CBSE Class 9 Political Science (Civics) Important Questions Chapter 4 Working of Institutions

1. First of all, what is an office memo? Describe.

Ans:

An Office Memorandum (OM) is a formal document used within an organisation to communicate instructions, guidelines, or information among staff members. It serves as a means to convey official decisions, policies, or administrative orders in writing. Typically, an OM includes the date, subject, and details of the message, along with any necessary directives or actions required. It is used for internal communication to ensure that important information is documented and easily accessible, helping maintain clarity and consistency in organisational operations.

2. How is a significant policy decision decided?

Ans:

• Identification of Need: The process begins with identifying a significant issue or need that requires a policy response. This could arise from internal assessments, stakeholder feedback, or external developments.

• Research and Analysis: Detailed research and analysis are conducted to understand the implications of the proposed policy. This involves gathering data, studying similar policies, and evaluating potential impacts.

• Consultation: Stakeholders, including experts, affected parties, and relevant organisations, are consulted to gather input and perspectives. This helps ensure that the policy addresses all relevant concerns and is feasible.

• Drafting of Policy: Based on the research and consultations, a draft policy is formulated. This draft outlines the objectives, proposed measures, and implementation strategies.

• Review and Approval: The draft policy is reviewed by senior officials or a policy committee. Revisions may be made based on feedback. Once finalised, the policy is presented for approval to the relevant decision-making body, such as a cabinet, board, or governing council.

• Implementation: After approval, the policy is officially adopted and implemented. This involves developing action plans, allocating resources, and setting up mechanisms for monitoring and enforcement.

• Evaluation: The policy's effectiveness is evaluated over time to assess its impact and make necessary adjustments. Feedback from stakeholders and performance metrics are used to refine the policy as needed.

3. Can you recall a significant choice that your state government made? What role did the courts, state assembly, council of ministers, and governor play in that decision?

Ans:

A significant decision made by many state governments in recent years is the implementation of a new education policy or reform, such as the introduction of a state-wide digital education initiative. Here’s how the various institutions are typically involved in such a decision:

1. Governor: The Governor may play a ceremonial role in the decision-making process. Once the policy is formulated and approved by the state government, the Governor may formally endorse or give assent to the new policy, especially if it involves legislative changes.

2. Council of Ministers: The Council of Ministers, led by the Chief Minister, is responsible for formulating and proposing the policy. They conduct meetings to discuss the policy’s objectives, implications, and implementation strategies. The Council of Ministers ensures that the policy aligns with the state’s overall development goals and budgetary constraints.

3. State Assembly: The state assembly debates and reviews the policy if it requires legislative changes or appropriations. Members of the assembly discuss the policy, suggest amendments, and vote on it. Approval from the state assembly is crucial for enacting laws or making changes to existing regulations related to the policy.

4. Courts: The courts may become involved if there are legal challenges to the policy or if its implementation leads to disputes. The judiciary ensures that the policy complies with the constitution and legal standards, resolving any conflicts or legal issues that arise during its implementation.

4. Do all Office Memoranda represent significant political decisions? If not, what was distinctive about this one?

Ans:

• Not every Office Memorandum (OM) constitutes a major political decision. An OM is generally used for routine administrative or internal communication within an organisation. It can cover a wide range of topics, from procedural updates to internal guidelines, and does not always involve significant political implications.

• However, an OM becomes a major political decision when it addresses high-impact issues that can influence governance, policy, or public affairs on a large scale. For example, an OM that introduces a significant policy change, such as a new government initiative or a substantial reform, would be considered a major political decision.

5. What makes a parliament necessary?

Ans:

• Legislation: The Parliament is responsible for making, amending, and repealing laws. It ensures that new laws address current issues and reflect the will of the people. Through debate and scrutiny, Parliament helps create effective legislation.

• Representation: Parliament represents the diverse interests and views of the citizens. Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected to voice the concerns of their constituents, ensuring that different perspectives are considered in national decision-making.

• Oversight and Accountability: Parliament holds the Executive accountable for its actions. It monitors government performance, reviews expenditures, and investigates issues through committees and debates. This helps prevent misuse of power and ensures transparency.

• Debate and Deliberation: Parliament provides a platform for public issues to be debated openly. MPs discuss and deliberate on policies, laws, and national issues, facilitating informed decision-making and allowing diverse viewpoints to be considered.

• Budget Approval: Parliament approves the national budget and allocates resources for various government functions. This control over public finances ensures that government spending aligns with national priorities and is used effectively.

