What are the benefits for workers provided
Right against by labour law?
2 Right to form union
exploitation 5. How do you enjoy the fundamental rights in
your life?
Right to preserve
3 Political Rights VI Project and Activity
tradition
1. How do you protect yourself from child
The Hindu abuse / sexual exploitation and trafficking.
4 Right to freedom
Succession Act
2. Write an article titled “My country, My
5 Child labour 2005 Rights”.
IV Give short answers

1. What is Human Right?
2. What are the fundamental rights?
3. What are the Child Rights defined by the
UNO?
4. Write a short note on the Right to
Constitutional Remedies.
5. Define: POCSO
6. Why do children need special attention?
7. What are the contributions to labourers
by B.R. Ambetkar?
8. ‘All are equal before law’. But we have
enacted a separate law for women – Justify
9. Write about the Right against exploitation.
10. Differentiate: Fundamental Rights and
Human Rights.
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UNIT
Forms of Government
4
Learning Objectives
To know about the type of constitutions

To understand the forms of government
To learn the merits and demerits of the different forms of government
To understand the differences between the Unitary and Federal, Presidential
and Parliamentary forms of governments
Introduction
judicial powers based on the constitution
Government is the main agency of
and the laws. There are three organs in
the state. It comprises of several members
government, namely – Legislature, Executive
belonging to political and administrative
and Judiciary. These organs carry out the
wings. It serves as the instrument for
activities of the state. Governments are
delegation and execution of the state policies
classified into unitary, federal, parliamentary
for the welfare of the people. It formulates,
and presidential forms.
expresses and realises the will of the state.
It exercises certain legislative, executive and
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Legislature Which is the oldest form of
government?
Monarchy is the oldest form of
Organs of
Government Executive government in the United Kingdom. In
a monarchy, a king or queen is Head of
State. The British monarchy is known as
Judiciary a constitutional monarchy. This means,
while The Sovereign is Head of State,
the ability to make and pass legislation
4.1 Meaning resides with an elected Parliament.
'Government' refers to the executive
functions of the state. It denotes a body having
authority to make and enforce laws applicable
to the civil, corporate, religious, academic or
other groups.
4.2 TYPES OF
CONSTITUTION
Written Constitution /
Un Written Constitution
Types Of Federal / Unitary

Constitution
Flexible / Rigid
4.2.1: Unitary Form of In a Unitary form of government, all

Government the authority and power is vested in a single
centre, whereas in a federal form of government
A unitary system of government or unitary
authority and power is distributed between
state, is a sovereign state governed as a single
centre and the constituent units. Even in a
entity. The central government is supreme
Unitary form of Government, there might be
and the administrative divisions exercise
a lot of decentralisation of authority, but we
only powers that the central government has
cannot claim it as a federal system.
delegated to them.
Merits of unitary form of government
England, France, Japan and Sri Lanka are
examples of Unitary Form of governments. • Suitable for small countries.
• There is no conflict of authority and
The term Government is derived from responsibility.
Old French 'governor', derived from Latin
'gubernare' to direct, rule, guide, govern".
4. Forms of Government 266
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• A unitary government will make prompt In a federal model, the national government
decisions and take speedy action. is known as the Federal government or the
• A unitary government is less expensive. Central government or the Union government
• Amendments to the constitution are easy. and the regional government is known as the
state government or the provincial government.
• There is unity, uniformity of law, policy and
administration. Merits of federal form of government
De-merits of unitary form of government • Reconciliation of local autonomy with
• It is not suitable for big countries. national unity
• The central government will have to tackle • Division of power between centre and states
so many complex problems that lead to leads to administrative efficiency
administrative delay • It gives rise to big states
• The central government will not concentrate • Distribution of powers check the despotism
on local problems, local interest and of central government
initiative.
• More suitable for bigger countries
• The concentration of powers may pave way
• It is good for economic and cultural
for the despotism of the central government.
progress
Unitary features of the indian constitution
De-merits of federal form of government
• Strong Centre
• Federal government is weaker when
• Central Government’s control over state
compared to the unitary government.
territory
• Federal government is more expensive
• Single Constitution
• Flexibility of the Constitution • Provincial tendencies are very common
• Unequal representation of states • Lack of uniformity in Administration
• Emergency Provisions • Threat to national unity
• Single Citizenship • Distribution of powers between centre and
• Single Integrated Judiciary states lead to conflicts
• All India Services • Double Citizenship
• Appointment of Governor by the central • Rigid constitution cannot be a mended
government easily for changing needs
• The state governments sometimes place
4.2.2 Federal form of hindrances in the foreign policy
government Federal features of the Indian constitution
The classification of governments into • Dual Government
unitary and federal is based on the nature of • Written Constitution
relations between the national and the regional
• Division of Powers
governments.
• Supremacy of the Constitution
A federal government is one in which
The Constitution is the supreme law of the
powers are divided between the national
land. The laws enacted by the Centre and the
government and the regional governments by
states must confirm to its provisions.
the Constitution itself and both operate in their
respective jurisdictions independently. U.S.A, • Rigid Constitution
Switzerland, Australia, Canada, Russia, Brazil, • Independent Judiciary
Argentina have federal form of governments. • Bicameralism
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Difference between Unitary form and Federal form of Government
Unitary Form of Government Federal Form of Government
Only one Level of Government or Sub units Two Levels of Government
Mostly Single Citizenship Dual Citizenship
Sub Units cannot operate independently Federal Units are answerable to Central Government
No Division of Power Division of Power
Centralisation of Power Decentralisation of Power
4.2.3: Parliamentary form of Demerits of the parliamentary form of
government government
Modern democratic governments are • Unstable Government
classified into parliamentary and presidential
• No Continuity of Policies
on the basis of the nature of relations between
the executive and the legislative organs of the • Dictatorship of the Cabinet
government. • Against Separation of Powers
The parliamentary system of government
is the one in which the executive is responsible 4.2.4 The presidential form of
to the legislature for its policies and acts. government
The parliamentary government is also The Presidential Form Of Government
known as cabinet government or responsible is also known as non-parliamentary or fixed
government or Westminster model of executive system of government, basically built
government and is prevalent in Britain, Japan, on the principle of separation of power and is
Canada and India among others. prevalent in the USA, Brazil, Russia and Sri Lanka
among others.
Country Name of Parliament
Features of presidential form of government
Israel Knesset
The President as the head of State, he
Germany Bundestag
occupies a ceremonial position.
Denmark Folketing
The President is elected by an electoral
Norway Storting
college for a fixed tenure of four years.
U.S.A Congress
The President governs with the help of a
Japan Diet
cabinet or a smaller body called ‘Kitchen Cabinet’.
Britain Parliament
The legislative, executive and judicial powers
Features of parliamentary form of government
of the government are separated and vested in
• Nominal and Real Executives
three independent organs of the government.
• Majority Party Rule
• Collective Responsibility Merits of the presidential system of government
• Dual Membership • Democratic
• Leadership of the Prime Minister • Effective Control by the President
Merits of the parliamentary form of
• Facilitate decision-making
government
• State government
• Harmony between Legislature and Executive
• Responsible Government
• Prevents Dictatorship
• Wide Representation
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Demerits of the presidential system of government
• Can degenerate into Dictatorship
• Strain relationship between executive and legislature
• Lack of Harmony between the Legislature and Executive Exercise
Difference between the Parliamentary Form of Government

and Presidential Form of Government
Presidential Form of Government Parliamentary Form of Government
President is directly elected by the People Prime Minister is from the majority party
President is Supreme Central Legislature is supreme
Separation of Powers Absence of Separation Powers Centralisation
Independent branches Independent branches with Overlapping functions
President - Head of the State President - Head of the State
President - Head of the Government Prime Minister - Head of the Government
Individual Leadership Collective leadership
President is not accountable to Congress Collective and Individual Responsibility
The relationship between the Centre and the State in India

India is a union of States where the power is shared between the centre and the states, as per the
procedures mentioned in the Constitution of India. Though the powers are shared between the Central
and State Governments, the final decision is by the Central government in all matters. The relationship
between the centre and the states are
1. Legislative relations (Articles 245-255)
2. Administrative relations (Articles 256-263)
3. Financial relations(Articles 268-293)
Both the Central and State governments have the power to make laws, but the matters differ.
The centre can make laws applicable to the whole nation on certain matters called as the union list. The
States have the powers to make laws in some matters only, applicable to their own state, called as the
State list. The concurrent list includes the subjects on which both Central and State government have
the power to make laws.
Union List: Union list has 100 subjects. These include Foreign affairs, Defence, Armed forces, Posts and
Telegraphs, inter-state trade and commerce and so on.
State List: The state list consists of 61 subjects, which include Public order in the state, police, prisons,
Local Governments, agriculture and so on.
Concurrent List: The Concurrent list has 52 subjects which include Criminal and Civil procedures,
marriage and divorce, economic and special planning, newspapers, books and printing presses, population
control and so on.
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II. Fill in the blanks
Gross National Happiness
(GNH): Country Name of the Parliament
Gross National Happiness is a developing 1. USA ____________________
philosophy as well as an 'index' which is used to 2. Norway ____________________
measure the collective happiness in any specific
nation.The concept was first mentioned in the 3. ___________ Folketing
constitution of Bhutan, which was enacted on 18 III. Distinguish Between
July 2008.
The term 'Gross National Happiness' 1. Unitary and federal forms of government.
was coined by the fourth king of Bhutan, Jigme 2.
Parliamentary and presidential forms of
Singye Wangchuck, in the 1970s. The GNH’s government.
central tenets are: “Sustainable and equitable
socio-economic development; environmental IV. Give short note on
conservation; preservation and promotion of
culture; and good governance”. 1. Unitary form of government
GNH is distinguishable by valuing V. Answer the following
collective happiness as the goal of governance
and by emphasising harmony with nature and 1. List out the types of constitution.
traditional values.
2.
What are the merits of a federal
government?
Recap
Government refers to the executive 3. Write down the differences between unitary
function of the state. form of government and federal form of
Legislature, Executive, Judiciary are the government.
three organs of government.
The four important forms of Governments VI. Answer in detail
are Unitary, Federal, Parliamentary and 1. Write about the merits of unitary form of
Presidential forms.
government.
India practises a Parliamentary form of
Government. 2.
Write about the presidential form of
Governance is the process of decision government and what is the difference

making and the process by which they between presidential and parliamentary

are implemented. forms of government.
Exercise REFERENCE BOOKS
1. Vijayaragavan, Political Thought, New

I. Fill in the blanks
Delhi,STERLING PUBLICATIONS
1.
_______, _______ are a 2. D.D.Basu, Introduction to the Constitution
few examples for unitary of Indian, New Delhi, LEXISNEXIS
form of government. 3. R.C.Agarwal, Political Theory, New Delhi,
2.
The Parliamentary government is also S.CHAND
known as ______________. 4. The Oxford Hand Book of 'The Indian
Constitution'
3. In the parliamentary form of government
5. Anup Chand Kapur, Principles of Political
______________ is the leader of the
Science, New Delhi, S.CHAND
majority party.
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UNIT
Local Self Government
5
Learning Objectives
To study and understand the development of local self government before
and after Indian independence
To learn about the rural and urban local governments
To learn about the nature and working of Panchayat Raj system in India
To understand the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, 1992
To know about the historical origin and development in local self governments
in Tamil Nadu
5.1 Meaning of Local Self of local affairs by such local bodies which have
been elected by the local people. These local
Government bodies provide services to the local community
Local Self-Governments are institutions as well as act as an instrument of democratic
that look after the administration of an area or self-government.
a small community such as a village, a town or
5.2 Historical Background
a city. Local Self-Government operates at the
lowest level of society. It works at the grassroot The idea of local self government is a very
level, close to the people, touching their everyday old concept in India. It was at its peak under the
life. Local Self-Government is the management later Cholas or the Imperial Cholas of Tanjore.
271 5. Local Self Government
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There are historical records of references
He tried to
to local self government under Mauryan
remove obstacles
administration. Local self government existed
in the sphere
throughout the country with its own diverse
of Local Self
characteristics of ancient India. During the
medieval period, local self governments had government by
somewhat declined due to the onslaught of his resolution
feudalism. It was revived during the British of 1882. He
period in the last quarter of the 19th century, led a series of
with Western orientation of training in enactments Lord Ripon
democracy with Lord Ripon’s Resolution in in which larger powers of the local self-
1882. Lord Ripon was known as the ‘Father of government were given to the rural and
Local Government for laying the foundations urban bodies and the elected people received
of local self governments in modern times. wider rights.
Under the Government of India Act, 1935
provincial autonomy was introduced. This
5.3 Local Self Governments
Act came into force in 1937. In the provinces
since Independence
where the Congress formed its Government,
rural development received special attention. The conceptualisation of the system of local
It was an essential part of Gandhi’s programme self-government in India took place through
that Panchayat Raj institutions would be built the formation and effort of four important
from villages to the highest level. committees from the year 1957 to 1986. The
Community Development Programme (1952)
After Independence, the Gandhian ideal
and National Extension Service (1953) became
of Grama Swaraj (Village Republic) greatly
a basis for 'The Great Charter on Panchayat
influenced the constitution makers. India
Raj' in 1957. The panchayatraj system was
being the land of villages, the creation of village
inagurated on October 2, in nugaur district
panchayats became a social movement.
of Rajasthan by the then Prime Minister
Restoration of panchayats has become an
Jawaharlal Nehru.
article of faith during our freedom struggle.
alient Features of the 73rd and
S
74th Constitution Amendment
Lord Ripon Acts (1992)
¾¾ Panchayats and Municipalities will be
Lord Ripon was the one who gave
'institutions of self-government'.
Indians the first taste of freedom by
introducing the Local Self Government in ¾¾ Grama Sabhas (Villages) and Ward
Committees (Municipalities) comprising .
1882.
¾¾ Three-tier system of panchayats at village,
Ripon took some steps towards
taluk and district levels.
liberalizing the administration in India. He
formulated the local self government and ¾¾ Seats at all levels filled by direct elections.
made it clear that he was advocating for the ¾¾ Seats reserved for chairpersons of
decentralization of administration. the Panchayats at all levels also shall
5. Local Self Government 272
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be reserved in proportion to their directly elected by the people. (Those who
population. have attained the age above 18 to contest
¾¾ One-third of the total number of seats in the election one must have attained the age
reserved for women. of 21 years) and their term of office is five
years. District Collector act as the Inspector
¾¾ Uniform five year term.
of Village Panchayat. Village Panchayats
Committees and Recommendations are constituted in each and every village
wherever the population is above 500.
Balwant Rai Mehta Commitee (1957)
Three-tier Panchayati Raj system – gram
panchayat at village level (direct election),
Functions of the Village Panchayat
panchayat Samiti at the block level and Zila
Parishad at the district level (indirect election). • Supply of drinking water
Ashok Mehta Commitee (1977-1978)

• Maintenance of street lights
Two-tier system and political parties should • Maintenance of roads
participate at all levels in the elections.
• Maintenance of village libraries
G V K Rao Commitee (1985) • Maintenance of small bridges
Appointed by the Planning Commission, the
commitee concluded that the developmental
procedures were gradually being taken away from
• Granting permission to the housing plots
the local self-government institutions, resulting in
a system comparable to ‘grass without roots’. • Maintenance of drainage
• Construction of group houses
L M Singhvi Commitee (1986)
73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment
• Cleaning of streets
Acts, 1992.
• Maintenance of burial grounds
• Maintenance of common lavatory facilities
Voluntary Functions.
Salient Features of the Tamil
According to the Tamil Nadu Local
Nadu Panchayat Raj Act, 1994
Government Act passed in 1994, the following
The New Panchayati Raj System came functions to be performed as voluntary
into being in Tamil Nadu after the enactment functions by the local governments.
of a new law for local body institutions in
• Maintenance of street lights in the villages
the year 1994. The salient features of the new
Act are as follows: (a) A three-tier system • Maintenance of markets and fairs
(b) Gram Sabha (c) Establishment of Election • Implantation of trees
Commission (d) Constitution of Finance • Maintenance of play grounds
Commission (e) Reservation of seats for • Maintenance of parking vehicles, slaughter
SC/ST’s proportionate to their population houses and cattle sheds
One third reservation of seats for women • Control over places of exhibition
and (g) Constitution of District Planning
Committees. Revenue
Village Panchayat was the only local
5.4 Village Panchayat government which was empowered to levy
Local governments which are function taxes in the three-tier system of Village
in villages are called Village Panchayats. Panchayat.
The President and ward members are
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Historical Origin and Development of Local Self Government in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has a long history of local self-governance as is

evident from the Uthiramerur stone inscriptions of Paranthaka
Chola I, in Kanchipuram District. Village republics, reached its
peak during the reign of Cholas. These Village Councils had
effective links with the Chola rulers. “Kuda Olai Murai” was the
name of the secret ballot method exercised to elect members
to the Village Councils. With the downfall of Cholas, the state
experienced a decline of the village autonomy and rise of the
centralized feudal administrative system. This continued till
British rules introduced local self-governance
primarily as an administrative convenience for the colonial British
Government.
In the post independence era, the first

enactment in democratic decentralization in
the state was the Madras Village Panchayats
Act, 1950. Pursuant to the White Paper
on the 'Reform of Local Administration' in 1957, the Madras
Panchayats Act, 1958 and Madras District Development Council
Act were enacted with the following salient features.
Taxes meeting of the Grama Sabha, the income and

• Property Tax expenditure and the beneficiary of the schemes
in the village are discussed.
• Professional Tax
• House Tax
• Taxes for connection of drinking water
• Land Tax
• Taxes levied on shops
Go to the local government office in

your village and know about the levying
of taxes.
Grama Sabha
Meeting of Gram Sabha Meetings of the Grama Sabha are conducted

In each and every village, the people four times a year
living within its jurisdiction will be the 1. January 26 - Republic Day
members of Panchayat. The President of the 2. May 1 - Labourer Day
Panchayat will preside over its meetings. In the
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3. August 15 - Independent Day District Panchayat
4. October 2 - Gandhi Jayanthi A District Panchayat is constituted in each
Panchayat Union district. One district Panchayat is constituted for
Panchayat Union is formed by grouping every 50,000 people and the ward members are
of villages. Members of the Panchayat Union are directly elected by the people. The Chairman is
directly elected by the people. The Chairman of elected from one among its members and their
the Panchayat Union is chosen from among the term is 5 years.
members.
Functions of District Panchayat
• Advising the government about the
developmental schemes of the Village
Panchayat and Panchayat Union.
District
• Supervising the functions of District
Panchayat
Planning Commission.
Panchayat Urban Local Government

Union • Town Panchayat
• Municipality
Village • Corporation
Panchayat
Gandhi’s Concept of Gram Swaraj

