NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Civics Chapter 1 The Indian Constitution contain solutions to the exercises given in the Civics book Social and Political Life. These answers have been explained in a manner that you will easily understand all the concepts and get your doubts cleared without even seeking anyone’s assistance.
Class 8 Civics The Indian Constitution NCERT Textbook Questions and Answers
Question 1: Why does a democratic country need a Constitution?
Answer: A democratic country needs a Constitution to:
- Establish the fundamental ideals and principles that guide the nation.
- Define the nature of its political system, ensuring a balance of power.
- Protect minorities from the oppression of the majority.
- Safeguard against the misuse of power by government officials.
- Prevent decisions harmful to the country’s core values.
- Encourage social and economic reforms for the well-being of its citizens.
Question 2: Look at the wordings of the two documents given below. The first column is from the 1990 Nepal Constitution. The second column is from the more recent interim Constitution of Nepal.
| 1990 Constitution of Nepal Part 7: Executive 2015 | 2015 Constitution of Nepal Part 7: Federal Executive 2015 |
| Article 35: Executive Power: The executive power of the Kingdom of Nepal shall be vested in His Majesty and council of Ministers | Article 75: Executive Power: The executive power of Nepal shall, pursuant to this Constitution and other laws, be vested in the Council of Ministers. |
What is the difference in who exercises ‘Executive Power’ in the above two Constitutions of Nepal?
Answer: The difference in who exercises ‘Executive Power’ between the two Constitutions of Nepal lies in the removal of the monarchy’s role in the governance of the country:
- 1990 Constitution of Nepal: Executive power was vested in “His Majesty and the Council of Ministers.” This indicates a constitutional monarchy where the King (His Majesty) alongside the Council of Ministers held executive power.
- 2015 Constitution of Nepal: Executive power is vested “in the Council of Ministers,” according to the Constitution and other laws. This significant change reflects the country’s transition from a monarchy to a federal democratic republic, where executive authority is solely in the hands of the elected Council of Ministers, without mentioning a monarchical figure.
Question 3: What would happen if there were no restrictions on the power of elected representatives?
Answer: If there were no restrictions on the power of elected representatives:
- Abuse of Power: They might misuse their authority for personal gain or to benefit a particular group.
- Violation of Rights: Without checks, representatives could make laws or policies that infringe on the rights and freedoms of individuals.
- Concentration of Power: Power could become concentrated in the hands of a few, undermining democratic principles.
- Public Distrust: The lack of accountability could result in a loss of public trust in the government and its institutions.
- Social Unrest: Arbitrary decisions and unjust policies might provoke public outrage, leading to social unrest, protests, and instability.
Question 4: In each of the following situations, identify the minority. Write one reason why you think it is important to respect the views of the minority in each of these situations.
(a) In a school with 30 teachers, 20 of them are male.
(b) In a city, 5 per cent of the population are Buddhists.
(c) In a factory mess for all employees, 80 per cent are vegetarians.
(d) In a class of 50 students, 40 belong to more well-off families.
Answer: (a) Minority: Female teachers.
Importance: Respecting their views is crucial for promoting gender equality and ensuring that decisions reflect a diverse range of perspectives.
(b) Minority: Buddhists.
Importance: Respecting their views fosters religious harmony and tolerance, ensuring that all community members feel valued and respected, and preventing potential conflicts.
(c) Minority: Non-vegetarians.
Importance: Catering to the dietary preferences of all employees fosters an inclusive atmosphere that respects individual choices and promotes well-being.
(d) Minority: Students from less well-off families.
Importance: Considering the diverse socio-economic backgrounds can help ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities, reducing disparities and fostering a supportive educational environment for all students.
Question 5: The column on the left lists some of the key features of the Indian Constitution. In the other column write two sentences, in your own words, on why you think this feature is important:
| Key Feature | Significance |
| Federalism Separation of Powers Fundamental Rights Parliamentary Form of Government. |
Answer:
| Key Feature | Significance |
| Federalism | Federalism is important because it allows for the division of power between the national and state governments. It ensures that local needs and preferences are respected and addressed effectively. This system promotes a balance of power, preventing any single entity from becoming too powerful. |
| Separation of Powers | The separation of powers is crucial for preventing the concentration of power in one branch of government, thereby protecting democratic freedoms. It ensures that the legislative, executive, and judicial branches operate independently, providing checks and balances on each other’s powers and responsibilities. |
| Fundamental Rights | Fundamental Rights are essential because they protect the liberties and rights of individuals against any infringement by the state. It ensures the dignity, freedom, and equality of all citizens. These rights form the cornerstone of democracy, allowing for the expression, belief, movement, and association that are necessary for a free and open society. |
| Parliamentary Form of Government | The Parliamentary Form of Government is important because it ensures that the executive branch is accountable to the legislature and, ultimately, to the citizens, fostering a closer connection between the government’s actions and the electorate’s will. This form of government promotes democracy and cooperation within the political system, facilitating more effective and responsive governance. |