Political Processes in India MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Political Processes in India - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is 'Alternation in governance between two major parties, with smaller parties having minimal influence'

Key Points

• Alternation in governance between two major parties, with smaller parties having minimal influence:
  • This characteristic defines a two-party system where two major political parties dominate the political landscape.
  • Governance alternates between these two main parties, while smaller parties have minimal impact on the overall political dynamics.
  • This system ensures a stable government with clear policy direction, as opposed to coalition governments which might face instability due to multiple party interests.

Additional Information

• Presence of only two political parties across the country:
  • This is not true for India as there are multiple political parties at both the national and state levels.
  • India has a multi-party system, and even in states with a two-party dominance, other parties still exist and sometimes play significant roles.
• Strong opposition to all forms of coalition governments:
  • Coalition governments are common in India, especially at the national level and in many states.
  • The two-party system in some states does not imply opposition to coalitions; rather, it indicates the dominance of two main parties.
• Political alliances being formed only at the state level and not at the national level:
  • This is incorrect because political alliances are formed both at the state and national levels in India.
  • National alliances often influence state politics and vice versa.

The correct answer is '1 and 3'

Key Points

• State Reorganization Act of 1956:
  • The State Reorganization Act of 1956 was a significant piece of legislation in India that aimed to reorganize state boundaries primarily on linguistic lines.
  • The Act was influenced by the recommendations of the Fazal Ali Commission, which was appointed to examine the question of state reorganization.
  • The Commission recommended the reorganization of states based on linguistic and cultural homogeneity, leading to the formation of states where people spoke the same language.

Additional Information

• Andhra Pradesh:
  • While the Act did play a role in forming linguistic states, it did not result in the creation of only one new state, Andhra Pradesh. In fact, several states were reorganized, and new states were formed.
  • Andhra Pradesh was formed earlier in 1953 from the Telugu-speaking regions of the erstwhile Madras State, preceding the Act.
• Other Reorganizations:
  • The State Reorganization Act led to the creation and reorganization of several states such as Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, among others.
  • The Act was a comprehensive attempt to address the demands for linguistic states, thereby leading to significant changes in the political map of India.

The correct answer is '1950'

Key Points

• Formation of Janta Party:
  • The passage mentions that a party named Janata Party was formed in 1950 by Raja Kamakhya Narayan Singh as an opposition to Congress. 

The correct answer is 'Rajni Kothari'

Key Points

• Conceptualization of the 'Congress system':
  • Rajni Kothari was a distinguished Indian political scientist who conceptualized the 'Congress system' as a one-party dominance system in India.
  • He articulated this concept in the 1960s, analyzing the Indian National Congress's dominance in Indian politics after independence.
  • Kothari's analysis indicated that the Congress party managed to encompass a wide spectrum of interests and ideologies, which allowed it to act as a stabilizing force in Indian politics.

Additional Information

• Partho Ghosh:
  • Partho Ghosh is not related to the conceptualization of the 'Congress system'. He is known for his work in other fields but not in political science or the analysis of Indian political systems.
• Bipin Chandra:
  • Bipin Chandra was a renowned Indian historian, known for his extensive work on the history of India's struggle for independence. He did not conceptualize the 'Congress system'.
• Rajendra Prasad:
  • Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India and a significant figure in the Indian independence movement. While he was a key member of the Congress party, he did not conceptualize the 'Congress system'.

The correct answer is Swami Sahjanand Saraswati

Key Points

• Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha in 1935:
  • The Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha was a farmers' organization in Bihar, India, formed to address the issues and grievances of the farmers.
  • It was a significant movement within the broader Indian independence struggle, highlighting the agrarian distress and the need for reforms.
  • Swami Sahjanand Saraswati, a prominent peasant leader and freedom fighter, headed the Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha in 1935.
  • He played a crucial role in mobilizing the peasantry and advocating for their rights.