Functions of the Panchayat Union Gandhi really
• Supply of drinking water wanted ‘Swaraj’, the self
rule by the people of
• Maintenance of Village Health Centres
India who represent the
• Maintenance of roads
rural mass. He observed
• Establishment of Maternity Homes 'India’s soul lives in the
• Establishment of Public fairs village'. He dreamt of village republics in
• Establishment of Veterinary hospitals terms of Panchayat in free India.
• Maintenance of Social forests Mahatma Gandhi advocated Panchayat
Raj, a decentralized form of government,
• Repairing of Primary School buildings
where each village is responsible for its own
affairs, as the foundation of India’s political
Where will you report if street lights are
system.
not functioning and drinking water is not
In simpler words, Gandhi’s ideal village
available in the tap in your village?
should be basically self-reliant, making
provision for all necessities of life-food
The district collector, Planning officer, clothing, clean water, sanitation, housing,
concerned Block Development Officer are education, and other requirements,
empowered to supervise the developmental including government and self-defense.
functions of the Panchayat Union.
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Town Panchayat Important functions of the Mayor
The area where more than 10,000 people
• He acts as a bridge between the members
live is called a Town Panchayat. Members and
of the corporation and the government
President of the town Panchayat are directly
• He presides over the meetings of the
elected by the people. There is an Executive
Officer to look after the administration of the Corporation Council
Town Panchayat and their term of office is • He receives the dignitaries from foreign
5 years and he is appointed by the government. countries
Municipality
Types of other Urban Panchayats
The area where more than 1,00,000 • Notified Area Committee
people live is called a Municipality. • Town Area Committee
The Members and the Chairman of the • Cantonment Board
Municipalities are directly elected by the • Township
people and their term of office is five years. • Port Trust
A Municipal Commissioner is appointed by the • Special Purpose Agency
government to administer the Municipality.
Elections to the local government in Tamil
Corporation
Municipal corporations are established Nadu
in big cities where the city has many lakhs of The State Election Commission
population. The Municipal Commissioner is conducts the elections to the local
the Administrative Officer. The Mayor is the government like general elections. The
Chairman of the corporation. The term of office electoral roll is prepared ward wise. Seats
of the Mayor and other members is five years. are reserved for the SC & ST and also for the
women in proportion to the population by
In Tamil Nadu, there are 12 Corporations. rotation basis.
They are in Chennai, Kovai, Madurai,
Problems and Challenges facing the Local
Trichy, Tirunelveli, Salem, Erode, Vellore,
Self Governments
Tuticorin, Tirupur, Tanjore, Dindigul.
Local self governments are the crucial
The Municipal Commissioner will be a basis for our democracy. The Constitutional
person from the Indian Administrative Service status of local self governments adds more
(IAS). All the decisions of the Corporation significance to their functioning. There are,
Council will be implemented by him. He will be however, a few critical concerns in the working
assisted by the office of the corporation. of local self governments in India. Major
problems and challenges may be mentioned as
Name the British Viceroy after whom the below:
building of Chennai Corporation is name.
• Lack of clear demarcation of powers and
functions of local bodies
• Allocation of funds and needs assessment
are not matched
• Role of caste, class and religion in decision-
making at the local self governments
• Poor accountability of elected members
and officials at the grassroot levels of
Corporation of Chennai democracy
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Periyar as chairman of Municipality:-
P e r i y a r Exercise
E . V. R a m a s a m y
bacame the Chairman I Choose the correct
of Erode Municipality answer.
in 1917. During 1.
Which committee was appointed by the
his tenure in Erode
planning commission in 1985.
Municipality, Periyar
worked effectively a) Balwant Rai Mehta b) Ashok Mehta
for Providing piped c) G V K Rao d) L M Singhvi
drinking water supply and health facilities
to the people. Piped water supply scheme 2.
The Uthiramerur stone inscription show
was implemented in 1919 by Periyar. This evidences of prevelant local self government
scheme was said to be first of kind in the during the ____________ period in Tamil
history of Indian Municipal administration. Nadu.
a) Chola b) Chera
c) Pandiya d) Pallava
Recap
3.
The 73rd and 74th constitutional
Local Self Government operates at the Amendment Acts, was enacted during the
lowest level of society. year in __________.
Lord Ripon is known as the ‘Father of a) 1992 b) 1995
Local Self Government’.
c) 1997 d) 1990
‘Kuda Olai Murai’ during the Chola rule
was a ballot method to elect members 4.
_____________ act as the inspector of
to the village councils. Village Panchayat.
The New Panchayat Raj system came a) Commissioner b) District Collector
into being in Tamil Nadu in the year
c) Councillors d) Mayor
1994.
Village Panchayats are local II Fill in the blanks.
governments of villages. 1. _____________ is known as the 'Father of
Meetings of the Grama Sabha are Local Governments'.
conducted four times a year. 2. Restoration of ______________ has become
Panchayat Union is formed by grouping an article of faith during our freedom
of villages. struggle.
District Panchayat is constituted in each
3.
_______________ was the name of the
district.
secret ballot method exercised to elect
Corporations, Municipalities and Town
members to the village councils during the
Panchayats are urban local bodies.
Chola period
Mayor is the Chairman of the
corporation. 4.
Local Government which function in
The state Election Commission villages are called _____________.
conducts the elections to the local 5.
_____________ will look after the
government. administration of the Town Panchayat.
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III. Match the following: 2. List out the salient features of Tamil Nadu
1. Zilla Parishad - Villages Panchayat Raj Act 1994.
2. Gram Sabhas - Mayor 3. Mention the important functions of the
3. Ward Committees - Chairman Village Panchayat.
4. Which are the voluntary functions of the
4. Panchayat Union - District Collector
local governments?
5. Corporation - Municipalities
5. Name the Urban local governments.
IV. Find out the correct statement
(i). Panchayat Union is formed by grouping of
VI. Answer in detail.
Districts. 1. Write in details about the salient features of
the 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendment
(ii). District Panchayat is constituted in each
Act (1992).
village.
(iii). The Municipal Commissioner will be a 2. Describe the major problems & challenges
person from the Indian Administration faced by the local self governments.
Service (IAS). VII. Activity
(iv). In Village Panchayat, the President and Meet your Panchayat President /
ward members are elected by the people. Municipal Chairman and discuss with
V. Give short note. him how the local self goverment is being
1. Name the taxes levied by the Village administered.
Panchayat.
ICT CORNER
LOCAL SELF GOVERNMENT
Official Website of the Rural Development

and Panchayat Raj Department of Tamil
Nadu help to learn about Government
Act, Schemes, Database Map and
Administration.
Procedure
Step – 1 Open the Browser and type the URL given below (or) Scan the QR Code.
Step – 2 Click on Map and Select “Blocks” in Dropdown menu
Step – 3 Click your district name to know about the number of blocks in the
database map (ex. Tiruchirappalli)
URL:
https://www.tnrd.gov.in/ index.html (or) scan the QR Code
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UNIT
Road safety
6
SLOW
Learning Objectives
To understand the increase of road accidents in our country

To know the causes of road accidents
To follow the road safety rules
Introduction With over 1,30,000 deaths

In this lesson, We will learn about a road annually India has the worst
accident refers to any accident involving at road accident rate worldwide.
least a vehicle, occurring on a road open to
public transport, and in which at least one
person is injured or killed. Intentional acts Major Reasons of Road Accidents
(murder, suicide) and natural disasters are
excluded from road accidents. Drunk &
High-Speed
Drive
Road accidents are the leading cause of Improper Driving
Negligence in
death by injury and the tenth-leading cause of Driving
Training
all deaths globally. An estimated 1.2 million Overlooking the Non-stop
people are killed in road crashes each year, other vehicles Long driving
and as many as 50 million people are injured.
279 6. Road safety
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Every three minutes a child is killed in an accident in the world.
The main causes of death by road accidents include
1. Drunk and drive (40%), speeding (24%), car boom in India (16%), inefficient
law enforcement (15%) and less use of helmets and seat belts (5%)
2. Distractions to Driver
3. Red Light Jumping
4. Overtaking in a wrong manner
Top 10 Cies by number of road accidents in 2016

Chennai
Delhi
Bengaluru
Indore
Kolkata
Bhopal
Mumbai
Jabalpur
Jaipur
Hyderabad
0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000
Source:Accidents India 2016 report
DIFFERENT FACTORS TO ROAD ACCIDENTS:

Drivers: Over-speeding, rash driving, violation of rules, failure to understand signs,
fatigue, alcohol
Pedestrians: Carelessness, illiteracy, crossing at wrong places, jaywalkers
Passengers: Projecting their body parts outside vehicles, talking to drivers, alighting and
boarding vehicles from the wrong side, travelling on footboards, catching a
running bus etc.
Vehicles: Failure of brakes or steering, tyre burst, insufficient headlights, overloading
Road Conditions: Potholes, damaged roads, eroded roads merging of rural roads with highways
and illegal speed breakers
Weather conditions: Fog, snow, heavy rainfall, wind storms, hail storms.
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Break-up of persons killed by road use category in 2016
Pedestrian Bicycles Two-wheelers Auto-Rickshaws Cars, Taxis, Vans & LMV’s Trucks Buses Other Motor Vehicles
Other (Animal drawn vehicles, cycle rickshaws, hand carts & other persons)
Source:Accidents India 2016 report
Road Traffic Deaths Worldwide by Sex

Look at the diagram given above and answer
and Age Group, 2002
the following.
1.Which road use category causes the highest
number of deaths? Could you give any three Number of deaths, (in thousands)
possible reasons? What would you suggest as 245
224
the related safety rules?
2.How could pedestrians save themselves from
road accidents? 161
Direct Consequences of Accidents:
1 Fatality (Death) 83
2. Injury 60 64 61 65
49
3. Damage to Property 28 22 28
Preventive measures for accidents:
1. Education and awareness about road safety Age 0-4 5-14 15-29 30-44 45-59 60+
2. Strict enforcement of law Male Female
3. Engineering: Source: WHO Global Burden of Disease
(a) Vehicle design Project, Version 1 (2002).
(b) Road infrastructure
Look at the above diagram carefully and
The chances of death by accident answer the following.
can be decreased by 51% with
the proper use of seat beltand 1. Which age group tops the number of road
healmet. traffic deaths worldwide? Why?
2. Give some inference on the striking difference

between the number of road accident deaths
of males and females.
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Rules to Ensure Road Safety for children III. Activities
It is important for children to know about Road Safety Games & Activities
road safety rules and regulations. Here are a few Play is one of the best ways to make children
basic road safety rules for children: learn important things. A few road safety tips
1. Know Your Signals will help the children learn about road safety.
2. Stop, Look and Cross 1. Crosswords are excellent learning tools
3. Pay Attention – Listen for older students. You can find road safety
education crosswords for online.
4. Don’t Run On Roads
5. Always Use Sidewalks 2. Play guessing games play noises or sounds
that they are likely to hear on the street and ask
6. Never Stick Hands outside the Vehicle
them what it is.
7. Never Cross Road at Bends
3. Red Light, Green Light Have the children
8. Don’t Rush
run around and someone yells out, 'red light'
9. Keep left and the children have to stop what they are
10. Crossing at zebra line. doing until they hear 'green light'.
Exercise REFERENCES
1. Dinesh Mohan, 'Road Safety in Less-
I Answer the Motorized Environments: Future
following: Concerns', International Journal of
Epidemiology 31, No. 3 (2002)
1. What are the benefits of wearing helmet
2. Christopher J.L. Murray and Alan D.
while driving?
Lopez, eds., The Global Burden of Disease:
2. List out the factors of road accidents. A Comprehensive Assessment of Mortality
3. Which colour in the signal means 'stop? and Disability from Diseases, Injuries
and Risk Factors in 1990 and Projected in
4. List out any three road safety rules: 2020 (Boston: Harvard School of Public
II Answer in detail. Health, 1996).
1.
Explain the factors involved in road 3. Courtesy:- Ministry of Road Transport &
accidents. Highways, Government of India
2. Explain in detail: The road safety rules.
GLOSSARY
Abandoned Left
Allocation An amount of a resource assigned to a particular recipient
Amendment Changes made to an existing law
Autonomy Self governing
Cantonment A military garrison or camp
Clusters A group of similar things or people
Conceptualisation The action of forming a concept
Compensation Amount awarded to someone for injury or loss
Community A group of people living in the same place of having particular characteristics in common.
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Consensus General agreement on an isssue
Constituency A group of votes in a specified area who elect a representative to a legislative body.
Decentralisation The transfer of authority from central to local government
Democratic The government is elected by its citizens.
Despotism Excercise of absolute power
Dignitaries Persons considered to be of high rank or office
Dissolution Formally ending or dismissing an assembly
Executive Having to do with carrying out laws
Ethnicity Belonging to a particular social group
Fundamental Basic
Government The group of people with the authority to govern a country or state; a particular ministry
in office.
Grass root level The most basic level
Intervene Get involved
Judicial Relating to the administration of justice
Judiciary The judges of a court considered as a group
Legislature Law making body
Monarchy A form of government in which a single person is the hereditary head of the state
NOTA The people in a democratic country are not willing to elect any candidate; they can vote
for the option called NOTA (None Of The Above).
Onslaught A fierce attack
Pressure groups A group of people who are organised actively for promoting and defending their
common interest.
Pursuant Following
Representatives A person chosen or appointed to act or speak for another or others.
Republic The head of the state is elected directly or indirectly.
Racial Related to a race of people
Rejuvenated Restore
Remedy Solution to an issue /problem
Revitalisation To give new life
Revived Re-establish
Rigid Hard to change
Secular Freedom to practice any religion or reject all.
Self-Government
A system in which the citizens rule themselves
Slaughter Killing of animals for food
Sovereign Free from the interference or control of any foreign power.
Socialist Providing social and economic equality to all citizens.
Tier A series of levels of a structure placed one above the other
Trafficking Carry forcefully from a placeto another.
Victim A person who gets harmed
Voluntary Done of one’s own free will
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Unit - 1
Indian
Constitution
Learning Objectives
To know about the making of Indian Constitution
To know the Salient features of Indian Constitution
To understand the Fundamental Rights and Duties
To know the Directive Principles of State Policy
To understand the Centre-State relations and the Emergency Provisions
Introduction 1.2 Making of Indian

The Constitution is the fundamental law Constitution
of a country which reflects the fundamental The Constitution of India was framed by
principles on which the government of that a Constituent Assembly setup under the
country is based. It is the vehicle of a Nation’s Cabinet Mission Plan, 1946. The Assembly
progress. More particularly, it is concerned consisted of 389 members representing
with institutional fabric and the framework Provinces (292), States (93), the Chief
of the distribution of powers between the Commissioner’s provinces (3) and Baluchistan
(1). The Assembly held its first meeting on
various organs of the government and between
December 9, 1946. Dr. Sachchidananda
the Union and the States. The concept of
Sinha, the oldest member, was elected as the
constitution was first originated in U.S.A. temporary President of the Assembly. While
the work was in progress, Dr. Sahchidananda
1.1 The Need for Sinha died. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as
a Constitution the President of the Assembly. Similarly, both
H.C. Mukherjee and V.T. Krishnamachari were
All Democratic countries have a constitution
elected as the Vice-Presidents of the Assembly.
that governs them. A constitution puts down
The Assembly met for 11 sessions along with
certain principles that form the basis of any
166 days of meetings. During the discussion,
kind of a state that we as citizens, desire to 2473 amendments were presented. Some of
live in. A constitution tells us the fundamental them were accepted. The Assembly worked
nature of our society. A country is usually through various committees and the draft of
made up of different communities of people the Constitution was prepared by the Drafting
who have different beliefs; it will be helpful Committee under the chairmanship of Dr.
in fulfilling the beliefs of different segments B.R. Ambedkar. He is recognised as the ‘Father
of citizens. of the Constitution of India’.
169 Indian Constitution
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It introduces Universal Adult Franchise
and accords the right to vote to all
citizens above 18 years of age without any
discrimination.
It provides single citizenship.
It makes special provisions for minorities,
Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, etc.
1.4 Preamble
The term ‘preamble’ refers to the
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
introduction or preface to the Constitution.
After the draft had been It consists of the ideals, objectives and basic
discussed by the people, the principles of the Constitution. It contains
press, provincial assemblies the summary or essence of the Constitution.
and others, the Constitution It has great value and has been described as
was finally adopted on the ‘key to the Constitution’. The Preamble
November 26, 1949, to the Indian Constitution is based on the
contained a Preamble, 22 parts, 395 Articles ‘Objective Resolution’, drafted by Jawaharlal
and 8 Schedules. The drafted Constitution Nehru, which was adopted by the Constituent
came into force on 26th January, 1950. This Assembly on January 22, 1947. It has been
day is known as the Republic Day. It is being amended once by the 42nd Constitutional
observed every year. Amendment Act of 1976, which added three
new words - socialist, secular and integrity.
Prem Behari Narain Raizada was The Preamble begins with the phrase ‘We,
the calligrapher of the Indian the People of India’. This clearly implies
Constitution. The original that the Constitution derives its authority
constitution was handwritten by from the People of India. Thus, we can
him in a flowing italic style. say that the people of India are the source
of our Constitution. The Preamble of our
Constitution states that India is a Sovereign
1.3 Salient features of Socialist Secular Democratic Republic.
Indian Constitution Its aim is to secure to all Indian citizens
It is the lengthiest of all the written Social, economic and political justice. The
constitutions of the world. Constitution guarantees Liberty of thought,
expression, belief, faith and worship to all. It
It has borrowed most of its provisions
gives Equality of status and of opportunity to
from the constitutions of various
all. It wants to promote Fraternity among all
countries.
Indians.
It is partly rigid and partly flexible.
It establishes a federal system of
Liberty, Equality and Fraternity
government.
were the important slogans during
It establishes the parliamentary system not the French Revolution in 1789.
only at the Centre but also in the states. They are given importance in the
It makes India as a secular state. Preamble of our Constitution.
It provides an independent judiciary.
Indian Constitution 170
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1.5 Citizenship 1.5.3 Loss of Citizenship
The word ‘Citizen’ is derived from the The Citizenship Act of 1955 prescribes
Latin term ‘Civis’. It means resident of a City three ways of losing citizenship whether
State. The Constitution of India provides for acquired under the Act or prior to it under the
a single and uniform citizenship for the whole Constitution, viz, renunciation, termination
of India. Articles 5 to 11 under part II of the and deprivation.
Constitution deals with the citizenship. 1. It can be voluntarily renounced by a
citizen.
1.5.1 Citizenship Act of 1955 2. It can be terminated if a person acquires
The Citizenship Act of 1955 provides for the citizenship of some other country.
acquisition and loss of citizenship after the 3. The central government can deprive a
commencement of the Constitution. This naturalized citizen, if it satisfied that the
Act has been amended so far eight times. citizenship was acquired by fraud, false
Originally, the Citizenship Act (1955) also representation or concealment of material
provided for the commonwealth Citizenship. facts or indulges in trade with enemy
But, this provision was repealed by the countries or if the person has been sentenced
Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003.
to imprisonment for a period of 2 years.
1.5.2 Acquisition of Citizenship
1.6 Fundamental Rights
The Citizenship Act of 1955 prescribes
five ways of acquiring citizenship, viz, birth, The Fundamental Rights are enshrined
descent, registration, naturalisation and in Part III of the Constitution from Articles
incorporation of territory: 12 to 35. In this regard, the framers of the
Constitution derived inspiration from
According to the Citizenship Act, 1955, the
the Constitution of USA. Originally,
citizenship could be acquired through any of
the Constitution provided for seven
the following methods.
Fundamental Rights. At present, there are
1. By Birth: All persons born in India on only six Fundamental Rights. Part III of the
or after January 26, 1950 are treated as Constitution is rightly described as the Magna
citizens by birth. Carta of India. While Fundamental Rights are
2. By Descent: A person born outside India available to all persons, certain Fundamental
on or after January 26, 1950 shall be a Rights are available only to Indian Citizens.
citizen of India by descent, if his father is
a citizen of India at the time of his birth. ‘Magna Carta’ is the Charter of
3. By Registration: A person can acquire Rights issued by King John of
citizenship of India by registration with England in 1215 under pressure
appropriate authority. from the barons. This is the first
4. By Naturalisation: A foreigners can written document relating to
acquire Indian citizenship, on application the Fundamental Rights of citizens.
for naturalization to the Government of
India. Right to constitutional remedies
5. By Incorporation of Territory: In the (Articles 32)
event of a certain territory being added A writ is an order or command issued by
to the territory of India, the Government a court in writing under its seal. It is in the
of India shall specify the persons of that nature of a command or prohibition from
territory who shall be citizen of India. performing certain acts that are specified in
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I. RIGHT TO EQUALITY II. RIGHT TO FREEDOM
Art. 14 - Equality before law. Art. 19 - Freedom of speech and expression,

Art. 15 - Prohibition of discrimination on assembly, association, movement,
grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or residence and profession.
place of birth. Art. 20 - Protection in respect of conviction for
Art. 16 - Equality of opportunity in matters of offences.
public employment. Art. 21 - Protection of life and personal liberty.
Art. 17 - Abolition of Untouchability. Art. 21A - Right to elementary education.
Art. 18 - Abolition of titles except military and Art. 22 - Protection against arrest and detention
academic. in certain cases.
III. RIGHT AGAINST EXPLOITATION IV. RIGHT TO RELIGION
Art. 25 - Freedom of conscience and free

profession, practice and propagation of
religion.
Art. 23 - Prohibition of traffic in human beings Art. 26 - Freedom to manage religious affairs.
and forced labour. Art. 27 - Freedom from payment of taxes for
Art. 24 - Prohibition of employment of children promotion of any religion.
in factories, etc. Art. 28 - Freedom from attending religious
instruction or worship in certain
educational institutions.
V. CULTURAL & EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS
VI. RIGHT TO CONSTITUTIONAL REMEDIES
Art. 29 - Protection of language, script and

culture of minorities. Art. 32 - It allows individuals to seek redressal
Art. 30 - Right of minorities to establish and for the violation of their fundamental
administer educational institutions. rights.
Right to Property (Art. 31) Violation

was deleted from the list of which
of Fundamental Rights by Fu nd ame nt a l
the 44 th Amendment Act, right is associated
1978. It is made a legal right with the theme
under Article 300-A in Part XII of the depicted in the
Constitution. stamps?
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the orders of the court. Both the Supreme
The 86 th Amendment Act
Court and the High Courts are empowered
of 2002 changed the subject
to issue five kinds of writs of habeas corpus,
-matter of Article 45 and
mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and
made elementary education
certiorari. That is why the Supreme Court
a fundamental right under
is called the “Guardian of the Constitution”.
Article 21 A. The amended directive
According to Dr. Ambedkar, Article 32 is “the
requires the State to provide early childhood
heart and soul of the Constitution”.
care and education for all children until
(a) Habeas Corpus: Safeguards people from they complete the age of six years.
illegal arrests.
(b) Mandamus: It protects the petitioner who But they are fundamental for the governance
requires legal help to get his work done by of the country. The Government is duty bound
respective public authorities. to apply these principles while making laws.
(c) Prohibition: It prohibits a subordinate They aim at promoting the Social Welfare
of the people. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar described
court from acting beyond its jurisdiction.
these principles as ‘novel features’ of the
(d) Certiorari: It quashes an order issued by a
Indian Constitution.
subordinate court by overstepping its ju-
risdiction. Differences between
(e) Quo Warranto: It prevents usurpation of Fundamental Rights and Directive
public office through illegal manner. Principles of State Policy
Suspension of Fundamental Fundamental Directive Principles

Rights of State Policy
Rights
It was derived from It was drawn on
When the President makes a Proclamation
the Constitution of the model of the
of Emergency under Article 352, the
the USA. Constitution of
freedoms guaranteed under Article 19 are
Ireland.
automatically suspended. The President can
suspend other fundamental rights through Even the These are mere
specific orders. These orders must be Government cannot instructions to the
approved by the Parliament. But he cannot take away or abridge Government.
suspend the freedoms given under Arts. 20 these rights.
and 21 (protection in respect of conviction for These are These are not
offences and protection of life and personal enforceable by a enforceable in any
liberty respectively) in any circumstances. court of law. court.
1.7 Directive Principles of These have legal These have moral

sanctions. and political
State Policy
sanctions.
The Directive Principles of State Policy are
enumerated in Part IV of the Constitution These rights The implementation
from Articles 36 to 51. The Constitution does strengthen political of these principles
not contain any classification of Directive democracy in the ensures social
Principles. However, on the basis of their country. and economic
content and direction, they can be classified democracy.
into three broad categories, viz, socialistic, These are natural These lead to
Gandhian and liberal-intellectual. These rights. protect human
principles are not enforceable by the courts. rights.
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1.8 Fundamental Duties (i) To safeguard public property and to abjure
violence
The Fundamental Duties in the Indian
Constitution are inspired by the Constitution (j) To strive towards excellence in all spheres
of former USSR. In 1976, the Congress party of individual and collective activity, so that
set up the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee the nation constantly rises to higher levels of
to make recommendations on fundamental endeavour and achievement
duties. The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 (k) To provide opportunities for education to
added some responsibilities of citizens to our his child or ward between the age of six and
Constitution called the Fundamental Duties. fourteen years. (The 86th Constitutional
This amendment added a new part, namely, Amendment Act, 2002 has also introduced
Part IVA to the Constitution. This new part the 11th Fundamental Duty under 51A(k)
consists of only one Article that is Article 51A under which all citizens of India or parents
which for the first time specified a code of ten shall provide opportunities for education to
fundamental duties of the citizens. their children between age of 6 and 14 years)
1.8.1 List of Fundamental Duties 1.9 Centre-State Relations

