The-constitution-of-India-an-introduction-class-7-social-science
SUMMARY
Meaning of a Constitution
A constitution is the supreme law of a country. It lays down the basic framework of government, rights of citizens, and duties of the state. It ensures equality, justice, and liberty for all citizens.
Need for a Constitution
Provides rules on how a government should function.
Prevents misuse of power by leaders.
Protects the rights of citizens.
Maintains unity and integrity of a diverse country like India.
Making of the Indian Constitution
After independence in 1947, the Constituent Assembly was formed.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee and is called the “Father of the Indian Constitution.”
The Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into force on 26th January 1950 (celebrated as Republic Day).
Key Features of the Indian Constitution
Lengthiest Constitution in the world.
Democratic and Republic – People elect their representatives and the head of state (President) is not hereditary.
Secularism – The state does not favor any religion.
Fundamental Rights – Six rights given to every citizen (Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right against Exploitation, Right to Freedom of Religion, Cultural and Educational Rights, Right to Constitutional Remedies).
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) – Guidelines for government to establish welfare state.
Fundamental Duties – Responsibilities of citizens to promote harmony and protect the nation.
Federal System with Unitary Bias – Powers divided between Centre and States, but Centre is stronger.
Importance of the Constitution
Safeguards democracy.
Provides rule of law.
Protects diversity and unity in India.
Guides government policies.
Ensures citizens enjoy justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
SHORT QUESTION ANSWERS
Q1. What is a Constitution?
Ans. A Constitution is the supreme law of a country which lays down the framework of government, rights of citizens, and duties of the state.
Q2. Why do we need a Constitution?
Ans. We need a Constitution to prevent misuse of power, protect citizens’ rights, and maintain unity and integrity in the country.
Q3. When was the Indian Constitution adopted and when did it come into force?
Ans. The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into force on 26th January 1950.
Q4. Who is called the Father of the Indian Constitution?
Ans. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is called the Father of the Indian Constitution.
Q5. What is the Constituent Assembly?
Ans. The Constituent Assembly was a body of elected representatives formed to draft the Constitution of India after independence.
Q6. Why is 26th January celebrated as Republic Day?
Ans. Because on this day in 1950, the Indian Constitution came into force and India became a Republic.
Q7. Name any three key features of the Indian Constitution.
Ans. (i) Democracy, (ii) Secularism, (iii) Fundamental Rights.
Q8. What does it mean that India is a Republic?
Ans. It means that the head of state (President) is elected and not hereditary like a king or queen.
Q9. What is meant by Secularism?
Ans. Secularism means that the state does not favor any religion and all religions are treated equally.
Q10. Name the six Fundamental Rights given in the Indian Constitution.
Ans. (i) Right to Equality, (ii) Right to Freedom, (iii) Right against Exploitation, (iv) Right to Freedom of Religion, (v) Cultural and Educational Rights, (vi) Right to Constitutional Remedies.
Q11. What are Directive Principles of State Policy?
Ans. Directive Principles are guidelines for the government to establish a welfare state.
Q12. What are Fundamental Duties?
Ans. Fundamental Duties are moral responsibilities of citizens to promote harmony, protect the nation, and respect the Constitution.
Q13. What is meant by “Rule of Law”?
Ans. Rule of Law means everyone is equal before the law, and no one is above it.
Q14. What type of system does India follow – federal or unitary?
Ans. India follows a federal system with unitary bias (powers divided between Centre and States, but Centre is stronger).
Q15. Mention any two values the Constitution ensures for citizens.
Ans. The Constitution ensures justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Q16. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution?
Ans. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
Q17. How many members were there in the Constituent Assembly?
Ans. There were 299 members in the Constituent Assembly.
Q18. How long did it take to frame the Indian Constitution?
Ans. It took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to frame the Constitution.
Q19. What is the Preamble of the Constitution?
Ans. The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution which states its aims and objectives.