Additional Information

• Other Options:
  • Rajendra Prasad:
    • Rajendra Prasad was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement and the first President of India, but he did not head the Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha in 1935.
  • Daroga Prasad Rai:
    • Daroga Prasad Rai was a politician and served as the Chief Minister of Bihar, but he was not associated with leading the Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha in 1935.
  • Ram Jaipal Singh:
    • Ram Jaipal Singh was also a political figure, but he did not head the Bihar Pradesh Kisan Sabha in 1935.

The correct answer is Nationalism.

Key Points

• Nationalism
  • It is a political, social, and cultural ideology that emphasizes the importance and identity of a nation. It involves a strong attachment and loyalty to one's own nation or country.
• Regionalism:
  • Regionalism, on the other hand, is a political and cultural movement that emphasizes the interests, identity, and autonomy of a specific region within a larger nation.
• Relationship between Nationalism and Regionalism:
  • While nationalism seeks a unified national identity, regionalism often arises in response to perceived neglect or marginalization within the national framework. It can be seen as a counterforce to the homogenizing tendencies of nationalism.

Additional Information

• Key Elements of Nationalism:
  • Patriotic Devotion: Nationalists exhibit a deep love and commitment to their nation, often expressing pride in its history, culture, and achievements.
  • Unity and Solidarity: Nationalism fosters a sense of unity among the citizens, transcending differences like ethnicity, religion, and language. It promotes a shared identity that binds people together.
  • National Symbols: Nationalists often rally around symbols such as flags, anthems, and historical events that represent the collective identity of the nation.
• Key Elements of Regionalism:
  • Focus on Regional Identity: Regionalists advocate for the recognition and preservation of the distinct identity, culture, and language of their specific region.
  • Autonomy or Separatism: Some regionalist movements seek greater autonomy or even independence for their region, challenging the authority of the central government.

The correct answer is 1961

Explanation:

• Affirmative action, as a term and a set of policies, originated in the United States during the early 1960s in the context of efforts to address historical discrimination and promote equal opportunities for marginalized groups, particularly African Americans.
• The term was first officially used in Executive Order 10925, signed by President John F. Kennedy on March 6, 1961.
• This executive order aimed to combat discrimination by federal contractors based on race, color, religion, or national origin. It marked a groundbreaking step toward fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity in employment.
• The concept of affirmative action gained further momentum during the civil rights era. President Lyndon B. Johnson strengthened and expanded these initiatives with the signing of Executive Order 11246 in 1965.
• This order not only reaffirmed the prohibition of discrimination but also introduced specific affirmative action measures to address the underrepresentation of minority groups and women in the workforce.
• Affirmative action has since evolved into a broader set of policies aimed at fostering diversity and inclusivity, encompassing not only employment but also education and various sectors.
• While it has been a subject of debate and legal challenges, affirmative action continues to be an integral part of efforts to redress historical inequalities and promote equal opportunities for individuals from historically marginalized communities.

The correct answer is Rajasthan.

Explanation: The first state to implement Panchayati Raj in India was Rajasthan.

Key Points

• Panchayati Raj is a system of local self-government for rural areas in India, based on the principles of decentralization and grassroots democracy. It was formally introduced in the country through the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, which came into effect on April 24, 1993. However, the concept and practice of local self-governance in rural areas have been part of Indian tradition for a long time.
• The Panchayati Raj system was first implemented in the village of Nagaur in Rajasthan on October 2, 1959. This implementation was part of a pilot project to establish a three-tier system of rural local governance, consisting of the Gram Panchayat at the village level, the Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and the Zila Parishad at the district level. The move was aimed at decentralizing power to the grassroots level and involving local populations in decision-making processes regarding their own development.

 Additional Information

• The adoption of Panchayati Raj in Rajasthan was followed by other states in India, and it laid the groundwork for the eventual formalization of the Panchayati Raj system through constitutional amendments.
• The system is designed to provide a direct link between the government and rural communities, enabling the latter to participate actively in their economic and social development.

