Short Questions
1. What distinguishes political parties from other social organizations?
Answer : They focus on gaining political power through elections.
2. How does a political party’s ideology influence its support base?
Answer : It attracts people who share its beliefs, forming its mass base.
3. What role does a party’s agenda play if it doesn’t win elections?
Answer : It uses the agenda to gain public support for future elections.
4. How do opposition parties contribute to democracy?
Answer : They monitor and challenge the ruling party’s actions.
5. What characterized India’s political system after independence?
Answer : A single dominant party system led by Congress.
6. When did coalition governments become common in India?
Answer : After the 1989 Lok Sabha elections.
7. What is the minimum vote percentage required for national party recognition?
Answer : 6% of valid votes in four or more states.
8. How many MPs must a party have for national party status?
Answer : At least 4 MPs in Lok Sabha.
9. What caused the split in the Communist Party of India in 1964?
Answer : Differences over accepting Chinese or Soviet leadership.
10. What is the core ideology of the Bharatiya Janata Party?
Answer : Protection of Indian culture and economic reforms.
11. What group does the Bahujan Samaj Party consider the ‘majority’?
Answer : Scheduled Castes, Tribes, minorities, and backward classes.
12. Which coalition was the Nationalist Congress Party part of from 2004-2014?
Answer : United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
13. When did the Trinamool Congress become a national party?
Answer : In 2016.
14. What leads to the rise of regionalism in India?
Answer : Pride in regional language, culture, and history.
15. What do regional parties prioritize in their demands?
Answer : Regional development and autonomy.
16. What was the initial demand of some regional parties post-independence?
Answer : Separation from India, like Khalistan or Dravidistan.
17. Which regional party allied with BJP in Maharashtra in 1995?
Answer : Shiv Sena.
18. What is the main focus of Shiromani Akali Dal in Punjab?
Answer : Promoting religious and regional identity.
19. Which agreement led to the formation of Assam Gana Parishad?
Answer : The Assam Agreement of 1985.
20. What movement preceded the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam?
Answer : The Justice Party, a non-Brahmin movement.
Long Questions
1. How do political parties strengthen the connection between people and government?
Answer : Political parties relay people’s demands and grievances to the government, ensuring their concerns are addressed. They also inform citizens about government policies, fostering trust. This two-way link is vital for a healthy democracy.
2. How did India’s political party system transition from a single dominant system?
Answer : Post-independence, Congress dominated until 1977 when non-Congress parties challenged it. After 1989, no single party ruled, leading to stable coalition governments. This shift embraced India’s diverse multi-party system.
3. Why is a political party’s ideology and agenda crucial for its identity?
Answer : A party’s ideology shapes its views on social issues, attracting a loyal mass base. Its agenda outlines plans to implement these beliefs if elected. Together, they define the party’s purpose and public appeal.
4. What makes the Indian National Congress a key player in India’s politics?
Answer : Founded in 1885, Congress led the independence movement and dominated post-independence politics. It champions secularism, equality, and minority welfare. Its historical role continues to influence India’s democratic framework.
5. How do regional parties shape India’s national political landscape?
Answer : Regional parties join coalitions like NDA and UPA, influencing national policies. They push for regional autonomy while aligning with central goals. Their participation ensures diverse voices in India’s governance.
6. What is unique about India’s multi-party system compared to other systems?
Answer : India’s multi-party system supports many parties, reflecting its cultural and regional diversity. It allows representation for various communities, unlike one- or two-party systems. This inclusivity strengthens democratic participation.
7. How have regional parties’ objectives evolved since India’s independence?
Answer : Early regional parties demanded separation, like Khalistan, but later sought autonomy after 1990. Now, many, especially in the North East, join mainstream politics. This evolution shows their growing national integration.
8. What are the goals of Shiv Sena, and how has it impacted Maharashtra’s politics?
Answer : Shiv Sena, founded in 1966, promotes Marathi identity and resists non-Marathi influence. It has governed Maharashtra through coalitions with BJP, Congress, and NCP. Its regional focus shapes state politics significantly.
9. What criteria must a party meet to be recognized as a national party?
Answer : A party must secure 6% votes in four or more states and have 4 MPs, or win 2% of Lok Sabha seats from three states. These rules ensure only influential parties gain national status. They maintain electoral fairness.
10. Why are coalition governments significant for India’s democratic stability?
Answer : Since 1989, coalition governments have united diverse national and regional parties, ensuring stable governance. They represent varied interests, making democracy inclusive. This system has proven effective in India’s multi-party framework.
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