CBSE Class 11 - Political Science Sample Paper (2) 2024

Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1-12)

Arrange the following in chronological order: a) Constitutional status was accorded to local government institutions.
b) Geeta Rathore was re-elected.
c) Geeta Rathore was elected Sarpanch from a reserved seat.
d) Tamil Nadu government allotted two hectares of land to government employees.Answer: a) d, a, c, b
Explanation: First, Tamil Nadu government allotted land to employees (d), then local government institutions were given constitutional status (a), Geeta Rathore was elected Sarpanch from a reserved seat (c), and finally, she was re-elected (b).
Territorial representation means:
a) Class representation
b) Minority representation
c) Geographical representation
d) Functional representationAnswer: c) Geographical representation
Explanation: Territorial representation refers to the representation of people from different geographic regions or constituencies in the legislative body.
When did India develop a system of parliamentary standing committees?
a) 1983
b) 1977
c) 1980
d) 1973Answer: b) 1977
Explanation: The system of Parliamentary Standing Committees was established in 1977 to ensure detailed examination of bills and policies.
How many seats are in Lok Sabha reserved for Scheduled Tribes in India?
a) 52
b) 27
c) 47
d) 37Answer: a) 52
Explanation: There are 52 seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha to ensure their representation in the Indian Parliament.
From which country the provision of the idea of the Rule of Law has borrowed?
a) British Constitution
b) French Constitution
c) Russian Constitution
d) Canadian ConstitutionAnswer: a) British Constitution
Explanation: The concept of Rule of Law in India was borrowed from the British legal system, where it plays a significant role in ensuring justice and fairness.
Assertion (A): Indian secularism allows for principled state intervention in all religions.
Reason (R): Religiously sanctioned caste-hierarchies are not acceptable within Indian secularism.a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is true but R is false.
d) A is false but R is true.Answer: a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation: Indian secularism is based on the principle of equal treatment for all religions. The state is allowed to intervene to prevent practices that violate human dignity, like caste-based discrimination.
Who said equality is the preferred value?
a) Plato
b) Hegel
c) Aristotle
d) BurkeAnswer: c) Aristotle
Explanation: Aristotle, in his work on politics, emphasized equality as a central value in a just society.
The longest tenure as the Prime Minister of India is enjoyed by:
a) Jawahar Lal Nehru
b) V.P. Singh
c) Charan Singh
d) Lal Bahadur ShastriAnswer: a) Jawahar Lal Nehru
Explanation: Jawahar Lal Nehru was India’s first Prime Minister and served from 1947 to 1964, holding the longest tenure.
________ is a group of people bound together by certainties like religion, culture, traditions, conventions, and literature.
a) Province
b) Nation
c) State
d) RaceAnswer: b) Nation
Explanation: A nation is a collective of people who share common traits such as culture, language, traditions, and a shared history.
Assertion (A): The Motilal Nehru committee had demanded a bill of rights as far back as in 1928.
Reason (R): When India became independent and the Constitution was being prepared, the bill of rights was ignored.

a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is true but R is false.
d) A is false but R is true.

Answer: b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
Explanation: The Motilal Nehru Committee in 1928 recommended the inclusion of a Bill of Rights. However, the Indian Constitution, while recognizing fundamental rights, did not adopt the specific Bill of Rights proposed by the committee.

The term justice is derived from the word ‘Jus,’ which is a word from:
a) Greek language
b) French language
c) Latin language
d) English language

Answer: c) Latin language
Explanation: The term “justice” is derived from the Latin word “jus,” meaning right or law.

The purpose of Feminism is:
a) To exploit women
b) To discourage women
c) To weaken women
d) To empower women

Answer: d) To empower women
Explanation: Feminism aims to achieve gender equality, empower women, and eliminate social, political, and economic disparities.