The correct answer is Preface

Explanation:'

Key Points

Preamble:

• The Preamble to the Constitution of India is a concise statement that encapsulates the fundamental values and objectives of the Constitution.
• It was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 26, 1950, coinciding with the commencement of the Constitution.

Inclusion of "Secular" in the Preamble:

• The term "secular" was added to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976, marking an important addition to India's constitutional identity.
• The Preamble now reads, "WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST, SECULAR, and DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC..."

Significance of Secularism in the Preamble:

• The inclusion of "secular" in the Preamble emphasizes India's commitment to the principle of secularism as a foundational aspect of its constitutional framework.
• It signifies the state's neutrality in matters of religion and ensures that all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations, are treated equally.

Meaning and Implications of Secularism:

• Secularism, as enshrined in the Preamble, implies that the state does not endorse or promote any particular religion.
• It guarantees individuals the freedom to practice, profess, and propagate their religion of choice without interference from the state.

Constitutional Commitment to Equality:

• The declaration of India as a secular state in the Preamble underscores the constitutional commitment to equality and non-discrimination based on religious grounds.
• It reflects the vision of a nation that respects the diversity of religions and fosters an environment of religious harmony.

Legal Recognition Beyond the Preamble:

• While the Preamble sets the philosophical tone, the legal recognition of secularism is also evident in various provisions of the Constitution, including the Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.

In conclusion, the term "secular" in the Preamble explicitly declares India as a secular state, emphasizing the foundational values of equality and religious freedom. 

The correct answer is 1, 2 and 4

Explanation: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, enacted in 1992, significantly reformed the Panchayati Raj system (local self-government in rural India) to make it more democratic and effective. While the Act includes many mandatory and voluntary provisions for the structuring and functioning of Panchayats, your queries touch upon some specific aspects that I'll address below:

Key Points

• Provision for reservation for backward classes: The Act provides for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in proportion to their population in the Panchayat areas. Regarding the backward classes, the Act does not mandatorily require reservation for them; however, it allows states the discretion to provide such reservation if they deem it necessary. This means that while there's no compulsory provision under the Act for the reservation of seats for backward classes, states have the autonomy to introduce such measures based on local needs and circumstances.
• Authorization for Panchayats to prepare plans for economic development: One of the landmark features of the 73rd Amendment is that it empowers Panchayats to prepare plans for economic development and social justice in their jurisdictions. This includes matters listed in the Eleventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which covers a wide range of subjects such as agriculture, land improvement, minor irrigation, water management, animal husbandry, fisheries, social forestry, small scale industries, and social welfare programs. This provision is aimed at decentralizing planning and giving local governments a significant role in the economic development of their areas.
• Providing financial powers to Panchayats regarding taxes, fees, etc.: The Amendment Act provides Panchayats with the authority to levy, collect, and appropriate taxes, duties, tolls, and fees as determined by state legislation. This financial autonomy is crucial for Panchayats to be self-sufficient and to have the resources necessary to implement development plans and maintain basic services. The Act also envisages the establishment of a State Finance Commission every five years to review the financial position of the Panchayats and make recommendations regarding the distribution of financial resources between the state and the Panchayats.

 Additional Information

• The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act provides a framework that allows for reservation for backward classes at the discretion of states, empowers Panchayats to plan for economic development and social justice, and grants them financial autonomy to some extent regarding local taxation and revenue generation.
• These provisions are aimed at strengthening local self-governance and making it more responsive to the needs of the rural population.

The correct answer is Industrial and financial sector reforms

Explanation: The economic reforms initiated by various governments as part of liberalization policies, particularly in the context of structural adjustment programs and economic liberalization in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, often include significant changes in both the industrial and financial sectors.