• Constitutional Amendments: Parliament has the authority to amend the Constitution, allowing for changes to adapt to evolving needs and circumstances. This flexibility is crucial for maintaining a relevant and functional legal framework.

6. The Rajya Sabha is granted certain unique powers over the states by our Constitution. However, the Lok Sabha has the last say over most issues. Give points to support your explanation.

Ans:

Legislative Powers:

• Lok Sabha: Holds supreme legislative power in most matters. It can introduce, debate, and pass bills on any subject, including those on which the Rajya Sabha has limited or no powers. The Lok Sabha’s approval is essential for the passage of most types of legislation.

• Rajya Sabha: Can propose and debate bills but cannot introduce money bills or certain types of legislation without the Lok Sabha’s consent. It acts mainly as a revising chamber, offering suggestions and amendments.

Money Bills:

• Lok Sabha: Has exclusive authority over money bills, which pertain to taxation, public expenditure, and financial matters. The Rajya Sabha can only recommend amendments to money bills, which the Lok Sabha can accept or reject.

• Rajya Sabha: Can only recommend changes but cannot alter the core provisions of money bills. The Lok Sabha’s decision on money bills is final.

Confidence and Accountability:

• Lok Sabha: The government is formed by the party or coalition with the majority in the Lok Sabha. It is the chamber that holds the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers accountable. The government must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha to remain in power.

• Rajya Sabha: Does not have a direct role in the formation of the government or in holding the government accountable. Its role is more advisory and revisory.

Constitutional Amendments:

• Lok Sabha: Plays a crucial role in the process of amending the Constitution. Certain amendments require the approval of both houses, but the Lok Sabha’s approval is critical as it represents the people directly.

• Rajya Sabha: Can discuss and suggest amendments, but its role is secondary to the Lok Sabha in this process.

Representation:

• Lok Sabha: Represents the people of India directly, with members elected through general elections. This direct representation gives it a significant role in shaping national policies and laws.

• Rajya Sabha: Represents states and union territories, with members elected by state legislatures or appointed. While it provides regional representation, its influence on national policy is more limited compared to the Lok Sabha.

7. Jot down a brief note about the Executive Branch.

Ans:

• The Presidential System is a form of government where the President serves as both the head of state and the head of government, holding significant executive powers. In this system, the President is elected separately from the legislature and operates independently of it, unlike in a parliamentary system where the executive is drawn from the legislative body. 

• The President appoints members of the cabinet and has substantial authority over domestic and foreign policies. 

• This system emphasises a clear separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, aiming to provide stability and prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful. The United States is a prominent example of a country with a presidential system.

8. Describe our electoral system.

Ans:

• Electoral System: India follows a First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) electoral system for most elections, where the candidate with the highest number of votes in a constituency wins, even if they do not secure an absolute majority.

• Elections to Lok Sabha: Lok Sabha (House of the People) elections are held every five years. India is divided into 543 constituencies, each electing one Member of Parliament (MP) to the Lok Sabha. The party or coalition with a majority of seats forms the government.

• Elections to Rajya Sabha: Rajya Sabha (Council of States) members are not directly elected by the public but are chosen by the elected members of the state legislative assemblies and by the President for nominated seats. Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and does not dissolve.

• State Legislative Elections: Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) elections are held in each state to elect members who represent constituencies within the state. The party with a majority forms the state government. The elections occur every five years.

• Local Elections: Elections are held for local bodies such as Municipalities and Panchayats to ensure local governance. These elections allow citizens to choose their representatives for local administration and development.

• Election Commission: The Election Commission of India oversees the entire electoral process, ensuring free, fair, and impartial elections. It manages the election schedule, supervises polling, and resolves disputes.

• Voter Registration: Citizens must be registered to vote. The process involves applying to the local election office to include their name on the electoral roll.

• Polling and Counting: On election day, voters cast their ballots at designated polling stations. The votes are counted, and results are declared based on the number of votes each candidate receives.

9. Which three ministerial types are there in the council?

Ans:

Cabinet Ministers:

• Role: Cabinet Ministers are senior members of the Council of Ministers and are typically in charge of major ministries, such as Finance, Defence, and Home Affairs. They are appointed by the Prime Minister and are responsible for formulating and implementing government policies in their respective areas.

• Responsibilities: They participate in Cabinet meetings, contribute to policy-making, and coordinate the work of their ministries. They are also accountable to the Parliament for their actions and decisions.