Q20. What does the word ‘Sovereign’ in the Preamble mean?
Ans. It means India is free to make its own decisions without external control.
Q21. What does ‘Socialist’ in the Preamble mean?
Ans. It means reducing inequality in income and wealth and providing equal opportunities for all.
Q22. What does ‘Democratic’ mean in the Preamble?
Ans. It means people elect their representatives through free and fair elections.
Q23. What does ‘Fraternity’ mean in the Preamble?
Ans. Fraternity means a spirit of brotherhood among all Indians, ensuring unity and integrity.
Q24. What is the importance of Fundamental Rights?
Ans. They safeguard individual liberty and protect citizens from exploitation and injustice.
Q25. What is the Right to Constitutional Remedies?
Ans. It gives citizens the power to move the courts if their Fundamental Rights are violated.
Q26. Name two Fundamental Duties of citizens.
Ans. (i) To respect the National Flag and National Anthem.
(ii) To protect the environment.
Q27. Which article of the Constitution deals with equality before law?
Ans. Article 14 deals with equality before law.
Q28. What is meant by Universal Adult Franchise?
Ans. It means every adult citizen above 18 years of age has the right to vote without discrimination.
Q29. How many schedules are there in the Indian Constitution?
Ans. There are 12 schedules in the Indian Constitution.
Q30. Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly?
Ans. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly.
LONG QUESTION ANSWERS
Q1. Explain the need for a Constitution in a country.
Ans. A Constitution is necessary for a country because it lays down the framework of government and prevents the misuse of power. It guarantees the rights of citizens and ensures equality, liberty, and justice. Without a Constitution, there would be confusion, chaos, and arbitrary rule. It also defines the relationship between citizens and the government, maintains law and order, and protects minorities. In India, the Constitution was essential to guide the nation after independence, as it provided democratic principles and unity in diversity.
Q2. Describe the role of the Constituent Assembly in framing the Constitution of India.
Ans. The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 to draft the Constitution of India. It consisted of 299 members who represented different provinces and communities. The Assembly debated and discussed each provision thoroughly before finalizing it. The Drafting Committee, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, played a key role in preparing the final draft. The Constituent Assembly worked for 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days before adopting the Constitution on 26th November 1949. This shows the democratic and inclusive nature of the process.
Q3. What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
Ans. The Indian Constitution has several unique features:
Lengthiest Constitution – It is the largest written Constitution in the world.
Democratic System – It establishes India as a democratic republic.
Secularism – The state does not favor any religion.
Fundamental Rights and Duties – Citizens are given rights and responsibilities.
Directive Principles of State Policy – Guidelines for welfare of people.
Federal System with Unitary Bias – Division of powers between Centre and States, but Centre is stronger.
Rule of Law – Everyone is equal before law.
These features make India’s Constitution strong and adaptable.
Q4. Explain the importance of the Preamble to the Constitution of India.
Ans. The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution which outlines its aims and philosophy. It declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. It promises Justice (social, economic, and political), Liberty (of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship), Equality (of status and opportunity), and Fraternity (assuring dignity and unity). The Preamble reflects the ideals of the freedom struggle and guides the interpretation of the Constitution. It is like the “identity card” of the Constitution and shows the spirit of Indian democracy.
Q5. What are Fundamental Rights? Explain their importance.
Ans. Fundamental Rights are a set of basic human rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution to all citizens. They include the Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right against Exploitation, Right to Freedom of Religion, Cultural and Educational Rights, and Right to Constitutional Remedies. These rights are important because they safeguard individual liberty, ensure equality, protect minorities, and prevent discrimination. They also protect citizens from misuse of power by the government. The Right to Constitutional Remedies ensures that citizens can approach the courts if their rights are violated.
Q6. What are Fundamental Duties? Why are they important?
