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Class 7 Social Science Chapter 3 Constitution: Path and Guiding Light Notes Questions and Answers
Constitution: Path and Guiding Light Class 7 Notes Pdf
Class 7 Social Science Chapter 3 Question Answer Kerala Syllabus
Question 1.
Was it after Independence that we started thinking about a constitution?
Answer:
The process of creating a constitution for India began after independence from British rule in 1947. The Indian National Congress, led by figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and B.R. Ambedkar, played a crucial crucial role in shaping the constitutional framework for the newly independent nation. The drafting of the Indian Constitution was undertaken by the Constituent Assembly, which was convened in December 1946. The Constituent Assembly worked over several years to draft and finalise the Constitution of India, which was adopted on January 26, 1950, marking the commencement of the Republic of India. So, yes, it was after independence that India began thinking about and ultimately drafting its constitution.
Question 2.
What ideas did Gandhiji wish to have in the future Constitution of India?
Answer:
- Sovereignty
- Equality
- Fraternity
- Gender justice
- Decentralised economy
- Sarvodaya (Welfare of All)
- Swadeshi (Self-Reliance)
- Nonviolence (Ahimsa)
Question 3.
Observe the figure below and record your conclusions.
Answer:
- Individual freedom should be given priority
- Civil rights must be ensured
- All religions should be given equal importance
- Social justice should be ensured
- Democratic administration should be strengthened
- Importance of nonviolence as a guiding principle for the nation
- Self-reliance at both the individual and national levels
- Decentralised governance and emphasised the importance of empowering local communities
Question 4.
Indian freedom struggle became the foundation of our constitution. Evaluate.
Answer:
The Indian freedom struggle profoundly influenced the foundation of the Indian Constitution, embedding its core values and principles. The movement emphasis on democratic ideals, social justice, and individual freedoms is reflected in the Constitution’s commitment to democracy, equality, and fundamental rights. The struggle highlighted the need for a federal structure to accommodate India’s diversity and underscored the importance of secularism among communal tensions. Leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, who played pivotal roles in both the struggle and the drafting process, ensured that Constitution addressed social inequalities through provisions for reservations and affirmative action. Thus, the Constitution embodies the aspirations for a just, inclusive, and democratic society rooted in the experiences and ideals of the freedom movement.
Question 5.
Organise a discussion based on the features of the Constitution.
Answer:
(Hints)
Preamble
Participant 1: The Preamble declaring India a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and outlining objectives of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Fundamental Rights
Participant 2: Fundamental Rights in Part III protect individual liberties and provide checks on government power, ensuring dignity and democratic participation.
Directive Principles of State Policy Participant 3: Directive Principles in Part IV guide the state in policy-making to achieve social justice and reduce inequality, reflecting the goals of the freedom struggle. Federal Structure
Participant 4: The federal system balances power between central and state governments, accommodating India’s diversity and promoting unity.
Secularism
Participant 5: Secularism ensures the state does not favour any religion, maintaining communal harmony and protecting minority rights.
Independent Judiciary
Participant 6: The independent judiciary upholds the rule of law and protects citizen’s rights, acting as a check on the executive and legislative branches.
Parliamentary System
Participant 7: The parliamentary system promotes a responsible government, ensuring accountability to the legislature and reflecting the will of the people.
Question 6.
Check the following statements. Draw against the correct ones and to the wrong ones.
| Our courts work under governments. |
| Certain powers are vested exclusively with the State governments. |
| Everyone who turns 18 has the right to vote. |
| No one is above the law. |
| A person in India has state citizenship in addition to national citizenship. |
| In a democracy. the people are sovereign. |
| As we have rights. we have duties, too. |
| No one has control over our rulers. |
Answer:
Question 7.
List out the laws related to children’s rights.
Answer:
- Child Labour Prohibition Act
- Juvenile Justice Act.
- Right to Education Act
Question 8.
Why does our country give great importance to children’s rights? Discuss.
