Class 8 Maths Chapter 5 Number Play – NCERT Stepwise Solutions

Questions & Activities

1. Why is universal adult franchise important for a healthy democracy?

Answer: Universal adult franchise is important because it ensures every adult citizen has the right to vote, regardless of caste, creed, gender, or economic status. It is the foundation of democracy as it gives all people equal opportunity to participate in government and influence how the nation is run.

2. What is the meaning of ‘secret ballot’? Why is this important in a democracy?

Answer: A secret ballot means that the vote cast by a person cannot be seen by anyone else. It is important in a democracy because it allows people to vote freely, without fear, pressure, or influence from others, and ensures the election is fair.

3. Give examples of direct and indirect elections.

Answer: Elections to the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies are examples of direct elections, where the people vote directly for their representatives. The election of the President and the Rajya Sabha members is an example of indirect elections, where elected representatives vote to select the candidates.

4. How is the election of Lok Sabha members different from that to the Rajya Sabha?

Answer: Lok Sabha members are elected directly by the people of India from 543 constituencies using the first-past-the-post system. Rajya Sabha members are elected indirectly by the MLAs of states, using the proportional representation system through a single transferable vote.

5. What are the advantages of EVMs over paper ballots?

Answer: Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are faster and more efficient, minimize human error, reduce the chances of invalid votes, make counting easy, and are environment-friendly as they save paper. They also help prevent manipulation and tampering often seen with paper ballots.

6. Voter turnout is declining in some urban areas. What could be the reasons? What steps can be taken to improve turnout?

Answer: Voter turnout may decline in urban areas due to apathy, lack of awareness, busy lifestyles, and long distances to polling booths. To improve turnout, more awareness campaigns, voter education, convenient polling locations, and encouraging youth participation are necessary.

7. Why are some Lok Sabha seats reserved for scheduled castes and tribes? Write a short note.

Answer: Some Lok Sabha seats are reserved for scheduled castes and tribes so they have adequate representation in Parliament. This ensures that marginalized and historically disadvantaged groups have a voice in lawmaking and that their concerns are addressed in governance.

8. Discuss in pairs: How is social media strengthening/confusing democracy during elections? List benefits and challenges, and discuss the digital future of Indian elections.

Answer: Social media helps spread voter awareness, candidate information, and election updates quickly and widely, thus strengthening democracy. However, the spread of misinformation or fake news can confuse voters and influence them unfairly. The digital future should focus on ensuring reliable, verified, and transparent communication to support free and fair elections.

9. Visit indiavotes.com and explore results for a parliamentary and assembly election of your state.

Answer: Students should visit the website, look up their state’s results, and note the winning candidates, the parties, and any interesting patterns or changes compared to previous elections. This activity helps them understand practical aspects of elections and results.

Universal Franchise and India's Electoral System – Key Concepts Explained

Grasping the idea of a universal adult franchise is crucial to understanding Indian democracy. This principle ensures equal voting rights for all citizens and makes the country’s election process genuinely representative and fair.

The Election Commission of India guarantees transparent and efficient elections. Students should remember the importance of fair voting practices, like the secret ballot and accessibility measures, that empower every eligible voter in our diverse nation.

Regular practice of chapter-wise questions about elections in India will help you build a strong foundation for exams. Focus on the points that explain the significance of reserved seats, EVMs, and different types of elections for better clarity and scoring high marks.