Ministers of State:

• Role: Ministers of State assist Cabinet Ministers in their duties and handle specific responsibilities within their ministries. They may oversee particular departments or aspects of a ministry's work.

• Responsibilities: They may be assigned specific tasks or projects by their senior Cabinet Ministers and represent the ministry in various capacities. In some cases, they may be given independent charge of a department if there are multiple Ministers of State in a ministry.

Deputy Ministers:

• Role: Deputy Ministers are junior to both Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State. They assist the Ministers of State or Cabinet Ministers and handle routine administrative tasks and specific assignments within their departments.

• Responsibilities: Their role is primarily supportive, and they may act as the link between the public and the ministry. They ensure the smooth operation of daily functions and support the senior ministers in their responsibilities.

10. Describe any three of the parliament's duties.

Ans:

1. Legislative Function:

• Explanation: Parliament is responsible for making, amending, and repealing laws. Members of Parliament (MPs) debate proposed bills, which may become laws once approved. This process involves detailed discussions, committee reviews, and voting. The legislative function ensures that the legal framework of the country is updated to address current issues and reflect public needs.

2. Representational Function:

• Explanation: Parliament represents the interests and views of the citizens. MPs are elected to reflect the concerns and aspirations of their constituents. They bring local issues to the national stage, participate in debates, and vote on legislation. This function ensures that diverse perspectives are considered in the decision-making process and that the government remains accountable to the people.

3. Oversight and Accountability:

• Explanation: Parliament oversees the actions of the Executive branch of government, ensuring that it operates within the law and adheres to policy objectives. This function involves scrutinising government expenditure, questioning ministers, and reviewing administrative decisions. Parliamentary committees play a key role in investigating specific issues and holding the government accountable for its actions and decisions.

11. Compose a remark about the judiciary.

Ans:

• The Judiciary is a fundamental branch of government responsible for interpreting laws, ensuring justice, and resolving legal disputes. It operates independently of the Executive and Legislature, maintaining the rule of law and protecting individual rights. 

• The judiciary consists of a hierarchical system, with the Supreme Court at the apex, followed by High Courts at the state level, and various subordinate courts handling local cases. 

• The judiciary's key functions include adjudicating legal cases, reviewing the constitutionality of laws, and providing checks and balances on the other branches of government. Through its impartial and fair judicial processes, the judiciary upholds the principles of justice and ensures that laws are applied consistently and equitably.

12. Provide one justification each for the independence of the Indian judiciary about:

1. Removal of judges

2. Powers of the judiciary

3. Appointment of judges

Ans:

1. Removal of Judges: Indian judges can only be removed through a rigorous and lengthy impeachment process that requires a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament. This high threshold ensures that judges are not easily removed and protects their independence by shielding them from arbitrary or politically motivated dismissals.

2. Powers of the Judiciary: The judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows it to evaluate the constitutionality of laws and executive actions. This authority ensures that the judiciary can act independently to check and balance the actions of the Legislature and the Executive, thereby safeguarding individual rights and upholding the rule of law.

3. Appointment of Judges: The appointment of Supreme Court and High Court judges is made by a collegium system, which includes senior judges of the Supreme Court. This system reduces the influence of the Executive and Legislature in judicial appointments, promoting the selection of judges based on merit and maintaining the judiciary’s independence from political pressures.

13. Explain what is meant by "Judicial Review."

Ans:

• Judicial Review is the power of the judiciary to examine and determine the constitutionality of legislative acts and executive actions. It allows courts to assess whether laws and policies enacted by the Legislature or actions taken by the Executive comply with the Constitution. 

• If a law or action is found to be unconstitutional, the judiciary can invalidate it, ensuring that all government actions align with constitutional principles and protecting individual rights. 

• This process maintains the rule of law and serves as a crucial check on the powers of the other branches of government.

14. Describe what is meant by "coalition government."

Ans:

Coalition Government refers to a government formed by multiple political parties that join together to achieve a majority in the legislature. This typically occurs when no single party wins an outright majority in elections, necessitating the formation of an alliance to govern effectively.

In a Coalition Government:

• Parties Collaborate: Various parties with similar or complementary policy goals come together, agreeing to share power and responsibilities. This often involves negotiating a common agenda or policy framework.

• Shared Power: Leadership roles and key positions are distributed among the coalition partners, allowing them to influence decision-making and governance.

• Compromise and Agreement: The coalition requires ongoing negotiation and compromise among partners to ensure stability and manage differences in policy priorities.