Article 51A declares it to be the duty of The Constitution of India, being federal
every citizen of India. in structure, divides all powers between
(a) To abide by the the Centre and the States. The Centre-state
constitution and relations can be studied under three heads:
respect its ideals
1.9.1 Legislative relations
and institutions,
the National Flag The Union Parliament has the power
and the National to legislate for the whole or any part of the
Anthem. territory of India, which includes not only the
States but also the Union Territories or any
(b) To cherish and
other area for the time being, included in the
follow the noble
territory of India. The Seventh Schedule of
ideals which in-
the Constitution embodies three lists namely,
spired the national struggle for freedom
the Union List, State List and Concurrent List
(c) To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity consisting of 97, 66 and 47 items respectively.
and integrity of India The Parliament enjoys the exclusive power to
(d) To defend the country and render national legislate on subjects enumerated in the Union
service when called upon to do so List. The State Legislature has exclusive right to
(e) To promote harmony and the spirit of com-
mon brotherhood among all the people of The Union List, State List and
India transcending religious, linguistic and Concurrent List consisting
regional or sectional diversities; to renounce at present 100, 61 and 52
practices derogatory to the dignity of women items respectively. The 42nd
Amendment Act of 1976
(f) To value and preserve the rich heritage of
transferred five subjects to Concurrent List
our composite culture
from State List, that is, education, forests,
(g) To protect and improve the natural envi- weights and measures, protection of wild
ronment including forests, lakes, rivers and animals and birds, and administration of
wildlife, and to have compassion for living justice; constitution and organisation of all
creatures courts excepts the Supreme Court and the
(h) To develop scientific temper, humanism and high courts.
the spirit of inquiry and reform
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Language of the judiciary and texts of laws
In 1969, the Tamil Nadu and Special directives.
Government appointed a
three-member committee The First language committee was
under the chairmanship of Dr. appointed in 1955. It submitted its report in
P V Rajamannar to examine the 1956. As a follow up of the report, parliament
entire question of Centre-state relations. enacted the Official Language Act, 1963. The
act laid down that even after 15 year, English
legislate on the State List. Both Parliament and may continued to be used along with Hindi for
State Legislatures have power to legislate on all official purposes of the Union and also for
subjects contained in the Concurrent transaction of business in parliament. Again
List. But in case of conflict between the law through the Official Languages (Amendment)
of the State and the Union on a subject in the Act, 1967, it was provided that the use of
Concurrent List, the law of Parliament prevails. English would continue indefinitely. The
Constitution also permitted certain regional
1.9.2 Administrative relations languages to be used for intra-state official
The Administrative power of a State extends transactions. Initially, the Constitution
only to its own territory and with respect to recognised 14 regional languages which were
which it has legislative competence, whereas included in the Eighth Schedule. At present,
the Union has exclusive executive power over: 22 languages are recognised.
(a) the matters with respect to which Parliament
has exclusive power to make laws and (b) the Activity
exercise of its powers conferred by any treaty or List out the recognised languages in the
agreement. Eighth Schedule of the Constitution?
1.9.3 Financial relations

In 2004, the Government of
Article 268-293 in Part XII deal with the
India decided to create new
Financial relations between centre and the
category of languages called
states. The Centre and States are empowered
as “classical languages”. So far,
by the Constitution to impose various kinds
the six languages are granted
of taxes. And certain taxes are imposed and
the classical language status namely Tamil
collected by the centre and divided between
(2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu (2008),
centre and states based on the recommendation
Kannada (2008), Malayalam (2013) and
of the Finance Commission appointed by the
Odia (2014).
President under Article 280 of the Constitution.
Late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi appointed
the Sarkaria Commission in 1983 to make an 1.11 Emergency Provisions
enquiry into the Centre-State relations. The The Central Government has been vested
Central government has implemented 180 with extraordinary powers to deal with
(out of 247) recommendations of the conditions of emergency. Three types of
Commission. The most important is the emergencies are envisaged in the Constitution:
establishment of the Inter-State Council in 1990.
1.11.1 National Emergency
1.10 Official Language (Article 352)
Part XVII of the Constitution deals with The President under Article 352 can declare
the official language in Articles 343 to 351. Its emergency if he is satisfied that India’s security
provisions are divided into four heads namely, is threatened due to war, external aggression or
Language of the Union, Regional languages, armed rebellion, or if there is an imminent danger
Aatchiyar Kalvi
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or threat. When a national emergency is declared made in the Constitution of a country. Article
on the ground of war or external aggression it 368 of the Constitution in Part XX, deals
is known as external emergency. On the other with the powers of Parliament to amend the
hand, when it is declared on the ground of armed Constitution and its procedure.
rebellion it is known as internal emergency. This 1.12.1 Procedure of Amendment
type of emergency has been declared three times
An amendment of this Constitution may be
so far: in 1962, 1971 and 1975.
1.11.2 State emergency initiated only by the introduction of a Bill for
the purpose in either House of Parliament,
(Article 356)
and when the Bill is passed in each House
Under Article 356, the President can declare by a majority of the total membership of
an emergency in a state if the Governor reports that House and by a majority of not less than
that a situation has arisen under which the two-thirds of the members of that House
government of a State cannot be carried on present and voting, it shall be presented to
in accordance with the provisions of the the President who shall give his assent to the
Constitution. The continuance of such an Bill and thereupon the Constitution shall
emergency beyond one year is possible only if stand amended in accordance with the terms
emergency under Art. 352 are in operation or of the Bill. The constitution amendment can
the Election Commission certifies that there be brought about only by the Parliament.
are difficulties in holding Assembly elections. State legislatures cannot initiate for any
Maximum duration of the emergency can be amendment to the Constitution.
three years. In this kind of emergency, the States
lose much of their autonomy in legislative and 1.12.2 Types of Amendments
executive matters. After such an announcement Article 368 provides for three ways of
state legislature is suspended and the State amendments, that is, by a special majority of
is governed by the Governor on behalf of the Parliament and also through the ratification
President. For the first time, the President’s Rule of half of the states by a simple majority. But,
was imposed in Punjab in 1951. some other articles provide for the amendment
of certain provisions of the Constitution by
1.11.3 Financial emergency a simple majority of Parliament, that is, a
(Article 360) majority of the members of each House present
Article 360 authorises the President to and voting (similar to the ordinary legislative
declare financial emergency if he is satisfied process). Notably, these amendments are not
that the financial stability or credit of India deemed to be amendments of the Constitution
or of any of its parts is in danger. In this type for the purposes of Article 368. Therefore, the
of emergency, salaries and allowances of Constitution can be amended in three ways:
any class of persons serving State or Union, 1. Amendment by simple majority of the
including judges of the Supreme Court and Parliament
High Court can be reduced by an order of 2. Amendment by special majority of the
the President. This type of emergency has not Parliament
been declared in India so far. 3. Amendment by special majority of the
Parliament and the ratification of half of
1.12 Amendment of the the state legislatures.
Constitution
The term amendment denotes change, 42 nd amendment of the
improvement and modification. Usually this Constitution is known as the
term is associated with one or more changes mini Constitution.
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188
1.13 Constitutional Reform a three member commission headed by the
Commissions former Chief Justice of India M.M.Punchchi
was set up by the then Government to take a
The National Commission to Review the fresh look at relative roles and responsibilities
Working of the Constitution was set up by a of various levels of Government and their
resolution of the Government of India in 2000 inter-relations.
headed by M.N.Venkatachaliah. In April 2007,
Recap
The Constitution of India was framed by a Constituent Assembly set up under the Cabinet
Mission Plan, 1946.
The Preamble of our Constitution states that India is a Sovereign Socialist Secular
Democratic Republic.
The word ‘Citizen’ is derived from the Latin term ‘Civis’. It means resident of a City State.
According to Dr. Ambedkar, Article 32 is “the heart and soul of the whole Constitution”.
The Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution are inspired by the Constitution of
former USSR.
In 2004, the Government of India decided to create new category of languages called as
“classical languages”.
Article 368 of the Constitution in Part XX, deals with the powers of Parliament to amend the
Constitution and its procedure.
GLOSSARY
Preamble the introduction to the constitution of India முகப்புரை

Secular state A state which protects all religions equally சமயச் சார்பற்ற அரசு
Discrimination unfair treatment of a person or group பாகுபாடு
Writ written command of court நீதிப்பேராணை
Sovereignty supreme power or authority இறையாண்மை
Heritage something handed down from one’s ancestors பாரம்பரியம்
Autonomy independence in one’s thoughts or actions தன்னாட்சி
Imminent coming up உடனடி
Proclamation an announcement பிரகடனம்
EVALUATION
(a)
R epublic, democratic, secular,
socialist, sovereign
I C hoos e the
(b)
S overeign, socialist, secular,
C orre ct
republic, democratic
A ns w e r.
(c)
S overeign, republic, secular,
1 . Which of the socialist, democratic
following sequences
(d)
S overeign, socialist, secular,
in right regarding the
democratic, republic
Preamble?
Aatchiyar Kalvi
189
2 . How many times has the Preamble to the 8. Which one of the following rights was
Constitution of India amended? described by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as the
( a ) Onc e ( b) Tw ice heart and soul of the Constitution?
( c ) Th r ic e ( d) Ne ver (a) Right to freedom of religion
3 . The Indian Constitution gives to its (b) Right to equality
citizens (c) Right to Constitutional remedies
(a) Double Citizenship (d) Right to property
(b) Single Citizenship 9. How can the Fundamental Rights be
(c) Single Citizenship in some States and suspended?
double in others
(a) If the Supreme Court so desires
(d) None of the above
(b) If the Prime Minister orders to this
4. A foreigner can acquire Indian effect
citizenship through (c) If the President orders it during the
(a) Descent national emergency
(b) Registration (d) All of the above
(c) Naturalisation
10. We borrowed the Fundamental Duties
(d) All of the above from the
5. Find the odd one out. (a) American Constitution
(a) Right to Equality (b) Canadian Constitution
(b) Right against Exploitation (c) Russian Constitution
(c) Right to Property (d) Irish Constitution
(d)Cultural and Educational Rights
11. The Directive Principles can be classified
6. One of the following is not an instance into
of an exercise of a fundamental right? (a) Liberal and Communist principles
(a) Workers from Karnataka go to Kerala (b) Socialist and Communist principles
to work on the farms (c) Liberal, Gandhian and Communist
(b) Christian missions set up a chain of principles
missionary schools (d
) Socialist, Gandhian and Liberal
(c)
Men and Women government principles
employees got the same salary.
12. Under which Article financial emergency
(d) Parents property is inherited by their
children can be proclaimed?
(a) Article 352 (b) Article 356
7. If the fundamental rights of Indian
(c) Article 360 (d) Article 368
citizen are violated, they possess the
right to have an access to 13. The procedure for the amendment of the
(a) The Parliament Indian Constitution is given in
(b) The Attorney General (a ) Ar t icle 352 (b) Ar t i cl e 3 5 6
(c) The President of India (c) Ar t icle 360 (d) Ar t i cl e 3 6 8
(d) The Supreme court of India
Aatchiyar Kalvi
190
14. Which of the following committees/ 5. What are the classical languages in
commissions made recommendations India?
about the Centre-State Relations? 6. What is national emergency?
1. Sarkaria Commission 7. List out the three heads of the relations
2. Rajamannar Committee between the Centre and the States.
3. M.N.Venkatachaliah Commission
V Answer in Detail.
Select the correct answer from the
codes given below 1. Explain the salient features of the
Constitution of India.
(a) 1, 2 & 3 (b) 1 & 2
2. Point out the Fundamental Rights.
(c) 1 & 3 (d) 2 & 3
3. Write briefly on the Right to
II Fill in the Blanks. Constitutional Remedies.
4. Mention the differences between
1. The concept of constitution first Fundamental Rights and Directive
originated in ________. Principles of State Policy.
2. ________was elected as the temporary
President of the Constituent Assembly. VI Project and activity.
3. The Constitution of India was adopted 1. Collect information about the various
on________. members of the Constituent Assembly
4. ________ writs are mentioned in Article and their social background.
32. 2. Collect the pictures of the Members of
5. Fundamental duties have been the Drafting Committee and their social
given to the citizen of India under background.
Article________.
VII Life Skill.
III Match the Following. 1. Prepare a chart containing the Rights
and Duties of citizens and display it in
1. Citizenship Act - Jawaharlal Nehru
your class room.
2. The Preamble - 42nd Amendment
3. The mini - 1955 REFERENCE BOOKS
Constitution
1. D.D. Basu - Introduction of the
4. Classical - 1962 Constitution of India, S.C. Sarkar &
language Sons (Private) Ltd, 1982.
5 National - Tamil 2. PM Bakshi - The Constitution of India,
Emergency Universal Law Publishing - an imprint of
LexisNexis, 2018.
IV Give short Answers.
1. What is a Constitution? INTERNET RESOURCES
2. What is meant by citizenship?
3. How many types of fundamental rights https://www.india.org/
are listed by the Indian Constitution? T https://w w w.const itut ion.org/cons/
4. What is a Writ? india/p03.html
Aatchiyar Kalvi
191
Unit - 2
Central
Government
Learning Objectives
To know the powers of the President and Vice President
To Know the about the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers
To understand the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
To know about Supreme Court
Introduction Indian constitution, by giving due recognition

to the vastness and plural character of our
The Central Government is the supreme nation, have provided a federal arrangement
government in our country. The head for her governance. The Central Government
quarter of the Central Government is at New consists of three organs, namely, Union
Delhi. Articles 52 to 78 in part V of Indian Executive, Legislature and Judiciary. The
Constitution deals with the Union Executive. Union Executive consists of the President of
Our Constitution provides for a democratic India, the Vice-President, and the Council of
form of government. The makers of the Ministers headed by the Prime Minister, and
Central Government
Executive Legislature Judiciary
President of India Parliament Supreme Court of India
Vice-President Chief Justice of India

Rajya Sabha Lok Sabha
Prime Minister 238 Elected Other Judges 27

12 Nominated
by the State
Assemblies by the President
Council of
Ministers 543 Elected by the people 2 Nominated by the President
Central Government 180
Aatchiyar Kalvi
Unit 2 -Central Government(06.03.2019).indd 180 10-04-2019 09:58:36
192
the Attorney General of India. The Legislature 2.1.1 Qualification for the
is known as the Parliament. It consists of two
election as President
houses, namely the Rajya Sabha and the Lok
Sabha. The Union Judiciary consists of the The constitution lays down qualifications
Supreme Court of India. for a Presidential candidate.
He should be a citizen of India.
2.1 The President of India He must have completed the age of thirty-
five years.
In the scheme
of parliamentary He must not hold any office of profit under
system of the Union, State or local Government.
government He should have the other qualifications
provided by the required to become a member of the Lok
constitution, Sabha.
the President His or her name should be proposed
is the nominal by at least ten electors and seconded
e x e c u t i v e by another ten electors of the Electoral
authority. The College which elects the President.
chief executive of DR. RAJENDRA PRASAD
(First President of India) The President cannot be a Member of
the Indian union
Parliament or of a State Legislature; if he is
is the President. He is designated as the First
a member of any legislature, his seat will be
citizen of India. He is the supreme commander
deemed to have been vacated on the date he /
of the armed forces. The President is also the
she assumes the office of President.
Constitutional head of the Union Executive.
He is also responsible for constituting the 2.1.2 Election of the President
judiciary. According to Article 53 of the The President is elected by an electoral
constitution, the executive power of the college in accordance with the system of
Union shall be vested in the President which proportional representation by means
shall be exercised by him directly or through of single transferable vote. The Electoral
officers subordinate to him in accordance with College consists of the elected members of
Constitution. both houses of Parliament and the elected
It is a well known fact that members of the states and elected members
the President of India resides of National Capital Territory of Delhi and
at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Puducherry. Once elected as the President
Delhi. The residence and the has to take an oath of office before the Chief
office of the President are Justice of India. The President is elected for a
located in the same building. However he term of five years and can be re-elected.
has two other office cum residences where 2.1.3 Powers of the President
he conducts office at least once a year. They
are 'The Retreat Building' at Shimla and the The powers and functions of the President
'Rashtrapati Nilayam' at Hyderabad. These of India can be broadly classified under the
locations one in North and other one is South following categories.
symbolise the unity of the country and unity
Executive Powers
of the diverse culture of the people.
The constitution vests in the President of
India all the executive powers of the Central
Government. Article 77 requires that every
181 Central Government
Aatchiyar Kalvi
193
general election and also at the beginning
List of Presidents of India
of the first session each year. This address
1. Thiru. Rajendra Prasad 1950 to 1962 is essentially identical in nature to a Speech
2. Thiru. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan 1962 to 1967 from the Throne.The President summons
3. Thiru. Zakir Hussain 1967 to 1969 Parliament at least twice in a year.
4. Thiru. V.V Giri 1969 to 1974
He may send messages to either House of
5. Thiru. Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed 1974 to 1977
the Parliament with respect to a bill pending in
6. Thiru. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy 1977 to 1982
7. Thiru. Giani Zail Singh 1982 to 1987
the House. All bills passed by the Parliament
8. Thiru. R Venkataraman 1987 to 1992
become “Laws of Acts” only after getting
9. Thiru. Shankar Dayal Sharma 1992 to 1997 assent of the President. Money bills cannot
10. Thiru. K R Narayanan 1997 to 2002 be introduced in the Parliament without his
11. Thiru. APJ Abdul Kalam 2002 to 2007 approval. President terminates the sessions
12. Tmt. Pratibha Patil 2007 to 2012 of both or any of the Houses of Parliament.
13. Thiru. Pranab Mukherjee 2012 to 2017 He can even dissolve the Lok Sabha before the
14. Thiru. Ram Nath Kovind 2017 to till now expiry of the term of the House.
He nominates 12 persons who are eminent
executive action of the Union shall be taken in literature, science, sports, art and social
in the name of the President. So he has to service to the Rajya Sabha. He can also
make many appointments to key-offices to nominate two persons belonging to Anglo-
run the administration. Indian Community to the Lok Sabha, if in
He appoints the Prime Minister and the his opinion, that community is inadequately
other members of the Council of Ministers, represented in the House.
distributing portfolios to them on the advice Financial Power
of the Prime Minister. He is responsible for
making a wide variety of appointments. These Money bill can be introduced in
include the appointment of Governors of the Parliament only with his prior
States, the Chief Justice and other Judges of the recommendation. Annual Budget of the
Supreme Court and high Courts, the Attorney Central Government is presented before the
General, the Comptroller and Auditor Lok Sabha by the Union Finance Minister
General, the Chief Election Commissioner only with the permission of the President.
and other Election Commissioners the He causes to be laid before the Parliament
Chairman and other Members of the Union the annual financial statement (the Union
Public Service Commission Ambassadors Budget). The Constitution of India places the
and High Commissioners to other countries. Contingency Fund of India is at the disposal of
the President. No demand for a grant can be
He appoints a commission to investigate
made except on his recommendation. He can
into the conditions of SCs, STs and other
make advances out of the contingency fund
backward classes.He is the supreme
commander of the defense forces of India, in of India to meet any unexpected expenditure.
this capacity the President can appoint Army, He constitutes a finance commission after
Navy, and Air Chiefs. every five years or on the demand of the states
to recommend the distribution of revenues
Legislative Powers between the Centre and the States.
The President is an integral part of the Judicial Powers
Union Parliament. He inaugurates the session
of the Parliament by addressing it after the Article 72 confers on the President power
to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or
Aatchiyar Kalvi
194
remissions of punishment, or to commute Under Article 360, the President is vested
the sentence of any person convicted of an with the power to proclaim Financial
offence. In all cases where the punishment Emergency, if he is satisfied that the financial
or sentence is by a court martial; in all cases stability or, the credit of India or any part of
where the punishment or sentence is for and India is threatened, by any reason.
offence against a Union law; and in all cases
where the sentence is a sentence of death.
The President is not answerable to any court erala and Punjab are the States
K
of law for exercise of his/she power (however where the President’s Rule was
He can be subjected to impeachment by the imposed for maximum number
Parliament). of times i.e., nine times in both
States.
Military Powers
Article 53(2) lays down that “the supreme
command of the Defence Force of the Union
2.1.4 Removal of the President
shall be vested in the President and the
exercise thereof shall be regulated by law”. The President shall hold office for a term of
The President is thus declared to be the five years from the date on which He enters
Supreme Commander of the defence Force of the office. The President may by writing under
the country. In the exercise of this power, it is his hand addressed to the Vice-President,
the President, who can declare war against a resign his office. The President may, for
country and make peace. violation of the Constitution, be removed
from office by impeachment in the manner
Diplomatic Powers provided in Article 61; The Impeachment
The President appoints Indian diplomats to action can be brought about in the form of
other countries and receives foreign diplomats resolution in either house of the Parliament.
posted to India. The ambassador designate It must be supported by not less than One-
becomes ambassador after calling on the Fourth of the total strength of the House for
President and presenting his credentials. All its introduction. The President shall, in spite
treaties and agreements with foreign States of the conclusion of his term, continue to
are entered into, in the name of the President. hold office until his successor enters upon his
office.
Emergency Powers
2.1.5 Privileges of the President
The President has been empowered by
the Constitution to proclaim Emergency. According to Article 361(1) the President,
They are follows: Article 352 confers or the Governor of a state, shall not be
power on the President to make a answerable to any court for the exercise and
proclamation of Emergency on the performance of the powers and duties of his
grounds of war, external aggression, office or for any act done or purporting to be
or armed rebellion. This is known as done by him in the exercise and performance
National Emergency. of those powers and duties.
Article 356 confers power on the
President to make a proclamation of 2.2 Vice-President
State Emergency by declaring that the The vice-President occupies the second
Government in a State cannot be run on highest office in the country. He is accorded
in accordance of the provisions of the a rank next to the President in the official
Constitution. warrant of precedence. This office is
Aatchiyar Kalvi
195
modeled on the lines 2.2.3 Removal of the Vice
of the American Vice- President
President. Article 63
The Vice President may be removed from
of the constitution
his office by a resolution of the Council of
provides for a Vice
States passed by a majority of all the then
President of India.
members of the council and agreed to by the
This office has been
House of the People. A resolution for this
created to maintain the
purpose may be moved only after a notice of
political continuity of DR. RADHA KRISHNAN at least a minimum of 14 days has been given
the state. (First Vice President of India)
of such an intention.
2.2.1 Qualification for the 2.2.4 F unctions of the Vice
election as Vice President President
The constitution lays down qualifications The Vice-President is Ex-Officio Chairman
for a Vice Presidential candidate. of the Rajya Sabha. As the Chairman of the
He should be a citizen of India. House, he carries out several functions.
He must have completed the age of thirty- He regulates the proceeding of the House.
five years. He decides the order of the House.
He must not hold any office of profit under He decides the admissibility of a
the Union, State or local Government. resolution or questions.
He should have the other qualifications He suspends or adjourns the House in
required to become a member of the case of a grave disorder.
Rajya Sabha. He issues directions to various committees
on matters relating to their functions.
2.2.2 E
lection and term of the
Vice-President Casting Vote
Article 66(1) the Vice- According to Article (100)