Answer:
The emphasis on children’s rights in our country is a reflection of both ethical principles and practical considerations, rooted in the recognition that children are important members of society who require special protection and care. Here are several key reasons why children’s rights are given great importance:
Ethical and Moral Considerations
a) Inherent Vulnerability: Children are inherently vulnerable and dependent on adults for their survival, development, and well-being. Ensuring their rights protects them from exploitation, abuse, and neglect.
b) Moral Obligation: There are moral duty to ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop to their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment.
Legal and International Obligations
a) UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC): This international treaty commits countries to prioritise children’s rights in legislation and policy.
b) National Legislation: Many countries have specific laws and policies in place. to protect children’s rights, reflecting a commitment to uphold these standards within their legal frameworks.
Social and Economic Benefits
a) Investment in the Future: Children represent the future of any nation. Protecting their rights and ensuring their healthy development translates into a more prosperous, educated, and stable society in the long term.
b) Reducing Social Problems: By addressing issues like child poverty, education, and health, countries can mitigate future social problems such as crime, unemployment, and poor health outcomes.
Developmental and Psychological Considerations
a) Healthy Development: Ensuring that children grow up in an environment where they feel safe, valued, and supported is crucial for their physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
b) Rights to Education and Healthcare: Access to education and healthcare is fundamental for the development of children, helping them to become well- rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.
Advocacy and Awareness
a) Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs): Various NGOS international bodies actively support for children’s rights, raising awareness and influencing policy to ensure that children’s issues remain a priority.
b) Public Awareness: Increased awareness among the public about the importance of children’s rights has led to greater demand for policies and practices that safeguard these rights.
Historical Context and Learning
a) Lessons from the Past: Historical instances of child exploitation and abuse have highlighted the need for specific protections for children.” Learning from these experiences has driven the development of strong child protection frameworks.
b) Evolving Societal Values: As societies evolve, there is a growing recognition of the importance of treating children as individuals with their own rights rather than just as property or dependents of adults.
Legal Protection and Enforcement
a) Child Protection Services: Establishing dedicated agencies and services for child protection ensures that children’s rights are actively monitored and enforced.
b) Judicial Support: Legal systems are increasingly supportive of children’s rights, with special provisions for handling cases involving children to ensure their best interests are prioritised.
In summary, the importance placed on children’s rights is varied, encompassing ethical, legal, social, and practical dimensions. By safeguarding children’s rights, countries not only fulfil their moral and legal obligations but also invest in a more just, humane, and prosperous future.
Question 9.
Organise a discussion and prepare an awareness pamphlet on the topic “detecting situations that may lead to crimes against children and the preventive measures to avoid such crimes”.
Answer:
(Hints)
Awareness Pamphlet
Front Page:
- Title: Protecting Our Children: finding and Preventing Crimes Against Children
- Insert a picture of happy, safe children
- Slogan: “Every Child Deserves Safety and Love”
Inside Left: Understanding Risk Factors
- Types of Crimes Against Children
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Neglect
- Emotional abuse
- Exploitation
- Common Risk Factors
- Domestic violence
- Substance abuse
- Community violence
- Lack of social support
Inside Right: Detecting Warning Signs
- Physical Indicators
- Unexplained injuries
- Poor hygiene, malnutrition
- Environmental Indicators
- Unsafe living conditions
- Presence of substances
Back Page: Preventive Measures
- Education and Awareness
- Teach children about their rights
- Community programs
- Strengthening Families
- Support services for families
- Parenting classes
- Community Involvement
- Safe community spaces
- Neighbourhood watch
Contact Information:
- Helplines and Hotlines
- National Child Protection Hotline: [Phone Number]
- Local Child Services: [Phone Number]
Question 10.
Prepare placards for the Republic Day rally with messages reflecting constitutional principles.
Answer:
(Hints: Make placards with the help of elders with the following slogans)
- “Equal Rights for All: Justice for Everyone!”
