Political Parties : Party System in India Video Lecture | Indian Polity for UPSC CSE

The party system in India refers to the structure and functioning of political parties in the country. It consists of multiple political parties that compete with each other to gain power and influence in the government. India follows a multi-party system, meaning there are several parties that play a significant role in the political landscape.

There are numerous political parties in India, but the Election Commission of India officially recognizes and registers around 2,000 parties. However, only a few parties are considered major national or regional parties that have a significant presence and influence in Indian politics.

National parties in India are parties that have a presence and are recognized in multiple states across the country. They have a wider reach and appeal to voters on a national level. Examples of national parties in India include the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC), and Communist Party of India (CPI). Regional parties, on the other hand, are parties that are mainly limited to a particular state or region within India. They focus on regional issues and cater to the specific interests and concerns of that particular area. Some well-known regional parties include the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) in West Bengal and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.

To form a political party in India, a group of individuals must come together and fulfill certain requirements. They need to submit an application to the Election Commission of India, which includes details such as the party's name, symbol, office-bearers, and constitution. The commission reviews the application and grants registration if all the necessary criteria are met. Registration with the Election Commission provides legal recognition to the party and allows it to contest elections. It also grants certain benefits and privileges, such as access to electoral rolls and financial assistance for election campaigns.

Political parties play a crucial role in the Indian political system. They serve as a platform for political participation, representation, and mobilization of citizens. Parties formulate and promote their ideologies, policies, and agendas to attract voters and gain their support. The major functions of political parties in India include contesting elections, forming governments, making laws, and representing the interests of their constituents. Parties also act as a check and balance on the government's power, by providing opposition and holding the ruling party accountable for its actions. Additionally, parties play a vital role in shaping public opinion, raising awareness about important issues, and promoting democratic values in society.