President, like the president, of the Constitution, the vice-
is elected not directly by president can\only cast his
the people but the method vote when there is a tie over
of indirect election. He is the Bill in the Rajya Sabha.It
elected by the members means that there is need for one vote only
of an electoral college to pass the Bill. So vice-president using his
consisting of the member of both Houses discretion power cast his vote in favor or
of Parliament. The term of office of the against the Bill. No members have any right
Vice President is five years. His office may to oppose his decision.
terminate earlier than the fixed term either
by resignation, death or by removal. He is When the President is unable to discharge
eligible for re-election. The Constitution his duties due to illness or absence from
does not provide a mechanism of succession the country, he attends to the functions
to the office of the Vice – President. Under of the President. When the President is
such circumstances, election to the Vice unable to do so due to sickness or when
the post of President becomes vacant
President shall be held early as possible. Till
due to resignation, death, or removal
then deputy chairman of the Rajya sabha can
by impeachment etc. the Vice-President
perform the duties of the chairman of the can act as the President for a maximum
Rajya sabha. period of six months.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
196
by the President on the advice of the Prime
If the posts of President
Minister. If no party commands absolute
and Vice-President lie vacant,
majority in the Lok Sabha, the President can
Chief Justice of India works
summon the leader of any party who, in his
as President. This situation
opinion, can manage to form a ministry. The
happened in 1969 when Chief
President administers to the ministers the
Justice M.Hidayutalla was appointed as
oath of office and of secrecy. The salaries
President of India.
and allowances of the Prime Minister and the
ministers are determined by the Parliament. A
2.3 Prime Minister person who is not a member of the Parliament
can be appointed as a minister but he has to
Article 74 (1) says:
get himself elected to the Parliament within
There shall be a council
six months. Ministers are individually as well
of ministers with the
as collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
Prime Minster as the
head to aid and advice 2.3.1 Duties and functions of
the President. He may Prime Minister
direct the council
to reconsider their Article 78 mentioned the duties of the
advice, but is bound Prime Minister:
JAWAHARLAL NEHRU
by the advice given (First Prime Minister of India) The Prime Minister decides the rank
after reconsideration. of his ministers and distributes various
The post of Prime Minister of India has departments.
adopted the Westminster (England) model of The Prime Minister decides the dates and
constitutional democracy. the agenda of the meeting of the Cabinet
The leader of the majority party in Lok Sabha which he presides.
is appointed by the President as the Prime The Prime Minister is the Head of the
Minister. The other ministers are appointed Cabinet and the other ministers are his
colleagues.
List of Prime Ministers of India The Prime Minister informally consults
two or three of his senior colleagues when
1. Thiru. Jawaharlal Nehru 1947–64 he does not convene a Cabinet meeting.
2. Thiru. Lal Bahadur Shastri 1964–66
The Prime Minister supervises the work
3. Tmt. Indira Gandhi 1966–77
of various ministers.
4. Thiru. Morarji Desai 1977–79
5. Thiru. Charan Singh 1979–80 To converse to the President all decisions
6. Tmt. Indira Gandhi 1980–84 of the Council of Ministers connecting
7. Thiru. Rajiv Gandhi 1984–89 to the government of the affairs of the
8. Thiru. V.P. Singh 1989–90 Union and proposals for legislation.
9. Thiru. Chandra Shekhar 1990–91 The Prime Minister act as the link
10. Thiru. P.V. Narasimha Rao 1991–96 between the President and the Council of
11. Thiru. Atal Bihari Vajpayee May 1996 Ministers.
12. Thiru. D. Deve Gowda 1996–97 The Prime Minister is the leader of the
13. Thiru. I.K. Gujral 1997–98 nation and chief spokesperson of the
14. Thiru. Atal Bihari Vajpayee 1998–2004 country.
15. Thiru. Manmohan Singh 2004–14
As the leader of the nation, the Prime
16. Thiru. Narendra Modi 2014–till now
Minister represents our nation at all
Aatchiyar Kalvi
197
international conferences like the but they do not participate in the meetings of
commonwealth, summit of the non the cabinet unless invited to do so.
aligned nations and SAARC nations.
Deputy Ministers
2.3.2 Council of Ministers They are the lowest ranked ministers in
After the elections, the President of India, the cabinet. They assist either the Ministers
on the advice of the Prime Minister, appoints of Cabinet or State in the performance of the
the council of ministers. Sometimes a non duties entrusted to them.
– member of the Parliament too may be
appointed. However, he must get elected to 2.4 Parliament of India
either of the Houses of the Parliament within The parliament is the legislative organ of the
a period of six months. The Constitution of Union government. Article 79 to 122 in part V
India restricts the number of the Council of of the constitution deal with the organization,
Ministers including the Prime Minister to composition, duration, officers, procedures,
fifteen per cent of the total members of the privileges, powers and so on of the Parliament.
Lok Sabha. The Parliament of India consists of three
parts they are the President, Rajya Sabha (the
Categories of the Ministers council of States) and Lok Sabha (the House
The ministers are classified under three of the People). The Rajya Sabha is the Upper
ranks House and the Lok Sabha is the Lower House
it is termed as bicameral legislature.
(i) Cabinet Ministers
(ii) Ministers of State
(iii) Deputy Ministers.
Cabinet Ministers
The Cabinet is an informal body of
senior ministers who form the nucleus of
administration. Important decisions of the Parliament
government are taken by the Cabinet, such as
2.4.1 Rajya Sabha
defense, finance, external affairs and home.
The Cabinet recommends to the President to The council of State or Rajya Sabha consists
promulgate an ordinance. It is instrumental in of 250 members out of whom 238 represent
moving Amendments to the Constitution. The the states and the Union Territories, elected
Finance bills have their origin in the Cabinet by the method of indirect election.
and then they are introduced in the Lok Sabha The 12nominated members shall be chosen
with the Presidents recommendations. The by the President from amongst persons having
Cabinet decides the foreign policy of the ‘special knowledge or practical experience in
Government approves international treaties the field of literature, science, sports, art and
and plays a significant role in the appointment social service.
of Ambassadors to various countries.
Qualification of the Members
Ministers of State
A person seeking membership of
These ministers belong to the second Rajya Sabha must possess the following
category of ministers in the council. They are qualifications.
also in charge of ministries or departments
Aatchiyar Kalvi
198
He should be a citizen of India. Legislative Assemblies they elect the
He should not be less than 30 years of age. President and Vice President.
He should not hold any office of profit It has power in the impeachment
under any Government. procedure of president and judges of
supreme court and high court.
He should be a person with sound mind
and monetarily solvent. Rajya Sabha has the power to make a state
list subject into National Importance.
He should have such other qualification If two third majority of the members
as may be approved by the Parliament for of Rajya Sabha passes a resolution to
that reason from time to time. support it. Rajya Sabha can also create or
He should not be the member of Lok abolish an All India Service. If majority
Sabha or any other legislature. of members (2/3 of Total Members)
supports it.
Term of House
The Rajya Sabha is a permanent house and 4.4.2 Lok Sabha
it cannot be dissolved. The members of the The Lok Sabha is the popular house of
Rajya Sabha are elected for a term of six years. the Indian Parliament and contains elected
One third of the members of Rajya Sabha representatives of the people. Maximum
retire every two years, and new members number of members can be elected for Lok
are elected to fill the seats thus vacated. Sabha is 552. The Lok Sabha as of today has 543
The Vice President of India is the Ex-officio elected members. Out of these, 530 members
Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha. The Deputy are elected from different states and 13 members
Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha is elected by from the Union Territories. The President
the members of the Rajya Sabha. generally nominates two members belonging to
the Anglo-Indian community. At present, the
Election
Lok Sabha consists of 545 members.
Members of Rajya Sabha are elected by
the elected members of the ‘State Legislative Qualification of the Members
Assemblies’ in accordance with the system He should be a citizen of India.
of proportional representation by means of He should not be less than 25 years of age.
the single transferable vote. This process of
election is called “indirect election” as they He should have his name in electoral rolls
are not elected by the people directly. in some part of the country.
Functions of the Rajya Sabha

Money Bill
Any bill (except the money bills) needs Rajya Sabha does not have
to be approved by Rajya Sabha to get any power to amend or reject
passed. If the bill gets stuck for more than
the Money bill. Lok Sabha can
six months then President calls for a joint
only introduce Money bill and
session of both the houses to resolve the
deadlock. once it is approved by the Lok Sabha, it is
passed to Rajya Sabha for its approval. If
It has the same power as Lok Sabha,
Rajya Sabha fails to pass it within 14 days
for passing any bill for constitutional
then the bill gets passed without the approv-
amendment.
al of Rajya Sabha. Also, Lok Sabha does not
The members of Rajya Sabha have the need to consider the amendments proposed
electoral power for selection of President,
by the Rajya Sabha. Lok Sabha can reject
Vice President. Together with the
all the proposals and pass it.
members of Lok Sabha and all the State
Aatchiyar Kalvi
199
He should not hold any office of profit It has the same power as Rajya Sabha
under the Union or State Government. to participate in case of impeachment
of president and the judges of Supreme
He should be mentally sound and
Court.
economically solvent.
It has equal power as Rajya Sabha
The term of the House in passing any bill for constitutional
amendment.
Generally the Lok Sabha enjoys a term of Lok Sabha members have the power to
five years from the date of its first session. It elect the president, vice president.
can be dissolved by the President before the Motion of no confidence can only be
expiry of its term on the advice of the Prime introduced in Lok Sabha. If it is passed
Minister. The emergency provisions of the then the prime minister and other council
Constitution enable the President to prorogue of ministers need to resign from their post.
or dissolve the Lok Sabha either on the advice
of the Prime Minister or on being convinced Elected members of the
that no party or no alliance of parties enjoys Parliament from Tamil Nadu.
necessary majority support in the House. Rajya Sabha – 18 members

Election Lok Sabha – 39 members

The members of the Lok Sabha are directly
elected by the people of the constituencies 2.4.3 The Speaker
created on the basis of population. The The Lok Sabha is presided over by the
Election Commission of India arranges, ‘speaker’ who is elected by its members. The
supervises and conducts elections to the Lok office of the Speaker occupies an essential
Sabha. For sake of elections to Lok Sabha position in our Parliamentary democracy.
the entire nation is divided into number of The Speaker continues to be in the office even
constituencies which are formed more or less in the houses dissolved, till a new Speaker is
on the basis of the population. elected by the new Lok Sabha. The Speaker
“Universal Adult Franchise” is followed presides over a joint sitting of the two Houses
while electing the members of the Lok Sabha. of Parliament. He has the power to decide
All Indian Citizens above 18 years of age who whether a Bill is Money Bill or an ordinary
are registered as voters will vote for their one. The decision of the Speaker on whether
representatives. a Bill is Money Bill is final. Under the anti
defection of 1985, the speaker is empowered
to decide whether a member of the Lok Sabha
is disqualified or not on the basis of the 10th
schedule of the constitution. While the office
of speaker is vacant or the speaker is absent
from the sitting of the house, the deputy
speaker presides, except when a resolution for
his own removal is under consideration.
Parliament Session
Budget Session from February
Universal Adult Franchise to May
Functions of the Lok Sabha Monsoon Session from July to
Any bill can be introduced and passed in September
the Lok sabha (Including Money Bill). Winter Session from November to December
Aatchiyar Kalvi
200
2.4.4 Powers and Functions of such other duties of a legal character that
the Parliament are assigned to him by the President and
The Parliament of India has the functions of discharge the functions conferred on him
Legislation, overseeing of administration, by the constitution are any other law. In the
passing of Budget, ventilation of public performance of his official duties, Attorney
grievances, discussion of various subjects General of India has the right of audience in
like development plans, international all courts in the territory of India. Further he
relations and internal policies. has the right to speak and to take part in the
Parliament is also vested with powers proceedings of both Houses of the Parliament
to impeach the President and to remove or their joint sitting and any committee of
Judges of the Supreme Court and High the Parliament of which he may be named
Courts, Chief Election Commissioner a member, but without a right to vote. He
and Comptroller and Auditor-General of enjoys all the privileges and immunities that
India in accordance with the procedure are available to a member of Parliament.
laid down in the Constitution.
The Parliament exercises control over the 2.6 Judiciary
executive through asking questions and
supplementary questions, moving motions Judiciary is the third organ of the
of adjournment, discussing and passing government. It plays a vital role in protecting
resolutions, discussing and pushing censure the rights and freedom of the citizens. It
motion or vote of no-confidence. also plays an important role in analyzing and
The Parliament has the power to change interpreting the provisions of laws and the
the boundaries of the States. Constitution.
2.5 Attorney General of Supreme Court

India The “Supreme Court is the Guardian of
the Constitution”. Our constitution provides
The Constitution (Article 76) has provided
for the establishment of an independent and
for office of the Attorney General for India.
integrated judiciary with ‘supreme court’ as
He is the highest law officer in the country.
the uppermost court in the country. Our
He is appointed by the President. He must be
judiciary is autonomous of the Legislative
a person who is qualified to be appointed the
and Executive wing of the Union and State
Judge of the Supreme Court. In other words,
Government. An integrated judiciary means
he must be a citizen of India and he must have
a single judicial hierarchy for the whole
been a judge of some High Court for five years
country. The judiciary plays an important
or an advocate of some High Court for 10
role in defensive the rights and freedom of
years or eminent jurist, in the opinion of the
the citizens. It plays an important role in
President. He holds office during the pleasure
analyzing and interpreting the necessities of
of the President. This means that he may be
laws and the constitution.
removed by the President at any time. He may
also quit his office by submitting his resignation
to the President. The Supreme Court of India,
New Delhi was inaugurated
5.1 Duties and Functions of on January 28, 1950. It
Attorney General of India succeeded the Federal Court
To give advice to the Government of of India, established under the
India upon such legal matters which are Government of India Act of 1935.
referred to him by the President. To perform
Aatchiyar Kalvi
201
in “New Delhi”. It may also sit any other
place in India which may be decided by the
Chief Justice of India with the approval of the
President of India.
2.6.4 Powers and Functions of

the Supreme Court
(a) Judicial Functions
Supreme Court
The “Supreme Court is the Guardian of
2.6.1 Composition of the the Constitution”. The followings are the
Supreme Court functions of the Supreme Court.
At the commencement of the constitution (b) Original Jurisdiction

in 1950 our supreme court consisted of 8 The cases which are brought directly in
judges including the chief justice. At present, the first instance to the Supreme Court come
the Supreme Court consists of 28 judges under original jurisdiction. These may
including the chief justice. be (i) dispute between the Government of
India and one or more States of (ii) Dispute
2.6.2 Appointment of Judges
between two or more states (iii) the cases
The Chief Justice of Supreme Court in India involving fundamental rights (dispute over
is appointed by the President of India. The the enforcement) come under the jurisdiction
other judges are appointed by the President in
of the Supreme Court. The writs issued by
consultation with the collegiums with Chief
the Supreme Court for the enforcement of the
Justice Head.
fundamental rights are, (a) Habeas Corpus
2.6.3 Qualification of Supreme (b) Mandamus (c) Prohibition (d) Certiorari
Court Judges (e)Quo Warranto.
He must be a citizen of India. (c) Appellate Jurisdiction

He should have worked as a Judge of a The Supreme Court is the final appellate
High Court for at least 5 years. court in the country. As regard the Appellate
He should have worked as an advocate of jurisdiction, the Supreme Court hears appeals
High Court for at least 10 years. against the decisions of High Court in “civil,
He is in the opinion of the President, a criminal and Constitutional” cases with a
distinguished Jurist. certificate from the High Court that it is fit to
The constitution also provides for the appeal in the Supreme Court. Such a case can
appointment of judges to the Supreme Court be brought before the Supreme Court only if
on an ad-hoc (temporary) basis. The Chief the High Court certifies that the case invites
Justice and other judges of the Supreme a substantial of law as to the interpretation of
Court hold the office up to the age of 65 the Constitution.
years. The judges of the Supreme Court
(d) Advisory Jurisdiction
can resign before their term by giving their
resignation in writing to the President. The The Constitution confers on the President
Parliament also has power to remove the the power to refer to the Supreme Court any
Judges by invoking impeachment provisions. question of law or fact which in his opinion is
The Supreme Court has its permanent seat of public importance.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
202
(e) Miscellaneous Jurisdiction (f) Judicial Review
The Supreme Court is The power of the judiciary to declare a
The law declared by Supreme Court is law as unconstitutional is known as “Judicial
binding on all courts within the territory Review”. The Supreme Court enjoys this
of India. power. The Supreme Court of India has
Individual Review Power with regard to
The Supreme Court is authorized to
make rules for regulating, generally the 1) Dispute between the Centre and the States
practice and procedure of the court with 2) To interpret and clarify a provision of the
the approval of the President. constitution about which there are some
doubts and differences of opinion.
The Supreme Court has complete control
3) Protecting the fundamental rights,
over its own establishment.
4) Those laws passed by the legislatures which
are not in accordance with the Constitution.
Recap
The Central Government consists of three organs, namely, Union Executive,
Legislature and Judiciary.
President appoints the Prime Minister and the other members of the Council of Ministers.
The Parliament of India consists of three parts they are the President, Rajya Sabha
and Lok Sabha.
The Attorney General for the India is the highest law officer in the country. He is
appointed by the President of India.
The “Supreme Court is the Guardian of the Constitution”.
The Chief Justice of Supreme Court in India is appointed by the President of India.`
GLOSSARY
Terminate bring to an untimely end. முடிவுக்கு க�ொண்டு வருதல்