- “Justice and Equality: Foundations of Our Constitution!”
- “Liberty and Justice for All!”
- “Your Vote, Your Voice: Strengthen Our Democracy!”
- “Secularism is Our Strength!”
- “Peace and Harmony: Respect All Religions!”
Question 11.
Look at the figure and write the answers to the questions given in the box.
Answer:
| Which ideas were newly added to the constitution in 1976? | Socialism, secularism and integrity |
| In which year did the Constitution of India come into force? | 26th January 1950 |
| What was the first amendment made in the constitution, and in which year? | 1951- the number of schedules increased to 9 |
| How long did the Right to Property remain a fundamental right in India? | Nearly 30 years |
| Is Education a fundamental right in India? Since when? | Yes, from 2002 onwards |
| How many times has the Indian Constitution been amended so far? | As of June 2024, the Constitution of India has been amended 106 times since it was enacted in 1950 |
Question 12.
Prepare a timeline using some important constitutional amendments.
Answer:
1. First Amendment Act June 1951
Empowered the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. Added restrictions on freedom of speech and expression in the interests of public order.
2. Seventh Amendment Act November 1956
Reorganized states based on linguistic lines; created Union Territories.
3. Twenty-Fourth Amendment Act, November 1971
Declares Parliament’s power to amend any part of the Constitution, including Fundamental Rights.
4. Twenty-Fifth Amendment Act April 1971
Limited property rights by allowing the state to take over private property for public use without full compensation.
5. Thirty-Ninth Amendment Act August 1975
Placed the election of the Prime Minister and Speaker beyond judicial scrutiny.
6. Forty-Second Amendment Act December 1976
Known as the “Mini-Constitution,” it added words like “Socialist” and “Secular” to the Preamble, curtailed the power of the judiciary, and extended the duration of legislatures.
7. Forty-Fourth Amendment Act, April 1978
Reversed many provisions of the 42nd Amendment, restored civil liberties, and replaced the Right to Property from a fundamental right to a legal right.
8. Seventy-Fourth Amendment Act June 1992
Provided constitutional status to urban local bodies (Municipalities).
9. Eighty-Sixth Amendment Act December 2002
Made education a fundamental right for children aged 6 to 14 years under Article 21A.
10. Ninety-First Amendment Act January 2003
Limited the size of the Council of Ministers to 15% of the legislative members.
Question 13.
a) What have you understood by reading the below headlines?
b) What could be the reasons?
Answer:
a. It indicates the various challenges while implementing laws.
b.
- Varied interests of people
- Legislation that does not fully reflect the will of the people
- Ignorance of law
- Lack of public awareness and education
- Corruption
- Cultural resistance.
Extended Activities
Question 1.
Collect news headlines and pictures related to laws and prepare a collage.
Answer:
(Hints: collect more news headings as given below)
Question 2.
Organise a seminar based on ‘Features of Constitution’.
Answer:
(Hints)
Seminar Title: Understanding the Features of Constitution: Pillars of Democratic Governance Objective: The seminar aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the key features of a constitution, emphasising their significance in upholding democratic principles and fostering good governance.
Agenda:
Session 1: Introduction to Constitutionalism
- Definition and significance of a constitution
- Historical evolution of constitutional governance
- Role of constitutions in safeguarding rights and promoting the rule of law
Session 2: Key Features of a Constitution
- Written vs. unwritten constitutions: a comparative analysis
- Separation of powers: executive, legislative, and judicial branches
- Fundamental rights and freedoms: guarantees for citizens
- Federalism VS. unitary systems:
- distribution of powers between central and regional authorities
- Checks and balances: mechanisms to prevent abuse of power
Session 3: Case Studies and Comparative Perspectives
- Examination of selected constitutions from different countries
- Analysis of constitutional challenges and reform initiatives
- Lessons learned and best practices in constitutional design
Session 4: Role of Citizens in Constitutional Governance
- Civic education and awareness-raising on constitutional rights and responsibilities.
