Olympiad Test Level 2: Indian Polity- 1 - Class 7 MCQ

The correct answer is A:

The Union List has 97 subjects, the state list has 66 subjects and the concurrent list has 47 subjects.

Explanation:
The Union List, State List, and Concurrent List are three different lists mentioned in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. These lists divide the powers and responsibilities between the central government and the state governments.
- The Union List contains subjects on which only the central government has the authority to make laws. It has a total of 97 subjects.
- The State List contains subjects on which only the state governments have the authority to make laws. It has a total of 66 subjects.
- The Concurrent List contains subjects on which both the central government and the state governments can make laws. It has a total of 47 subjects.
Therefore, option A is correct, stating that the Union List has 97 subjects, the State List has 66 subjects, and the Concurrent List has 47 subjects.

The basic freedoms guaranteed in our constitution include:
- Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the country: This freedom ensures that individuals have the right to choose their place of residence and are not restricted by any geographical boundaries within the country. It allows for mobility and the pursuit of opportunities in different regions.
- Freedom to practice any profession, occupation, trade or business: This freedom grants individuals the right to choose and engage in any profession, occupation, trade, or business of their choice, as long as it is lawful. It promotes economic freedom and allows individuals to pursue their livelihoods without unnecessary restrictions.
- Freedom of speech and expression: This fundamental freedom guarantees the right to express one's thoughts, opinions, and ideas freely without fear of censorship or punishment. It includes the freedom of the press, the freedom to assemble peacefully, and the freedom to engage in artistic and cultural expressions.
- All of the above: The correct answer is option D, which states that all of the mentioned freedoms are guaranteed in our constitution. These freedoms are essential for a democratic society, as they protect individual rights and promote a diverse and inclusive society.
In conclusion, the basic freedoms guaranteed in our constitution include the freedom to reside and settle anywhere in the country, the freedom to practice any profession or trade, and the freedom of speech and expression. These freedoms are crucial for safeguarding individual rights and promoting a democratic society.

In a coalition, a group of political parties agree to work together to form the government. This means that they form a coalition government where multiple parties come together and share power. Here is a detailed explanation:
Definition:
A coalition is a political alliance formed by two or more parties who agree to cooperate in order to achieve a common goal, which is usually to form a government.
Working of a coalition government:
In a coalition government, the parties involved negotiate and agree on the terms of their cooperation, including the distribution of ministerial positions and policy priorities. Here are some key points about how a coalition government functions:
1. Formation of government: The coalition partners collectively form the government, which means they share power and collectively make decisions on governance.
2. Ministerial positions: The coalition partners usually get representation in the government by appointing their members to key ministerial positions. This allows each party to have a say in the decision-making process.
3. Policy decisions: The coalition partners work together to formulate policies and make decisions on various issues. They negotiate and compromise on different matters to ensure the smooth functioning of the government.
4. Majority support: In a coalition government, the combined strength of the parties gives them a majority in the legislature, which is necessary to pass legislation and implement policies.
5. Coalition agreements: The parties involved in a coalition often have a formal agreement that outlines the terms of their cooperation. This agreement may include policy priorities, power-sharing arrangements, and mechanisms for dispute resolution.
6. Stability and challenges: Coalition governments can provide stability by bringing together multiple perspectives and preventing the concentration of power in a single party. However, they can also face challenges due to differing ideologies, conflicting interests, and the need for consensus-building.
In summary, a coalition is a political arrangement where multiple parties agree to work together and form a government. This allows for power-sharing, negotiation, and decision-making based on consensus among the coalition partners.

Executive Powers of the President:
The executive powers of the President of India are outlined in the Constitution of India. These powers grant the President the authority to make decisions and take actions that are crucial for the functioning of the government. The executive powers include:
1. Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces:
- The President of India is designated as the Supreme Commander of the Defence Forces, which includes the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- This power allows the President to exercise control and command over the armed forces of the country.
2. Wide Powers of Appointment:
- The President has the authority to appoint various key positions within the government.
- This includes appointments such as the Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Governors of states, and judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
- The President also appoints the Chief Election Commissioner, Comptroller and Auditor General, Attorney General, and other important officials.
Therefore, option C is correct as it states that "The President has wide powers of appointment." Both options A and B are incorrect as option A states that "All government decisions have to go on the President's name" which is not accurate, and option B is not mentioned in the provided information.