Contingency fund an amount of money that can be used to pay for எதிர்பாரா செலவு நிதி
problems that might happen.
Pardon Absolving the convict of all guilt and punishment. ப�ொதுமன்னிப்பு
Remission Quantitative reduction of punishment without தண்டனை குறைப்பு
affecting Nature of punishment.
Precedence priority of importance. முன்னுரிமை
Ex-officio because of an office. பதவியின் நிமித்தமாக
EVALUATION b) The Chief Justice

c) The Prime Minister
I. Choose the correct answer d) C ouncil of
1. The Constitutional Head of the Union is Ministers
a) The President
Aatchiyar Kalvi
203
2. Who is the real executive in a 9. The Chief Justice and other Judges of the
parliamentary type of government? Supreme court are appointed by:
a) Army a) The President
b) The Prime Minister b) TheAttorney General
c) The President c) The Governor
d) Judiciary d) The Prime Minister
3. Who among the following decides 10. Dispute between States of India comes
whether a Bill is a Money Bill or not? to the Supreme Court under:
a) The President a) Appellate Jurisdiction
b) Attorney General b) Original Jurisdiction
c) Parliamentary Affairs Minister c) Advisory Jurisdiction
d) Speaker of Lok Sabha d) None of these
4. The Council of Ministers is collectively 1. If you are elected as the President of India,
1
responsible to the: which of the following decision can you
take on your own?
a) The President
a) Nominate the leaders of your choice to
b) Lok Sabha
the council of minister
c) The Prime Minister
b) Ask for reconsideration of a bill passed
d) Rajya Sabha by both the Houses
5. The Joint sittings of Indian Parliament c) Select the person you like as Prime
for transacting legislative business are Minister
presided over by?
d) Dismiss a Prime Minister who has a
a) Senior most member of Parliament majority in the Lok Sabha
b) Speaker of the Lok Sabha
II. Fill in the blanks
c) The President of India
1. _________ Bill cannot be introduced
d) The Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in the Parliament without President’s
6. What is minimum age laid down for a approval.
candidate to seek election to the Lok 2. __________ is the leader of the nation
Sabha? and chief spokesperson of the country.
a) 18 years b) 21 years 3. __________ is the Ex-officio
c) 25 years d) 30 years Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha.
7. The authority to alter the boundaries of 4. The President generally nominates two
state in India rest with? members belonging to the ________
a) The President community to the Lok Sabha.
b) The Prime Minister 5. ________ has the right to speak and
c) State Government to take part in the proceedings of both
d) Parliament Houses of the Parliament.
8. Under which Article the President 6. The Chief Justice and other judges of the
is vested with the power to proclaim Supreme Court hold the office up to the
Financial Emergency age of ________years.
a) Article 352 b) Article 360 7. ____________ is the Guardian of the
Constitution.
c) Article 356 d) Article 365
Aatchiyar Kalvi
204
8. At present, the Supreme Court consists b) (A) is false but (R) is true
of _______ judges including the chief
c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is
justice.
the correct reason for(A)
III. Choose the correct d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is
statement not the correct reason for(A)
1. i) Total members of the Rajya Sabha is 250. IV. Match the following
ii) The 12 nominated members shall be
chosen by the President from amongst 1. Article 53 - State Emergency
persons experience in the field of 2. Article 63 - Internal Emergency
literature, science, art, or social service - Executive power of
3. Article 356
iii) The Members of the Rajya Sabha should President
not be less than 30 years of age. - Office of the Vice
4. Article 76
iv) The members of the Rajya Sabha are President
directly elected by the peoples. - Office of the Attorney
5. Article 352
a) ii & iv are correct General
b) iii & iv are correct V. Answer the brief questions
c) i & iv are correct 1. How is President of India elected?
d) i, ii & iii are correct 2. What are the different categories of
Ministers at the Union level?
2. i) Th
e Chief Justice and other judges of the
Supreme Court hold the office up to the 3. What is the qualification of Judges of the
age of 62 years. Supreme Court?
ii) Judiciary is the third organ of the 4. Write a short note on Speaker of the Lok
government. Sabha?
iii) The cases involving fundamental 5. What is Money Bill?
rights come under the Appellate 6. List out any two special powers of the
jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Attorney General of India?
iv) The law declared by Supreme Court VI. Answer in detail
is binding on all courts within the
1. Describe the powers and functions of
territory of India.
the President of India.
a) ii & iv are correct 2. Explain the Jurisdiction and powers of
b) iii & iv are correct the Supreme Court of India?
c) i & iv are correct 3. What are the Duties and functions of
Prime Minister of India?
d) i & ii are correct
4. Critically examine the Powers and
3. Assertion (A): The Rajya Sabha is
Functions of the Parliament.
a permanent house and it cannot be
dissolved 5. List out the functions of the Lok Sabha
and the Rajya Sabha.
Reason (R): One third of the members
of Rajya Sabha retire every two years, VII. Project and activity
and new members are elected to fill the I. Organise a mock parliament in your
seats thus vacated. class. Discuss the role of President,
a) (A) is false but R is true Prime Minister and Ministers.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
205
II. Bring out the differences and similarities 3 Subhash Kashyap - Our Constitution,
between the US and Indian President’s National Book Trust, India, 2011.
REFERENCE BOOKS INTERNET RESOURCES
1. D.D. Basu - Introduction of the https://www.india.org/

Constitution of India, S.C. Sarkar & https://presidentofindia.nic.in/
Sons (Private) Ltd, 1982.
http://vicepresidentofindia.nic.in/
2. PM Bakshi - The Constitution of India,
http://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/
Universal Law Publishing - an imprint
of LexisNexis, 2018. https://www.sci.gov.in/
ICT CORNER
Through this activity you

will know about the current
Governing bodies and also
about the Lok Sabha & the Rajya
Sabha.
Steps
• Open the Browser and type the URL given below.
• Click on the items under the who’s who menu to view the current Governing
bodies and also know about the Lok Sabha & the Rajya Sabha.
• For example, click on the president from the leftside menu to view the details of
the President.
• Likewise you can view all the details of the current Governing bodies.
Website URL:
https://www.india.gov.in/my-government/whos-who
Aatchiyar Kalvi
206
Unit - 3
State Government
Learning Objectives
Students acquire knowledge about the structure of the State Government
To understand the powers and functions of the Governor, Chief Minister,
Ministers and Speaker
To know about the State Legislature
Student understand the functioning of the judicial system in the State
Introduction Government, in part VI of the constitution

from Article 152 to 237, which is applicable
The Constitution of India envisages for a to all the states, save only the state of Jammu
federal government, having separate systems and Kashmir which has a separate constitution
of administration for the union and the states. for its government under Article 370. The
There are 29 states, 6 union territories and one structure of the State Government, as formed
national capital territory known as Delhi in in the Centre, consists of three branches. These
India. The constitution contains provisions for are the Executive, the Legislature and the
the governance of both the union and the states. Judiciary.
It lays down a uniform structure for the State
State Government
Executive Legislature Judiciary
Governor High Court

Legislative Legislative
Council Assembly
Chief Minister (Upper House) (Lower House) District Courts
Council of Other Courts

Ministers
195 State Government
Aatchiyar Kalvi
3 State Government(06.03.2019).indd 195 10-04-2019 10:01:19
207
the matter of appointing a person as Governor
The Constitution of Jammu and
of a State. He should not be a resident of the
Kashmir was adopted on the
State concerned and, the State Government
17 November, 1957 and came
concerned is consulted and its views are sought
into force on 26 January, 1957.
regarding the proposed choice.
The Constitution of India grants
special status to Jammu and Kashmir among According to Article 158 (3A), where the same
Indian states, and it is the only state in India person is appointed as Governor of two or more
to have a separate constitution. The Directive States, the emoluments and allowances payable
Principles of the State Policy and fundamen- to the Governor shall be allocated among the
tal duties of the constitution are not applica- States in such proportion as the President may
ble to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Right by order determine.
to Property, which is denied as a fundamental
Sarkaria Commission on
right to rest of the India, is still guaranteed in
Centre , State relations
Jammu and Kashmir. suggested that the appointment
of the Governor should be
3.1 The Executive made:
i) From a panel to be prepared by the State
3.1.1 The Governor Legislature or
The Governor is the constitutional head of ii) From a panel to be prepared by the State
the state executive. The administration of a Government (in effect the Chief Minister) or
State is carried on in the name of the Governor. invariably with the concurrence of the State
Generally, there is a separate Governor in each Chief Minister ; or
State but if the situation warrants so, the same iii) Invariably in consultation with the State
person may be appointed as the Governor of Chief Minister.
two or more States.
Article 154 vests the executive power of the 3.1.3 Qualification
State in the Governor. Article 154(1) holds that Article 157 and Article
the executive power of the State shall be vested 158 of the Constitution
in the Governor and shall be exercised by him of India specify eligibility
either directly or through officers subordinates requirements for the post of
to him in accordance with this Constitution. governor. They are as follows:
He should be a citizen of India.
3.1.2 Appointment
He must have completed 35 years of age.
The Governor of a State shall be appointed He should not be a member of Parliament
by the President. His usual term of office is five or of any State Legislature. If he is a member
years but he holds office during the pleasure of of any of Legislature, he automatically
the President. Generally, the Governor does not vacates his seat on assuming the office.
belong to the State where he is appointed. He He should not hold any other profitable
can also be transferred from one state to another occupation.
by the President. He can also resign any time by
addressing his resignation to the President. 3.1.4 P owers and Functions of
the Governor
The Legislature of a State or a High Court has
no role in the removal of a Governor. A person The Governor is the head of the state executive
may be appointed as a Governor for any number and he has enormous powers. In the exercise
of terms. Two conventions have been set up in of functions and powers, the Governor, except
State Government 196
Aatchiyar Kalvi
208
in certain cases, is to be guided by the aid and Legislative Powers
advice of the Council of Ministers headed by
the Chief Minister (under Article 163). As the The Governor is an integral part of the
state legislature. But, he is not a member in
executive head in the state level, the Governor
the either house of the legislature. In this
has following functions and powers.
capacity, he enjoys the following legislative
Executive Powers powers and functions:

T he Constitution vests all executive He has the right to summon, prorogue
powers of the State Government in the state legislature and dissolve the State
the Governor. He may exercise this Legislative Assembly.
power either directly or through He can address the state legislature at the
officers subordinate to him. He is the commencement of the first session after
constitutional head of the State. All the each general election and the first session
administration is carried on in his name. of each year.
The executive powers and functions of He can send messages to the houses of the
the Governor are: state legislature relating to a bill pending
He appoints the leader of the majority in the legislature.
party in the State Legislative Assembly as
He can appoint any member of the
the Chief Minister of the State. Legislative Assembly to preside over its
proceedings when the offices of both
He appoints other members of the Council
the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker fall
of Ministers on the recommendation of vacant.
the Chief Minister.
He can nominate one member to the state
He appoints the Advocate - General of the legislature assembly from the Anglo-
state and determines his remuneration. Indian Community.
The Advocate General holds office during
He nominates 1/6 of the members of the
the pleasure of the Governor. State Legislative Council from amongst
He appoints the Chairman and Members the persons having special knowledge or
of the State Public Service Commission. practical experience in literature, science,
However, they can be removed only by art, cooperative movement and social
the president and not by a governor. service.

He appoints the state election
He decides on the question of
commissioner and determines his disqualification of members of the state
conditions of service and tenure of office. legislature in consultation with the
Election Commission.
However, the state election commissioner
can be removed only in like manner and Every bill passed by the state legislature
on the like grounds as a judge of a high will become law only after his signature.
court. But, when a bill is sent to the Governor
after it is passed by the legislature, he
He acts as the chancellor of universities has the options to give his assent to the
in the state. He also appoints the Vice bill or withhold his assent to the bill or
Chancellors of universities in the state. return the bill for the reconsideration of
He directly rules a State when there is the the legislature.
imposition of the President’s rule in the He has to reserve any bill passed by the
State. state legislature which endangers the
Aatchiyar Kalvi
209
position of the state High Court, for the
He makes appointment, postings and
consideration of the President. promotions of the District Judges in
He can promulgate ordinances when the consultation with the State High Court.
state legislature is not in session under The Chief Justice of the High Court in
Article 213. But, these ordinances must the State is appointed by the President in
be approved by the legislature within consultation with him.
six months. He can also withdraw an

He can pardon, commute or reprieve
ordinance at anytime.
punishment on receipt of appeals for
He has to lay the annual reports of the mercy.
State Finance Commission, the State
Public Service Commission and the Discretionary Powers
Comptroller and Auditor General relating The Governor can reserve a bill for the
to the accounts of the state, before the
consideration of the president.
state legislature.
He recommends for the imposition of the
Financial Powers
President’s rule in the state.
The Constitution confers on the Governor,

He seeks information from the Chief
the duty to get prepared and introduced
Minister relating to the administrative
to the State Legislature, the annual budget
and legislative matters of the state.
and also the supplementary budgets, if
necessary. He can call the leader of any party to
form ministry in the state when there is
He causes the Annual Financial Statement
(Budget) of the State to be presented in no clear-cut majority to any party in the
the Legislative Assembly. Legislative Assembly after the general
elections.

He presents through the Minister of
Finance of the State the Supplementary He can dismiss the Council of Ministers
Budget of the State to the Legislative when it is unable to prove the confidence
Assembly if there be such a need. of the Legislative Assembly; and
Money Bills can be introduced in the He can dissolve the Legislative Assembly
State Legislature only with his the prior if the Council of Ministers has lost its
recommendation. majority.
No demand for any grant can be made Emergency Powers
except on his recommendation.
If the Governor is satisfied that the

He can make advances out of the
government of the state is not carried on
state Contingency Fund to meet any
in accordance with the provisions of the
unforeseen expenditure.
Constitution, he may, under Article 356,

He constitutes a Finance Commission recommend to the President to impose
after every five years to review the
President Rule in that State. As soon as the
financial position of the panchayats and
President Rule is imposed, the administration
the municipalities.
of the State is carried on by the Governor as
Judicial Powers the representative of the President.
He appoints the Attorney-General of the
State. 3.1.5 Privileges of the Governor
He appoints Judges to the Subordinate Article 361(1) provides for the following
Courts in the State. privileges for the Governor;
Aatchiyar Kalvi
210
(a) The Governor of a State, is not be answerable
Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu from 1947
to any court for the exercise and performance
of the powers and duties of his office or Thiru.O. P. Ramaswamy 1947-1949
for any act done or purporting to be done Thiru.P. S. Kumaraswamy Raja 1949 – 1952
by him in the exercise and performance of Thiru.C. Rajagopalachari 1952 – 1954
those powers and duties. Thiru.K. Kamaraj 1954 - 1963
(b) No criminal proceedings whatsoever shall Thiru.M. Bakthavatsalam 1963 – 1967
be instituted or continued against the Thiru.C. N. Annadurai 1967 – 1969
Governor of a State, in any court during his Thiru.M. Karunanidhi 1969 – 1976
term of office. Thiru.M. G. Ramachandran 1977 – 1987
(c) No process for the arrest or imprisonment of Tmt. JanakiRamachandran January 1988
the Governor of a State, shall issue from any Thiru.M. Karunanidhi 1989 – 1991
court during his term of office. Selvi.J. Jayalalithaa 1991 – 1996
Thiru.M. Karunanidhi 1996 – 2001
(d)
No civil proceedings in which relief is
Selvi.J. Jayalalithaa 2001
claimed against the Governor of a State.
Thiru.O.Panneerselvam 2001 – 2002
3.2 Chief Minister Selvi.J. Jayalalithaa 2002 – 2006
In the scheme of Parliamentary system of Thiru.M. Karunanidhi 2006 – 2011
government provided by the constitution, the Selvi. J. Jayalalithaa 2011 – 2014
governor is the nominal executive authority Thiru.O.Panneerselvam 2014 – 2015
and the Chief Minister is the real executive Selvi.J. Jayalalithaa 2015 – 2016
authority. In other words, the governor is the Thiru.O.Panneerselvam 2016 – 2017
head of the State while the Chief Minister is the Thiru.Edappadi K. Palaniswami 2017 – till now
head of the government.
3.2.1 T
he appointment of the
3.2.2 Powers and functions of
Chief Minister
the Chief Minister
The Chief Minister is appointed by the
Governor of the State. The leader of the majority The Chief Minister is the real executive head of
party or majority group in the State Legislative the State administration. He has the following
Assembly is appointed as the Chief Minister. In powers and functions.
case no party commands absolute majority, in
Relating to the council of ministers
�
the Legislative Assembly or the majority fails
to elect its leader, the Governor can use his Relating to the Governor
�
power and invite the leader of the other largest
party to form the ministry. He has to prove the Relating to the State Legislature
�
confidence (majority support) in the Legislative Other functions and powers.
�
Assembly within the period stipulated by the
Governor. elating to the Council of
R
The term of the Chief Minister is not fixed. Ministers
He may remain as the Chief Minister as long As the head of the Council of Ministers, the
as he enjoys the support of the majority of the
Chief Minister enjoys the following functions
members of the Legislative Assembly. He has to
resign when he losses confidence of the majority and powers.
in the assembly. It is ‘understood that normally
T he Chief Minister recommends the
he completes 5 years term like other members persons who can be appointed as
in the Legislative Assembly.
ministers by Governor.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
211
He allocates the portfolios among the Other function and powers
ministers.
As the leader of the ruling party, the
He shuffles and reshuffles his ministry. Chief Minister has to control the party
He can ask a minister to resign or to and develop the disciplines.
advise the Governor to dismiss him in As the leader of the state, he has to keenly
case of difference of opinion. consider the demands of the different

He presides over the meetings of the sections of the people.
Council of Ministers and influences its
As the political head of the various
decisions. services, he has to supervise, control and
co-ordinate the secretaries of various
He can bring about the collapse of the
departments in the state level.
council of ministers by resigning from
office.
For smooth functioning of the state
and for good centre-state relations, he

He guides, directs, controls and
has to develop a rapport with the union
coordinates the activities of all the government.
ministers.
3.2.3 Council of Ministers
Relating to the Governor
The Council of Ministers are collectively
The Chief Minister is the principal channel responsible to the State Legislature. All the
of communication between the Governor and members of the Council of Ministers must be the
the Council of Ministers, and he advises the members of the State Legislature. Those who are
Governor in relation to the appointment of the not the members at the time of their appointment,
following officials: must secure their seats in the Legislature within
a period of 6 months. All the ministers work
Advocate General of the State.
as a team under the Chief Minster. As long as
State Election Commissioner. the Chief Minister is in office, the Council of

C hairman and Members of the State Ministers will also be in power. If a no-confidence
Public Service Commission. motion is passed by the Legislative Assembly, the
State Ministry shall resign.

C hairman and Members of the State
Planning Commission. Article l63 provides for a Council of Ministers
to aid and advice the Governor. According

C hairman and Members of the State to Article 163(1) there shall be a Council of
Finance Commission. Ministers with the Chief Minister at the head
to aid and advice the Governor in the exercise
Relating to State Legislature
of his functions, except in so far as he is by or
The Chief Minister advises the Governor with
� under this Constitution required to exercise his
regard to the summoning and proroguing functions or any of them in his discretion.
the sessions of the state legislature.
ther Provisions relating to
O
He announces the government policies on
� Ministers
the floor of the house.
Article 164(1) holds that the Chief Minister
He can introduce the bills in the Legislative
� shall be appointed by the Governor and the
Assembly. other Ministers shall be appointed by the
He can recommend for the dissolution of
� Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister,
the Legislative Assembly to the Governor and the Ministers shall hold office during the
pleasure of the Governor:
anytime.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
212
Article 164(1A) states that the total number Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Jammu-
of Ministers, including the Chief Minister, in the Kashmir). The lower house, legislative assembly
Council of Ministers in a State shall not exceed represents the people of the state the upper
fifteen percent of the total number of members house; Legislative Council represents special
of the Legislative Assembly. interests like teachers, graduates and local
governments.
he functions and powers of the
T
Council of Ministers
It formulates and decides the policies of
the state and implements them effectively.
It decides the legislative programmes of
the Legislative Assembly and sponsors all
important bills.
It controls the financial policy and
decides the tax structure for the public
welfare of the state.
Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly
It chalks out programmes and schemes
for the socio-economic changes so that In Tamil Nadu, according to the
the state makes headway in various inter- strength of Legislative Assem-
related fields. bly (234 members), the number
It makes the important appointments of of ministers may be up to 36,
i.e. 15 percent of 234.
the Heads of Departments.

It discusses and takes efforts on the 3.3.1 T he Legislative Assembly
dispute with other states
(Lower House)

It advises the Governor on the
The Legislative Assembly is a popular house. It
appointment of Judges of the subordinate
is the real centre of power in the State. It consists
courts.
of members directly elected by the people on

It frames the proposal for incurring the basis of adult franchise. The strength of the
expenditure out of state reserves. Assembly varies from State to State depending on
It decides all the bills whether ordinary the population. However the maximum strength
bills or money bills to be introduced in of the Assembly must not exceed 500 or its
the Legislative Assembly. minimum strength not be below 60. The term of
E ach minister of the Council of Ministers office of the legislative assembly is 5 years. It can
supervises, controls and coordinates the be dissolved even before the expiry of its term.
department concerned. The size of the Legislative Council cannot

Annual Financial Statement called as be more than one-third the membership of the
the Budget is finalised by the Council of Legislative Assembly (lower house) of that state.
Ministers. But its size cannot be less than 40, except in
Jammu and Kashmir where there are 36 by an
3.3 The State Legislature act of Parliament. The members draw the salary
and allowances passed by the State legislature
The Constitution provides a legislature from time to time.
for every state. Most of the States have only
Composition
unicameral legislature i.e., Legislative assembly.
The Legislative Assembly of Tamil Nadu
Some State has bicameral legislatures (example
consists of 235 members out of which 234
Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh,
Aatchiyar Kalvi
213
members are directly elected by the people The Vidhan Parishads (Legislative Council)
from the constituencies on the basis of adult forms a part of the state legislatures of India.
franchise and one member is nominated by the In Seven of India’s 29 states (Bihar, Karnataka,
Governor from the Anglo-Indian community. Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh,
However, seats shall be reserved in the house for Telangana and Jammu - Kashmir) the
the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. Legislative Council serves as the indirectly-
elected upper house of a bicameral legislature.
Cabinet and Cabinet Committees It is also a permanent house because it cannot
be dissolved. Every Member of Legislative
A smaller body called Cabinet is the nucleus
Council (MLC) serves for a six-year term, with
of the council of minister. It consists of only
terms staggered so that the terms of one-third
the cabinet ministers. It is the real centre of
of members expire every two years. MLCs
authority in the state government. must be citizens of India not under 30 years of
The cabinet works through various age, mentally sound and not bankrupt, and his
committees called cabinet committees. They are name should be in the voter’s list of the state
of two types - standing and ad hoc. The former from which he or she is contesting the election.
are of a permanent nature while the latter are of
a temporary nature. The Tamil Nadu Legislative
Council was abolished by
The Speaker Tamil Nadu Legislative
The Legislative Assembly elects two of its Council (Abolition) Bill, 1986.
members as the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. The Act came into force on the
1 November 1986.
st
The Speaker vacates his office, if he cannot
continue to be a member of the Assembly.
He may also resign his office at any time. The Election to Legislative Council
speaker may be removed from office by a 1/3 of the members are elected by local
resolution of the Assembly after giving a 14 bodies.
days’ notice. Such a resolution must be passed