- Public participation in constitutional processes: referendum, constitutional assembly, etc.
- Civil society and advocacy constitutional reform and implementation.
Session 5: Q&A and Discussion
- Open floor for questions, comments, and reflections
- Exchange of ideas and experiences among participants
- Opportunities for networking and collaboration
Conclusion: The seminar will conclude with a reaffirmation of the importance of understanding and ending with the features of a constitution for the advancement of democracy, human rights, and inclusive governance.
Question 3.
Prepare a constitution for your class based on the ideas in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
(Hints)
We, the students of [Name of the Class/School/Institution], in our quest for knowledge, unity, and progress, hereby adopt and enact this Constitution to govern ourselves, uphold justice, promote equality, and secure the blessings of liberty for all.
Article I: Fundamental Rights
• Right to Education: Every student shall have the right to free and compulsory education up to a certain age as determined by the relevant educational authorities.
Freedom of Expression: Students shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, or the reputation of the institution.
Equality before the Law: All students shall be equal before the law and shall not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, religion, caste, gender, or any other irrelevant factor.
Right to Assembly: Students shall have the right to to assemble and form associations or unions peacefully, provided they adhere to the principles of democracy and non-violence.
Article II: Directive Principles of State Policy
Promotion of Welfare: The institution shall endeavour to promote the welfare of its students by providing adequate facilities for education, health, and recreation.
Equality of Opportunity: The institution shall strive to ensure equal opportunities for all students, irrespective of their background, and take affirmative action. to address historical injustices.
Environmental Protection: The institution shall promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices among its students, staff, and stakeholders.
Article III: Powers and Responsibilities
Executive Authority: The executive authority of the class shall be vested in a Student Council, elected democratically by the students, and responsible for the day-to-day administration of the class affairs.
Legislative Authority: The legislative authority shall be vested in a General Body comprising all students, which shall have the power to enact rules and regulations for the governance of the class, subject to the provisions of this Constitution.
Judicial Authority: The judicial authority shall be vested in a Student Judiciary, independent of the Executive and Legislative branches, responsible for adjudicating disputes and upholding the principles of justice and fairness.
Article IV: Amendment Procedure
Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed by a two-thirds majority of the General Body and shall come into effect upon ratification by a similar majority in a subsequent General Body meeting.
Article V: Supremacy of the Constitution
This Constitution shall be the supreme law of the class, and all students, teachers, and staff shall be bound by its provisions.
Article VI: Ratification
This Constitution shall come into effect upon ratification by a two-thirds majority of the students present in a specially convened assembly for this purpose.
Signature of Ratification:
[Signatures of the Student Council Members]
[Date of Ratification].
Question 4.
Organise an awareness Programme on ‘Child Safety and POCSO Act’ with the help of legalerts.
Answer:
(Hints)
Title: Empowering Communities: Child Safety and the POCSO Act Awareness Programme
Objective: The awareness Programme aims to educate parents, caregivers, educators, and community members about child safety and the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. By increasing awareness and understanding of these issues, participants will be better equipped to protect children from abuse and ensure their well-being.
Agenda:
Session 1: Introduction to Child Safety
Overview of child rights and the importance of safeguarding children from harm.
Common types of child abuse and their impact on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of children. Role of communities in promoting child safety and creating protective environments.
Session 2: Understanding the POCSO Act Overview of the key provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, including definitions of sexual offences against children and related penalties. Reporting mechanisms and procedures for filing complaints under the POCSO Act. Legal rights and protections afforded to child victims and witnesses during investigation and trial proceedings.
Session 3: Prevention Strategies and Support Services
Strategies for preventing child sexual abuse, including age-appropriate education, communication, and supervision.
Identifying warning signs of abuse and grooming behaviours in children and adults.
Available support services and resources for child victims, survivors, and their families, including counselling and legal aid.