Ans. Fundamental Duties are moral obligations of citizens listed in the Constitution. They include respecting the Constitution, National Flag, and National Anthem, protecting the environment, safeguarding public property, and promoting harmony among all. They are important because they remind citizens that while they enjoy rights, they also have responsibilities towards the nation. Duties encourage discipline, patriotism, and respect for national values. If citizens fail to perform their duties, democracy cannot function effectively.
Q7. What are Directive Principles of State Policy? How are they different from Fundamental Rights?
Ans. Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to create a welfare state. They include providing free education, equal pay for equal work, improving health, and reducing inequalities. They are different from Fundamental Rights because rights are enforceable by law, while Directive Principles are not legally enforceable. However, they are important because they direct the government to make policies for social and economic justice. Together, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles make the Constitution complete.
Q8. Write a note on the significance of Republic Day in India.
Ans. Republic Day is celebrated on 26th January every year because on this day in 1950, the Indian Constitution came into force and India became a Republic. It marks the shift from colonial rule to self-rule. On this day, the President of India takes the salute at a grand parade in New Delhi, showcasing India’s cultural diversity and military strength. The celebration reminds citizens of their rights and duties and honors the sacrifices of freedom fighters. It is a symbol of national pride and democratic spirit.
Q9. Explain the concept of Rule of Law in the Indian Constitution.
Ans. The Rule of Law means that everyone is equal before the law and no one is above it, whether rich or poor, powerful or ordinary. It prevents misuse of power and ensures justice. This principle is included in the Constitution under Article 14, which guarantees equality before the law. It ensures that the government, too, must function within the limits set by the Constitution. Rule of Law strengthens democracy by upholding fairness and protecting citizens from arbitrary decisions.
Q10. How does the Indian Constitution reflect the ideals of the freedom struggle?
Ans. The Indian Constitution reflects the ideals of the freedom struggle in many ways. The Preamble emphasizes values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which were central to the independence movement. The Fundamental Rights guarantee equality and freedom, which were the goals of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. Secularism ensures unity among diverse religious groups, reflecting India’s struggle against divide-and-rule policies of the British. The Constitution gives power to the people through democracy, showing that India’s independence was for the common people, not just leaders.
Q11. Discuss the contribution of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to the making of the Indian Constitution.
Ans. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee, played a crucial role in shaping the Indian Constitution. He ensured that the Constitution guaranteed equality, justice, and liberty for all. He strongly advocated for Fundamental Rights, especially protection against discrimination and untouchability. His efforts provided safeguards for minorities and weaker sections of society. Ambedkar combined ideas from various countries with Indian conditions to make the Constitution inclusive and modern. His vision made the Constitution the foundation of Indian democracy, and he is rightly called the Father of the Indian Constitution.
Q12. Explain how the Indian Constitution is both rigid and flexible.
Ans. The Indian Constitution is called both rigid and flexible because it can be amended, but with certain procedures. Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority of Parliament, which makes it flexible. However, more important provisions, such as those affecting federal relations, require approval by two-thirds of Parliament and at least half the state legislatures, which makes it rigid. This balance allows the Constitution to change with time but also protects its core values from frequent changes.
Q13. How does the Indian Constitution ensure equality?
Ans. The Constitution ensures equality through Fundamental Rights. Article 14 provides equality before the law. Article 15 prohibits discrimination based on religion, caste, sex, or place of birth. Article 16 ensures equal opportunity in public employment. Abolition of untouchability under Article 17 also promotes equality. Reservations in education and jobs for backward classes further reduce inequality. These provisions ensure that every citizen has equal status and opportunity in society.
Q14. Explain the importance of secularism in India.
Ans. Secularism means separation of religion from state affairs and equal treatment of all religions. In India, where people follow many religions, secularism is essential for unity and peace. The Constitution declares India a secular state, meaning the government does not favor any religion. Citizens have the right to practice, profess, and propagate any religion. Secularism prevents discrimination and promotes harmony among communities, which is vital for the strength of a diverse country like India.
Q15. Describe the significance of Fundamental Duties in the Constitution.
