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Multiple Choice Questions - Test your understanding with these MCQs. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Question 1The Union Legislature of India comprises which of the following components?

Correct Answer: The President and the two Houses of Parliament

Question 2What are the two levels of government in India as a Union of States?

Correct Answer: Centre and the States

Question 3Which branch of government is responsible for making laws?

Correct Answer: The Legislature

Question 4What is the maximum permissible numerical strength of the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: 550 members

Question 5The members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected by whom?

Correct Answer: The People of India

Question 6What is the normal term for members of the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: 5 years

Question 7Who has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha before its term completes?

Correct Answer: The President

Question 8What is the minimum age required to become a member of the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: 25 years

Question 9In case of an emergency, for how long can the term of the Lok Sabha be extended at a time?

Correct Answer: 1 year

Question 10Which house is referred to as the 'Council of States'?

Correct Answer: Rajya Sabha

Question 11How many members are nominated by the President to the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: 12 members

Question 12What is the basis for allotting the number of members to the Rajya Sabha for each state?

Correct Answer: Population of the State

Question 13Which state has the highest number of members in the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: Uttar Pradesh

Question 14What is the term of each member of the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: 6 years

Question 15Why is the Rajya Sabha called a 'permanent house'?

Correct Answer: It is never dissolved

Question 16How many members of the Rajya Sabha retire every two years?

Correct Answer: One-third

Question 17What is the minimum age required to become a member of the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: 30 years

Question 18Who is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: The Vice-President of India

Question 19Who presides over the proceedings of the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: The Speaker

Question 20When does the Speaker of the Lok Sabha exercise their 'casting vote'?

Correct Answer: In case there is a tie

Question 21Which list contains subjects like Defence, Banking, and Foreign Affairs?

Correct Answer: The Union List

Question 22On which list can both the Union and State Legislatures make laws?

Correct Answer: The Concurrent List

Question 23In case of a conflict between Union and State law on a Concurrent subject, which law prevails?

Correct Answer: The Union Law

Question 24Which of the following is a subject in the State List?

Correct Answer: Agriculture

Question 25What is a 'Bill' in the context of Parliament?

Correct Answer: A draft of a proposed law

Question 26Where can a Money Bill be introduced?

Correct Answer: Lok Sabha only

Question 27What are the three stages a bill must pass through in a House?

Correct Answer: First, Second, and Third Reading

Question 28What happens during the 'Second Reading' of a bill?

Correct Answer: The bill is discussed in detail and suggestions are made

Question 29When does a bill officially become an 'Act'?

Correct Answer: When it is passed by both houses and assented to by the President

Question 30What action can the President take in case of a deadlock between the two Houses over an ordinary bill?

Correct Answer: Call upon a joint session of both the Houses

Question 31The power to impeach the President is part of which function of Parliament?

Correct Answer: Judicial Functions

Question 32Who presents the Union Budget in the Parliament?

Correct Answer: The Finance Minister

Question 33Which of these is a 'Miscellaneous Power' of Parliament?

Correct Answer: Altering the name or boundaries of any State

Question 34What is the minimum voting age for Indian citizens to elect representatives?

Correct Answer: 18 years

Question 35What system of voting is used in Indian elections?

Correct Answer: Secret ballot

Question 36Who is eligible to nominate 12 members to the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: The President

Question 37From which fields are the nominated members of Rajya Sabha chosen?

Correct Answer: Art, literature, science and social service

Question 38How many members are elected from Union Territories to the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: Up to 20

Question 39Who elects the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha?

Correct Answer: The members of the Lok Sabha

Question 40What happens if a member of the Lok Sabha holds an 'office of profit'?

Correct Answer: They are disqualified

Question 41Which house is more powerful in the Indian Parliamentary system?

Correct Answer: Lok Sabha

Question 42Education and Electricity fall under which list?

Correct Answer: Concurrent List

Question 43The Union Legislature is also known as:

Correct Answer: The Parliament

Question 44How many members of Rajya Sabha represent the States and Union Territories?

Correct Answer: 238

Question 45Who elects the members of the Rajya Sabha?

Correct Answer: Elected members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs)

Question 46Which of these is NOT a qualification for Lok Sabha membership?

Correct Answer: Possess a University degree

Question 47What is the primary function of the Parliament?

Correct Answer: To make laws

Question 48The 'Lower House' of the Parliament is:

Correct Answer: Lok Sabha

Question 49How many members are elected to Rajya Sabha from Nagaland?

Correct Answer: 1

Question 50A Finance Bill contains proposals for:

Correct Answer: New taxes and changes in existing taxes
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True or False Questions - Determine whether each statement is true or false. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the correct answer.