 Key PointsHere's an explanation of reforms in these two areas:

Industrial Sector Reforms

• Deregulation: Governments often reduce the number of regulations affecting businesses, particularly those that limit the ability to enter and exit industries. This includes reducing licensing requirements, which previously may have restricted the number and type of firms in a particular industry.
• Privatization: This involves transferring the ownership of state-owned enterprises to private individuals or companies. The goal is to increase efficiency, as private companies are generally believed to be more cost-effective and responsive to market conditions than state-run enterprises.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Liberalization: Many governments open up industries to foreign investors, removing restrictions that previously limited foreign ownership. This is intended to bring in capital, technology, and expertise from abroad, which can enhance the competitiveness of domestic industries.
• Reduction of Trade Barriers: This includes lowering tariffs and non-tariff barriers to encourage international trade. The aim is to integrate domestic industries into the global economy, exposing them to greater competition but also providing access to larger markets.
• Labor Market Reforms: Changes may be made to labor laws to make them more flexible, with the intent of making it easier for industries to hire and fire employees in response to market conditions. This can be controversial, as it may reduce job security for workers.

Financial Sector Reforms

• Liberalization of Interest Rates: Governments often allow interest rates to be set by the market rather than by central authorities. This can lead to more efficient allocation of resources, as interest rates reflect the true cost of capital.
• Banking Sector Reforms: These reforms aim to strengthen the banking system by improving regulatory oversight, increasing competition by allowing more private and foreign banks to operate, and enhancing the financial health of banks through better capitalization and risk management practices.
• Capital Market Development: Efforts are made to develop equity and bond markets, which provide an alternative to banks for raising capital. This can include setting up or improving stock exchanges, regulatory bodies, and market infrastructure.
• Exchange Rate Regime Reforms: Countries may move from fixed exchange rate regimes to more flexible arrangements, allowing market forces to determine exchange rates. This can help absorb external shocks and maintain competitiveness.
• Financial Inclusion: Initiatives may be undertaken to increase access to financial services for underserved populations, including microfinance and digital banking services. This aims to integrate larger sections of the population into the formal economy.

 Additional Information

• These reforms are typically part of a broader package of policies aimed at promoting economic growth, increasing efficiency, and integrating an economy into the global market.
• However, they can also lead to challenges, such as increased inequality, social unrest due to job insecurity, and vulnerabilities to global economic fluctuations.

The correct answer is Cantonment Board.

Explanation: In India, urban local self-government is an important aspect of the administrative structure, designed to ensure the efficient management and planning of urban areas. The Constitution of India, through the 74th Amendment Act of 1992, provides a constitutional basis for urban local bodies, ensuring their establishment, structure, composition, and powers are defined and protected by the constitution.

 Key PointsThe three main types of urban local bodies recognized under this amendment are:

• Municipal Corporation: This is the urban local body for a large urban area with a significant population, usually more than one million. Municipal Corporations are established in major cities and are responsible for providing essential services to the urban population, such as water supply, sewage, roads, street lighting, and public health. They are governed by a Mayor and councilors, who are elected by the people. The Municipal Corporation is known for its larger financial resources and has more administrative powers compared to other types of urban local bodies.
• Municipal Council: This type of urban local body is set up for smaller cities or towns with a population that does not justify the formation of a Municipal Corporation. Municipal Councils are tasked with similar responsibilities as Municipal Corporations but on a smaller scale. These include maintaining public infrastructure, managing waste, providing basic amenities, and ensuring public health and safety. The governance structure typically includes a chairperson, vice-chairperson, and councilors elected by the residents of the town.
• Nagar Panchayat: This is a form of urban political unit in India, typically for areas in transition from a rural to an urban setup. Nagar Panchayats are established for areas that are evolving from a rural to urban character, where the population is less dense, and urban amenities are just beginning to be developed. The governance structure of a Nagar Panchayat is similar to that of a Municipal Council but tailored to smaller and transitioning areas, focusing on the gradual development of infrastructure and services to meet urban standards.