Section B

Is the Indian Constitution rigid or flexible?
The Indian Constitution is considered a combination of both rigid and flexible elements. While certain provisions require a complex procedure for amendment (making it rigid), other provisions can be changed by simple legislation (making it flexible). The Constitution provides for amendments through Parliament (Article 368), and these amendments can be either by a simple majority or a special majority, depending on the nature of the provision.
Have local bodies been successful in action? Why or why not?
Local bodies have had mixed success in India. On one hand, constitutional status has been granted to Panchayats and Municipalities (73rd and 74th amendments), which have empowered local governance and improved public participation. However, their effectiveness has been limited due to lack of adequate financial resources, political interference, and administrative inefficiency. In many areas, local bodies face challenges like corruption, lack of autonomy, and insufficient training for elected representatives, which hinder their potential.
In the absence of a single majority party, how is the Chief Minister appointed?
In the absence of a single majority party, the Governor of the state plays a crucial role in appointing the Chief Minister. The Governor invites the leader of the largest party or coalition, which is likely to command a majority in the Legislative Assembly, to form the government. If no party has a clear majority, the Governor may use discretion to appoint a Chief Minister and ask them to prove their majority in the Assembly within a reasonable time.
What is the difference between equality and uniformity?
Equality refers to ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and have the same opportunities, regardless of their differences. It aims to provide the same rights and privileges to all citizens, with provisions for affirmative action to address inequalities. Uniformity, on the other hand, means treating everyone the same without considering their unique needs or circumstances. While equality takes individual differences into account, uniformity ignores these differences, often leading to inequities.
What are the provisions for social justice in the Indian Constitution?
The Indian Constitution includes various provisions for social justice, such as:

Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
Article 17 abolishes untouchability.
Article 46 promotes the welfare of the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other weaker sections of society.
Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) provide for measures to reduce inequalities and promote social and economic justice.
These provisions aim to ensure equal opportunities and protection for marginalized groups in India.

Write two demerits of Nationalism.

Exclusion and Intolerance: Nationalism can sometimes lead to the exclusion of minority groups, fostering intolerance against those who are perceived as ‘outsiders’ or ‘others.’ This can result in social fragmentation and conflict.
Excessive Patriotism: Extreme nationalism may lead to an overemphasis on the superiority of one’s nation, potentially fostering a sense of arrogance or superiority that could lead to hostile relations with other nations.

Section C

19.Explain the term political participation in the light of the citizens of a country.
Political participation refers to the active involvement of citizens in the political processes of their country. It includes voting in elections, participating in protests, joining political parties, or engaging in debates and discussions on social and political issues. Political participation is essential for a healthy democracy, as it allows citizens to influence decisions, hold leaders accountable, and contribute to shaping the policies that govern their lives.

20.Do you think that Judicial activism can lead to a conflict between the Judiciary and the Executive? Why?
Yes, judicial activism can lead to a conflict between the Judiciary and the Executive. Judicial activism refers to the judiciary’s proactive role in interpreting the Constitution and laws, even in areas where the Executive and Legislature have not acted. This may sometimes challenge the actions or policies of the Executive. While the judiciary is meant to ensure that the laws are followed, overreach by the judiciary can lead to tensions, especially when it questions or interferes with government policies and executive decisions.

21.Why are rights necessary for the development of individuals?
Rights are necessary for the development of individuals because they provide a framework of protections and freedoms that allow people to express themselves, access resources, and live with dignity. Rights such as freedom of expression, the right to education, and the right to participate in political processes ensure that individuals can grow, pursue their interests, and contribute to society. Without rights, individuals may face oppression, discrimination, or exploitation, hindering their personal growth and development.

What are rights and why are they important? What are the bases on which claims to rights can be made?
Rights are fundamental entitlements or freedoms that every individual should have, allowing them to live with dignity and freedom. These include civil, political, social, and economic rights, such as the right to life, freedom of speech, and the right to education. Rights are important because they protect individuals from abuses, ensure equality, and enable people to participate in the social, economic, and political spheres of life. Claims to rights can be made based on social contracts, laws, and constitutional provisions, or through demands for social justice and equality.

22.Which of the two Houses of Parliament is called the Permanent House and why?
The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is called the Permanent House of Parliament because it is not subject to dissolution. While its members serve staggered terms of six years, one-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring continuity. In contrast, the Lok Sabha (House of the People) is dissolved every five years, leading to a complete re-election of its members.

Describe the amendment procedure of the Constitution.
The amendment procedure for the Indian Constitution is outlined in Article 368. There are two types of amendments:

Simple majority amendments: These amendments only require a majority vote in the Parliament.
Special majority amendments: These require a majority of the total membership of each House of Parliament and a majority of the members present and voting. Additionally, certain amendments, like changes to the federal structure, must be ratified by at least half of the states. This flexible procedure allows for both minor and major changes to the Constitution.

23.Why is Political Science stated as the Science of Power?
Political Science is often referred to as the Science of Power because it studies how power is distributed, exercised, and maintained within society. It examines political systems, structures, ideologies, and behavior, focusing on how power dynamics influence governance, decision-making, and policy formulation. The study of power is central to understanding political institutions, relations between the state and citizens, and the functioning of democracy.