1 /12 of the members are elected by
by a majority of the members present at the
Graduates of the universities in the State.
time of voting. The speaker does not vacate
his office, when the Assembly is dissolved. He
1 /12 of the members are elected by
continues to be the Speaker until the first sitting Graduate teachers.
of the new Assembly. While the office of the 1/3 of the members are elected by the
speaker is vacant, the Deputy Speaker performs members of the Legislative Assembly.
his functions. 1/6 is nominated by the Governor who is
eminent in the field of literary excellence,
3.3.2 T
he Legislative Council
art, social services or Co-operation.
(Upper House)
The legislative Council is the upper House The Chairman

of the State Legislature. It is constituted as a The Chairman (chair person he / she) is
permanent House. Article 171(1) provides that the Presiding Officer of the Upper house.
the total number of members in the Legislative The Members elect a Chairman and a deputy
Council of a State shall not exceed one-third of chairman from among themselves. In the
absence of the chairman, the deputy chairman
the total number of members in the Legislative
officiate the functions of the Legislative
Assembly of that State, but not less than 40
Council.
members in any case.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
214
Abolition or Creation of questions asked by the members of the
Legislative Councils Legislature. They can be removed from office
if the Assembly passes a vote of “no confidence
Article 169 deals with the creation or
motion” against the Ministry.
abolition of Legislative Council in a State.
Article 169 holds that if the state Legislative 3.4.4 Wide powers
Assembly passes a resolution by a majority of In State having two Houses, the Legislative
not less than 2/3rd of the members present and Assembly enjoys more powers than the
voting and by the majority of total strength Legislative Council. The Assembly has
of the House, requesting the Parliament to complete control over the state finance. The
create or abolish the state Legislative council Council cannot vote for grants. The Council of
then the Parliament may by law provide for Ministers is responsible only to the Assembly.
the abolition and creation of the Legislative
Council.
3.5 Judiciary of State
3.4 Functions of the State 3.5.1 High Courts
Legislature The institution of high court originated in
The powers and functions of the State India in 1862 when the high courts were set up
Legislature are almost the same as that of at Calcutta, Bombay and Madras. In the course
Parliament. of time, each province in British India came to
have its own high court. After 1950, a high court
3.4.1 Legislative powers existing in a province became the high court for
The State Legislature can pass laws on all the corresponding state. The High Courts are
subjects mentioned in the State List as per the highest courts at State level, but being part
the constitution. It can also pass laws on of integrated Indian judiciary they work under
concurrent subjects. The State made law in the superintendence, direction and control of
a concurrent subject will become inoperative the Supreme Court.
when the centre also passes a law on the
same subject. The passing of Bill into law
follows the same procedure, as in the union
parliament. Every bill passes through three
readings. Then it becomes an Act with the
Governor’s assent.
3.4.2 Financial Powers
The Legislature controls the finances of the
State. The Lower House enjoys greater power High Court of Madras
than the Upper House in money matters.
The Constitution of India provides for a
Money bills can be introduced only in the
high court for each state, but the Seventh
Lower House or the Assembly. No new tax can
Amendment Act of 1956 authorised the
be levied without the sanction and permission
Parliament to establish a common high court
of the Assembly.
for two or more states or for two or more states
3.4.3 Controls over the Executive and a union territory.
The Legislature controls the Executive. For example, the States of Punjab and Haryana
The Council of Ministers is responsible to and the Union Territory of Chandigarh have a
the Assembly. The Ministers have to answer common High Court situated at Chandigarh.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
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Similarly, the High Court of Guwahati is criminal cases which are committed to them by
common for seven northeastern States of Assam, the Presidency Magistrates.
Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram,
Appellate Jurisdiction
Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh. Delhi, though
As Courts of appeal, all High Courts entertain
not a State, has its own separate High Court.
appeals in civil and criminal cases from their
Every High Court has a Chief Justice and a
subordinate Courts as well as on their own.
number of judges. The number of judges varies
from State to State. The number of judges of They have, however, no jurisdiction over
each High Court is determined by the President. tribunals established under the laws relating to
At present there are 25 High Courts for 29 States the Armed Forces of the Country.
(including new Andhra Pradesh High Court
Writ Jurisdiction
established in 1st January 2019 at principal seat
in Amravati) and seven Union Territories. Under Article 226 of the constitution, the
High Courts are given powers of issuing writs
The High Court of Madras not only for the enforcement of the Fundamental
is the one of the three High Rights, but also for other purposes. In exercise
Courts in India established in of this power, a Court may issue the same
the three Presidency Towns of type of writs, orders or directions which the
Bombay, Calcutta and Madras Supreme Court is empowered to issue under
by letters patent granted by Queen Victoria, Article 32.
bearing date 26 June 1862. The High Court
The jurisdiction to issue writs under this
building is the second largest judicial
Article is larger in the case of High Courts, for
complex in the world after London.
which the Supreme Court can issue them only
where a Fundamental Right has been infringed,
3.5.2 Appointment of the Judges a High Court can issue them not only in such
cases, but also where an ordinary legal right has
Every High Court consists of a Chief Justice been infringed.
and such other Judges as appointed by the
President from time to time (Article 216). Habeas Corpus The writ of habeas corpus
is issued to a detaining authority, ordering the
3.5.3 J
urisdiction and Powers of detainer to produce the detained person in
High Court the issuing court, along with the cause of his
At present, a high court enjoys the following or her detention, if the detention is found to
jurisdiction and powers: be illegal, the court issues an order to set the
person free.
Original Jurisdiction
Mandamus The writ of mandamus is issued to
In their judicial capacity, the High Courts
a subordinate court, an officer of government, or
of the Presidency towns (Bombay, Calcutta
and Madras) have both original and appellate a corporation or other institution commanding
jurisdictions, while other High Courts have the performance of certain acts or duties.
mostly appellate jurisdiction. Prohibition The writ of prohibition is issued
Only in matters of admiralty, probate, by a higher court to a lower court prohibiting it
matrimonial and contempt of Court, they have from taking up a case because it falls outside the
original jurisdiction. The Presidency High jurisdiction of the lower court. Thus, the higher
Courts have original jurisdiction in which the court transfers the case to it.
amount involved is more than `2000 and in
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216
Quo Warranto The writ of quo Warranto is law and return the case to the subordinate
issued against a person who claims or usurps court with its judgment.
a public office. Through this writ the court (d) Its law is binding on all subordinate courts
inquires ‘by what authority’ the person supports functioning within its territorial jurisdiction
his or her claim. in the same sense as the law declared by the
Certiorari The writ of certiorari is issued to a Supreme Court is binding on all courts in
lower court directing that the record of a case be India.
sent up for review, together with all supporting Court of Record
files, evidence and documents, usually with the All the decisions and decrees issued by the High
intention of overruling the judgment of the lower Court are printed and are kept as a record for
court. It is one of the mechanisms by which the future references by the Court as well as by the
fundamental rights of the citizens are upheld. lawyers, is such a need arises. Thus, it also acts
as a Court of Record.
Supervisory Jurisdiction
Power of Judicial Review
High court has the power of superintendence
over all courts and tribunals functioning in its Judicial review is the power of a high court
territorial jurisdiction (except military courts to examine the constitutionality of legislative
or tribunals) Thus, it may enactments and executive orders of both the
Central and state governments. Though the
(a) Call for returns from them; phrase judicial review has no where been used
(b) Make an issue, general rules and prescribe in the Constitution, the provisions of Articles
forms for regulating the practice and 226 and 227 explicitly confer the power of
proceedings of them. judicial review on a high court
(c) Prescribe forms in which books, entries and
The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 curtailed
accounts are to be kept by them; and
the judicial review power of high court. It
(d) Settle the fees payable to the sheriff, clerks,
debarred the high court’s from considering
officers and legal practitioners of them.
the constitutional validity of any central law.
ontrol over Subordinate Courts
C However, the 43rd Amendment Act of 1977
A high court has an administrative control and restored the original position.
other powers over them
(a) It is consulted by the governor in the matters
of appointment, posting and promotion of
district judges and in the appointments of
persons to the judicial service of the state
(other than district judges).
(b) It deals with the matters of posting, promotion,
grant of leave, transfers and discipline of the
members of the judicial service of the state
(other than district judges).
(c) It can withdraw a case pending in a subordinate
court if it involves a substantial question of
law that requires the interpretation of the
Constitution. It can then either dispose of
the case itself or determines the question of Statue of Sama Neethi Kanda Cholan at Madras High Court
Aatchiyar Kalvi
217
Recap
The Governor is the constitutional head of the state executive.
�
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor of the State.
�
The Council of Ministers are collectively responsible to the State Legislature.
�
The Legislative Assembly is the real centre of power in the State.
�
At present there are 25 High Courts for 29 States and seven Union Territories.
�
The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 curtailed the judicial review power of high court.
�
The 43rd Amendment Act of 1977 restored the original position.
�
GLOSSARY
Constitution It has been defined as the fundamental law of a State. அரசியலமைப்பு

Cabinet It is an inner body within the Council of Ministers which is அமைச்சரவை
responsible for formulating the policy of the Government.
Legislature the group of people in a country or part of a country who சட்டமன்றம்
have the power to make and change laws
Tribunal a special court chosen, especially by the government, to தீர்ப்பாயம்
examine particular problem
Resolution an official decision that is made after a group or organisation தீர்மானம்
has voted
Remuneration payment for work or service ஊதியம்
Interpretation an explanation or opinion of what something means விளக்கம்
3 Which among the following is not one of

EVALUATION
the powers of the Governor?
(a) Legislative (b) Executive
I Choose the (c) Judicial (d) Diplomatic
Correct Answer
4 Who can nominate one representative
1
The Governor of the of the Anglo-Indian Community to the
State is appointed by the State Legislative Assembly?
(a) Prime Minister (a) The President
(b) Chief Minister (b) The Governor
(c) President (c) The Chief Minister
(d) Chief Justice (d) The Speaker of State legislature
2 The Speaker of a State is a 5 The Governor does not appoint
(a) Head of State (a) Chief Minister
(b) Head of government (b) Chairman of the State Public Service
(c) President’s agent Commission
(d) None of these (c) Advocate General of the State
(d) Judges of the High Court
Aatchiyar Kalvi
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6 The Chief Minister of a State is appointed by (c) Punjab and Haryana
(a) The State Legislature (d) Maharashtra and Gujarat
(b) The Governor
(c) The President II. Fill in the blanks
(d) The Speaker of State 1 Governor of the state government
Legislative Assembly surrenders his resignation to _______.
7 The State Council of Ministers is headed by 2 Members of the Legislative assembly
(a) The Chief Minster (MLAs) elected by the _______.
(b) The Governor 3 _______ is the first women Governor of
(c) The Speaker Tamil Nadu.
(d) The Prime Minister
4 _______ acts as the chancellor of
8 The Legislative Council universities in the state.
(a) Has a term of five years
5 The Seventh Amendment Act of _______
(b) Has a term of six years authorised the Parliament to establish
(c) Is a permanent house a common high court for two or more
(d) Has a term of four years states.
9 The minimum age for the membership 6 The Chairman and Members of the
of the Legislative Council is State Public Service Commission can be
(a) 25 years (b) 21 years removed only by the _______.
(c) 30 years (d) 35 years
10 The members of Legislative Council are
(a) Elected by the Legislative Assembly 1. Governor - Head of the
Government
(b) Mostly nominated
(c) Elected by local bodies, graduates, 2. Chief Minister - Head of the State
teachers, Legislative Assembly etc. 3. Council of Ministers- Tribunals
(d) Directly elected by the people 4. MLC - Responsible for
11 Which one of the following States does the Assembly
not possess a bicameral legislature? 5. Armed forces - cannot vote for
(a) Andhra Pradesh grants
(b) Telangana
(c) Tamil Nadu IV. C hoose the correct
(d) Uttar Pradesh statement
1. i) Only some States in India have Legislative
12
The High Courts in India were first Councils.
started at ii) Some members of Legislative Councils are
(a) Calcutta, Bombay, Madras nominated.
(b) Delhi and Calcutta iii) Some members of Legislative Councils
are directly elected by the people.
(c) Delhi, Calcutta, Madras
a) ii & iv are correct
(d) Calcutta, Madras, Delhi
b) iii & iv are correct
13 Which of the following States have a c) i & iv are correct
common High Court? d) i, ii & iii are correct
(a) Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
(b) Kerala and Telangana
Aatchiyar Kalvi
219
2. Assertion (A): There are limitations on the 3 Briefly discuss the Functions of the State
Legislative authority of the State Legislature. Legislature.
Reason (R): Certain bills on the State List 4 Critically examine the functions and
can be introduced in the State Legislature powers of the Council of Ministers
only with the President’s approval. 5 Describe the powers and functions of
a) (A) is false but R is true the High Court.
b) (A) is true but (R) is false VII. Project and Activity
c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the 1 Prepare a flow chart showing the State
correct reason for (A) Government’s Administrative setup.
d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is not 2 Students to list out the names of the Tamil
the correct reason for (A) Nadu Governor, Chief Minister, Ministers
V. Answer the brief questions and the Governors and Chief Ministers of
1 How the state of Jammu and Kashmir the neighbouring States.
differ from the other states of India?
2 What is the importance of the Governor REFERENCE BOOKS
of a state?
3 What are the qualifications for the 1. D.D. Basu - Introduction of the
appointment of Governor? Constitution of India, S.C. Sarkar &
4 What is the original jurisdiction of the Sons (Private) Ltd, 1982.
High Court? 2 Subhash Kashyap - Our Constitution,
5 What do you understand by the “Appellate National Book Trust, India, 2011.
Jurisdiction” of the High Court?
INTERNET RESOUR CES
VI. Answer in detail
1 What are the powers and functions of
the Chief Minister? 1 www.tnrajbhavan.gov.in
2 Describe the various powers and 2 www.tn.gov.in
functions of the Governor. 3 www.hcmadras.tn.nic.in
ICT CORNER
Through this activity you will
know about the official details
and functions of various states
of our country.
Steps
• Open the Browser and type the URL given below.
• Click on any state of the Indian map to view the official website of the state and its function.
• For example, click on the Tamilnadu state. An additional tab will open in the browser
where you can see the official website of Tamilnadu.
• Likewise you can view the details of the other states.
Website URL:
https://www.mea.gov.in/india-at-glance.htm
Aatchiyar Kalvi
220
Unit - 4
India’s Foreign
Policy
Learning Objectives
After studying this lesson, students will be able to
Identify the basic principles of India’s foreign policy
Explain the meaning and significance of non-alignment
Analyse the stages of our foreign policy
Explain the importance of foreign policy
Recognise the difference between domestic policy and foreign policy
Introduction agreements, appointing ambassadors, foreign

aid, international trade and armed forces.
Foreign policy can be defined as a
country’s policy that is conceived, designed The Constitution of India 1950
and formulated to safeguard and promote Article 51
her national interests in her external affairs, Lays down Directive Principles of India’s
in the conduct of relationships with other foreign policy.
countries, both bilaterally and multilaterally. It The state shall endeavour to
seeks to secure the best interests of the people, Promote International peace and
territory and economy of the country. It is a security
direct reflection of country’s traditional values Maintain just and honourable relations
and overall national policies, her aspirations between nations
and self-perception. Nations have also been Foster respect for international law and
interdependent. Interdependence has been an international organisation
incontrovertible fact of international relations. Encourage settlement of international
An objective and goal-oriented foreign policy has disputes by arbitration
the potential to achieve improved relations with
other nations and accelerate growth. The main Main Objectives of Our
tools of foreign policy are treaties and executive 4.1
Foreign Policy
The Ministry of External Affairs of India ♦ National security
also known as Foreign Ministry comes under
♦ National prosperity
Government of India is responsible for the
conduct of foreign relations of India. The ♦ Increasing the number of friendly nations
foreign Service Training Institute, New Delhi ♦ Achieving world peace and enable every
established in 1986 provides training for nation to peacefully co-exist
officers of Indian Foreign Services(IFS). ♦ Economic development
130
Aatchiyar Kalvi
10th_Civics_Unit_4.indd 130 7/30/2019 8:50:36 PM
221
♦ Military strength
The Buddha advocated avoidance of
force and adoption of peaceful means to settle ♦ International milieu
disputes between states. Foreign Policy in 1950s and 1960s
4.2 Panchsheel The period from Independence through

1950s and 1960s constituted the most
(derived from Sanskrit words, panch = five, idealistic phase of India’s foreign policy under
sheel = virtues) the guidance of India’s first Prime Minister,
Jawaharlal Nehru. The new nations that
The Five Principles of Peaceful
got independence after the long period of
Coexistence (Panchsheel) between India
colonial struggle found themselves in a very
(Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru) and
difficult situation with respect to economic
China (Premier Chou-En-Lai) was signed
development. So it was necessary to align
on 28 April 1954, which stated that the two
with either of the blocs – United States of
governments entered into an agreement based
America (USA) or Union Soviet Socialist
on the following principles:
Republic (USSR). Nehru, India’s first Prime
Minister, was opposed to the rivalry of the
two superpowers (America and Russia) who
were trying to extend their influence over the
newly emerged nations of Asia and Africa.
So he chose the path of Non-Alignment (i.e.,
not aligning with any bloc) in the face of the
bipolar order of the Cold War and tried to
form a third bloc of nations in international
affairs. The aim of India’s foreign policy of
that time was ‘world co-operation, world
peace, end of colonial imperialism, racial
equality and non-alignment’.
“Broadly, non-alignment means not tying
yourself off with military blocs…. It means
trying to view things, as far as possible, not
These principles were incorporated in form the military point of view, though that
the Bandung Declaration signed in the Afro- has to come in sometimes, but independently,
Asian Conference held in 1955 in Indonesia. and trying to maintain friendly relations with
all countries”.
Basic Determinants of
4.3 – Jawaharlal Nehru
a Foreign Policy
♦ Geographical position and size of territory The Non-Aligned
4.4
♦ Nation’s history, traditions and Movement (NAM) in 1961
philosophical basis
The term ‘Non-Alignment’ was coined
♦ Natural resources by V. Krishna Menon in his speech at the
♦ The compulsion of economic development United Nations in 1953. Non-alignment has
♦ Political stability and structure of been regarded as the most important feature
government of India’s foreign policy. It aimed to maintain
♦ The necessity of peace, disarmament and national independence in foreign affairs by
non-proliferation of nuclear weapons not joining any military alliance. It was the
131 India’s Foreign Policy
Aatchiyar Kalvi
222
largest political grouping of countries in a War, and India had to be redeemed from acute
multilateral fora. The Non-Aligned Movement poverty illiteracy, and chaotic socio-economic
(NAM) was formed with a membership of conditions. Hence our new nation could not
120 countries and 17 states as observers and afford to military entanglements and military
10 international organisations. Non-aligned alliances. Independent India had to defend its
countries have been successful in establishing democratic system, and at the same time evolve
a foundation of economic co-operation and enforce means to salvage the nation from
among underdeveloped countries. Another backwardness. Avoidance of military blocs
noteworthy fact is that it has transformed was then not an option but a necessity. Now
from a political movement to an economical Alliance did mean neutrality, but the freedom
movement. of nations to decide on issues independently.
Non-alliance did not mean demilitarisation of
The founding fathers of Non-Aligned nations. It was meant to ensure de-escalation
Movement : Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Tito of conflicts and tension. To a large extent,
of Yugoslavia, Nasser of Egypt, Sukarno of it enabled India to concentrate on socio-
Indonesia, and Kwame Nkumarah of Ghana economic development. India withstood
were the founding fathers of NAM. two wars with Pakistan during this period.
The disastrous Sino-Indian conflict would
India's Foreign Policy during
not make Non-alliance un-pragmatic and it
Cold War Era
revealed inadequacy in military build-up.
Even wither discarding the ‘Non-Alliance’
India could enormously strengthen her
defence system and could become a nuclear
power. Flaws or faults in details of foreign
policy executions have been addressed time
and again but India’s basic policy of non-
Alliance is still in force. The NAM is meant
for mutual assistance among nations for peace
and progress.
First Nuclear Test at Pokhran (Rajasthan) The foreign policy stance of India was
The Non-alignment roots did not prevent ♦ Supporting the cause of decolonisation
India from entering into an alignment with ♦ Staunch opponent of the apartheid regime
the Soviet Union by the Indo-Soviet treaty in South Africa
of 1971 (20-year pact of ‘peace, friendship ♦ Accepted the importance of defence
and co-operation’). Then India embarked preparedness
on a substantial programme of military New Developments: in the 1990s
modernisation. In 1974, India also conducted its and the 20th Century
first nuclear test at Pokhran under Subterranean
During the 1990’s along with the fall
Nuclear Explosions Project, in response to
of the Soviet Union, a new global economic
China’s nuclear test in 1964 at Lop Nor.
order (Liberalisation, Privatisation, and
Changing global conditions determine the Globalisation) emerged with the support of
foreign policy details, yet India’s foreign policy the western powers. Unipolar (USA centric)
was based on certain well defined principles. world along with the emerging new economic
These principles are not mere idealistic but order compelled the nations including
pragmatist too. India got her political freedom India to revise their foreign and economic
in the aftermath of a disastrous Second World policies. India entered into pacts with global
India’s Foreign Policy 132
Aatchiyar Kalvi
223
economic forum (GATT) and entered into India engages with current global subjects
bilateral, trilateral, multilateral agreements. and articulates its international policies in
Its nuclear experiments resulted in order to gain a prominent place and makes
intimidatory reactions from the western its presence felt in on a global scale. It has
world. joined new global groups like the Group of
This shifts in India’s policy manifested in 20 (G-20), India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA),
various ways such as and Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa
(BRICS), which gives more scope for India to
♦ Better relations with China – the Look East
Policy (1992) play a larger role in global affairs.
♦ The second nuclear test at Pokhran (1998) in India’s global security concerns are
Rajasthan reflected in its military modernisation,
♦ Defence procurement relationship with Israel maritime security and nuclear policies.
♦ Energy diplomacy with Arab countries and India has emerged as a major voice in
Iran global decision-making and management,
♦ Agreeing to US nuclear missile defence and as a bridge and balancing power in the
program and emerging global strategic architecture. The
♦ India’s vote against Iran at the International response of our policymakers at economic,
Atomic Energy Agency political and strategic level have enabled India
to emerge as a potential great power though
India in the Resurgent 21st Century
it faces enormous developmental challenges.
The structure of the international system These challenges include sustaining the
has changed. The foremost task of India’s country’s economic growth rate, ensuring
foreign policy is to enable the domestic energy and security. Non-military issues like
transformation of India. By this, we mean climate change, energy security, competition
making possible the transformation of India’s for scarce resources, food and water
economy and society while promoting our security, pandemics and migration. Though
values of pluralism. From a foreign policy numerous and formidable, these challenges
perspective, economic prosperity is now seen are not beyond the reach of India’s policy
as the key to India’s attainment of a Great
establishment.
Power status. At present, our foreign policy
acts as a means to generate inward investment, Basic Concepts of
business and technology for domestic growth 4.5
India’s Foreign Policy
and development. This will be facilitated by
enhancing regional co-operation and stability ♦ Preservation of national interest
in South Asia. ♦ Achievement of world peace
India has adjusted to meet the needs of ♦ Disarmament
intensified economic engagement with the ♦ Fostering cordial relationship with other
world, which is designed to meet the needs countries
of an increased inflow of capital, technology, ♦ S olving conflicts by peaceful means
ideas and innovation for our development and
♦ Independence of thought and action as per
our re-emergence as one of the world’s leading
the principle of NAM
economies. The consistent high economic
growth in this period has not only helped ♦ Equality in conducting international
empower a large number of our citizens but relations
has also led to increased engagement of India ♦ Anti-colonialism, anti-imperialism, anti-
with the outside world. racism
Aatchiyar Kalvi
224
Policy of Disarmament reliance among the countries
of South Asia and to accelerate
Our tradition and national ethos is to
socio-cultural development in
practice disarmament. As a peace-loving
the region. SAARC Disaster
nation, India champions the cause of qualitative
Management Centre was set
and quantitative disarmament right from the
up at New Delhi. The Centre
beginning. Since independence, global non-
is a sleek body of professionals
proliferation has been a dominant theme of
working on various dimensions of disaster risk
India’s nuclear policy. So India supported UN
reduction and management in South Asia.
disarmament programme. Indian nuclear
SAARC satellite is a proposed communication–
programme in 1974 and 1998 is only done for
cum-meteorology satellite by Indian Space
strategic purposes.
Research Organisation (ISRO) for the SAARC
The two themes of India’s nuclear region.
doctrine are
The member countries are Afghanistan,
♦ No first use Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives,
♦ Credible minimum deterrence Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
It has decided not to use nuclear power
for ‘offensive purposes’ and would never Foreign Policy is a combination of
use against any non-nuclear state. Indo- strategies carefully formulated by a nation for
US civilian nuclear deal marks a significant maintaining relationship with other nations.
progress in India’s foreign policy. Diplomacy is the instrument for
implementing foreign policy of a state.
4.6 SAARC – South Asian
Association for
4.7 Contemporary context:
Regional Cooperation
change and continuity
SAARC is an economic and geopolitical in India’s Foreign Policy
organisation of eight countries that are primarily
located in South Asia. The SAARC policies aim a) Prioritising an integrated neighbour-
to promote welfare economics, collective self- hood: Neighbourhood First policy
India’s foreign policy has always regarded
the concept of neighbourhood as one of
widening concentric circles, around the central
W
N
E
axis of historical and cultural commonalties.
S
India gives political and diplomatic priority
to her immediate neighbours and the Indian
Ocean Island states such as Maldives. This
centrality of neighbours in India’s foreign
policy stems from the clear understanding
that a peaceful periphery is essential for India
to achieve her multifarious developmental
goals. India provides neighbours with
support as needed in the form of resources,
equipment and training. Greater connectivity
and integration is provided so as to improve
the free flow of goods, people, energy, capital
Not to Scale
and information.
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b) Bridging diplomacy and development e) India as a leading power
One of the major objectives of India is a member of the G20, the East
India’s foreign policy has been to leverage Asia Summit and the BRICS coalition, a
international partnership for India’s domestic testament to its status as a large country with
development. This includes improving a fast-growing economy. India aspires for
technological access, sourcing capital, gaining permanent membership on the UN Security
market access and securing natural resources. Council. And India now has an increasing
range of interests, which are anchored in
c) A gradual transition from ‘Look East’ to
different parts of the world and which stem
‘Act East’ policy
from a wide range of factors such as the need
South East Asia begins with North East to secure energy, vital natural resources, the
India. Myanmar is our land bridge to the imperative of maintaining open shipping
countries of the Association of the Southeast lanes, seeking investments and trade
Asian Nations (ASEAN). The purpose is to opportunities overseas and the need to secure
ensure a stable and multipolar balance of trade access.
power in the Indo-Pacific and to become an
integral part of Asia. This policy emphasises Conclusion
a more productive role for ASEAN and East Today India has formal diplomatic
Asian countries. The three big elements in relations with most of the nations, besides
our eastern policy are stronger emphasis being the world’s second most populous
on physical connectivity, commercial and country, largest democracy and one of the
security-related. fastest growing country. Though India is not
d) Economic development in any major military alliance, our relations
Currently India’s political moves are being with the major powers have acquired a
influenced by economic imperatives. Many strategic depth. Our common fight against
nations are moving to forge better relationship terrorism is a particular element of strength.
with India. Accelerated, balanced and inclusive India has sought to achieve its security and
economic development is India’s primary socio-economic advancement while at the
goal. India achieves this by ensuring peace same time working for peace, freedom,
and security and by leveraging the nation’s progress and justice to all nations and
international partnership, to obtain all that is peoples. Thus India adheres to the foreign
needed to fuel economic development, markets, policy principle that ‘in international
investment, technology, linkage, mobility of relations there is no permanent friend and
personnel, fair global governance and a stable no permanent foe, only the interests are
and fair environment conducive for growth. permanent’. New challenges forced India
to adjust to new realities. Even then, basic
framework of its foreign policy remained
more or less the same.
Difference between Domestic Policy and Foreign Policy