 Additional Information

• The 74th Amendment Act aimed to strengthen the functioning of these urban local bodies, making them more democratic and accountable.
• It provided a uniform framework for their governance, ensuring that elections are held regularly, and that they have the necessary powers and responsibilities to function effectively.
• This constitutional recognition has been pivotal in ensuring that urban governance in India is more responsive to the local needs and that there is a structured approach to urban development and management.

The correct answer is Linguistic factors.

Key Points

• The origin of regionalism in India can be historically traced to many of the factors like cultural heritage, geographical isolation, ethnic loyalties, etc.
• Among them Linguistic factors are the main factors of regionalism in India.
• In India the first significant political expression of regionalism was in the form of the demands for the reorganisation of the states in the early 1950's on linguistic basis.
• This linguistic regionalism primarily emerged as a result of the alleged unequal distribution of scarce resources among the different social-cultural sub-regions.
• When caste is combined with language conflicts or religious fundamentalism, it breeds regional feeling.
• Uneven development in many parts of the country may be construed as the prime reason of regionalism and separatism.

Additional Information

• The factor for the development of regionalism in India is-
  • Linguistic attachment
  • Vested political interests
  • Religious narrow-mindedness
  • Regional Culture
  • Economic Backwardness.
• Positively, it fosters a sense of unity and fraternity among people that works to safeguard local interests and advances the welfare and advancement of the state and its citizens.
• In a bad way, it suggests an unhealthy degree of devotion to one's home area, which poses a serious risk to the integrity and unity of the nation.

The correct answer is By the Governor.
Explanation: In India, a "municipal area" refers to a specific geographical territory within a state that is designated and governed by a municipal corporation, municipal council, or nagar panchayat, depending on the size and urban nature of the area. The classification and governance of these areas are defined under the respective state's municipal or local government laws.

Key Points

• The term "notified by the Governor of the state" means that the area's municipal status and boundaries are officially declared and published by the Governor's office. This official notification is typically done through a government gazette or official publication, following a proposal and assessment process that considers factors such as population, economic activity, and infrastructure development.

The process usually involves:

• Proposal: The state government or local administrative departments propose the establishment of a municipal area or modification of its boundaries based on urban development, population growth, and other criteria set out in the relevant state legislation.
• Assessment: The proposal is assessed through surveys, public consultations, and evaluations of administrative capabilities, infrastructure needs, and financial resources.
• Notification: Once the proposal meets the legal and administrative requirements, the Governor of the state issues an official notification declaring the specified area as a municipal area. This notification includes details such as the boundaries of the municipal area, the category of the municipality (such as municipal corporation, council, or panchayat), and other relevant administrative details.
• Implementation: Following the notification, the newly designated municipal area comes under the governance of a municipal body, which is responsible for providing basic services and infrastructure, enforcing building and land-use regulations, and undertaking development projects.

 Additional Information

• This system allows for localized governance and administration, enabling municipalities to cater to the specific needs and priorities of their urban populations, while also aligning with broader state and national policies and regulations.

The correct answer is Article 163.

Explanation: The establishment of the Central Council of Local Self-Government is not directly associated with Article 163 of the Indian Constitution. Article 163 pertains to the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister to aid and advise the Governor of a state in India. It does not deal with local self-government or its councils.

Key Points

• The Central Council of Local Self-Government, if it exists, would be established under different provisions or legislation, possibly related to the Panchayati Raj institutions or urban local bodies, which are governed by the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments respectively. These amendments aim to strengthen and empower local self-governments in rural and urban areas.
• The 73rd Amendment pertains to Panchayati Raj Institutions in rural areas and introduced a new Part IX to the Constitution, which contains Article 243 to 243O. Similarly, the 74th Amendment deals with urban local bodies (Municipalities) and added a new Part IXA to the Constitution, which contains Article 243P to 243ZG.
• For the establishment of any central council or body related to local self-government, one would typically look towards the Ministry of Panchayati Raj or the Ministry of Urban Development in India, and any such body would be established through specific Acts or bylaws under these ministries, not directly through Article 163 of the Constitution.