Universal Franchise and India’s Electoral System – Class 8 NCERT Solutions

NCERT Solutions Class 8 Social Science Chapter 5 Universal Franchise and India’s Electoral System (2025-26)

Questions and activities

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

Answer: Universal adult franchise ensures that every adult citizen, regardless of caste, creed, gender, education, or wealth, has an equal say in electing representatives. It promotes equality, empowers citizens, fosters participation, and holds elected officials accountable, which are essential features of a healthy democracy.

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

Answer: A ‘secret ballot’ means that each voter’s choice is confidential and not revealed to anyone. It is important in a democracy because it protects voters from pressure, influence, or intimidation and ensures that everyone can vote freely and honestly.

3. Give examples of direct and indirect elections.

Answer: Direct elections: Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, Gram Panchayat, and Municipal Corporation elections where citizens vote directly for their representatives. Indirect elections: Rajya Sabha, President, and Vice President elections where elected representatives vote to choose a candidate.

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

Answer: Members of the Lok Sabha are chosen by direct elections – citizens of each constituency vote for their representative using the 'First-Past-the-Post' system. Rajya Sabha members are elected indirectly by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies through a single transferable vote system.

5. What, in your view, are the advantages of the EVM over paper ballots?

Answer: Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are more accurate, quicker, and eco-friendly compared to paper ballots. They reduce the chances of invalid votes, eliminate counting errors, save paper, and make the process more transparent and less prone to manipulation or tampering.

6. Voter turnout has been declining in some urban areas of India. What could be the reasons for this trend, and what steps can be taken to encourage more people to vote?

Answer: Reasons include apathy, lack of awareness, urban migration, busy lifestyles, and distrust in the system. Steps to increase turnout: increase awareness through campaigns, simplify voter registration, provide accessible polling booths, encourage youth participation, and ensure transparent and safe election practices.

7. Why do you think a proportion of seats in the Lok Sabha is reserved for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes? Write a short note.

Answer: Seats are reserved for SCs and STs in the Lok Sabha to ensure that historically marginalized and disadvantaged communities have adequate representation in Parliament. This promotes inclusiveness, equality, and gives a voice to all sections of society in law-making.

8. Social media is changing the way we experience elections — from catchy campaign reels and live speeches to political debates on Instagram and Twitter. But is this strengthening democracy or confusing it? Discuss in pairs: What are the benefits, what are the challenges, and what might the future of elections be in a digital age?

Answer: Benefits: Social media increases awareness, provides easy access to information, and encourages youth participation. Challenges: It spreads misinformation, can cause confusion, and sometimes leads to polarization. In the digital age, elections may become more interactive but also require strong checks against fake news and online manipulation.

9. Visit the website https://www.indiavotes.com, and choose a parliamentary constituency election from any year and explore its results. Do the same for an assembly election in your state.

Answer: (Student activity – answers will vary.) Students need to visit the website, pick a specific parliamentary and assembly constituency, note the candidates, parties, vote shares, and outcome, and compare the trends observed in both elections.

Universal Franchise and India's Electoral System – Fast Revision for Class 8 (2025-26)

Understanding universal adult franchise is crucial in Class 8 Social Science Chapter 5. Every citizen above 18 can vote, making Indian democracy truly inclusive. Grasping this concept helps students appreciate the foundation of India's parliamentary system and why every vote counts.

The chapter explains the role of the Election Commission of India, secret ballot, and direct versus indirect elections. When revising, focus on the differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha elections, and the importance of fair election practices for a healthy democracy.

Practice NCERT exercises regularly to strengthen your understanding and writing skills. Remember, clear concepts on India’s electoral system will help you answer questions confidently in your Class 8 Social Science exam and achieve higher marks.