Domestic Policy Foreign Policy
♦ Domestic policy is the nation’s plan for ♦ Foreign policy is the nation’s plan for dealing
dealing issues within its own nation. with other nations.
♦ It includes laws focusing on domestic affairs, ♦ Trade, diplomacy, sanctions, defence,
social welfare, health care, education, civil intelligence and global environments are the
rights, economic issues and social issues. types of foreign policy.
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SUMMARY
The foreign policy of the government concerns the policy initiatives made towards other States.
The Ministry of External Affairs is responsible for carrying out the foreign policy of India.
A goal – oriented foreign policy has the potential to achieve improved relations with other nations.
After independence joined the Commonwealth Nations and strongly supported
independence movement in other countries.
During cold war adopted the policy of Non-Aligning itself with any major power blocs.
Foreign policy is currently focused on improving relations with neighbouring countries
and major global powers.
GLOSSARY
External affairs matters having with international relations வெளியுறவு
multilateral involving more than two countries பலதரப்பு
procurement process of buying க�ொள்முதல்
the practice of holding more than one benefice

pluralism பன்மைக்கோட்பாடு
at a time
pandamics an epidemic disease பெருங்கொள்ளை ந�ோய்
ethos the characteristic spirit of culture பண்பாடு
EXERCISE 3. Which article of Indian constitution directs

to adopt foreign policy?
I Choose the correct a) Article 50

b) Article 51
answer
c) Article 52
1. Which Minister plays a vital role in molding d) Article 53
foreign policy of our country?
4. Apartheid is
a) Defense Minister
a) An international association
b) Prime Minister
b) Energy diplomacy
c) External Affairs Minister
c) A policy of racial discrimination
d) Home Minister
d) None of these
2. The Panchaseel treaty has been signed
5. The Agreement signed by India and China
between
in 1954 related to
a) India and Nepal
a) Trade and Commerce
b) India and Pakistan
b) Restoration of normal relations
c) India and China
c) Cultural exchange programmes
d) India and Sri Lanka
d) The Five Principles of Co existence
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6. Which is not related to our foreign policy III. C
onsider the following
a) World co operation statement and tick the
b) World peace appropriate answer.
c) Racial equality
1. Arrange the following in the correct
d) Colonialism
chronological order and choose the correct
7. Which of the following country is not the answer from the code given below.
founder member of NAM? (i) Panchsheel
a) Yugoslavia (ii) Nuclear test at Pokhran
b) Indonesia (iii) Twenty-year Treaty
c) Egypt (iv) First Nuclear test
d) Pakistan
a) (i), (iii), (iv), (ii) b) (i), (ii), (iii), (iv)
8. Find the odd one c) (i), (ii), (iv), (iii) d) (i), (iii), (ii), (iv)
a) Social welfare 2. Which of the following is not about NAM?
b) Health care
(i) The term Non-Alignment was coined
c) Diplomacy
by V. Krishna Menon
d) Domestic affairs
(ii) It aimed to maintain national
9. Non-Alliance means independence in foreign affairs by
a) being neutral joining any military alliance
b) freedom to decide on issues (iii) At present it has 120 member countries.
independently (iv) It has transformed to an economical
c) demilitarisation movement
d) none of the above a) (i) and (ii) b) (iii) and (iv)
c) (ii) only d) (iv) only
10. Non – military issues are
3. Write true or false against each of the
a) Energy security
statement.
b) Water security
c) Pandemics a) During Cold War India tried to form a
d) All the above. third bloc of nations in the international
affairs.
II Fill in the blanks b) The Ministry of Home Affairs is
responsible for the conduct of the
1. India conducted its first nuclear test at
country’s foreign relations.
___________.
c) The nuclear test at Pokhran was done
2. At present our foreign policy acts as a means underSubterranean Nuclear Explosions
to generate ____for domestic growth and Project.
development. 4. Assertion(A): India aligned with Soviet
3. ____________is the instrument for Union by the Indo-Soviet treaty on 1971.
implementing foreign policy of a state. Reason(B): This began with a disastrous
4. _____________ was India’s policy in the Indo –China war of 1962
face of the bipolar order of the cold war. a) A is correct and R explains A
b) A is correct and R does not explain A
5. Our tradition and national ethos is to
c) A is correct and R is Wrong
practice____________.
d) Both A and R are wrong.
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5. Assertion(A): India has formal diplomatic VI. Answer in detail
relations with most of the nations.
1. Write a detailed note on Non-alignment.
Reason(R): India is the World’s second 2. Discuss the core determinants of India’s
most populous country. foreign policy?
a) A is correct and R explains A 3. Make a list on basic concepts followed by
b) A is correct and R does not explain A India to maintain friendly relations with its
c) A is wrong and R is correct neighbours.
d) Both are wrong
VII. Project and activity
6. Avoidance of military blocs was necessity
for India after political freedom. Because 1. Identify any two aspects of India’s foreign
India had to redeemed from policy that you would like to retain and to
a) acute poverty change if you were the decision maker.
b) illiteracy
c) chaotic socio-economic conditions REFERENCE BOOKS
d) all the above 1. Mahendra Kumar, Theoretical Aspects
of International Policies, Agra, Shivalal
IV Match the following Agarwala & company 1984
1. Indian Ocean island - 1955 2. Prakash Chandra, Theories of International
2. Land bridge to ASEAN - 1954 Relations: Aman publishing
3. Panchsheel - Maldives 3. S. Ganguly, India’s Foreign Policy, Oxford
University Press
4. Afro Asian Conference - Foreign Policy
4. Dutt V.P., India’s Foreign Policy in a changing
5. World Peace - Myanmar
world, Vikas Publishing House Pvt. Ltd.,
Noida (2009)
V Give short answers
5. Dixit J.N., India’s Foreign Policy and its
1. What is foreign policy? Neighbours, Gyan Publishing House, Delhi
2. Explain India’s nuclear policy. (2001)
3. Highlight the contribution by Nehru to 6. Khanna V.N., and Leslie K Kumar., Foreign
India’s foreign policy. Policy of India, Vikas Publishing House Pvt.
Ltd., (2018), Noida
4. Differentiate: Domestic policy and Foreign
7. Muhkund Dubey., India’s Foreign Policy,
policy
Orient Black Swan Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi (2015)
5. List any four guiding principles of
8. Shah, S.k., India’s Foreign Policy (Past,
Panchsheel?
Present and Ties with the world), Vij Books
6. What was the reason for India to choose the India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi (2017)
path of Non-Alignment?
7. In what ways are India’s global security
concerns reflected?
8. List out the member countries of SAARC. INTERNET RESOURCES
9. Name the architects of the Non-Aligned 1. https://www.mea.gov.in/
movement. 2. https://mnoal.org/
10. Mention the main tools of foreign policy. 3. http://www.saarc-sec.org/
Aatchiyar Kalvi
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ICT CORNER
India’s Foreign Policy
Through this activity

you will know about
details of Indian
embassy’s in the world.
Step – 1 Open the Browser and type the URL given below (or) Scan the QR Code.
Step – 2 Click on ‘Useful Links’ in menu and select ‘India Missions Abroad’
Step – 3 Click on respective country to view details on Indian Missions Abroad
Step-1 Step-2
Step-3
Website URL:
https://mea.gov.in/index.htm
* Pictures are indicatives only.

* If browser requires, allow Flash Player or Java Script to load the page
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Unit - 5
India’s
International
Relations
Learning Objectives
After studying this lesson, students will be able to
become familiar with our policies with the neighbouring countries
understand the importance of India’s policy towards developed nations
gain knowledge about India’s relationships with international organisations
recognise the achievement of BRICS and OPEC
imbibe the value of India’s position among world countries
A bad neighbour is a misfortune, as much as a good one is a great blessing.

– Hesiod
Introduction Neighbouring Countries of India

N
Independent India has been consistently W

S
E
fostering world peace and international co-

operation. India abjured military alliances, but
has been active in cooperating and co-ordinating
with other nations for peace and economic
development. As the first Prime Minister of
India Jawaharlal Nehru stated “We can neither
be absolutely dependent or independent, but we Arabian Sea Bay of Bengal
live in a world of interdependence.”

India would prefer a peaceful, wealthy
neighbourhood responsive to its own needs
and wishes. India has always been known as a
peace-loving country and has strived hard to
Indian Ocean
champion the cause of peace in the world. For the Not to Scale
country to progress in an adequate manner, the

maintenance of international relations has been
5.1 India and Its Neighbours
regarded as an important area. Being a country
with a huge population, India is surrounded by India’s position is unique in its
many neighbouring countries with whom she neighbourhood. India’s neighbours had been a
has traditionally tried to maintain friendly and part of a homogenous culture prevailing in the
good neighbourly relations. Indian subcontinent for last five thousand years.
140
Aatchiyar Kalvi
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♦ India is a vast country with Pakistan and companies has been selected to make one of
Afghanistan to the north-west the biggest investments in the mining sector. To
♦ China, Nepal, Bhutan to the north harness India’s sports potential, India has built
♦ Bangladesh to the east Kandahar International Cricket Stadium. India’s
♦ Myanmar to the far east Self Employed Women’s Association imparts
training on sustainable livelihood and to be self-
Sri Lanka (from south-east) and Maldives
(from south-west) are two countries that reliant. Thus India is contributing proactively to
lie close to India separated by the Indian the development of Afghanistan in the form of
Ocean. India has cordial historical, religious, monetary aids and funds.
economic, ethnic and linguistic relationship
India and Bangladesh
with all of these countries. Let us know about
India’s relations with its neighbours. India was the first nation to acknowledge
Bangladesh (the former East Pakistan) as an
The countries that share the most independent country. India and Bangladesh
number of neighbours touching its borders share the longest land boundary of 4096.7
are China and Russia. kilometres. India has plans to implement
the proposed rail connectivity between
India and Afghanistan Agartala (India) and Akhaura (Bangladesh).
Indo-Afghan relation was strengthened Bangladesh has granted India road transit
by the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA). facility through its territories from Kolkata
SPA provides assistance to re-build Afghan’s to Agartala via Dhaka under BBIN-MVA
infrastructure, institutions, agriculture, water, (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal Motor
education, health and providing duty-free access Vehicle Agreement). The Farakka accord on
to the Indian market. India helped Afghans in sharing of Ganga waters signed in 1977 is a
the construction of Salma Dam in the Herat historic agreement. India and Bangladesh
Province. India announced 500 scholarships share 54 common rivers and a bilateral Joint
for the children of the martyrs of Afghan
River Commission is working to maximise
Security Forces in school and colleges both in
benefits from common river systems. The
Afghanistan and in India. India is also supporting
Government of India provides grant assistance
Afghanistan to improve its public health and
for project under ‘Aid to Bangladesh’ for
small-scale industries. India is at the forefront
of the promotion of investment in Afghanistan the construction of buildings, laboratories,
and a consortium of public and private Indian dispensaries and deep tube wells. In addition,
scholarships are granted by ICCR (Indian
From the Indus Civilisation to the Council for Cultural Relations) every year to
kingdom of Chandragupta Maurya, India and students from Bangladesh and it has initiated
Afghanistan have a deep-rooted multi-faceted a Tagore Chair in University of Dhaka.
relationship. During the reign of Kanishka, Both the countries jointly inaugurated the
a large number of Indian missionaries went
construction of 130-kilometre Bangladesh
to China, Central Asia and Afghanistan to
India Friendship Pipeline between Siliguri in
preach their religion.
West Bengal and Parbatipur (Bangladesh).
Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan of Baluchistan
(a border province in today’s Pakistan) was a The Teen Bigha Corridor is a strip of
prominent leader of the Indian Independence land belonging to India on the West Bengal–
movement and active supporter of the Indian Bangladesh border, which was leased to
National Congress. Bangladesh in 2011.
141 India’s International Relations
Aatchiyar Kalvi
232
N Gur Padmasambhava, a Buddhist saint
W E who went to Bhutan from India, played an
S influential role in spreading Buddhism and
cementing traditional ties between people of
both nations.
India and China

In terms of geographic and demographic
dimension, skilled manpower and
civilisational depth, China is the only country
in the region which qualifies for comparison
with India. China, being the manufacturing
hub of the world, is strategically very important
Not to Scale
to India. India and China share similarity
of view on many fronts like World Trade
Organisation, international climate change
India and Bhutan talks and reforms of the World Bank. Shanghai
Bhutan, a small Himalayan kingdom, Cooperation Organisation, which was China’s
popularly known as a land of thunderbolt, initiative, has granted the observer status to
is one of the poorest countries of the world. India, while SAARC had granted the observer
The diplomatic relations between India and status to China. Both sides have established
more dialogue mechanisms covering diverse
Bhutan were established in 1968 with the
sectors. Bilateral trade has registered
appointments of a resident representative of
enormous growth. India and China have
India in Thimphu. Bhutan is a landlocked
signed an educational exchange programme.
nation. So it is highly dependent on India
Under this agreement, scholarships are
for access to sea. India is the principal
awarded to 25 students, by both sides, in
contributor in the economic development
recognised institutions of higher learning in
of Bhutan. India declared the bilateral trade
each other’s country.
relation known as ‘Bharat to Bhutan’ (B2B).
India provides scholarship to Bhutanese McMahon Line: This is the boundary
students to study in prestigious institutions line between India and China, east of Bhutan.
of higher learning and offered help in setting It was determined 1914 at a conference of
up a digital library in Bhutan. The prestigious representatives of British India, Tibet and
Nehru-Wangchuk Scholarship is being China. The Secretary of State for India (in
awarded to deserving and talented Bhutanese British Cabinet), Arthur Henry McMahon,
nationals to undertake studies in selected represented British India at the Conference.
premier Indian educational institutions. The
hydel power sector represents one of the main India and Maldives
indicators of bilateral co-operation between Maldives is located south of Lakshadweep
India and Bhutan. So far, Government of Islands in the Indian Ocean. The relationship
India has constructed three hydroelectric with Maldives is important for India given
projects in Bhutan (Chukha, Kurichchu and its strategic location and geographical
Tala). India has helped Bhutan in developing proximity. India and Maldives share ethnic,
that country’s infrastructure by establishing linguistic, cultural, religious and commercial
telecommunication and in the construction links steeped in antiquity and enjoy cordial
of hospitals, roads and bridges. and multi-dimensional relations. Trade and
India’s International Relations 142
Aatchiyar Kalvi
233
tourism are being developed between the India and Nepal
two countries. Both countries have agreed to
Nepal is a natural buffer between India
strengthen cooperation to enhance maritime
and China. Being a small landlocked country,
security in the Indian Ocean Region through
Nepal depends on India for economic support
coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance
and transit facilities. India shares borders in
and exchange of information.
five indian states – – Sikkim, West Bengal,
India and Myanmar Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand –
with Nepal. People residing in the border
India’s second largest border is shared
districts on both sides share deeper cultural
with Myanmar (known as Burma till
bonds. Indian firms are the biggest investors
1989). Four North-Eastern Indian states –
in Nepal. India provides substantial financial
Arunachala Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur
and technical development assistance with
and Mizoram – also share their borders
with Myanmar. Myanmar is India’s gateway the focus on infrastructure, irrigation, health,
to South East Asia. India is building the energy projects and community development.
Kaladan Multi-Model Transit Transport, a India built the 204-kilometre long Mahendra
road-river-port cargo transport project to Raj Marg to link Kathmandu and India.
link Kolkata to Sittwe in Myanmar. A project Nepal is endowed with fast-flowing rivers
aiming to connect Kolkata with Ho Chi Minh and its terrain is ideal for hydroelectric
City on the South Sea for the formation of an power generation. India has taken up the
economic zone will have a road pass through work of 5600 MW Pancheshwar project,
Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam and work which remained stalled for 18 years after
on the first phase connecting Guwahati with agreement. Nepali and Indian people visit
Mandalay is currently underway. Myanmar is each other’s country for religious pilgrimage.
an important partner in our energy needs for Pashupati and Janakpur are traditional
petroleum and natural gas. Some of the Indian centres in Nepal whereas Varanasi and the
companies such as Essar, GAIL and ONGC four Dhaams (Badrinath, Puri, Dwaraka and
Videsh Ltd. have invested in Myanmar’s Rameshwaram) are important pilgrimage
energy sector. destinations in India. The bond of friendship
Aatchiyar Kalvi
234
further increased when India included attacks combined have taken its toll on the
Nepalese language in the VIII schedule Kashmiris, who have suffered poor living
of the Constitution. A joint hydropower standards and an erosion of human rights.
project is being built on the Sharda River. Kashmir is the bone of contention between
This power plant helps both India and Nepal India and Pakistan, which has brought the
with respect to electricity production and
two countries into an open clash many times.
irrigation facilities. From the environmental
Cross-border terrorism is a major irritant.
perspective, there are a number of tiger
reserves along Indo-Nepal border. The India tried to bring a positive change
governments of India and Nepal have signed in the relationship of the two countries
three sister-city agreements for twinning of through bilateral agreements such as Shimla
Kathmandu-Varanasi, Lumbini-Bodhgaya Agreement and Lahore Declaration.
and Janakpur-Ayodhya. India and Sri Lanka
N
W E India has cultural, historical and