Section D

24.Read the text carefully and answer the questions:

Machal Lalung was 23 when he was arrested. A resident of Chuburi village of Morigaon district of Assam, Machal was charged with causing grievous injuries. He was found mentally too unstable to stand trial and was sent as an undertrial to Lok Priya Gopinath Bordoloi Mental Hospital in Tezpur for treatment. Machal was treated successfully and doctors wrote twice to jail authorities in 1967 and 1996 that he was fit to stand trial. But no one paid any attention. Machal Lalung remained in “judicial custody.” Machal Lalung was released in July 2005. He was 77 then. He spent 54 years under custody during which his case never came up for hearing. He was freed when a team appointed by the National Human Rights Commission intervened after an inspection of undertrials in the State.

a.Which of the following rights is addressed in the given Machal Lalung’s case study?
a) Right to life and personal liberty
b) Right to freedom of religion
c) Right against exploitation
d) Right to Dignity

Answer: a) Right to life and personal liberty
Explanation: Machal Lalung’s case highlights the violation of his right to life and personal liberty, as he spent 54 years under custody without a trial or justice.

b.Following an examination of pending cases in the State, a team from the ________ played an active role to free Machal Lalung.
a) Priya Gopinath Bordoloi Commission
b) Human Rights Nation Commission
c) Consumer Redressal Commission
d) National Human Rights Commission

Answer: d) National Human Rights Commission
Explanation: The National Human Rights Commission played a crucial role in ensuring Machal Lalung’s release after examining his case.

c.Machal’s entire life was wasted because ________.
a) He was declared mentally unstable to stand trial
b) Proper trial against him never took place
c) A team of social scientists never paid any attention
d) He was declared mentally stable to stand trial

Answer: b) Proper trial against him never took place
Explanation: Despite being fit to stand trial, Machal Lalung’s case was never heard, leading to the waste of his entire life.

d.Machal’s case shows what happens when ________.
a) A person is arrested without being told the grounds for such an arrest.
b) Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of Religion is not available.
c) All of these
d) Rights granted by the Constitution are not available in practice.

Answer: d) Rights granted by the Constitution are not available in practice
Explanation: Machal’s case illustrates the failure to ensure constitutional rights such as the right to a fair trial, and the violation of his personal liberty.

25.In the given outline political map of India, four states have been marked as (A) (B) (C) and (D). Identify these states based on the information given below and write their correct names in your answer book, along with their respective serial number of the information used and the concerned alphabets as per the following format:

The states where women put a ban on the sale of arrack and stopped its auction: (B)
State which is related to Article 370 of the Indian Constitution: (D)
State from where the J.P. Narayan demanded the dismissal of Congress govt. in 1974: (C)
State which is highly affected by Naxalites: (A)

26.Look at the given cartoon. Read the following statement and question. Answer as per requirement:

What do these different people stand for?
Compare the conflict depicted here with the European Union and India.

Section E

27.Citizenship as full and equal members of a political community involves both rights and obligations. Which rights could citizens expect to enjoy in most democratic states today? What kind of obligations will they have to their state and fellow citizens?

In most democratic states today, citizens enjoy various rights that are fundamental to their freedom and dignity. These include:

Civil Rights: Right to life, liberty, and security; freedom of speech, assembly, and association; the right to a fair trial.
Political Rights: Right to vote, right to stand for elections, and the right to participate in political processes.
Social Rights: Right to education, health care, and access to social security and welfare programs.
Economic Rights: Right to own property, work, and receive fair wages.
Cultural and Religious Rights: Right to practice one’s religion, culture, and language.

In return, citizens have obligations to the state and fellow citizens, including:

Obligation to Obey the Law: Citizens must follow the laws established by the state.
Voting and Political Participation: Citizens have the duty to vote and engage in democratic processes.
Pay Taxes: Citizens are required to contribute to the state’s revenue through taxes, which fund public services.
Respecting Rights of Others: Citizens must respect the rights of others to live peacefully and without discrimination.
Defending the Country: In some countries, citizens may have an obligation to serve in the military or contribute to national defense.

These rights and obligations ensure that the political community functions smoothly and that there is mutual respect and accountability between citizens and the state.

Define Nationalism. Mention its advantages and disadvantages.

Nationalism refers to the belief, ideology, or movement that promotes the interests, culture, and identity of a nation. It encourages loyalty to one’s nation and its sovereignty and often seeks to unite people based on shared values, history, and language.

