Federalism Class 10 Worksheet Civics Chapter 1

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1: What is the third tier of government known as?

(a) Village Panchayats
(b) State government
(c) Local self-government
(d) Zila Parishad

Ans: (c) Local self-government

The third tier of government is referred to as local self-government, which embodies the principle of democracy by allowing local governance.

Q2: What is true regarding sources of revenue in a federal system?

(a) States have no financial powers or independent sources of revenue.
(b) States are dependent on revenue or funds from the central government.
(c) Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy.
(d) States have no financial autonomy.

Ans: (c) Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy.

In a federal system, financial autonomy is maintained by clearly defining revenue sources for each government level, allowing for independent fiscal management.

Q3: Which of the following is incorrect regarding a unitary government?

(a) There is either only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government.
(b) The central government can pass on orders to the provincial government.
(c) A state government is subordinate to the central government.
(d) The powers of state governments are guaranteed by the Constitution.

Ans: (d) The powers of state governments are guaranteed by the Constitution.

In a unitary system, state governments do not have guaranteed powers by the Constitution, as they are subordinate to the central authority.

Q4: What are the kinds of routes through which federations have been formed?

(a) One route involves independent states coming together on their own to form a bigger unit.
(b) The second route is where a large country decides to divide its powers between the states and the national government.
(c) Both a and b.
(d) None of these.

Ans: (c) Both a and b.

Federations can be formed through both independent states uniting and large countries decentralizing power, making option (c) correct.

Q5: Which period saw the rise of regional political parties in many states of the country?

(a) Period after 1990
(b) Period after 2000
(c) Period after 1980
(d) Period after 1970

Ans: (a) Period after 1990

The rise of regional political parties occurred significantly after 1990, marking a shift towards coalition governments in India.

Q6: Which language is recognised as the national language by the Constitution of India?

(a) Hindi
(b) English
(c) Tamil
(d) None of these

Ans: (d) None of these

The Constitution of India does not designate any language as a national language; Hindi is the official language, but not the national one.

Q7: Which state of India enjoys a special status and has its own Constitution?

(a) Bihar
(b) Uttar Pradesh
(c) Kerala
(d) Jammu and Kashmir

Ans: (d) Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir has its own Constitution, which grants it a special status and certain unique provisions not applicable to other states.

Q8: Which of the following subjects is not included in the Union list?

(a) Defence
(b) Foreign affairs
(c) Police
(d) Banking

Ans: (c) Police

The Union List does not include police as it is a subject under the State List, while defence and foreign affairs are Union subjects.

Q9: Which of the following is not an example of ‘holding together’ federations?

(a) India
(b) Spain
(c) Belgium
(d) Switzerland

Ans: (d) Switzerland

Switzerland is not a 'holding together' federation; it is a coming together federation, unlike India, Spain, and Belgium.

Q10: Which level of government in India has the power to legislate on the ‘residuary’ subjects?

(a) Union government
(b) State government
(c) Local self-government
(d) Both a and b

Ans: (a)  Union government

The Union Government has the exclusive power to legislate on residuary subjects, as per the constitutional provisions.

Fill in the Blanks

Ans: linguistic states

The formation of linguistic states was a significant test for democratic politics in India, reflecting the need for representation based on language.

Q2: The __________ oversees the implementation of constitutional and procedures.

Ans: Judiciary

The Judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding the Constitution and ensuring that laws and procedures are implemented fairly and justly across the nation.

Q3: Under the __________ system, either there is only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government.

Ans: Unitary

A Unitary system centralizes power, meaning that local or regional governments derive their authority from the central government, which can lead to a more streamlined decision-making process.

Q4: Holding together country decides to divide its power between the __________ and __________.

Ans: the national government, constituent states

In a federal structure, power is shared between the national government and constituent states, allowing for a balance that respects regional autonomy while maintaining national unity.

Q5: __________ list includes subjects of national importance such as defence of the country, foreign affairs etc.

Ans: Union

The Union list encompasses subjects critical to national governance, ensuring that the central government can legislate on matters essential for the country's integrity and security.

True or False

Ans: True

The language policy in India serves as a significant test for the Indian Federation, as it addresses the linguistic diversity of the nation and aims to promote unity while respecting regional languages.