Statement 1India has a parliamentary system of government at both the Centre and State levels.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 2The Union Legislature consists only of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 3The branch of government that makes laws is called the Judiciary.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 4The Lok Sabha is also known as the House of People.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 5The Rajya Sabha is referred to as the Lower House of Parliament.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 6Members of both houses of Parliament are called Members of Parliament (MPs).

Correct Answer: True

Statement 7The Lok Sabha is generally more powerful than the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 8The maximum permissible strength of the Lok Sabha is 550 members.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 9Members of the Lok Sabha are indirectly elected by State Legislatures.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 10Up to 20 members of the Lok Sabha can be elected from the Union Territories.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 11The normal term for the Lok Sabha is six years.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 12The President can dissolve the Lok Sabha before its five-year term ends.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 13In an emergency, the term of the Lok Sabha can be extended for two years at a time.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 14For elections, the country is divided into geographical units called constituencies.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 15Voting in India is conducted via an open show of hands.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 16All Indian citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 17To be a member of the Lok Sabha, a person must be at least 25 years old.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 18A member of Parliament can hold an office of profit under the government.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 19A proclaimed criminal is eligible to become a member of the Lok Sabha.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 20The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected by its members from among themselves.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 21The Speaker of the Lok Sabha belongs to the opposition party by law.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 22The Speaker usually votes on every bill introduced in the House.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 23A casting vote is used by the Speaker to break a tie.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 24The Deputy Speaker takes charge when the Speaker is absent or ill.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 25The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250 members.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 26Seats in the Rajya Sabha are allotted equally to all states regardless of population.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 27Uttar Pradesh has 31 members in the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 28Nagaland has five members in the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 29The President nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 30Nominated members of the Rajya Sabha must be from fields like art, science, and social service.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 31Elected members of the Lok Sabha elect the members of the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 32The Rajya Sabha is a permanent house and is never dissolved.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 33All members of the Rajya Sabha retire at the same time every six years.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 34One-third of Rajya Sabha members retire every two years.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 35The term of an individual member of the Rajya Sabha is six years.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 36To join the Rajya Sabha, a person must be at least 30 years old.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 37The Vice-President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 38The Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is appointed by the President.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 39There are three lists used to categorize legislative subjects in India.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 40The Union Parliament has exclusive power to make laws on subjects in the Union List.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 41Defence and Railways are subjects found in the State List.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 42Banking and Foreign Affairs are Union List subjects.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 43State Legislatures have exclusive power over the State List.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 44Police and Agriculture are subjects in the Union List.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 45The Concurrent List allows both Union and State legislatures to make laws.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 46Education and Electricity are Concurrent List subjects.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 47If a Union law and a State law conflict on a Concurrent subject, the State law prevails.

Correct Answer: False

Statement 48The primary function of the Parliament is to make laws.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 49A bill to amend the Constitution can only be introduced in the Parliament.

Correct Answer: True

Statement 50The Union Budget is presented by the Prime Minister in Parliament.

Correct Answer: False
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Fill in the Blanks - Complete the sentences by filling in the missing words. Click "Show Answer" to check your response.

Question 1India is a Union of States, and therefore has government at two levels: the ______ and the States.

Correct Answer: Centre

Question 2The ______ system of government in India has three organs: the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary.

Correct Answer: Parliamentary

Question 3The branch of government which makes laws is called the ______.

Correct Answer: Legislature

Question 4The Union Legislature comprises the ______ and the two Houses of Parliament.

Correct Answer: President

Question 5The Lok Sabha is also known as the ______.

Correct Answer: House of People

Question 6The Rajya Sabha is also known as the ______.

Correct Answer: Council of States

Question 7Members of the two houses of Parliament are called ______.

Correct Answer: Members of Parliament

Question 8The lower house of the Parliament is more powerful than the ______.

Correct Answer: upper house

Question 9The maximum permissible numerical strength of the Lok Sabha is ______ members.

Correct Answer: 550

Question 10Members of the Lok Sabha are ______ elected by the people of India.

Correct Answer: directly

Question 11Out of the Lok Sabha members, up to ______ are elected from the Union Territories.

Correct Answer: 20

Question 12The normal term for members of the Lok Sabha is ______ years.

Correct Answer: five

Question 13The ______ may dissolve the Lok Sabha before the completion of its 5-year term if the party in power loses majority support.

Correct Answer: President

Question 14In case of an emergency, the Lok Sabha's time period can be extended for ______ year at a time.

