Important Questions for Class 12 Political Science – Politics in India Since Independence

1. Define the term ‘coalition government’ in the context of Indian politics since Independence.

Answer: A coalition government is one where multiple political parties join hands to form the government. In India, coalition governments have become common since no single party often gets a majority. This arrangement ensures representation of diverse groups and ideas in governance.

2. Explain the significance of the Emergency (1975-77) in Indian democracy.

Answer: The Emergency was a turning point, as civil liberties were suspended and press censorship introduced. It highlighted the importance of safeguarding democratic rights and brought about later changes to strengthen constitutional checks on executive power.

3. Why was the Green Revolution important for India’s political landscape?

Answer: The Green Revolution improved agricultural productivity, especially in Punjab, Haryana, and Western UP. It reduced India’s dependence on food imports and impacted rural social and political structures, increasing the influence of prosperous farmers.

4. Who were the main leaders involved in the creation of new states on linguistic basis? Mention one state formed.

Answer: Leaders like Potti Sriramulu and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played important roles. Andhra Pradesh was the first state formed primarily on a linguistic basis, in 1953, following demands from Telugu-speaking people.

5. Mention two outcomes of the Mandal Commission recommendations in Indian politics.

Answer: The Mandal Commission led to the reservation of government jobs for Other Backward Classes and increased debates on caste-based representation. It also caused widespread protests in the early 1990s, shaping later political alignments and policies.

6. Discuss the role of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in shaping India’s foreign policy after Independence.

Answer: NAM allowed India to remain independent of both US and Soviet blocs during the Cold War. It promoted peace, mutual respect, and development cooperation, and maintained India’s autonomy in foreign decisions.

7. Differentiate between centralization and decentralization, citing an example from post-independence India.

Answer: Centralization is decision-making at national level, while decentralization gives power to local bodies. The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, establishing Panchayati Raj institutions and urban local bodies, are good examples of decentralization.

8. State one major cause and one effect of the Punjab crisis in the 1980s.

Answer: The main cause was the demand for greater autonomy for Punjab and some separatist movements. The effect included political instability and Operation Blue Star, which led to nationwide discussions on federalism and minority rights.

9. Explain how economic liberalisation began in India in 1991 and state one impact.

Answer: Economic liberalisation started with reduced trade barriers, deregulation, and welcoming foreign investment. This led to rapid economic growth, increased global connections, and greater opportunities for private businesses.

10. Illustrate the concept of secularism as adopted in India’s political system after Independence.

Answer: Indian secularism means equal treatment and respect for all religions by the state. The Constitution ensures no official religion and grants freedom of religious practice, promoting unity in diversity.

How Does Class 12 Political Science Important Questions Help You with Exams?

Chapter-wise Important Questions guide your CBSE exam preparation by highlighting key concepts from each topic. Practising them builds clarity on definitions, reasoning, and application skills. They help you practise command words like ‘define’, ‘explain’, and ‘justify’, improving both accuracy and presentation. Working through these questions manages your time and helps you prioritize essential points—making your answers clear, concise, and scoring as per CBSE standards.

Advantages of Vedantu Important Questions

• Questions are framed in line with the latest CBSE exam patterns and trends.
• All answers use simple language and explain concepts step by step for easy revision.
• They cater to a range of marks distribution, including 1, 2, and 3-mark questions, to match exam requirements.
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• Answers address typical student mistakes, supporting accurate and error-free responses.
• They provide systematic revision material, making final exam preparation both focused and comprehensive.

By working through these Important Questions from CBSE Class 12 Political Science Part 2 - Politics in India Since Independence, you strengthen key concepts, practise structured answers, and avoid common errors. This targeted revision helps you meet CBSE expectations and approach your board exams with greater confidence and readiness.