Short & Long Questions: Democracy in Action | Footprints Class 7: Book Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q1: What is Universal Adult Franchise?
Ans: Universal Adult Franchise means every adult citizen has the right to vote without any discrimination.

Q2: At what age do Indian citizens gain the right to vote?
Ans: Indian citizens gain the right to vote at 18 years old.

Q3: Why is the principle of 'one person, one vote' important in a democracy?
Ans: The principle ensures every individual’s opinion is valued equally, maintaining the fairness of the democratic process.

Q4: How does Universal Adult Franchise ensure political equality?
Ans: It ensures every citizen has an equal opportunity to influence government decisions, promoting equality.

Q5: What are elections meant to ascertain in a democracy?
Ans: Elections ascertain the free will of the people.

Q6: Why are elections important for the credibility of a government?
Ans: Elections provide legitimacy and public trust in the elected government.

Q7: List any two purposes served by elections, apart from selecting leaders.
Ans: They provide political education and allow for the peaceful transfer of power.

Q8: What is the role of the Election Commission of India?
Ans: To conduct free and fair elections.

Q9: Who leads the Election Commission?
Ans: The Chief Election Commissioner.

Q10: Why is the Election Commission considered an independent body?
Ans: It operates independently to maintain unbiased and equitable election procedures.

Q11: How often are General Elections held in India?
Ans: Every 5 years.

Q12: What might trigger Mid-term Elections?
Ans: A No-Confidence Motion against the government in the Lok Sabha.

Q13: What causes By-elections to occur?
Ans: The sudden death or resignation of an elected representative.

Q14: What is the purpose of political parties in a democracy?
Ans: To contest elections and aim to be a part of the government.

Q15: What are the two types of political parties in India?
Ans: National parties and regional parties.

Long Answer Questions

Q1: Describe the role of regional parties in India.
Ans: Regional parties focus on local issues and may influence state-level or national policy when part of a coalition.

Q2: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a coalition government?
Ans: Advantages include wider representation and consensus-based decisions. Disadvantages include potential for conflict and policy implementation delays.

Q3: Explain how Universal Adult Franchise demonstrates accountability in a democratic government.
Ans: By allowing citizens to vote, it ensures that the government remains answerable and must cater to the needs of the people.

Q4: Explain the difference between General Elections and By-elections.
Ans: General Elections are for forming a new government across the country; By-elections fill vacancies before the term ends.

Q5: Why is a coalition government formed?
Ans: When no single party secures a majority, parties may join to form a government, ensuring wider representation and decision-making.

Q6: Describe the process that begins the electoral process in India.
Ans: The electoral process begins with a notification by the President to elect members.

Q7: How does the Election Commission ensure fair elections?
Ans: By scrutinizing nominations, allocating symbols distinctly, and supervising the counting of votes.

Q8: What are the components of the electoral system in India?
Ans: Lok Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and local bodies like Municipal Corporations.

Q9: How do elections contribute to the political education of the citizens?
Ans: Elections inform citizens about different political parties, their policies, and the functioning of democracy.

Q10: How can a party be recognized as a national party?
Ans: By securing at least six per cent of total votes in four or more states or having elected members in the Lok Sabha from at least three states.