Correct Answer: one

Question 15For election purposes, the entire country is divided into ______.

Correct Answer: constituencies

Question 16Voting in Indian elections is conducted by ______.

Correct Answer: secret ballot

Question 17All Indian citizens who are ______ years and above have the right to vote.

Correct Answer: 18

Question 18To become a member of the Lok Sabha, a person must be at least ______ years of age.

Correct Answer: 25

Question 19A member of Parliament must not hold any ______ under the government of India.

Correct Answer: office of profit

Question 20The ______ presides over the proceedings of the Lok Sabha.

Correct Answer: Speaker

Question 21The Speaker maintains ______ in the House.

Correct Answer: order

Question 22The Speaker is usually a member of the ______ party.

Correct Answer: ruling

Question 23In case of a tie in the Lok Sabha, the Speaker exercises a ______ vote.

Correct Answer: casting

Question 24The ______ takes over the Speaker's charge in case of their absence or illness.

Correct Answer: Deputy-Speaker

Question 25The maximum numerical strength of the Rajya Sabha is ______.

Correct Answer: 250

Question 26The number of members in the Rajya Sabha is allotted on the basis of the ______ of the States.

Correct Answer: population

Question 27______ has 31 members in the Rajya Sabha, which is the highest for any state.

Correct Answer: Uttar Pradesh

Question 28The state of ______ has only one member in the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: Nagaland

Question 29The President nominates ______ members to the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: 12

Question 30Nominated members of the Rajya Sabha are experts in fields like art, literature, ______ and social service.

Correct Answer: science

Question 31The ______ members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assembly.

Correct Answer: 238

Question 32The Rajya Sabha is a ______ house and is never dissolved.

Correct Answer: permanent

Question 33______ of the Rajya Sabha members retire every two years.

Correct Answer: One-third

Question 34Each member of the Rajya Sabha is elected for a term of ______ years.

Correct Answer: six

Question 35To become a member of the Rajya Sabha, a person must be ______ years of age or above.

Correct Answer: 30

Question 36The ______ of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

Correct Answer: Vice-President

Question 37The ______ of the Rajya Sabha is elected from among its members by a majority vote.

Correct Answer: Deputy Chairman

Question 38Legislative subjects are categorized into three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the ______ List.

Correct Answer: Concurrent

Question 39The Union Parliament has exclusive power to make laws on subjects in the ______ List.

Correct Answer: Union

Question 40Defence, finance, banking, and ______ are subjects found in the Union List.

Correct Answer: railways

Question 41Shipping, currency, and ______ are also included in the Union List.

Correct Answer: foreign affairs

Question 42The State Legislatures have exclusive power to legislate on subjects in the ______ List.

Correct Answer: State

Question 43Public health, sanitation, and ______ are examples of subjects in the State List.

Correct Answer: agriculture

Question 44Both the Union and State Legislatures can make laws on subjects in the ______ List.

Correct Answer: Concurrent

Question 45Education, electricity, and ______ are subjects in the Concurrent List.

Correct Answer: newspapers

Question 46Economic and social planning, marriage, and ______ are included in the Concurrent List.

Correct Answer: divorce

Question 47In case of a conflict over a Concurrent List subject, the ______ law prevails.

Correct Answer: Union

Question 48To amend a part of the Constitution, a bill can be introduced only in the ______.

Correct Answer: Parliament

Question 49The Union ______ is passed by the Parliament and shows expected income and spending.

Correct Answer: Budget

Question 50The Budget is presented in the Parliament by the ______.

Correct Answer: Finance Minister
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Short Answer Questions - Practice concise answers to these questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

What are the two levels of government in India?

Answer:
Centre and States
Question 2

Which organ of government is responsible for making laws?

Answer:
Legislature
Question 3

What three components comprise the Union Legislature?

Answer:
President and two Houses
Question 4

What is the common title for members of the two houses?

Answer:
Members of Parliament
Question 5

What is the other name for the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
House of People
Question 6

What is the other name for the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
Council of States
Question 7

Which house is known as the lower house?

Answer:
Lok Sabha
Question 8

Which house is known as the upper house?

Answer:
Rajya Sabha
Question 9

What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
550 members
Question 10

How are Lok Sabha members elected?

Answer:
Directly by the people
Question 11

How many Lok Sabha members are elected from States?

Answer:
530
Question 12

How many Lok Sabha members are elected from Union Territories?

Answer:
Up to 20
Question 13

What is the normal term of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
Five years
Question 14

Who has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha early?

Answer:
The President
Question 15

By how much can the Lok Sabha term be extended during an emergency?