15. Compose a little memo outlining the steps involved in the President's impeachment.

Ans:

The impeachment of the President in India is a formal process outlined in the Constitution to remove the President from office if found guilty of violating the Constitution. The procedure involves several key steps:

1. Initiation: The process begins with a motion for impeachment introduced in either house of Parliament, requiring the support of at least one-fourth of the total members of that house.

2. Investigation: If the motion is accepted, an investigation is conducted by a committee appointed by Parliament to examine the charges.

3. Approval: Following the investigation, the charges are debated in Parliament. To proceed, the motion must be approved by a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

4. Final Decision: Upon approval, the President is formally removed from office. The Vice President then takes over as acting President until a new President is elected.

16. Why are elections seen as a necessary component of democracy? Describe.

Ans:

• Representation of the People: Elections allow citizens to choose their representatives and leaders, ensuring that the government reflects the will and preferences of the people. This participatory process is fundamental to democratic governance, as it legitimises the authority of elected officials.

• Accountability: Through elections, elected officials are held accountable for their actions and decisions. If voters are dissatisfied with their representatives' performance, they can vote them out of office in subsequent elections, ensuring that leaders remain responsive to the needs of their constituents.

• Legitimacy of Government: Elections confer legitimacy on the government by providing a clear mandate from the electorate. A government that is elected through free and fair elections is seen as having the authority to govern and make decisions on behalf of the people.

• Peaceful Transition of Power: Elections facilitate the peaceful transition of power by providing a structured and non-violent means for changing leadership. This process helps to prevent conflicts and instability that might arise from disputes over authority.

• Public Participation: Elections engage citizens in the democratic process, encouraging public involvement and fostering a sense of civic responsibility. By participating in elections, individuals contribute to shaping their society and influencing policy decisions.

17. If a statute violates the spirit of the Constitution, the judiciary has the authority to overturn it. Is it true or false?

Ans:

True. The judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows it to strike down laws that are found to be unconstitutional or that violate the spirit of the Constitution. This ensures that all laws and government actions adhere to constitutional principles and protects individual rights and liberties

18. Explain what the "Voter's List" or "Electoral Roll" is. Describe its significance.

Ans:

The Electoral Roll or Voter’s List is an official list of individuals who are eligible to vote in elections. It is compiled and maintained by the Election Commission or local electoral authorities and includes details such as the names, addresses, and other relevant information of registered voters.

Importance of the Electoral Roll:

1. Eligibility Verification: It ensures that only eligible citizens can vote, helping to prevent fraud and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

2. Voter Participation: Providing an updated list of voters, helps citizens locate their polling stations and participate in elections.

3. Accurate Representation: It allows for accurate and fair representation by ensuring that all eligible voters have the opportunity to cast their votes.

4. Administrative Efficiency: The Electoral Roll assists in the efficient administration of elections by helping to manage the logistics of voting and counting.

19. An instructor was getting ready for a pretend legislature. She asked two pupils to take on the roles of political party leaders. She offered them a choice: they could all decide to form a majority in the fictitious Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. Which option, and why, would you select if you had to choose?

Ans:

If given the choice to have a majority either in the mock Lok Sabha or in the mock Rajya Sabha, I would choose to have a majority in the mock Lok Sabha. Here’s why:

1. Formation of Government: The Lok Sabha, being the lower house of Parliament, is crucial in forming the government. The party or coalition with a majority in the Lok Sabha is responsible for leading the government and implementing policies. Having a majority here would allow me to directly influence and control the executive branch.

2. Power to Pass Legislation: The Lok Sabha has significant legislative power, including the ability to introduce and pass bills, including the budget. A majority in the Lok Sabha means the ability to shape and enact laws according to the party’s agenda.

3. Confidence of the House: The Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers are required to maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha. Having a majority ensures stability and continuity in governance, as the government cannot function effectively without support from the majority of Lok Sabha members.

20. Describe the distinction between the council of ministers and the cabinet.

Ans:

The Cabinet and the Council of Ministers are both integral parts of the executive branch of government, but they have distinct roles and functions:

1. Cabinet:

• The Cabinet is a smaller, more senior group within the Council of Ministers. It consists of the most important ministers who head major government ministries and are appointed by the Prime Minister.

• The Cabinet is responsible for making major policy decisions and setting the overall direction of government policy. It meets regularly to discuss and decide on significant issues, including legislation, national security, and economic policy.

• Typically includes senior ministers such as those heading the Finance, Defence, Home Affairs, and Foreign Affairs ministries. Membership is usually limited to around 15-20 members.