Session 4: Interactive Panel Discussion with Legal Experts
• Panel discussion featuring featuring legal experts, child rights activists, and representatives from child protection agencies. Q&A session with participants to address specific concerns, clarify doubts, and discuss best practices for ensuring child safety and seeking justice under the POCSO Act.
Conclusion: The awareness programme will conclude with a reaffirmation of the collective responsibility to protect children from sexual abuse and exploitation. Participants will be encouraged to take proactive measures within their families, schools, and communities to create safe and supportive environments for children to thrive.
Class 7 Social Science Constitution: Path and Guiding Light Notes Questions and Answers
Question 1.
What are the features of the Government of India Act 1935?
Answer:
Features ofGovernnicnt of India Act (1935)
- Bicameral legislature in six provinces
- Bicameral legislature at the centre
- 321 sections and 1 0 schedules
- Special constituencies for weaker sections, women and workers
- Power is divided between the centre and Provinces
Question 2.
What is the main objective of the freedom struggle?
Answer:
The main objectives of the freedom struggle were not only to end foreign rule but also to ensure a better social and political life for every Indian.
Question 3.
Which is the world’s longest written constitution?
Answer:
India
Question 4.
Who is the father of Indian Constitution?
Answer:
Dr. B.R Ambedkar
Question 5.
The Indian constitution came into force in ……….
Answer:
26th January 1950
Question 6.
What are the key features of constituent assembly?
Answer:
Diverse features of Indian constitution:
- Parliamentary Democracy: The legislature controls the executive of the country.
- Popular Sovereignty: All the powers of the nation originate from the people.
- Fundamental Rights: Each individual is guaranteed certain fundamental rights by the state.
- Fundamental Duties: Responsibilities that every individual owes to the nation and society.
- Directive Principles: Directions given to the state to ensure social and economic rights
- Rule of Law: All citizens are subject to the law. No one is above the law.
- Universal Adult Franchise: Right to vote given to all who attained a particular age.
- Independent and Impartial Judiciary: The Judicial System is independent of the legislature and executive.
- Federalism: A system in which power is divided between the Centre and the States.
- Single citizenship: There is only one citizenship in the country; there is no separate citizenship for states.
Question 7.
What is meant by citizenship?
Answer:
A legal status and relation between an individual and a state that entails specific legal rights and duties. Citizenship is generally used as a synonym for nationality.
Question 8.
What is meant by parliamentary democracy?
Answer:
The legislature controls the executive of the country.
Question 9.
Define fundamental rights and fundamental duties.
Answer:
Fundamental Rights: Fundamental Rights in Part III protect individual liberties and provide checks on government power, ensuring dignity and democratic participation.
Fundamental Duties: Responsibilities that every individual owes to the nation and society.
Question 10.
Define “secularism”.
Answer:
Secularism ensures the state does not favour any religion, maintaining communal harmony and protecting minority rights.
Question 11.
Define POCSO case?
Answer:
Every child has the right to live safely without fear in the society. A child must be able to identify the uncomfortable and unsafe touches, looks, actions. etc., fi-orn any person. They’ should be capable enough to say ‘NO’ to such acts, able to keep away and complain to the authorities. The law states that cases of sexual assault are to be reported (under Section 19) to the Special Juvenile Police Unit or the local police. Officers handling POCSO cases are known as Child Welfare Police Officers (CWPO). The Kerala State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has set up a monitoring system (POCSO Monitoring Cell) under Section 44 of the POUSO Act
Question 12.
Officers handling POCSO cases are known as——
Answer:
Child Welfare police officers.
Question 13.
What was the major aim of the convention which was held in 1989?
Answer:
The 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child aims to prevent sexual violence against children and to ensure appropriate punishment for the perpetrators.
Question 14.
Mention any two laws related to child right?
Answer:
Child labour protection Act and Right to education act
Question 15.
Define Mini constitution.
Answer:
- The terms secularism, socialism and integrity were inserted in the Preamble of the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment of 1 976.