Q2: Decentralisation helps to build effective communication.

Ans: True

Decentralisation enhances communication by distributing power and responsibilities, allowing for more localized decision-making and responsiveness to community needs.

Q3: 1980s was the era of coalition governments.

Ans: False

The 1980s in India were characterized by a dominance of single-party governments, particularly by the Indian National Congress, rather than coalition governments.

Q4: Besides Hindi, India has 21 official languages.

Ans: True

India recognizes Hindi as the official language along with 21 other languages, making a total of 22 scheduled languages in the country.

Q5: When the power is taken from the local and state government and given to central government, it is called decentralisation.

Ans: False

The transfer of power from local and state governments to the central government is known as centralization, not decentralisation, which involves distributing power away from the central authority.

Assertion Reasoning

Direction: Mark the option which is most suitable :

Q1: Assertion : India is a federation.
Reason : Power resides with the central authority.
(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion. 
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.
(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: (c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

Assertion: India is a federation → True
India has a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Centre and the States, as provided by the Constitution.

Reason: Power resides with the central authority → False
In a true federation, power is divided between central and state governments. While India has a strong Centre, it does not mean that all power resides with the Centre.

Hence, the assertion is true but the reason is false.

Q2. Assertion (A): India has a federal system.

Reason (R): Under a unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

Explanation: India does have a federal structure, which is characterised by the distribution of powers between the central and state governments. While the reason is true regarding unitary systems, it does not explain why India is federal, as India's federalism allows for autonomy at both levels of government.

Q3. Assertion (A): It is very simple to make changes in the basic structure of the constitution.

Reason (R): Both the houses have the power to amend the constitution independently.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Explanation: Amending the basic structure of the constitution is not a simple process; it requires a special majority in Parliament and cannot be done independently by either house. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are incorrect.

Q4. Assertion (A): A major step towards decentralisation was taken in 1992 by amending the constitution.

Reason (R): The constitution was amended to make the third tier of democracy more powerful and effective.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

Explanation: The 1992 constitutional amendment indeed aimed to decentralise power by strengthening local self-governments, thus making the assertion and reason both true and the reason a correct explanation of the assertion.

Q5. Assertion (A): Hindi is identified as the only official language of India.

Reason (R): It helped in creating supremacy of Hindi speaking people over others.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

Explanation: While Hindi is one of the official languages, it is not the only one; the Constitution recognises multiple languages. The assertion is true, but the reason is false as it misrepresents the intent behind the language policy, which aims for inclusivity rather than supremacy.

Q6. Assertion (A): The subjects which are not included in the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List are considered as residuary subjects.

Reason (R): The subjects included that came after the constitution was made and thus could not be classified.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

Explanation: The assertion is correct as residuary subjects are indeed those not listed in the other three lists. The reason also holds true, as new subjects can emerge that were not anticipated at the time of the Constitution's framing, thus making the reason a valid explanation.

Q7. Assertion (A): The third tier of government is local government.

Reason (R): It made democracy weak.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

Explanation: The assertion is true as local government is indeed the third tier of government in India. However, the reason is false; local governments are intended to strengthen democracy by bringing governance closer to the people.

Q8. Assertion (A): Coalition government is formed during the dearth of coal in the country.

Reason (R): It helps in overcoming the coal crisis.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Explanation: The assertion is incorrect as coalition governments are not formed due to a coal shortage; they arise from the need to form a government when no single party has a clear majority. The reason is also false as it does not relate to the formation of coalition governments.

Q9. Assertion (A): Belgium and Spain have a 'holding together' federation.

Reason (R): A big country divides power between constituent states and national government.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

Explanation: Both the assertion and reason are true. Belgium and Spain are examples of 'holding together' federations where power is divided among various levels of government, which is a characteristic of large countries.

Q10. Assertion (A): Zilla Parishad Chairperson is the political head of the zilla parishad.

Reason (R): Mayor is the head of municipalities.

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.

(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.

(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Ans: Option (b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explaination of assertion.

Explanation: The assertion is true as the Zilla Parishad Chairperson is indeed the political head of the zilla parishad. The reason is also true; however, it does not explain the assertion as it pertains to a different level of local government.