Ans. Fundamental Duties were added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976. They remind citizens of their responsibilities towards the nation. Duties such as respecting the Constitution, promoting harmony, safeguarding public property, and protecting the environment help strengthen national unity. They are not enforceable by law but are moral obligations. By performing these duties, citizens ensure the smooth functioning of democracy. They balance the Fundamental Rights, reminding people that rights come with responsibilities.
Q16. Explain the difference between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.
Ans. Fundamental Rights are legally enforceable and justiciable, meaning citizens can go to court if they are violated. They focus on individual liberty, equality, and justice. On the other hand, Directive Principles are not enforceable in court but are guidelines for the government to establish social and economic justice. Rights aim to protect individuals, while Directive Principles aim to build a welfare state. Together, they provide a balance of personal freedom and social responsibility.
Q17. How does the Constitution protect cultural and educational rights of minorities?
Ans. The Constitution ensures that minorities can preserve their language, script, and culture under Article 29. Article 30 allows minorities to establish and manage their own educational institutions. This ensures that their identity is protected and they are not forced to adopt the majority culture. These provisions promote diversity and safeguard India’s pluralistic society. By protecting minority rights, the Constitution strengthens unity in diversity.
Q18. What is meant by “Universal Adult Franchise”? Why is it important?
Ans. Universal Adult Franchise means every citizen above 18 years has the right to vote, regardless of caste, religion, gender, or wealth. It is important because it ensures equality in political participation. It gives power to the people to choose their representatives and hold the government accountable. This principle makes India a true democracy where sovereignty lies with the people. It also ended centuries of inequality by giving women and marginalized groups equal voting rights.
Q19. How does the Constitution ensure justice for citizens?
Ans. The Constitution ensures justice in three forms:
Social Justice – abolition of untouchability and prohibition of discrimination.
Economic Justice – equal pay for equal work, reducing economic inequalities.
Political Justice – right to vote and contest elections.
The Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles all promote justice. Rule of Law ensures fairness, while independent judiciary protects citizens’ rights. Thus, justice is the foundation of Indian democracy.
Q20. Write a note on the adoption of the Indian Constitution.
Ans. The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 by the Constituent Assembly. It came into effect on 26th January 1950, chosen to honor the declaration of Purna Swaraj in 1930. It marked India’s transition from colonial rule to a democratic republic. Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President, and the Constitution gave citizens Fundamental Rights and freedoms. Adoption of the Constitution ensured unity, democracy, and sovereignty for the newly independent nation.
Q21. Explain how the Indian Constitution establishes democracy.
Ans. The Constitution establishes democracy by giving power to the people. Citizens elect their representatives through Universal Adult Franchise. The Parliament and State Legislatures make laws on behalf of the people. Fundamental Rights guarantee freedom of speech and equality, which are essential for democracy. The government is accountable to the people and can be changed through elections. Independent judiciary ensures justice and prevents misuse of power. Thus, the Constitution makes India the world’s largest democracy.
Q22. Why is the Indian Constitution called the “lengthiest written Constitution”?
Ans. The Indian Constitution is the longest written Constitution in the world, with 395 Articles, 22 Parts, and 12 Schedules (at the time of adoption). It is lengthy because India is a large and diverse country. It includes provisions from many countries’ constitutions, along with detailed administrative rules for Centre and States. It also covers Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Fundamental Duties, and emergency provisions. Its length ensures clarity and covers India’s vast diversity and complexities.
Q23. How does the Constitution ensure the dignity of the individual?
Ans. The Constitution ensures dignity by granting Fundamental Rights such as equality, freedom, and protection against exploitation. Untouchability is abolished, ensuring social respect for all. Right to freedom allows individuals to express themselves freely. Cultural and educational rights protect minority identities. Directive Principles promote welfare, ensuring better living conditions. By guaranteeing justice, liberty, and equality, the Constitution upholds the dignity of every citizen.
Q24. Explain the importance of the Right to Constitutional Remedies.
