Describe the function of political parties?

Question

Answer

Main functions of a political party:

(i) To contest elections:

In most democracies, elections are fought mainly among the candidates put up by political parties. Parties select their candidates in different ways. In India, top party leaders choose candidates for contesting elections,

(ii) Forming policies and programmes: Parties put forward different policies and programmes and the voters choose from them. Each of us may have different opinions and views on what policies are suitable for the society.

(iii) Making laws:

When parties come to power, they make laws for the country. Formally, laws are debated and passed in the legislature. Members of the ruling party follow the directions of party leaders, irrespective of their personal opinions.

(iv) Parties form and run governments:

Parties recruit leaders, train them and then make them ministers to run the government in the way they want.

(v) Role of opposition:

Parties that lose in elections, play the role of opposition to the parties in power by criticising the government for its failures or wrong policies.

(vi) Shaping public opinion:

They raise and highlight issues. Parties have lakhs of members and activists spread all over country. Many of the pressure groups are the extension of political parties among different sections of society. Parties, sometimes also launch movements for the resolution of problems faced by people.

(vii) Access to government machinery and welfare schemes:

For an ordinary citizen, it is easy to approach a local party leader than a government officer. That is why they feel close to parties even when they do not fully trust them. Parties have to be responsive to people's needs and demands.

Answer

Political parties are necessary for a democracy. key functions of political parties are as follows. # To contest elections # To form and run the government. #Declaration of policies. # Moulding public opinion #Link between  the government and the people.

Answer

Following are the key function of political party :-
+ To contest elections .
+ To shape public views and opinions.
+ To act on public agenda and fulfill the requirement of public .
+ To act as a medium between public and political system .
+ To frame laws and make amendments .
+ To persuade voters to elect their candidate .

Answer

Every political party has a number of functions to perform. Here we have listed some of them.

✓ A political party contests elections by putting up candidates...
✓ In countries like the USA, the candidates are selected by members and supporters of a party...
✓ On the other hand, in countries like India, the candidates are chosen by top party leaders...
✓ Every party has different policies and programmes. Voters make a choice in accordance with the policies and programmes liked by them...
✓ In a democratic country, a large group of people that has certain similar opinions group together and form a party. Then then, give a direction to the policies adopted by the government...
✓ Those parties which lose elections form the opposition. They voice different views and criticise the government for their failures and mobilize opposition to the government...
✓ Political parties shape public opinion. With the help of the pressure groups, the parties launch movements for solving problems faced by the people...
✓ Parties even offer access to government machinery and welfare schemes. The local party leader serves as a link between the citizen and the government officer...

Answer

Introduction:
Political parties play a crucial role in a democratic system. They are organizations that represent and advocate for specific ideologies, interests, and policies. These parties form the backbone of democratic governance and are responsible for various functions that contribute to the functioning of a democratic society.

Representation:
Political parties serve as a means of representing the diverse interests and opinions of the citizens. They provide a platform for individuals to join together and collectively express their views on social, economic, and political issues. Parties act as intermediaries between the government and the people, ensuring that the voices of different segments of society are heard and reflected in decision-making processes.

Political Mobilization:
Parties play a crucial role in mobilizing citizens and encouraging their participation in the political process. They organize rallies, campaigns, and other activities that engage the public and raise awareness about political issues. Through these efforts, parties encourage citizens to exercise their right to vote and actively participate in the democratic process.

Policy Formulation and Implementation:
Political parties are responsible for formulating and promoting policies that align with their ideologies and the interests of their supporters. They develop party platforms that outline their stance on various issues and propose specific policy measures. Once in power, parties work to implement their policies by enacting legislation, shaping public institutions, and influencing the decision-making process.

Accountability:
Political parties help ensure accountability in a democratic system. They provide a means for citizens to hold elected officials and governments accountable for their actions and decisions. Opposition parties play a crucial role in scrutinizing the policies and actions of the ruling party, highlighting any shortcomings or failures, and proposing alternative solutions.

Political Education and Socialization:
Political parties also serve as vehicles for political education and socialization. They help educate citizens about political processes, institutions, and ideologies. Parties promote political discourse and provide a platform for individuals to engage in discussions and debates on important issues. Through party memberships and activities, individuals learn about the political system, develop their political opinions, and contribute to the democratic culture.

Conclusion:
Political parties are essential components of a democratic system. They facilitate representation, mobilize citizens, formulate and implement policies, ensure accountability, and contribute to political education and socialization. By fulfilling these functions, parties play a vital role in the functioning of a democratic society.

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