Answer:
One year at a time
Question 16

What is the geographical division for elections called?

Answer:
Constituency
Question 17

What type of ballot is used in elections?

Answer:
Secret ballot
Question 18

What is the minimum voting age in India?

Answer:
18 years
Question 19

What is the minimum age to join the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
25 years
Question 20

Who is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
The Speaker
Question 21

Who acts in the Speaker's absence?

Answer:
Deputy-Speaker
Question 22

What is the Speaker's deciding vote called in a tie?

Answer:
Casting vote
Question 23

What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
250 members
Question 24

What is the basis for allotting Rajya Sabha seats to states?

Answer:
Population
Question 25

Which state has the most Rajya Sabha members (31)?

Answer:
Uttar Pradesh
Question 26

How many members does Nagaland have in the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
One
Question 27

How many members are nominated to the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
12
Question 28

Who nominates members to the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
The President
Question 29

Who elects the 238 members of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
State Legislative Assemblies
Question 30

Is the Rajya Sabha ever dissolved?

Answer:
No, it is permanent
Question 31

How many Rajya Sabha members retire every two years?

Answer:
One-third
Question 32

What is the term length for a Rajya Sabha member?

Answer:
Six years
Question 33

What is the minimum age to join the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
30 years
Question 34

Who is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
Vice-President of India
Question 35

How is the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha chosen?

Answer:
Elected by members
Question 36

How many legislative lists are in the Constitution?

Answer:
Three
Question 37

Which list gives exclusive power to the Union Parliament?

Answer:
Union List
Question 38

Which list is for State Legislatures?

Answer:
State List
Question 39

Which list allows both Centre and State to make laws?

Answer:
Concurrent List
Question 40

Which list includes 'Defence'?

Answer:
Union List
Question 41

Which list includes 'Banking'?

Answer:
Union List
Question 42

Which list includes 'Railways'?

Answer:
Union List
Question 43

Which list includes 'Agriculture'?

Answer:
State List
Question 44

Which list includes 'Police'?

Answer:
State List
Question 45

Which list includes 'Public Health'?

Answer:
State List
Question 46

Which list includes 'Education'?

Answer:
Concurrent List
Question 47

Which list includes 'Electricity'?

Answer:
Concurrent List
Question 48

Which list includes 'Newspapers'?

Answer:
Concurrent List
Question 49

Whose law prevails in a conflict over the Concurrent List?

Answer:
Union Law
Question 50

What is the primary function of the Parliament?

Answer:
Law making
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Long Answer Questions - Practice detailed answers to these comprehensive questions. Click "Show Answer" to reveal the response.
Question 1

Describe the composition and maximum strength of the Lok Sabha as per the Indian Constitution.

Answer:
The Lok Sabha, or the House of the People, is the lower house of the Union Legislature. Its composition is as follows: 1. Maximum Permissible Strength: It can have a maximum of 550 members. 2. Direct Election: Members are directly elected by the people of India through a secret ballot. 3. Representation from States: 530 members are directly elected from various States. 4. Representation from Union Territories: Up to 20 members represent the Union Territories. 5. Constituencies: For election purposes, the country is divided into territorial units called constituencies, with one member elected from each.
Question 2

Explain the term and dissolution process of the Lok Sabha.

Answer:
The Lok Sabha is not a permanent body. 1. Normal Term: The members are elected for a term of five years. 2. Early Dissolution: The President of India has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha before the completion of its 5-year term if the party in power loses its majority support. 3. Extension during Emergency: In the event of a national emergency, the term of the Lok Sabha can be extended by Parliament for one year at a time.
Question 3

What are the essential qualifications required for a person to become a member of the Lok Sabha?

Answer:
To be eligible for election to the Lok Sabha, a candidate must fulfill the following criteria: 1. Citizenship: Must be a citizen of India. 2. Age: Must be at least 25 years of age. 3. Office of Profit: Must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any State Government. 4. Mental Health: Must possess sound mental health. 5. Legal Standing: Must not be a proclaimed criminal, insolvent, or bankrupt.
Question 4

Discuss the role and powers of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

Answer:
The Speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha, elected by its members. 1. Presiding Officer: The Speaker conducts the proceedings and maintains order and decorum within the House. 2. Impartiality: Although usually a member of the ruling party, the Speaker must act impartially. 3. Voting: The Speaker does not typically vote in the first instance. 4. Casting Vote: In the event of a tie during voting, the Speaker exercises a 'casting vote' to break the deadlock. 5. Absence: In the Speaker's absence, the Deputy Speaker performs these duties.
Question 5

Explain the composition and the nomination process of the Rajya Sabha.