Very Short Answer Questions

Q1. By which name the rural local government is popularly known?
Ans: The rural local government is commonly referred to as Panchayati Raj.

Q2. Which type of government has two or more levels?
Ans: Federal Government has two or more levels.

Q3. States in India such as Assam and Mizoram enjoy special powers under Article 371 of the Indian Constitution. Why?
Ans: Due to their peculiar social and Historical circumstances.

Q4. Give examples of Holding together Federations.
Ans: Examples of Holding together Federations:

• India
• Spain
• Belgium

Q5. Suppose the Government of Maharashtra is forming a special police Battalion for Rural safety. Can the Central government order the state government to withdraw the plan as this involves a lot of money expenditure? Justify your answer.
Ans: No, Police and law and order is a subject in the state list and only the state government can make laws based on that subject.

Q6. What are the dual objectives of federal system?
Ans: The federal system has two main objectives:

• Safeguard and promote the unity of the country.
• Accommodate regional diversity.

Short Answer Questions

Q1. What is the meaning of decentralisation? Explain any four provisions that have been made towards decentralisation in India after the Constitutional Amendment in 1992.
Ans: Decentralisation refers to the process of transferring power from central and state governments to local governments. This shift aims to empower local governance and enhance democratic participation. A significant advancement in decentralisation occurred with the 1992 Constitutional Amendment, which established a more robust third tier of democracy. Key provisions include:

• Regular Elections: It is now mandatory to hold regular elections for local government bodies.
• Reserved Seats: Seats are reserved in elected bodies for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
• Women’s Representation: At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women.
• State Election Commission: Each state has established an independent State Election Commission (SEC) to oversee Panchayat and Municipal elections.
• Power and Revenue Sharing: State governments are required to share certain powers and revenues with local government bodies.

Q2. Do you take decentralisation as means to minimise the conflicts? Give your view point?
Ans: Decentralisation involves transferring power from central and state governments to local governments. This process can effectively reduce conflicts and address various local issues.

• Local Knowledge: Residents have a better understanding of their community's problems and can suggest effective solutions.
• Direct Participation: Decentralisation encourages people to engage in decision-making, fostering a culture of democratic participation.
• Local Self-Government: This structure supports the principles of democracy by empowering local authorities to manage their affairs.

Q3. Define the term federalism.
Ans: Federalism is a system of government where power is shared between a central authority and various constituent units of a country. Key features include:

• There are two or more levels of government.
• Each level governs the same citizens but has its own jurisdiction over specific matters.
• The constitution defines the powers and responsibilities of each level.
• Changes to fundamental constitutional provisions require consent from both levels of government.

In a federal system, both the central and state governments operate independently and are accountable to the people.

Q4. Independence of the Judiciary is the key to the success of federalism. Examine the statement.
Ans:

• The judiciary, led by the Supreme Court, is the only body that interprets the Indian Constitution.
• It plays a crucial role in ensuring that constitutional provisions and procedures are followed.
• In disputes regarding the division of powers, the High Courts and the Supreme Court provide resolutions.

Q5. “Indian Constitution has a unitary bias.” Support the statement with examples.
Ans:

• The power-sharing arrangement in the Indian Constitution clearly defines the distribution of power between the Union and State governments. While it is federal in structure, it leans towards a unitary system since the residuary powers rest with the Union.
• Although the Constitution does not explicitly use the term ‘Federation’, it establishes a three-tier system comprising the central government, state governments, and local governments.
• Each level of government has its own legislative jurisdiction. However, the Union government holds more power, with 97 subjects under its control, compared to fewer subjects for the State and Concurrent lists.

Long Answer Questions

Q1. Explain any five features of Panchayati Raj system in India.
Ans: Panchayati Raj is the system of rural local government in India. Here are five key features of the Panchayati Raj system:

• Rural Focus: The system is specifically designed for rural areas.
• Gram Panchayat: Each village or a group of villages has a Gram Panchayat, which is the local governing body.
• Composition: The Gram Panchayat consists of several ward members, known as Panch, and a head called the Sarpanch.
• Direct Elections: The Sarpanch is elected directly by the adult population of the village.
• Decision-Making Authority: The Gram Panchayat serves as the decision-making body for the village and operates under the supervision of the Gram Sabha.

