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CIVICS (Democratic Politics-II) - 10 - Social Science solution

Class 10 - Chapter 4: Political Parties

NCERTChapter 4Solution

1. State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.

Answer:

Political parties are an essential component of democratic governance. They perform several important functions that help the democratic system function effectively.

Functions of Political Parties

  1. Contest Elections: Political parties nominate candidates and contest elections.
  2. Form and Run Governments: The party or coalition securing a majority forms the government.
  3. Frame Policies and Programmes: Political parties present different policies and programmes for the development of the country.
  4. Make Laws: Elected representatives belonging to political parties make laws in legislatures.
  5. Act as Opposition: Parties not in power act as opposition and hold the government accountable.
  6. Shape Public Opinion: Political parties educate people and influence public opinion through campaigns and discussions.
  7. Link Between Government and People: They communicate public demands to the government and explain government policies to citizens.

Hence Without political parties, democratic governance would become extremely difficult.

2. What are the various challenges faced by political parties?

Answer:

Political parties face several challenges that affect the quality of democracy.

Major Challenges

1. Lack of Internal Democracy

Power is often concentrated in the hands of a few leaders, and ordinary members have little role in decision-making.

2. Dynastic Succession

Leadership positions are frequently inherited by family members rather than earned through merit.

3. Growing Role of Money and Muscle Power

Wealthy candidates and powerful groups often influence elections and party decisions.

4. Lack of Meaningful Choice

Sometimes parties differ very little in their policies, limiting voters' choices.

Hence Addressing these challenges is necessary to strengthen democratic institutions.

3. Suggest some reforms to strengthen parties so that they perform their functions well.

Answer:

Political parties can be strengthened through several reforms.

Suggested Reforms

  1. Ensure internal democracy through regular organisational elections.
  2. Maintain transparency in party funding.
  3. Reduce the influence of money and muscle power.
  4. Provide greater opportunities to women and weaker sections.
  5. Encourage merit-based leadership instead of dynastic succession.
  6. Make political parties accountable to the public.
  7. Strengthen laws regarding disclosure of criminal records and assets of candidates.

These reforms would improve the quality of democracy and public trust in political parties.

4. What is a political party?

Answer:

A political party is a group of people who come together to contest elections, hold political power and implement policies and programmes for the welfare of society.

Members of a political party generally share similar political views and work towards common goals.

5. What are the characteristics of a political party?

Answer:

Main Characteristics of a Political Party

  1. It consists of a group of people.
  2. Its members share common political beliefs and policies.
  3. It seeks to gain political power through elections.
  4. It aims to influence government policies.
  5. It works to promote public welfare and national development.
  6. It follows an organised structure and leadership.

6. A group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government is called a __________.

Answer:

Political Party

7. Match List I (organisations and struggles) with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below.

List I List II
1. Congress Party C. United Progressive Alliance
2. Bharatiya Janata Party A. National Democratic Alliance
3. Communist Party of India (Marxist) D. Left Front
4. Telugu Desam Party B. State Party

Matching: 1-C, 2-A, 3-D, 4-B

Correct Option: (c)

8. Who among the following is the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party?

A. Kanshi Ram

B. Sahu Maharaj

C. B.R. Ambedkar

D. Jotiba Phule

Answer:

Correct Option: (A) Kanshi Ram

Explanation: The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) was founded by Kanshi Ram in 1984 to represent the interests of Dalits, Adivasis, OBCs and other marginalised communities.

9. What is the guiding philosophy of the Bharatiya Janata Party?

A. Bahujan Samaj

B. Revolutionary democracy

C. Integral humanism

D. Modernity

Answer:

Correct Option: (C) Integral Humanism

Explanation: Integral Humanism, propounded by Deendayal Upadhyaya, is considered the guiding philosophy of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

10. Consider the following statements on parties.

A. Political parties do not enjoy much trust among the people.

B. Parties are often rocked by scandals involving top party leaders.

C. Parties are not necessary to run governments.

Answer:

Statement A is correct.

Statement B is correct.

Statement C is incorrect because political parties are essential for the functioning of democratic governments.

Correct Option: (b) A and B

11. Read the following passage and answer the questions given below.

(i) Do you think Yunus made a right decision to float a new political party?

Answer:

Yes, Muhammad Yunus made a reasonable decision to form a new political party. His objective was to promote good governance, transparency, accountability and democratic participation. In a democracy, every citizen has the right to form a political party and offer alternative policies to the people.

(ii) Do you agree with the statements and fears expressed by various people?

Answer:

Some of the concerns expressed by political leaders are understandable because new parties may face organisational and political challenges. However, such concerns should not prevent citizens from participating in democratic politics. New political parties can introduce fresh ideas and improve democratic competition.

(iii) How would you want this new party organised to make it different from other parties?

Answer:

I would like the party to be organised on democratic principles.

Important Features

  • Regular internal elections.
  • Transparency in party funding.
  • Equal opportunities for women and youth.
  • Merit-based leadership.
  • Public accountability.
  • Strong anti-corruption measures.
  • Active participation of grassroots workers.

(iv) If you were one to begin this political party, how would you defend it?

Answer:

If I were the founder of this party, I would explain that democracy becomes stronger when citizens have more choices. I would emphasise that the party aims to promote honesty, transparency, public participation and good governance. I would assure people that the party seeks to serve the nation and strengthen democratic values rather than pursue personal interests.

Important Exam Points

  • Political parties are indispensable for the functioning of democracy.
  • The major challenges before political parties are lack of internal democracy, dynastic succession, money power and lack of meaningful choice.
  • Congress Party is associated with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
  • Bharatiya Janata Party leads the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).
  • Kanshi Ram founded the Bahujan Samaj Party.
  • Integral Humanism is the guiding philosophy of the BJP.
  • Political parties act as a bridge between the government and the people.