- Some other changes were also brought in the constitution through this amendment.
- Due to the significant changes brought by this amendment, it was also called the Mini Constitution.
Everyone is constitutionally bound to obey the public laws. When new laws are formulated, criticisms and struggles against them are likely to arise, It is natural in a democratic society. Such objections should be approached constitutionally and democratically.
Question 16.
What is constitutional amendment?
Answer:
Constitutional Amendment is the process of making changes in the constitution as per the changing social demands.
Question 17.
Define Education as a Fundamental right.
Answer:
Our constitution changes from time to time. Constitutional Amendment is the process of making changes in the constitution as per the changing social demands. According to Article 368. Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution, hut the basic structure of the Constitution should not be amended.
Question 18.
What are the major functions of constitution?
Answer:
Question 19.
When was the first meeting of the assembly held for the formation of the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
The first meeting of the Assembly was held on 9 December 1946.
Question 20.
What is republic?
Answer:
A Republic is a system in which the head of the state is an educated person. Thus, our constitution insists that the president of the country shall be an elected person.
Question 21.
What is Constitution?
Answer:
Constitution is an authentic document containing the basic ideas, principles and laws of a country. The laws governing a country originate from its constitution. Every country is ruled on the basis of its constitution.
Question 22.
What are the components of the content of the Indian constitution?
Answer:
- Preamble
- 395 Articles
- 12 schedules
- 22 parts
Question 23.
Explain the five basic goals mentioned in the preamble.
Answer:
- Sovereignty: The complete power to make decisions on external and internal matters.
- Socialism: Social justice is ensured by minimising social, economic, political inequalities in society.
Democracy: The government is run by the representatives elected by the people. - Secularism: The citizens’ right to profess and propagate the religion of their preference. The state does not favour any religion. The state has no official religion.
- Republic: The head of the state is decided through election.
Question 24.
Write a short note on the preamble.
Answer:
The Preamble reflects the basic ideals and values of our Constitution. Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, prepared the Preamble in his poetic style. It is described as the essence and key of the Constitution. The Preamble clearly states and proclaims the objectives and goals of the Constitution.
Question 25.
What are the features of Govt. Of India Act 1935.
Answer:
- Bicameral legislature at the centre
- 321 sections and 10 schedules
- Special constituencies for weaker sections women and workers
- Power is divided between the centre and Provinces
- Bicameral legislature in six provinces
Question 26.
What is Bicameral Legislature?
Answer:
Countries of a larger size and diversity usually have bicameral legislatures. It is helpful in representing the diversity (people and regions) of the country. In addition, bicameral legislatures play an important role in enabling democratic discussions and debates. State legislatures are responsible to make laws in the states.
Question 27.
Discuss the role of Gandhiji in cons- titutional formation.
Answer:
- With the advent of Gandhi, the freedom movement transformed itself into a mass movement. Gandhiji’s influence strengthened the demand for democracy based on social justice.
- National movement should be the foundation of our constitution. These views influenced the framing of our constitution.
Question 28.
How the Indian freedom struggle is considered as the basis of our constitution.
Answer:
The Indian freedom struggle profoundly influenced the foundation of the Indian Constitution, embedding its core values and principles. The movement’s emphasis on democratic ideals, social justice, and individual freedoms is reflected in the Constitution’s commitment to democracy, equality, and fundamental rights. The struggle highlighted the need for a federal structure to accommodate India’s diversity and underscored the importance of secularism amidst communal tensions. Leaders like B.R. Ambedkar, who played pivotal roles in both the struggle and the drafting process, ensured that the Constitution addressed social inequalities through provisions for reservations and affirmative action. Thus, the Constitution embodies the aspirations for a just, inclusive, and democratic society rooted in the experiences and ideals of the freedom movement.
Question 29.
Explain the major features of constituent assembly.