Answer:
The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of Parliament. 1. Total Strength: It has a maximum numerical strength of 250 members. 2. Allocation of Seats: Members are allotted to States based on their population. For example, Uttar Pradesh has 31 members, while Nagaland has only one. 3. Elected Members: 238 members represent the States and Union Territories and are indirectly elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). 4. Nominated Members: 12 members are nominated by the President of India from among persons having special knowledge or practical experience in fields such as literature, science, art, and social service.
Question 6

Why is the Rajya Sabha called a 'Permanent House'? Describe its term.

Answer:
The Rajya Sabha is referred to as a permanent house because it is never dissolved in its entirety. 1. Continuous Body: Unlike the Lok Sabha, it does not have a fixed term for the whole house. 2. Retirement Cycle: One-third of its members retire every two years. 3. Individual Term: Each individual member is elected for a term of six years. 4. Continuity: This system ensures that there are always experienced members in the house, maintaining legislative continuity.
Question 7

Compare the qualifications required for membership in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

Answer:
While many qualifications are identical, there is a key difference in age: 1. Similarities: Candidates for both houses must be Indian citizens, of sound mental health, not hold an office of profit, and not be proclaimed criminals or insolvents. 2. Age Difference: For the Lok Sabha, the minimum age is 25 years. For the Rajya Sabha, a person must be at least 30 years of age.
Question 8

Who are the presiding officers of the Rajya Sabha and how are they appointed?

Answer:
The Rajya Sabha has two primary presiding officers: 1. Chairman: The Vice-President of India serves as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He/she conducts the proceedings and maintains order. 2. Deputy Chairman: The Deputy Chairman is elected by the members of the Rajya Sabha from among themselves. 3. Function: The Deputy Chairman presides over the house in the absence of the Chairman.
Question 9

Detailed analysis: How are legislative subjects distributed under the Indian Constitution?

Answer:
The Constitution categorizes legislative subjects into three lists to define the jurisdiction of the Centre and the States: 1. Union List: Includes subjects of national importance like Defence, Foreign Affairs, Banking, Railways, and Currency. Only the Union Parliament can make laws on these. 2. State List: Includes subjects of local or state importance like Police, Agriculture, Public Health, and Land Revenue. State Legislatures have exclusive power here. 3. Concurrent List: Includes subjects like Education, Electricity, Marriage, and Newspapers. Both Parliament and State Legislatures can make laws. 4. Conflict Resolution: If there is a conflict between a Union law and a State law on a Concurrent subject, the Union law prevails.
Question 10

Discuss the Law-making functions of the Union Parliament.

Answer:
Making laws is the primary function of the Parliament. 1. Jurisdictional Scope: Parliament can make laws on any subject in the Union List and the Concurrent List. 2. Residuary/Special Power: It also has the power to pass laws on subjects in the State List under certain circumstances (e.g., national interest). 3. Constitutional Amendment: Any bill to amend the Constitution can only be introduced in the Parliament. 4. Ordinance Approval: It must approve ordinances issued by the President.
Question 11

What is the 'Union Budget' and what is the Parliament's role regarding it?

Answer:
The Union Budget is the annual financial statement of the government. 1. Presentation: It is presented by the Finance Minister in the Parliament. 2. Content: It details the expected income of the government and its planned expenditure for the year. 3. Approval Power: The Parliament has the power to accept or reject the Budget. No money can be withdrawn from the Consolidated Fund without parliamentary approval. 4. Finance Bill: Along with the budget, a Finance Bill is introduced, containing proposals for new taxes or changes to existing ones.
Question 12

Explain the Judicial functions performed by the Parliament.

Answer:
The Parliament exercises certain judicial powers, mainly as a check on other branches: 1. Impeachment of President: It can remove the President from office for violation of the Constitution. 2. Removal of Judges: It can recommend the removal of judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts. 3. Removal of High Officials: It has the power to remove the Vice-President and other high constitutional authorities if they misuse their power or fail to abide by the Constitution.
Question 13

Define a 'Bill' and distinguish between the different types of bills mentioned in the text.

Answer:
A Bill is a draft of a proposed law. The text mentions three types: 1. Ordinary Bill: Concerns general administrative matters; can be introduced in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha. 2. Money Bill: Concerns financial matters like taxes or government expenditure; can be introduced ONLY in the Lok Sabha. 3. Constitution Amendment Bill: Introduced to change or modify certain provisions of the Constitution.
Question 14

Outline the three stages (readings) a bill must pass through in a House of Parliament.

