Characteristics of a political party are:

A political party has members who agree on some policies and programmes for the society with a view to promoting the common good.
It seeks to implement the policies by winning popular support through elections.
The presence of a leader, the party workers and supporters.
It is a group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government.

Characteristics of Political Parties in India
Political parties in India play a crucial role in the functioning of democracy. They represent diverse interests and ideologies, reflecting the country’s pluralistic society. Here are some key characteristics:

1. Multi-Party System
- India has a multi-party system, with numerous political parties at national, state, and local levels.
- Major parties include the Indian National Congress (INC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and regional parties like the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).


2. Representation of Diverse Interests
- Political parties in India cater to various social groups, including caste, religion, and regional identities.
- This helps in representing the interests of a wide array of constituents, ensuring that multiple voices are heard in governance.


3. Ideological Diversity
- Parties in India are based on different ideologies, such as socialism, nationalism, and liberalism.
- This ideological diversity allows voters to choose parties that align with their values and beliefs.


4. Electoral Process
- Political parties participate in regular elections, which are conducted by the Election Commission of India.
- They play a vital role in mobilizing voters and shaping public opinion during election periods.


5. Role in Governance
- Political parties not only contest elections but also form governments at various levels.
- They are responsible for policy-making and implementing programs that affect the lives of citizens.


6. Internal Democracy
- Many political parties advocate for internal democracy, allowing members to participate in decision-making processes.
- However, in practice, some parties may have hierarchical structures that limit this participation.
In conclusion, political parties in India are essential to the democratic framework, reflecting the country's complexity through their diversity, representation, and governance roles.