Answer:
- Framing period- 2 years, 11 months and 17 days
- First meeting- 9th December 1946
- Chairman of drafting committee Dr B.R Ambedkar
- Constitution adopted and signed on 26th November 1949
Question 30.
What are the six fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian constitution?
Answer:
- Right to equality
- Right to freedom
- Right against exploitation
- Right to freedom of religion
- Cultural and educational rights
- Right to constitutional remedies
Question 31.
What is the difference between Fundamental rights and fundamental duties?
Answer:
- Fundamental Rights: Each individual is guaranteed certain fundamental rights by the state.
- Fundamental Duties: Responsibilities that every individual owes to the nation and society.
Question 32.
Write a short note on fundamental rights.
Answer:
The Fundamental Rights are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution for the success of democracy and the comprehensive development of citizens. The government have the responsibility to ensure these rights to their citizens. If Fundamental Rights are violated, the citizen has the right to approach either the High Court or the Supreme Court. The Constitution entrusts the courts to issue certain writs to protect the rights of the citizen in such circumstances.
Question 33.
What are the Directive principles of state policy?
Answer:
Some of the directive principles of state policy are the following:
- Equal wages for equal work for all, irrespective of gender.
- Protection of the environment by conserving forests and wildlife.
Question 34.
How far are the Directive Principles useful in ensuring the welfare of Indians?
Answer:
The Directive Principles should be followed for the welfare of the people and the development of the state. While framing laws and policies government are trying to implement them. You have seen that a person can approach the judiciary if his/her Fundamental Rights are violated. However, one cannot approach the court to enforce the Directive Principles. They are put into practice through the willpower of the government and the people.
Question 35.
From which constitution does India borrow the rule of law?
Answer:
The rule of law was developed in its civilised and modern form based on the British constitution.
Question 36.
Complete the table.
Answer:
| Features | Countries |
| 1. Parliamentary system | Britain |
| 2. The Rule of law | Britain |
| 3. Fundamental rights | USA |
| 4. Independent judiciary | USA |
| 5. Directive principles of state policy | Irland |
| 6. Fundamental duties | U.S.S.R |
| 7. Constitutional amendment | South Africa |
| 8. Federal system | Canadian |
Question 37.
What are the major laws of our constitution?
Answer:
Major laws are
- Forest and Wildlife Protection Act
- National Security Act
- Child Labour Prohibition Act
- Disaster Management Act
- Food Security Act
- Land Reforms Act
- Right to Information Act
- Juvenile Justice Act
- Prevention of Corruption Act
- Labour Law
- Right to Education Act
Question 38.
Have you seen this picture in schools? What does this picture indicate?
Answer:
Free and compulsory education for all children between 6 and 14 years of age is a Fundamental Right. The Right to Education is included in Article 21(a) of the Constitution. It is the responsibility of the country to ensure quality primary education for all children. Given above is the logo of Sarva Siksha Abhiyan, which is one of the government responsibility.
Question 39.
It is desirable to make changes in the Constitution in accordance with the needs of the society. Justify your opinion.
Answer:
Yes. it is desirable to make changes in the constitution in accordance with the needs of society. The constitutional amendments were effective in co-operating periodical changes. Right to Education became a Fundamental Right through a constitutional amendment made by the Parliament in 2002. The Right to Property was a Fundamental Right in the beginning. However, it was deleted from the list through the 44th Amendment. Like this, amendments helped to solve many problems.
Question 40.
Present the process of the framing of the Constitution in the form of a timeline.
Answer:
- The framing of the Indian constitution started.
- The constituent assembly began functioning by forming various committees.
- The constitution Drafting committee was one among them. it was responsible for preparing the draft constitution. Dr B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the Drafting committee.
- The committee headed by Dr. Ambedkar prepared a draft of the Constitution. It was done based on the reports submitted by different committees.
- After detailed discussions and debates, the Constituent Assembly approved the Constitution on 26 November 1949.
Question 41.
