Why do we need a Parliament Class 8 Extra Questions and Answers Free PDF Download
FAQs on CBSE Important Questions for Class 8 Social Science Why do we need a Parliament - 2025-26
1. What are some important questions to prepare from Chapter 3, 'Why Do We Need a Parliament', for the Class 8 Social Science exam 2025-26?
For the 2025-26 session, important questions from this chapter typically cover the functions of the Parliament and the roles of its two houses. Expect questions such as:
- Short answer questions (2-3 marks) on terms like 'Question Hour', 'Coalition Government', and 'Universal Adult Franchise'.
- Long answer questions (5 marks) that require explaining the process of how the national government is selected or the key functions of the Parliament.
- HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) questions about the role of the Opposition or the significance of citizen participation in a democracy.
2. Differentiate between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, a frequently asked question in exams.
This is a crucial 5-mark question. The key differences are:
- Composition: The Lok Sabha (House of the People) has 543 elected members, directly chosen by the citizens of India. The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) has 233 elected members chosen by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies, plus 12 members nominated by the President.
- Term: Lok Sabha members are elected for a five-year term, and the house can be dissolved. The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body, and its members have a six-year term, with one-third retiring every two years.
- Power: In matters related to money bills, the Lok Sabha has more power. The formation of the government also depends on having a majority in the Lok Sabha.
3. Why is the Parliament essential for a democratic country like India?
The Parliament is the cornerstone of Indian democracy because it embodies the will of the people. It is essential because it:
- Enables citizens to participate in decision-making and control the government through their elected representatives (MPs).
- Serves as the supreme law-making body in the country, debating and passing laws that affect all citizens.
- Ensures the accountability of the national government, holding it responsible for its actions and expenditures.
- Symbolises India's shift from colonial rule to a sovereign nation where citizens have the final authority.
4. Explain the process of how the national government is selected after the Lok Sabha elections.
The selection of the national government is a critical process based on the results of the Lok Sabha elections. A political party must secure a majority of seats to form the government. The process is as follows:
- India is divided into 543 parliamentary constituencies.
- During elections, one candidate is elected from each constituency to become a Member of Parliament (MP).
- To form the government, a political party needs a clear majority, which means winning at least half the seats, i.e., 272 seats or more.
- The leader of the majority party is invited by the President to become the Prime Minister, who then appoints other ministers.
- If no single party gets a majority, several parties may join together to form a coalition government.
5. What is the significance of the 'Question Hour' in Parliament?
The Question Hour is the first hour of a sitting of Parliament and is a very important mechanism for accountability. Its significance lies in its ability to:
- Allow Members of Parliament (MPs) to ask questions and seek information on every aspect of administration and government policy.
- Hold the executive accountable for its actions and inactions. The government is put on trial during this hour.
- Bring out shortcomings in government functioning and draw attention to public grievances.
- Act as a vital tool for the Opposition to keep the government in check.
6. Why is 'Universal Adult Franchise' a foundational principle for the Indian Parliament?
Universal Adult Franchise is foundational because it ensures that the Parliament is truly representative of all citizens. This principle guarantees that every adult citizen (18 years and above) has the right to vote, irrespective of their caste, creed, religion, gender, or economic status. This is crucial as it establishes political equality and gives every citizen a direct role in choosing the government. Without it, the Parliament would not derive its legitimacy and power from the people, which is the very definition of a democracy.
7. How does the Parliament control, guide, and inform the government?
This is a core function of the Parliament. It exercises this role through various measures:
- Control: The Parliament maintains control through mechanisms like the Question Hour, adjournment motions, and no-confidence motions. It has the power to remove a government if it loses the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
- Guide: By debating policies and bills, Parliament guides the government on the right course of action, reflecting the concerns and aspirations of the nation.
- Inform: Deliberations in Parliament are widely reported in the media, keeping the public informed about the government's work and allowing for public scrutiny and feedback.
8. What is the role of the Opposition in Parliament, and why is it considered important for a healthy democracy?
The Opposition refers to the political parties that are not part of the ruling government. Its role is as crucial as that of the ruling party for a healthy democracy. Important functions include:
- Providing constructive criticism of government policies and actions.
- Highlighting drawbacks and alternative approaches to various issues.
- Guarding the rights and liberties of the people against any potential misuse of power by the government.
- Keeping the government on its toes and ensuring it remains accountable to the public through parliamentary debates and questions. A strong opposition prevents the government from becoming authoritarian.