Answer:
The process of considering a bill is called 'Reading': 1. First Reading: The bill is introduced to the house. This stage is usually a formality where the title and objectives are shared. 2. Second Reading: The bill is discussed in great detail. Members examine each clause, and suggestions for amendments/changes are made. 3. Third Reading: This is the final stage where the house either accepts or rejects the bill as a whole. No further detailed changes are made at this stage.
Question 15

Describe the process that occurs after a bill is passed by one House.

Answer:
Once a bill passes the third reading in the house of origin: 1. Transmission: It is sent to the other House of Parliament. 2. Repetition of Stages: The second house follows the same three stages (First, Second, and Third Readings). 3. Approval: If the second house passes it, the bill is sent to the President. 4. Disagreement: If the second house rejects it or suggests changes not acceptable to the first house, a deadlock occurs.
Question 16

How is a deadlock between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha resolved regarding an Ordinary Bill?

Answer:
If the two Houses cannot agree on an Ordinary Bill: 1. Joint Session: The President of India can call for a joint session of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. 2. Presiding: This session is usually presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha. 3. Decision Making: The decision is taken by a majority vote of the total members of both houses present and voting. 4. Advantage: Since the Lok Sabha has more members, its will usually prevails in a joint session.
Question 17

What is the final step for a bill to become a law (an Act)?

Answer:
After a bill is passed by both Houses (either separately or in a joint session): 1. Presidential Assent: The bill is sent to the President of India for his/her signature. 2. Signification: Once the President signs (assents to) the bill, it officially becomes a law. 3. Terminology: At this point, the Bill is referred to as an 'Act'.
Question 18

List the 'Miscellaneous Powers' of the Parliament as described in the chapter.

Answer:
Beyond law-making, Parliament has several other powers: 1. Supreme Court Jurisdiction: It can make laws regarding the composition, jurisdiction, and powers of the Supreme Court. 2. High Courts: It may establish a common High Court for two or more states. 3. State Boundaries: It has the power to alter the name or boundaries of any State. 4. Creation of States: It can create new States by separating territories from existing States.
Question 19

Explain the concept of 'Universal Adult Franchise' in the context of Lok Sabha elections.

Answer:
Universal Adult Franchise is the cornerstone of Indian democracy. 1. Right to Vote: It means that all Indian citizens have the right to vote regardless of caste, creed, religion, or gender. 2. Age Requirement: The current minimum age to exercise this right is 18 years and above. 3. Choice of Representation: It allows citizens to directly elect representatives of their choice to the Lok Sabha, ensuring the government is based on the will of the people.
Question 20

Describe the Electoral functions of the Union Legislature.

Answer:
The Parliament plays a vital role in electing the highest constitutional officers of the country: 1. President: Elected members of both houses of Parliament (along with MLAs) participate in the election of the President. 2. Vice-President: Members of both houses of Parliament elect the Vice-President of India. 3. Internal Officers: The Lok Sabha elects its Speaker and Deputy Speaker, while the Rajya Sabha elects its Deputy Chairman.
Question 21

Why is the Lok Sabha considered more powerful than the Rajya Sabha?

Answer:
Although the Rajya Sabha is the 'Upper House', the Lok Sabha is more powerful for several reasons: 1. Direct Representation: It represents the people directly. 2. Financial Control: Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha has very limited powers regarding financial matters. 3. Council of Ministers: The government (Executive) is collectively responsible only to the Lok Sabha. 4. Numerical Strength: In joint sessions, the Lok Sabha's higher membership gives it a decisive advantage.
Question 22

What are the subjects included in the State List? Give examples.

Answer:
The State List contains 66 subjects (historically) on which State Legislatures have exclusive authority. Examples include: 1. Public Order and Police. 2. Agriculture and Land Revenue. 3. Public Health and Sanitation. 4. State Transport and Drainage. 5. State Taxes.
Question 23

What are the subjects included in the Concurrent List? Give examples.

Answer:
The Concurrent List includes subjects where both the Centre and States can legislate. Examples include: 1. Education. 2. Electricity. 3. Marriage and Divorce. 4. Economic and Social Planning. 5. Factories and Newspapers. 6. Bankruptcy and Insolvency.
Question 24

How does the Parliament control the Executive branch?

Answer:
In a Parliamentary system, the Legislature keeps the Executive in check: 1. Responsibility: The Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha. 2. Budgetary Control: The government cannot spend money without Parliamentary approval. 3. Questioning: Members can ask questions to ministers about government policies. 4. No-Confidence Motion: The Lok Sabha can remove the government by passing a vote of no-confidence.
Question 25

Describe the structure of the Parliamentary system at the State level according to the text.