2. Council of Ministers:

• The Council of Ministers is a broader body that includes all ministers appointed by the Prime Minister, encompassing both Cabinet Ministers and other junior ministers.

• The Council of Ministers as a whole is responsible for the administration of government, implementing policies, and managing various government departments. It includes the Cabinet but also includes Ministers of State and Deputy Ministers who assist in running ministries.

• Comprises Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State (with or without independent charge), and Deputy Ministers. Its membership can be quite large, depending on the size of the government.

21. What are the two categories of executives in an Indian democracy?

Ans:

Political Executive:

• The Political Executive is composed of elected officials who are responsible for formulating and implementing government policies. This group includes the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.

• The Political Executive is elected by the people and is accountable to the legislature. It includes the head of government and the ministers who lead various ministries and make major policy decisions. The political executive governs based on the mandate given by the electorate and is responsible for day-to-day administration and policy-making.

Permanent Executive:

• The Permanent Executive consists of civil servants and bureaucrats who are appointed based on merit and serve in various administrative roles. This group includes officers from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and other central and state services.

• The Permanent Executive implements the policies and decisions made by the Political Executive. They provide continuity in administration, ensuring that government functions and services are carried out effectively. Unlike the Political Executive, the Permanent Executive is not elected but appointed and operates on a long-term basis.

22. How are the ministers in the council of ministers and the prime minister chosen?

Ans:

Prime Minister: The Prime Minister of India is appointed by the President of India. This appointment follows the general election results in which the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament) is invited by the President to form the government. The selected leader, usually the head of the largest party or coalition, becomes the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister plays a central role in setting government policy and coordinating the functioning of the executive branch.

Council of Ministers: Once the Prime Minister is appointed, they select the members of the Council of Ministers. The Council includes Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State, and Deputy Ministers, who are chosen from among the elected members of Parliament. The Prime Minister submits a list of proposed ministers to the President, who then formally appoints them. Cabinet Ministers head major ministries and are part of the key decision-making body of the government, while Ministers of State and Deputy Ministers assist in managing specific departments or ministries. The Council of Ministers must retain the confidence of the Lok Sabha to continue governing; otherwise, they are required to resign.

23. Explain the necessity of having a parliament.

Ans:

• Representation of Citizens: Parliament represents the diverse interests and views of the population. Members are elected to voice the concerns and needs of their constituents, ensuring that government decisions reflect the will of the people.

• Law-Making: Parliament is responsible for creating and enacting laws. It debates and passes legislation on various issues, from economic policies to social welfare, shaping the legal framework within which the country operates.

• Oversight of the Executive: Parliament holds the executive branch accountable for its actions. It monitors government activities, scrutinises decisions, and can question ministers, ensuring that the executive acts transparently and in the public interest.

• Budget Approval: Parliament has the power to approve or reject the national budget. This function is critical for controlling government spending and ensuring that public funds are allocated effectively.

• Conflict Resolution: As a forum for debate and discussion, Parliament helps resolve political conflicts and disagreements through negotiation and compromise. It provides a structured process for addressing and settling issues peacefully.

Important Topics of Class 9 Political Science (Civics) Chapter 4 Important Questions and Answers

Important Questions of Working of Institutions Class 9 explores the roles, functions, and interactions of key political institutions in India, including the Parliament, the Judiciary, and the Executive.

Benefits of Learning with Important Questions of Working of Institutions Class 9 PDF

Studying Political Science (Civics) Class 9 Working of Institutions Class 9 Important Questions and Answers offers students several benefits.

• The Working of Institutions Class 9 Important Questions and Answers PDF provides a structured overview of key concepts and functions of various political institutions, helping students grasp the workings of the Parliament, Executive, and Judiciary more effectively.

• By addressing crucial questions, students can focus their study efforts on important topics, improving their ability to answer exam questions accurately and thoroughly.

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• The PDF serves as a comprehensive review tool, summarising essential information in one place and aiding in revision before exams.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using the Working of Institutions Important Questions significantly enhances students' understanding of how key political institutions operate in India. By focusing on critical concepts and practising exam-style questions, students gain a clearer grasp of the roles and interactions of the Parliament, Executive, and Judiciary. This targeted preparation not only boosts exam performance but also deepens comprehension of democratic governance.

Important Study Materials for Class 9 Political Science (Civics) Chapter 4

CBSE Class 9 Political Science (Civics) Chapter-wise Important Questions

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