Ans. The Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) is called the “heart and soul of the Constitution” by Dr. Ambedkar. It allows citizens to approach the Supreme Court or High Courts if their Fundamental Rights are violated. Courts can issue writs like habeas corpus and mandamus to protect rights. This right is important because it makes Fundamental Rights effective and enforceable. Without it, rights would remain mere words on paper.
Q25. How does the Constitution balance central and state powers?
Ans. The Constitution provides a federal system, dividing powers between the Centre and States. Subjects are divided into three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. However, the Centre has more powers, especially during emergencies, making the system unitary in nature. This balance ensures national unity while also allowing states to govern local matters. Such a system is necessary in a large and diverse country like India.
Q26. What is the role of the judiciary under the Constitution?
Ans. The judiciary plays a vital role in interpreting the Constitution and protecting citizens’ rights. It ensures the government functions within constitutional limits. The judiciary is independent and free from political influence. Through judicial review, it can strike down unconstitutional laws. It protects Fundamental Rights through the Right to Constitutional Remedies. The judiciary acts as the guardian of the Constitution, ensuring justice and upholding democracy.
Q27. How does the Preamble reflect the objectives of the Indian Constitution?
Ans. The Preamble reflects the objectives of the Constitution by declaring India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. It promises justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These values represent the ideals of the freedom struggle. The Preamble guides the interpretation of the Constitution and reminds citizens of the goals of the nation. It serves as the soul of the Constitution, highlighting the principles on which Indian democracy is built.
Q28. Describe the importance of unity in diversity as reflected in the Constitution.
Ans. India is a land of many languages, religions, and cultures. The Constitution promotes unity in diversity by protecting minority rights, ensuring secularism, and guaranteeing equality for all citizens. Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles prevent discrimination and promote harmony. By giving equal status to all communities, the Constitution strengthens national unity. It recognizes diversity while ensuring that all Indians share a common identity as citizens of India.
Q29. How does the Indian Constitution promote liberty?
Ans. Liberty means freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship. The Constitution promotes liberty through Fundamental Rights, especially the Right to Freedom and Right to Freedom of Religion. Citizens are free to express opinions, practice religion, and pursue education or profession of their choice. However, liberty is not absolute and comes with reasonable restrictions to maintain public order. Liberty ensures personal growth and is essential for democracy.
Q30. Write a note on the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution.
Ans. The Constitution enshrines democratic values such as equality, liberty, and justice. Universal Adult Franchise ensures political equality. Fundamental Rights provide freedom and protect against exploitation. The Preamble highlights fraternity and dignity of the individual. Regular elections, independent judiciary, and accountability of government reflect democratic ideals. Directive Principles aim for social and economic justice. These values ensure that sovereignty lies with the people and make India the world’s largest democracy.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS (MCQS)
1.
Q. When was the Constitution of India adopted?
a) 15th August 1947
b) 26th November 1949
c) 26th January 1950
d) 2nd October 1948
Ans. b) 26th November 1949
2.
Q. When did the Constitution of India come into force?
a) 15th August 1947
b) 26th November 1949
c) 26th January 1950
d) 1st January 1950
Ans. c) 26th January 1950
3.
Q. Who is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution?
a) Jawaharlal Nehru
b) Mahatma Gandhi
c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
d) Rajendra Prasad
Ans. c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
4.
Q. Which part of the Constitution contains Fundamental Rights?
a) Part II
b) Part III
c) Part IV
d) Part V
Ans. b) Part III
5.
Q. Which part of the Constitution contains Directive Principles of State Policy?
a) Part III
b) Part IV
c) Part V
d) Part VI
Ans. b) Part IV
6.
Q. The Preamble describes India as a ______.
a) Federal State
b) Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic
c) Unitary Republic
d) Aristocracy
Ans. b) Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic
7.
Q. How many Schedules were there originally in the Constitution?
a) 8
b) 10
c) 12
d) 11
Ans. a) 8
8.