Answer:
The text mentions that the Parliamentary system exists at both levels: 1. Organs: Like the Centre, the State level has three organs: Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. 2. Law Making: The State Legislature is responsible for making laws on subjects in the State List. 3. Governor: While not detailed in this chapter, the system mirrors the Centre with a Governor as the formal head and a Chief Minister as the executive head.
Question 26

What is the significance of the 'Secret Ballot' in elections?

Answer:
The secret ballot is a method of voting that ensures: 1. Privacy: No one knows which candidate a voter has chosen. 2. Freedom from Fear: It protects voters from intimidation, bribery, or coercion by powerful individuals or parties. 3. Fair Elections: It ensures that the election result truly reflects the free choice of the citizens.
Question 27

List five subjects from the Union List and explain why they are handled by the Centre.

Answer:
Five subjects are: 1. Defence, 2. Foreign Affairs, 3. Railways, 4. Currency, 5. Banking. These are handled by the Centre because they require a uniform policy across the entire country for national security, economic stability, and smooth communication.
Question 28

What happens if a member of the Lok Sabha loses their sound mental health or becomes a criminal?

Answer:
According to the qualifications for membership: 1. Sound Mental Health: A member must possess sound mental health. 2. Criminal Status: A member must not be a proclaimed criminal. 3. Consequence: If a member ceases to meet these qualifications after being elected, they can be disqualified from their seat in the House.
Question 29

Compare the Presiding Officers of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.

Answer:
1. Lok Sabha: Presided over by the Speaker, who is an elected member of the house. 2. Rajya Sabha: Presided over by the Chairman, who is the Vice-President of India (not a member of the house). 3. Commonality: Both maintain order, manage debates, and can exercise a casting vote in case of a tie.
Question 30

Explain the role of the President in the Union Legislature.