All voters in the village are members of the Gram Sabha, which meets at least twice a year to approve budgets and review the Panchayat's performance. Additionally, some Gram Panchayats may form a Panchayat Samiti or block, enhancing local governance.

Q2. “Local governments have made a significant impact on Indian democracy. At the same time, there are many difficulties.” Explain.
Ans: Impact of local self-government on Indian democracy:

• Constitutional recognition has strengthened democracy in India.
• It has enhanced women's representation and participation in governance.

Difficulties:

• Elections are not conducted regularly or with enthusiasm.
• Meetings of Gram Sabhas are infrequent.
• Many state governments have not delegated significant powers to local bodies.
• Local governments often lack adequate resources.

Q3. Why has federalism succeeded in India? Which were the policies adopted by India that ensured this success? Explain.
Ans: The success of federalism in India can be largely attributed to the nature of its democratic politics. This has fostered a shared commitment to the spirit of federalism, respect for diversity, and the desire for coexistence. The policies adopted by India that ensured this success include:

• Linguistic States: The creation of states based on language has been a significant step. Many old states were restructured, and new states were formed to group people who speak the same language together. This approach also acknowledged cultural, ethnic, and geographical differences.
• Language Policy: The Indian Constitution does not designate any language as the national language. Hindi is the official language, but there are 21 other languages recognised as Scheduled Languages. Each state can also have its own official language, promoting linguistic diversity.
• Centre-State Relations: The restructuring of Centre-State relations has bolstered federalism. Since 1990, the rise of regional political parties and coalition governments at the Centre has fostered a culture of power-sharing and respect for state autonomy.
• Decentralisation: The 1992 constitutional amendment empowered local governments, establishing a third tier of democracy. This includes Panchayats in rural areas and municipalities in urban areas, enhancing local governance.

Q4. Explain the process of power sharing among different organs of the government in India. Or Describe the three-fold distribution of legislative powers between the Union Government and the State Governments. Who can make laws on the subjects which are not covered under these lists and what name has been given to such subjects? Or Describe the division of powers between the Central and the State Governments in India.
Ans: The Constitution of India outlines a threefold distribution of legislative powers among the Union Government and State Governments, which is divided into three distinct lists:

• Union List:This includes subjects of national importance, such as:
  • Defence
  • Foreign affairs
  • Banking
  • Communications
  • Currency
  The Union Government is the only authority that can legislate on these matters.
• State List:This covers subjects of local significance, including:
  • Police
  • Trade
  • Agriculture
  • Irrigation
  Only State Governments can make laws regarding these subjects.
• Concurrent List:This consists of subjects of mutual interest, such as:
  • Education
  • Forests
  • Trade unions
  • Marriage and adoption
  Both the Union and State Governments can legislate on these subjects. If there is a conflict, the Union law prevails.

Subjects not included in these lists are termed residuary subjects. The Union Government has the authority to legislate on these matters, which may include contemporary issues like computer software. It is important to note that not all states in India have the same powers. Some states, like Assam and Nagaland, have special provisions due to their unique social and historical contexts, allowing them to protect the rights of indigenous peoples. Changes to this power-sharing arrangement require a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament and ratification by at least half of the state legislatures. The judiciary, particularly the High Courts and the Supreme Court, plays a crucial role in resolving disputes regarding the division of powers.

Q5. Which provisions of Indian Constitution make India a full-fledged federation? Or Mention any five main features which make India a federal country.
Ans: The following are five key provisions that establish India as a federal country:

• Two or more levels of government: India operates with three levels of government: the Centre, State, and Local.
• Three lists: Powers are divided between the Centre and the States through the Union list, State list, and Concurrent list.
• Rigid Constitution: Changes to fundamental provisions require consent from both the Centre and State governments, preventing unilateral alterations.
• Financial Autonomy: Clearly defined revenue sources for both the Centre and States ensure their financial independence.
• Independent Judiciary: The Supreme Court resolves disputes between different levels of government, maintaining the balance of power.