Collective responsibility means:
Collective responsibility refers to the concept that the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Parliament in India. It is a fundamental principle of parliamentary democracy and ensures accountability and transparency in governance.
Explanation:
The concept of collective responsibility can be understood through the following points:
1. The Council of Ministers: Collective responsibility applies to the Council of Ministers, which consists of the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and Ministers of State. They are collectively responsible for the decisions and actions of the government.
2. Responsibility to the Lok Sabha: The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, which means they are accountable to the members of the lower house of Parliament. They have to answer questions, participate in debates, and seek the confidence of the Lok Sabha.
3. Cabinet Decision-making: Collective responsibility implies that the whole cabinet discusses and formulates the policies of the government. Decisions are made collectively, and all ministers are bound by the decision taken by the cabinet.
4. Individual Responsibility: While collective responsibility is upheld, it does not mean that individual ministers are exempt from responsibility. Ministers are also individually responsible for their specific portfolios and actions.
5. Resignation: In case of a major policy disagreement within the cabinet, a minister may choose to resign. This upholds the principle of collective responsibility, as it shows that the decision taken by the cabinet is binding on all ministers.
In conclusion, collective responsibility ensures that the Council of Ministers functions as a cohesive unit, accountable to the Lok Sabha. It promotes collective decision-making and ensures that the government is accountable to the people.

Explanation:
The statement "Democracy is a Government of the people, by the people and for the people" is a famous quote by Abraham Lincoln and is often used to define democracy. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Definition of Democracy: Democracy is a form of government where the power is vested in the people and exercised either directly or through elected representatives.
- Government of the people: In a democracy, the power lies with the people. The citizens have the right to participate in the decision-making process, either directly or by electing representatives who will govern on their behalf.
- Government by the people: Democracy ensures that the government is accountable to the people. The elected representatives are chosen by the people through free and fair elections. These representatives are responsible for making laws and governing the country.
- Government for the people: The ultimate aim of a democratic government is to serve the people's interests. Policies and decisions are made with the welfare and well-being of the citizens in mind. The government is expected to work towards the betterment of society as a whole.
- Relation to Socialism: The definition mentioned does not exclusively belong to socialism. While democracy can exist in various forms, including social democracy, the statement itself does not imply any specific economic or political ideology. It simply emphasizes the idea that democracy is a government that is based on the will and participation of the people.
In conclusion, the statement "Democracy is a Government of the people, by the people and for the people" is a correct and widely accepted definition of democracy. It highlights the core principles of democracy, which include popular participation, accountability, and serving the interests of the people.

Constitution of India was adopted by Constituent Assembly on:
The correct answer is D: 26th Nov, 1949.
Explanation:
The adoption of the Constitution of India took place on 26th Nov, 1949 by the Constituent Assembly. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Background:
- The Constituent Assembly of India, consisting of elected representatives from various regions and communities, was established to draft the Constitution of India.
- The drafting process started on 9th December 1946 and took almost three years to complete.
2. Key Events:
- The final draft of the Constitution was submitted to the President of the Constituent Assembly, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on 26th Nov, 1949.
- The members of the Constituent Assembly signed two handwritten copies of the Constitution on this day, one in Hindi and the other in English.
3. Adoption and Implementation:
- The Constitution was adopted on 26th Nov, 1949, after a thorough discussion and debate on each article and provision.
- However, it came into effect on 26th January 1950, marking the official commencement of the Republic of India.
4. Significance:
- The adoption of the Constitution of India was a historic moment, as it laid the foundation for the democratic system and governance in the country.
- It provided a framework for the functioning of the government, protection of fundamental rights, and the distribution of powers between the central and state governments.
In conclusion, the Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26th Nov, 1949, and it continues to serve as the supreme law of the land, guiding the functioning of the Indian democracy.

The socialist character of the Preamble denotes that the state will secure the citizens, social, economic, and political justice. This means that the government will work towards ensuring equality and fairness in all aspects of society. Here is a detailed explanation of this statement:
Explanation:
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution enshrines the ideals and aspirations of the Indian people. It states that India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The socialist character of the Preamble refers to the commitment of the state to work towards a society based on social and economic justice. Here are the key points that highlight the socialist character of the Preamble:
1. State responsibility: The Preamble states that the state will secure social, economic, and political justice for all citizens. This implies that the government has the responsibility to ensure equality and fairness in society.
2. Social justice: The socialist character of the Preamble emphasizes the importance of social justice. This means that the state should work towards eradicating social inequalities and promoting the welfare of all sections of society.
3. Economic justice: The socialist character also highlights the need for economic justice. This implies that the state should strive to reduce economic disparities and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens to participate in the economic growth of the country.
4. Political justice: In addition to social and economic justice, the socialist character of the Preamble also emphasizes political justice. This means that the state should ensure equal political rights and opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their social or economic background.
Overall, the socialist character of the Preamble reflects the commitment of the Indian state to create a just and equitable society. It signifies the government's responsibility to protect the interests of all citizens and work towards their overall well-being.

It rules but does n ot reign