Answer:
The President is an integral part of the Union Legislature: 1. Component of Parliament: Parliament consists of the President and the two houses. 2. Assent: No bill can become law without the President's signature. 3. Summoning: The President summons the sessions of Parliament. 4. Dissolution: The President has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha. 5. Nominations: The President nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha.
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Quick Review Flashcards - Click to flip and test your knowledge!
Question
What type of government system does India have at both the Centre and the States?
Answer
India has a Parliamentary system of government.
Question
What are the three organs of the Indian government?
Answer
The Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary.
Question
Which branch of the government is responsible for making laws?
Answer
The Legislature is the branch of government that makes laws.
Question
The Union Legislature in India comprises the President and which two Houses of Parliament?
Answer
The Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
Question
What is the common name for the members of the two houses of Parliament?
Answer
Members of Parliament (MPs).
Question
The Lok Sabha is also known as the lower house or the _____.
Answer
House of the People.
Question
What is the maximum permissible numerical strength of the Lok Sabha?
Answer
The maximum permissible strength is 550 members.
Question
Of the 550 members in the Lok Sabha, how many are directly elected from the States?
Answer
530 members are directly elected from the States.
Question
What is the maximum number of members in the Lok Sabha that can be elected from the Union Territories?
Answer
A maximum of 20 members can be from the Union Territories.
Question
What is the normal term of the Lok Sabha?
Answer
The normal term is five years.
Question
Under what condition can the President dissolve the Lok Sabha before its term is complete?
Answer
If the party in power loses majority support.
Question
In case of an emergency, for how long can the term of the Lok Sabha be extended at a time?
Answer
Its time period can be extended for one year at a time.
Question
For the purpose of elections, the entire country is divided into areas known as _____.
Answer
constituencies.
Question
What is the minimum age for an Indian citizen to have the right to vote in elections?
Answer
An Indian citizen must be 18 years of age or above to vote.
Question
What is the minimum age requirement to become a member of the Lok Sabha?
Answer
A person must be 25 years of age.
Question
Besides age and citizenship, what is a key financial requirement to be a member of the Lok Sabha?
Answer
A person must not be a proclaimed criminal, insolvent or bankrupt.
Question
To be eligible for the Lok Sabha, a person must not hold any _____ under the government of India.
Answer
office of profit.
Question
Who do the members of the Lok Sabha elect from among themselves to preside over the house?
Answer
They elect a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker.
Question
In what situation does the Speaker of the Lok Sabha exercise their vote?
Answer
The Speaker votes only in case there is a tie, using their casting vote.
Question
Who takes over the Speaker's duties in case of their illness or absence?
Answer
The Deputy-Speaker takes over his/her charge.
Question
What is another name for the Rajya Sabha?
Answer
The Council of States or the Upper house of the Parliament.
Question
What is the total numerical strength of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer
The numerical strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250.
Question
How many members of the Rajya Sabha are nominated by the President?
Answer
12 members are nominated by the President.
Question
From which fields are the 12 members of the Rajya Sabha nominated by the President?
Answer
They are nominated from the fields of art, literature, science and social service.
Question
How are the 238 members of the Rajya Sabha representing the States and Union Territories elected?
Answer
They are indirectly elected by the members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Question
The Rajya Sabha is a permanent house, which means it is never _____.
Answer
dissolved.
Question
What is the term of office for an individual member of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer
Each member is elected for a term of six years.
Question
What fraction of the Rajya Sabha members retire every two years?
Answer
One-third of its members retire every two years.
Question
What is the minimum age requirement to become a member of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer
A person must be 30 years of age and above.
Question
Who is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer
The Vice-President of India.
Question
Who presides over the Rajya Sabha in the absence of the Chairman?
Answer
The Deputy Chairman presides over the Rajya Sabha in his/her absence.
Question
Under the Indian Constitution, legislative subjects are categorized into how many lists?
Answer
They are categorized into three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List.
Question
Which legislative body has exclusive power to make laws on subjects in the Union List?
Answer
The Union Parliament has exclusive power to make laws on these subjects.
Question
Name two subjects that fall under the Union List.
Answer
Defence, finance, banking, post and telegraph, railways, airways, shipping, currency, foreign affairs, import, export. (Any two)
Question
Which legislative body has exclusive power to make laws on subjects in the State List?
Answer
The State Legislatures have the exclusive power to legislate on subjects in the State List.
Question
Name two subjects that fall under the State List.
Answer
Public law and order, public health and sanitation, drainage, state transport, state taxes, agriculture, revenue. (Any two)
Question
Which legislative bodies are empowered to make laws on subjects in the Concurrent List?
Answer
Both the Union and the State Legislature are empowered to make laws on these subjects.
Question
If there is a conflict between a Union law and a State law on a subject in the Concurrent List, which law prevails?
Answer
The Union Law prevails.
Question
Name two subjects that fall under the Concurrent List.
Answer
Economic and social planning, marriage and divorce, bankruptcy, insolvency, education, electricity, factories and newspapers. (Any two)
Question
What is considered the primary function of the Parliament or the Union Legislature?
Answer
The primary function is to make laws.
Question
What is the name of the financial statement that shows the details of expected income and how the government plans to spend it?
Answer
The Union Budget.
Question
Who presents the Union Budget in the Parliament?
Answer
The Finance Minister presents the budget in the Parliament.
Question
What judicial power does the Parliament have regarding high-ranking officials?
Answer
The Parliament has the power to impeach the President, the Vice-President and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
Question
The Union Legislature plays a significant electoral role in the election of which two officials?
Answer
The President and the Vice-President of India.
Question
What is a draft of a proposed law called?
Answer
A bill is a draft of a proposed law.
Question
A bill that has been passed by both Houses of the Parliament and received the President's assent becomes a law, known as an _____.
Answer
Act.
Question
What are the three different kinds of bills mentioned in the text?
Answer
Ordinary Bill, Money Bill and Constitution Amendment Bill.
Question
While an ordinary bill can be introduced in either House, in which House must a money bill be introduced?
Answer
A money bill can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha.
Question
What is the first stage in the process of a bill becoming a law?
Answer
The First Reading, where the bill is introduced.
Question
During which stage of passing a bill is it discussed in detail and suggestions are made?
Answer
The Second Reading.
Question
What happens during the Third Reading of a bill?
Answer
This is the final reading, where the bill can be either accepted or rejected.
Question
In case of a deadlock or disagreement between the two Houses on a bill, who can call upon a joint session?
Answer
The President can call upon a joint session of both the Houses of the Parliament.
Question
How is a decision taken in a joint session of Parliament?
Answer
The decision is taken on the basis of majority vote of the members present.
Question
What is the final step for a bill to become a law after it is passed by both Houses of Parliament?
Answer
It is assented to by the President.
Question
What miscellaneous power does the Parliament have regarding the Supreme Court?
Answer
The Parliament can make laws regarding the composition, jurisdiction and powers of the Supreme Court.
Question
What power does Parliament have concerning the creation of new High Courts?
Answer
It may establish a common High Court for two or more states.
Question
What power does Parliament hold regarding the boundaries and names of states?
Answer
It may also alter the name or boundaries of any State.