S religious ties with Sri Lanka. Separated by
the narrow expanse of the Palk Strait, India
and Sri Lanka have shared excellent trade
relations committing to each other in both
bilateral free trade agreements as well as
developing interactions through SAARC.
The relationship between India and Sri Lanka
Not to Scale
can generally be termed as friendly, except
for the brief spell in which the Tamil ethnic
problem cast its shadow on the relations
India and Pakistan between the two countries. India and Sri
Lanka has conventionally close to each
Since the bifurcation of territory, which
other. India is among the top investors in
demarcated India and Pakistan in 1947, the
two nations have had strained relations due Sri Lanka and its investments are in diverse
to disagreements over a number of key issues. areas including petroleum retail, IT, real
Terrorism remains our core concern in the estate, telecommunication and tourism. On
relationship with Pakistan. Pakistan has been the other hand, the Sri Lankan investments
antagonistic when maintaining relations in India include Brandix (garment city in
with India. But India has made extreme Vishakhapatnam), MAS Holdings, John Keels,
efforts to improve and stabilise relations Hayleys, apart from the other investments in
with Pakistan. The cross-border firing the freight servicing and logistic sector. India
between India and Pakistan and the terrorist offers scholarship slots annually to deserving
LoC (Line of Control) The Ceasefire Sri Lankan students. Sri Lanka is also a partner
line determined in 1949 was called the LoC in Nalanda University Project of India.
after 1972. This is the boundary that came to
Ashoka had sent his son Mahinda and
be agreed between India and Pakistan under
daughter Sangamitra to Ceylon (Sri Lanka)
the Shimla Agreement of 1972. It was called
for the propagation of Buddhism. Chola
Radcliffe Line at the time of partition in1947,
kings Rajaraja I and Rajendra I conquered
(Radcliffe was the chairman of the border
the northern part of Ceylon.
commission.) This is now called LoC.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
235
W
N
E
c. Australia
S India and Australia have built strategic
trust over the years slowly yet steadily. Australia
and India are committed to working together
to enhance maritime co-operation with
India’s bilateral naval exercise (AUSINDEX).
The Australia India Council broadens the
Not to Scale relationship between Australia and India raising
developed countries awareness and promoting exchanges.
developing countries
least developed countries d. Japan
India decided to introduce the Japan’s
5.2 India’s Relationships
Shinkansen system. It is a highest class of
with Developed high-speed railway system with safety and
Countries accuracy. Delhi Metro is one of the most
A developed country is a sovereign successful examples of Japanese co-operation.
state that has a highly developed economy Mumbai–Ahmedabad High Speed Railway
and advanced technological infrastructure (MAHSR) is another area of co-operation.
relative to other less industrialised nations. The Government of Japan has offered 20 seats
per year to Indian nationals for a master’s
India has been balancing the superpowers
degree course in the University of Japan for
with great care and had been trying to
serving the Indian Railways.
reap the maximum benefit for its domestic
development. In the manufacturing sector Japan
announced its co-operation of training
a. USA 30,000 Indian people in the Japan India
India and the United States of America Institute of Manufacturing (JIM) providing
has signed a Communications Compatibility Japanese style manufacturing skills to
and Security Agreement (COMCASA) that enhance India’s manufacturing industry base
will lead to a new generation of bilateral and contribute to ‘Make in India’ and ‘Skill
military partnership. It is valid for a period India’ initiatives.
of 10 years. COMCASA gives India access to
In 2017, the first four JIMs were started
advanced communication technology used in
in the states of Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan
U.S. defence equipment and allows real-time
and Tamil Nadu and JEC (two Japanese
information sharing between the militaries of
Endowed Courses in engineering colleges)
the two countries.
was established in Andhra Pradesh.
b. European countries
Recent initiatives include the establishment
There has been a significant progress in of three India-Japan Joint Laboratories in
all areas particularly the growing cooperation the area of information and communication
and exchanges include defence, counter- technology (Internet of Things, Artificial
terrorism, nuclear energy and space. French Intelligence and Big Data Analytics).
space launch pads are used by ISRO. India
and France are cooperating on developing 5.3 India and West Asia
smart cities Chandigarh, Nagpur and
Puducherry. India and France launched the West Asia includes Egypt, the Arabian
International Solar Alliance, which brings Peninsula, Turkey and Iran. India and West
together countries between Tropic of Cancer Asia enjoy pre-historical ties. Trade relations
and Tropic of Capricorn for cooperation on were established between the civilisations of
solar energy. Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
236
West Asia stands as a region of highly valued by Arab and Iranian scholars
considerable significance for India, who eventually made it part of their own
economically as well as strategically. West intellectual traditions.”
Asia is gateway to landlocked and energy-
rich Central Asia. With the advent of the new 5.4 India and International
millennium, there has been extraordinary Organisations
turnaround in the relationship between the
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries India is a potential superpower and has a
and India. growing international influence all around the
world. Being a newly industrialised country,
A trilateral agreement called the
India has a great history of collaboration
Chabahar Agreement was signed between
with several countries. It has acted as
India, Afghanistan and Iran, which has led
prominent member of several international
to the establishment of transit and transport
organisations and has been a founding
corridor among three countries using
member of some. India is a member of formal
Chabahar port. This port is seen as golden
groupings like UNO, NAM, SAARC, G20 and
gateway for India to access landlocked
the Commonwealth.
markets of Afghanistan and Central Asia
bypassing Pakistan. India has been extending a helping hand to
the UNO, in all her efforts in ending military
One of the oldest maritime trading conflicts, and in promoting peace and progress
routes ran from ancient Sumeria via Bahrain among the nations.
to the Indus Civilisation called Meluha.
BRICS
In medieval times, comments a noted Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
scholar M.S. Agwani, “the Indian expertise in Africa are leading emerging economies
medicine, mathematics and astronomy was and political powers at the regional and
Aatchiyar Kalvi
237
India is actively engaged in general economic diplomacy, which is evident in the country
being part of several economic coalitions, as listed in the table below.
Name of the member

Name of the global groupings Objectives
countries
To focus on agriculture,
education, energy, trade,
IBSA India, Brazil, South Africa
culture and defence among
others
To respond to threats such as
Bangladesh, China, India, natural disasters and data
BCIM
Myanmar breaches and protect business
interests
To create necessary
MGC India, Cambodia, Laos, PDR
infrastructural facilities in the
(Mekong Ganga cooperation) Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam
Ganga-Mekong basin
To strengthen and improve the

BIMSTEC
Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, technological economic
(Bay of Bengal Initiative for
Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan cooperation, international
Multi-Sectoral Technical and
and Nepal trade and foreign direct
Economic Cooperation)
investment cooperation
To achieve modern high-
Australia, Brunei, Cambodia,
quality and mutually beneficial
China, India, Indonesia, Japan,
RCEP agreement that covers trade in
Korea, Laos, Malaysia,
(Regional Comprehensive goods, trade in service,
Myanmar, New Zealand,
Economic Partnership) investments, technical
Philippines, Singapore,
cooperation dispute settlement
Thailand, Vietnam
and other issues
10 ASEAN nations + 8
EAS
strategic partners including To promote peace and stability
(East Asia Summit)
US, China, India, Japan
To achieve unity based on their

Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar,
GCC common objectives and their
Saudi Arabia, United Arab
Gulf Cooperation Council similar political and cultural
Emirates, India
identities
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India,

BBIN For energy development
Nepal
For security-related concerns,

SCO India, Kazakhstan, China,
resolving border issues,
(Shanghai cooperation Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia,
intelligence sharing and
organization) Tajikistan and Uzbekistan
countering terrorism
Aatchiyar Kalvi
238
N
W E
S
Not to Scale
international level. The BRICS organisation’s ♦ To contribute extensively to development

headquarters is in Shanghai, China. BRICS of humanity
opened up a possibility for countries of
♦ To establish a more equitable and fair world
the Global South to challenge the Global
North. India is an active member and this ♦ B oost intra BRICS trade in their local
collaboration paves way for India to build its currencies to increase trade cooperation
global profile. and cope with the current international
financial crisis
Reason for the formation of BRICS
To be an alternative to World Bank and ♦ To promote the technological information
IMF to challenge U.S. supremacy exchange among the member states
To provide self-owned and self-managed ♦ To enhance inclusive economic growth
organisations to carry out developmental and that will lead to an increase in the creation
economical plans in its member nations of jobs, fight against poverty and accelerate
Objectives of BRICS the economic transformation of members.
♦ To achieve regional development The financial architecture of BRICS
♦ It acts as a bridge between developed and
The New Development Bank (NDB) is a
developing countries
multilateral development bank. Its primary
The acronym BRICS was coined by focus is lending for infrastructure projects.
Jim O’Neill, a famous British economist. He It aims to contribute to development plans
predicted that by year 2050 Brazil, Russia, established nationally through projects
India and China would become bigger than that are socially, environmentally and
the six most industrialised nations in dollar economically sustainable. It gives priority
terms and would completely change the to projects aimed at developing renewable
power dynamics of the last 300 years. energy sources.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
239
The Contingent Reserve Arrangement The OPEC LOGO
(CRA) is a framework for providing
protection against global liquidity pressures, It is the result of
an international design
which includes currency issues.
competition held in 1969. An
BRICS payment system Austrian designer Svoboda
won the competition with
At the 2015 BRICS Summit, ministers her design, which combined
from the BRICS nations initiated the different letters of the organisation’s name
consultations a payment system that would in a rounded design.
be an alternative to the Society for Worldwide
Interbank Financial Telecommunication OPEC’s mission
(SWIFT) system.
♦ To coordinate oil policies in its member
The factors that bolster co-operation countries
among members ♦ Help stabilise oil markets
First, the common need among developing ♦ To secure fair and stable income to
countries to construct an economic order that petroleum producers
reflects the current situation will drive the
♦ An efficient, economic and regular supply
BRICS efforts. In this matter, the idea of NDB
of oil to consuming nations
and CRA are defining changes and will have
huge geo-economic and geopolitical impact. ♦ A fair return on capital to those investing
in the petroleum industry
Second, the BRICS alternative idea in the
landscape of global governance will attract How does OPEC help other countries?
support from other countries.
The OPEC Fund for International
Third, the expansion of BRICS Development (OPID) is an institution that
interaction to other sector will make it more helps finance projects with low interest
strong partnership. loans. It also provides grants to social and
humanitarian projects.
OPEC
OPEC has an Information Centre
OPEC, the Organisation of the Petroleum
with over 20,000 volumes including books,
Exporting Countries (a group of oil-
reports, maps and conference proceedings
producing nations), is an intergovernmental
related to petroleum, energy and the oil
organisation founded in Baghdad, Iraq, and market. The Information Centre is open to
headquartered in Vienna, Austria. Iran, Iraq, the public and is often used by researchers
Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela are the and students.
OPEC’s Founder Members.
There are three categories of India’s relationship with OPEC
memberships: Founder Members, Full India is one of the biggest consumers of
Members and Associate Members. At present crude oil. OPEC obviously has vested interest
there are 15 member nations (two are located in India’s economic growth. We import 86%
in South America, six in the Middle East and of crude oil, 70% natural gas, 95% of cooking
seven in Africa). OPEC membership is open gas from OPEC countries. India has been
to any country that exports crude oil and identified as a great partner for OPEC mainly
which shares the ideals of the organisation. because of its high oil demand.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
240
India doesn’t have enough oil reserves. a warm relationship with its neighbours
India can’t produce oil. Devoid of necessary and extended neighbours in the field of
oil reserves India strongly focuses on education, health, fighting terrorism, disaster
agriculture, and industrial production. management, employment for its citizens,
curbing organised crimes, technology
Conclusion
development and so on.
Apart from economic and trade
cooperation, India also aspires to have
SUMMARY
India has always been known as a peace – loving country and has strived hard to
champion the cause of peace in the world.
India has cordial, historical, religious, economic, ethnic and linguistic relationship
with all its neighbouring countries.
India supports its neighbours to improve public health, small scale industries, tele
communication, education and in the construction of roads and bridges,
Government of India provides grant assistance for the construction of buildings,
laboratories, dispensaries and deep tube wells to its neighbours.
India is contributing proactively to the development of its neighbours in the form
of monetary aids and funds.
India has good relationship with the superpowers and tries to reap the maximum
benefit for its domestic development.
India extend it support to the UNO in all her efforts.
India is an active member of BRICS and it paves way for India to build its global
profile.
GLOSSARY
homogenous of the same kind/alike ஒரினத்தைச் சேர்ந்த
bilateral trade trading between two countries இருதரப்பு வர்த்தகம்
hydroelectric producing electricity by using the

நீர் மின்சார திட்டம்
project power of fast moving water
infrastructure the basis organisational facilities உள்கட்டமைப்பு
antiquity the ancient past த�ொன்மை
bifurcation to divide into two parts இரண்டாகப் பிரித்தல்
surveillance Close observation கண்காணிப்பு
Aatchiyar Kalvi
241
6. How many countries share its border with
EXERCISE India?
a) 5 b) 6 c) 7 d)
8
7. Which two island countries are India’s
answer neighbours?
1. Mc Mahon Line is a border between a) Sri Lanka and Andaman island
a) Burma and India b) Maldieves and Lakshadweep island
b) India and Nepal c) Maldieves and Nicobar island
c) India and China d) Sri Lanka and Maldieves
d) India and Bhutan 8. Which Indian state is surrounded by three
2. India is not a member of which of the countries?
following a) Arunachal Pradesh
1) G20 2) ASEAN b) Meghalaya
3) SAARC 4) BRICS c) Mizoram
Select the correct option d) Sikkim
a) 4 only 9. How many Indian states have their
b) 2 and 4 boundary with Nepal?
c) 2, 4 and 1 a) Five b) Four
d) 1, 2 and 3 c) Three d) Two
3. OPEC is 10. Who drew up the borders for newly
a) An international insurance Co. independent Pakistan?
b) An international sports club a) Lord Mountbatten
c) An Organisation of Oil Exporting b) Sir Cyril Radcliffe
Countries c) Clement Atlee
d) An international company d) None of the above.
4. With which country does India share its
longest land border? II. Fill in the blanks
a) Bangladesh b) Myanmar 1. ____________ is a small Himalayan
c) Afghanistan d) China kingdom.
5. Match the following and choose the correct 2. India’s gateway to South East Asia is
answer form the codes given below. ____________.
i) Salma Dam - 1. Bangladesh 3. ____________ is a buffer country between
ii) Farakka accord - 2. Nepal India and China.
iii) Chukha hydroelectric 4. A strip of land ____________, belongs
project - 3. Afghanistan to India on West Bengal and Bangladesh
iv) Sharda River project - 4. Bhutan border.
a) 3 1 4 2 5. ____________ is known as the Land of
b) 3 1 2 4 thunderbolt.
c) 3 4 1 2 6. India and Sri Lanka are separated by
d) 4 3 2 1 ____________.
Aatchiyar Kalvi
242
III. Consider the following 4. Assertion (A): OPEC has vested interest in
statement and tick the India’s economic growth.
appropriate answer Reason (R): Devoid of necessary oil
resources India strongly focuses on
1. The Kaladan transport project by India and
agriculture and industrial production.
Myanmar consists of which of the following
modes of transport? a) A is correct and R explains A
1. Roads 2. Railways b) A is wrong and R is correct
c) Both are correct
3. Shipping 4. Inland water transport
d) Both are wrong
Select the correct answer using the codes
given below IV. Match the following
a) 1, 2 and 3 only
1. Brandix - Vienna
b) 1, 3 and 4 only
2. COMCASA - Japan
c) 2, 3 and 4 only
3. Shinkansen system - Shanghai
d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
4. BRICS - USA
2. Assertion (A): India and France launched
5. OPEC - Garment city in
International Solar Alliance.
Vishakapatnam
Reason (R): It was done to bring together
countries between Tropic of Cancer and V. Give short answers
Tropic of Capricorn for co-operation of
1. Name the neighbouring countries of India.
solar energy.
2. Write a short note on Strategic partnetship
a) A is correct and R is the correct
Agreement (SPA).
explanation of A
3. Mention the member countries of BRICS.
b) A is correct and R is not the correct
explanation of A 4. What do you know about Kaladan Multi –
Model Transit Transport?
c) A is wrong and R is correct
5. How do you assess the importance of
d) Both are wrong
Chabahar agreement?
3. Which of the following statements are true? 6. List out any five global groupings in which
Statement 1. ICCR has initiated a Tagore India is a member.
Chair in University of Dhaka. 7. What is the role of Japan India Institute of
Statement 2. Mayanmar is India’s gateway Manufacturing (JIM)?
to western countries.
Statement 3. Nepal and Bhutan are land VI. Answer in detail
locked nations. 1. Highlight India and International
Statement 4. Sri Lanka is one of the partner organisation with special reference to any
in Nalanda University Project of India. three India’s global groupings.
a) 1, 2 and 3 2. Trace the reason for the formation of BRICS
b) 2, 3 and 4 and write its objectives.
c) 1, 3 and 4 3. Mention OPEC missions and how does it
d) 1, 2 and 4 help other countries?
Aatchiyar Kalvi
243
VII. Project and activity 5. Deep Datta Ray, The making of modern
Indian Diplomacy; A critique of
1. Students can be asked to collect information
Eurocentrism, Oxford University Press,
form newspapers about India’s relation with
India (2015)
world countries.
6. Jon C.W. Pevehouse, Joshna S. Goldstein,
2. Group project involving students to prepare
International Relations, Pearson Education,
an album with pictures on India’s latest
Noida (2017)
projects with its neighboring countries.
7. Rajendra M. Abhyankar., Indian Diplomacy,
REFERENCE BOOKS Oxford University Press, India (2018)
1. V.K. Malhotra, International Relations,
Calcutta: Anmol publication
INTERNET RESOURCES
2. Prakash Chandra, International Relations
New Delhi: Vikas Publishing 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_
3. Prakash Chandra, Theories of International relations_of_India#Europe
Relations: Aman publishing
2. https://www.un.org/en/
4. Baldev Raj Nayar and Thazha Varkey Paul,
India in the world order: Searching for 3. https://mnoal.org/
major-power status, Cambridge University 4. https://brics.ibge.gov.br/
Press (2003)
Aatchiyar Kalvi
244

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அரசியலமைப்பு

1. Understanding diversity From the below table, we understand

Student 1 Student 2 Student 3

VALLEY MOUNTAINS PLAIN

ISLAND DESERT COASTLINE

by favourable climatic conditions for the 2.2 Social Diversity

• Mawsynram located in Megalaya, is the land of highest rainfall.

Toda tribal people.

Sanchi Kandariya Mahadeo Konark Sun Temple The Dilwara

The culture of a group of people is community. Each of the 29 states and 7

Yakshagana Andhra pradesh

Kathakali Bharatanatyam Kuchipudi

Folk dances of India

2. Inter- - the dependence of (a) Kerala (b) Tamil Nadu

V. Answer the following in detail:

VI. Projects and Activities:

Lets do this activity to

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3.1 Caste Discrimination dresses while boys in such families often

Sex Ratio – 2011 Census

and low human development. Similarly, 4.

Kalam’s family had

Ms. S. ILAVAZHAGI Mr. MARIYAPPAN THANGAVELU

Even today, different types of • Constitution: A constitution is a set of

V. Answer the following in detail:

VI. Projects and Activities:

VIII. Life Skill:

IX. Internet Resources:

They are friendly bacteria.They are

The four lions,

On January 29, the

The birthday of Mahatma Gandhi,

Symbols of India and Indian States

Let us learn about

Step 1: Go to play store and install “National symbols” App.

*படங்கள் அைடயாளத்திற்கு மட்டுேம.

• To recognise the formation of our Cons titution

• To know the salient features of our Cons titution

• To know the fundamental rights and duties of the citizen of India

“The Drafting committee was formed

Right against exploitation

The original copies of the 4. Republic - a country with an

• Every citizen has certain duties too. existence on _____________

• To know the types of democracy

• To know and appreciate the structure of our constitution

• To know the aims of democracy

‘குடிதழீஇக் க�ோல�ோச்சும் மாநில மன்னன்

The students answered together, “After

“Types of democracy!” “Yes, this system is actually known as

Aims of Democracy responsibility to protect the welfare of the

Oldest Democracies in the World

Sl. No. Democracy Period Location Significance

3. ________ is celebrated as the

Step 2: Click the “political systems” to know government of India.

Step 3: Click the “English” button the map will appear.

Step 1 Step 2 Step 3

*Pictures are indicatives only.

Browse in the link

• To understand the special features of Panchayatraj.

• To know about the participation of women in local bodies.

2. Inter- - the dependence of (a) Kerala (b) Tamil Nadu

and low human development. Similarly, 4.

3. ________ is celebrated as the

• Panchayat, Panchayat Union and District a) Vellore

• Panchayat Raj System strengthened the a) Mayor

1. __________ is the first state in India to

III. Match 7. List out a few means of revenue of village

To understand the meaning of Equality

To define what political party is and to understand the importance of

the leader have its own ideology and programme.

the active members capture power only by constitutional means.

the followers endeavour to promote the national interest

Recognise the difference between Parliament and State Legislature

a. Mayor governor, MLA a. MLAs are together responsible for the

Understand media and its classification