Q. The Indian Constitution is the ______ written Constitution in the world.
a) Shortest
b) Oldest
c) Lengthiest
d) Simplest
Ans. c) Lengthiest
9.
Q. Who was the first President of the Constituent Assembly?
a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
d) B.N. Rau
Ans. a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
10.
Q. Which Article of the Constitution provides Right to Constitutional Remedies?
a) Article 21
b) Article 32
c) Article 14
d) Article 19
Ans. b) Article 32
11.
Q. Which Fundamental Right is called the “heart and soul” of the Constitution?
a) Right to Equality
b) Right to Freedom
c) Right to Constitutional Remedies
d) Right against Exploitation
Ans. c) Right to Constitutional Remedies
12.
Q. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee?
a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
b) Sardar Patel
c) Rajendra Prasad
d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Ans. a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
13.
Q. Which country’s Constitution inspired Fundamental Rights in India?
a) Canada
b) USA
c) Britain
d) Ireland
Ans. b) USA
14.
Q. Which country’s Constitution inspired Directive Principles of State Policy?
a) USA
b) Britain
c) Ireland
d) France
Ans. c) Ireland
15.
Q. Which Article abolishes untouchability?
a) Article 14
b) Article 15
c) Article 17
d) Article 18
Ans. c) Article 17
16.
Q. The Right to Equality is guaranteed under which Articles?
a) 12–16
b) 14–18
c) 19–22
d) 20–24
Ans. b) 14–18
17.
Q. Which Article guarantees Freedom of Speech and Expression?
a) Article 14
b) Article 19(1)(a)
c) Article 21
d) Article 25
Ans. b) Article 19(1)(a)
18.
Q. Which Article protects the Right to Life and Personal Liberty?
a) Article 14
b) Article 19
c) Article 21
d) Article 32
Ans. c) Article 21
19.
Q. Which Article gives minorities the right to establish educational institutions?
a) Article 29
b) Article 30
c) Article 32
d) Article 19
Ans. b) Article 30
20.
Q. Which schedule of the Constitution deals with allocation of seats in Rajya Sabha?
a) First
b) Second
c) Fourth
d) Fifth
Ans. c) Fourth
21.
Q. The term “Secular” was added to the Preamble by which amendment?
a) 42nd Amendment, 1976
b) 44th Amendment, 1978
c) 52nd Amendment, 1985
d) 61st Amendment, 1989
Ans. a) 42nd Amendment, 1976
22.
Q. Which Article provides for equality before law?
a) Article 14
b) Article 16
c) Article 19
d) Article 21
Ans. a) Article 14
23.
Q. Who has the power to amend the Constitution?
a) President
b) Prime Minister
c) Parliament
d) Supreme Court
Ans. c) Parliament
24.
Q. What does the 10th Schedule of the Constitution deal with?
a) Panchayati Raj
b) Anti-defection law
c) Allocation of powers
d) Emergency provisions
Ans. b) Anti-defection law
25.
Q. Which Article deals with freedom of religion?
a) 19
b) 20
c) 25
d) 27
Ans. c) 25
26.
Q. The Preamble was inspired by the Constitution of which country?
a) USA
b) UK
c) France
d) Ireland
Ans. a) USA
27.
Q. The word “Fraternity” in the Preamble means ______.
a) Brotherhood
b) Freedom
c) Justice
d) Secularism
Ans. a) Brotherhood
28.
Q. Which of the following is NOT a Fundamental Right?
a) Right to Property
b) Right to Freedom
c) Right to Equality
d) Right to Education
Ans. a) Right to Property
29.
Q. How many Fundamental Duties are listed in the Constitution?
a) 8
b) 10
c) 11
d) 12
Ans. c) 11
30.
Q. Which Article allows the Supreme Court to review unconstitutional laws?
a) Article 21
b) Article 25
c) Article 32
d) Article 13
Ans. d) Article 13
