Worksheet Solution: State Government | General Knowledge Encyclopedia - Class 8 PDF Download

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Q1. Who is responsible for maintaining internal security and law and order within a state in India?

A) The Central Government

B) The State Police

C) The Governor

D) The Chief Minister

Ans: B) The State Police

The State Police is primarily responsible for maintaining law and order within the states of India.

Q2. What is the primary role of the Governor in a state government?

A) To head the legislative assembly

B) To oversee the executive branch's duties

C) To pass laws on behalf of the state legislature

D) To manage internal security

Ans: B) To oversee the executive branch's duties

The Governor plays a crucial role in overseeing the executive branch and ensuring the laws are executed properly.

Q3. The State Legislative Assembly is composed of:

A) Elected Members of Parliament

B) Appointed Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs)

C) Elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs)

D) The Chief Minister and his cabinet

Ans: C) Elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs)

The State Legislative Assembly is made up of elected representatives known as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).

Q4. How long is the term of an MLA in India’s state legislative assemblies?

A) Four years

B) Five years

C) Six years

D) Seven years

Ans: B) Five years

Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in India are elected for a term of five years.

Q5. What is the role of an MLA in a state government?

A) To act as a representative of the state in the Parliament

B) To form the state government

C) To represent and address the issues of their constituency

D) To appoint ministers for the state

Ans: C) To represent and address the issues of their constituency

MLAs represent their constituents in the state assembly and address their concerns and issues.

True or False

Ans: True

The ruling party is typically the one that has the majority of elected representatives in the legislative assembly, allowing it to form the government.

Q2: The Governor of a state has the authority to veto any bill passed by the state legislative assembly. (True/False)

Ans: True

The Governor can exercise veto power over legislation, preventing it from becoming law unless overridden by the assembly.

Q3: The Chief Minister of a state is selected by the members of the state legislative assembly. (True/False)

Ans: True

The Chief Minister is usually the leader of the majority party in the legislative assembly and is elected by its members.

Q4: The Legislative Assembly does not play a role in approving the actions of the state government. (True/False)

Ans: False

The Legislative Assembly is responsible for reviewing and approving government actions, including budget proposals and legislation.

Q5: State governments are charged with the responsibility of managing internal security and law enforcement within their respective states. (True/False)

Ans: True

State governments have the authority to oversee law enforcement agencies and maintain internal security within their jurisdictions.

Fill in the Blanks

Ans: central

In a federal system, the central government and state governments share powers and responsibilities, working together in governance.

Q2: Every state government is headed by a __________ and a __________.

Ans: Chief Minister and Governor

The Chief Minister is the elected head of the state government, while the Governor is the appointed representative of the central government.

Q3: The Chief Minister is the head of the __________, responsible for leading the executive functions at the state level.

Ans: state government

The Chief Minister oversees the state's administration and ensures that laws and policies are implemented effectively.

Q4: State governments are responsible for sectors such as education, agriculture, __________, and water supply.

Ans: healthcare

Healthcare is a critical area managed by state governments to provide medical services and public health initiatives.

Q5: The state legislature has authority over the state's financial matters, including taxes and __________.

Ans: budgeting

Budgeting involves planning and allocating financial resources for various state government programs and services.

Short Answer Question

Q1. What are the main responsibilities of the state government in India?
Ans: The main responsibilities of the state government in India include a variety of functions that are crucial for the governance and development of the state. These responsibilities can be summarised as follows:

• Law and Order: Ensuring the maintenance of law and order is a primary duty. This includes the enforcement of laws and the administration of justice.
• Public Health: The state government is responsible for managing healthcare services, implementing health policies, and ensuring access to medical facilities.
• Education: It oversees educational institutions and formulates policies to promote education at all levels, from primary to higher education.
• Infrastructure Development: The construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and public utilities fall under the state’s jurisdiction.

Q2. Describe the role of the Governor in the functioning of the state government.
Ans: The Governor plays a crucial role in the functioning of the state government. Here are the key responsibilities:

• Constitutional Authority: The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the state, ensuring that the Constitution is upheld and implemented.
• Legislative Role: The Governor summons and prorogues the state legislature sessions, gives assent to bills, and can dissolve the Legislative Assembly.
• Executive Powers: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers, along with various officials, including the Advocate General and members of the state public service commission.
• Financial Powers: The Governor has the authority to approve the state budget and can also recommend the introduction of certain bills in the legislature.

Q3. What is the significance of the Legislative Assembly in overseeing the work of the state government?
Ans: The Legislative Assembly plays a crucial role in overseeing the work of the state government. Its significance can be understood through the following points:

• Legislative Oversight: The Assembly is responsible for examining and approving laws proposed by the government, ensuring they align with the interests of the public.
• Accountability: Members of the Assembly hold the government accountable for its actions, questioning ministers during sessions to ensure transparency.
• Budget Approval: The Assembly reviews and approves the state budget, which outlines government spending and priorities, thus influencing policy implementation.
• Public Representation: Elected representatives in the Assembly voice the concerns and needs of their constituents, ensuring that state policies reflect public interests.

Q4. How does the formation of government occur in a state after elections?
Ans: The formation of government in a state after elections is a crucial process that typically involves several key steps:

• Election Results: Once the elections are held, the votes are counted, and the results are announced. The candidate or party with the majority of votes is generally invited to form the government.
• Coalition Building: In cases where no single party achieves an outright majority, parties may engage in negotiations to form a coalition government. This involves forming alliances with other parties to gather enough support.
• Appointment of Leaders: The leader of the winning party (or coalition) is usually appointed as the Chief Minister or Prime Minister, depending on the type of government.
• Cabinet Formation: The newly appointed leader selects other members of the government, often referred to as cabinet ministers, who will head various departments.
• Governance: Once confirmed, the government begins its term, implementing policies and making decisions in accordance with its electoral mandate.
  

Q5. What is the role of an MLA in the state legislative assembly?
Ans: The role of an MLA (Member of Legislative Assembly) in the state legislative assembly is crucial for the functioning of the state government. Here are the key responsibilities and functions:

• Legislation: MLAs are responsible for discussing and voting on proposed laws (bills) that affect the state. They represent the interests of their constituents in these debates.
• Representation: Each MLA represents a specific geographical area, known as a constituency. They act as a link between the government and the public, voicing local concerns and demands.
• Oversight: MLAs have the authority to hold the government accountable. They can question government officials and demand explanations for policies and decisions during assembly sessions.
• Developmental Role: MLAs often engage in developmental activities within their constituencies, advocating for projects that benefit the community, such as infrastructure and public services.
• Budget Approval: They play a vital role in reviewing and approving the state budget, which outlines government spending and priorities.