Match the persons with their roles.
| Dr. BR Ambedkar | Chairman of the Constituent Assembly |
| Dr. Rajendra Prasad | Prepared the Preamble of the Constitution |
| Dr. Sachidananda Sinha | Chairman of the Drafting Committee |
| Jawaharlal Nehru | Acting Chairman of the Constituent Assembly |
Answer:
| Dr. BR Ambedkar | Chairman of the Drafting Committee |
| Dr. Rajendra Prasad | Chairman of the Constituent Assembly |
| Dr. Sachidananda Sinha | Acting Chairman of the Constituent Assembly |
| Jawaharlal Nehru | Prepared the Preamble of the Constitution |
Question 42.
Read the following statements and mark the right answer from among the options given.
a) The Constitution is the supreme law of India.
b) New legislation should not be against the Constitution.
i. Only B is true
ii. Only A is true
iii. Neither A nor B is true
iv. Both A and B are true
Answer:
iv. Both A and B are true
Question 43.
What is RTE?
Answer:
The Right to Education. Right to Education became a fundamental Right through a constitutional amendment made by the parliament in 2002. It says that free and compulsory education for all children between 6 and 14 years of age has been made part of the Fundamental Rights.
Question 44.
Mention the stages in the formation of the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
The framing of the Indian Constitution started with the formation of the Constituent Assembly. The Constituent Assembly began functioning by forming various committees. The Constitution Drafting Committee was one among them. It was responsible for preparing the draft constitution. Dr. B R Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Committee. The committee headed by Dr. Ambedkar prepared a draft of the Constitution. It was done based on the reports submitted by different committees. After detailed discussions and debates, the Constituent Assembly approved the Constitution on 26 November 1949.
Question 45.
Complete the following.
a) Who was the first President of Independent India?
b) Who is known as the architect of the Indian constitution?
c) When did our constitution come into force?
d) Who was the first Prime Minister of India?
Answer:
a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
b) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
c) 26 November 1950
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Question 46.
What are the major functions of a constitution?
Answer:
- Establishes the rights and duties of citizens.
- Defines and delimits the powers of the government.
- Defines the basic values and ideals of the nation.
- Acts as a safeguard against tyranny and abuse of power.
- Preserving unity in diversity.
Std 7 Social Science Constitution: Path and Guiding Light Notes
- The first function of a constitution is to provide a set of basic rules that allow for minimal coordination amongst members of a society.
- If the Fundamental Rights are violated, the citizen has the right to approach either the High Court or the Supreme Court.
- The Constitution entrusts the courts to issue certain writs to protect the rights of the c in such circumstances.
- Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, prepared the Preamble in his poetic style. It is described as the essence and key of the Constitution.
- The Preamble clearly states and proclaims the objectives and goals of the Constitution.
- Our Constitution is the reflection of the ideas and concepts that came up in the debates and discussions all over India during the freedom struggle.
- The First War of Independence in 1857 was the first mass movement against the British rule.
- The strengthening of nationalism led to the formation of many regional organisations against foreign domination in different parts of India.
- The main objectives of the freedom struggle were not only to end foreign rule but also to ensure a better social and political life for every Indian.
- Parliamentary Democracy: The legislature controls the executive of the country.
- Popular Sovereignty: All the powers of the nation originate from the people.
- Fundamental Rights: Each individual is guaranteed certain fundamental rights by the state.
- Fundamental Duties: Responsibilities that every individual owes to the nation and society.
- Directive Principles: Directions given to the state to ensure social and economic rights.
- Federalism: A system in which power is divided between the Centre and the States.
- Single citizenship: There is only one citizenship in the country; there is no separate citizenship for states.
- The first constitutional amendment in India was on 18th June 1951.
- Constitutional Amendment is the process of making changes in the constitution as per the changing social demands.
- Any law framed by Centre or State Governments should follow the provisions of our Constitution.
- The boundaries within which governments can make and enforce laws are decided by our constitution, which holds the position as the supreme system and source of law.