Advantages of Nationalism:

Promotes Unity: Nationalism helps unite people under a common identity and sense of belonging, fostering solidarity among citizens.
Strengthens Sovereignty: It encourages the protection of the nation’s independence and sovereignty, promoting political stability and unity.
Economic Growth: Nationalism can stimulate economic growth by promoting domestic industries and encouraging national pride in local products.
Patriotism and Civic Pride: Nationalism can lead to greater patriotism, where citizens take pride in their country’s achievements, leading to increased participation in national development.

Disadvantages of Nationalism:

Exclusion of Minorities: Extreme nationalism may marginalize or oppress minority groups that do not share the same ethnic, cultural, or religious background.
Conflict with Other Nations: Intense nationalism may foster hostility between nations, leading to conflicts, wars, or competition based on national pride.
Suppresses Diversity: Nationalism may undermine cultural and social diversity, promoting a homogeneous view of the nation that excludes differences.
Leads to Authoritarianism: In some cases, nationalism may lead to authoritarian or dictatorial governments that suppress dissent in the name of national unity.

28.Explain different kinds of liberty.

Liberty refers to the freedom or power of individuals to act according to their own will, provided they do not infringe on the rights of others. There are different kinds of liberty, including:

Negative Liberty: Refers to the absence of external constraints on an individual’s actions. It is the freedom from interference by others, particularly the government or the state. For example, the right to speak freely without fear of government censorship is a form of negative liberty.
Positive Liberty: Refers to the ability to act in ways that allow individuals to realize their own potential. It is not merely the absence of constraints but the presence of conditions that enable people to achieve their goals. For example, the right to education or healthcare enables people to live meaningful lives, which is a form of positive liberty.
Political Liberty: This is the freedom to participate in political processes, including voting, running for office, and engaging in civil activism. Political liberty ensures that citizens have a say in the governance of their country.
Economic Liberty: Refers to the freedom to engage in economic activities such as owning property, choosing a profession, and entering contracts. Economic liberty ensures that individuals have the autonomy to manage their personal finances and business activities without undue interference.

Distinguish between Political Equality and Social Equality.

Political Equality refers to the equal rights of individuals in the political sphere. It ensures that all citizens have the same political rights and opportunities, such as the right to vote, the right to stand for elections, and the right to participate in political activities. Political equality guarantees that no individual or group has more power or influence than others in the political decision-making process.
Social Equality refers to the equality of individuals in the social sphere, regardless of their race, gender, caste, religion, or economic status. It emphasizes equal access to resources, opportunities, and treatment in society. Social equality ensures that all individuals enjoy equal status and rights in social interactions, and that no one is discriminated against based on their identity or social background.

29.Write any four changes that have been made in the Panchayati Raj System under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment.

The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 brought several significant changes to the Panchayati Raj system in India to strengthen local self-government. These include:

Constitutional Status: Panchayats were given constitutional status, making them a part of the Constitution under Article 243, ensuring their permanence and importance in the governance structure.
Three-Tier System: A three-tier system of Panchayats was introduced at the village, intermediate, and district levels, to ensure decentralization of power and decision-making.
Reservation for Women: The amendment mandated the reservation of at least one-third of the seats for women in Panchayats at all levels, promoting gender equality in political participation.
Regular Elections: The amendment made provisions for regular elections to Panchayats, with a five-year term for elected representatives, ensuring accountability and democratic functioning at the local level.

List the main features of the Indian Constitution that give greater power to the central government than the state government.

The Indian Constitution contains several provisions that grant greater power to the central government. Some of these features include:

Union List (Article 246): The Union List comprises subjects on which only the central government can legislate, such as defense, foreign affairs, and nuclear energy, giving it significant authority in matters of national importance.
Single Citizenship (Article 5-11): Unlike some federal systems, India has single citizenship, meaning all citizens are subject to the same rights and duties across the entire country, under the jurisdiction of the central government.
Discretionary Powers of the President (Article 356): In cases of national emergency, the President can dissolve state governments and impose President’s Rule, thus increasing the central government’s control over states.
Financial Control: The central government controls most of the revenue and grants that fund state governments, giving it substantial financial influence over state administration.

30.What are the characteristics of Indian secularism?

Indian secularism is characterized by:

Equal Treatment of All Religions: The Indian state does not favor any religion and treats all religions equally, allowing freedom of religious practice (Article 25-28).
Freedom of Religion: Citizens are free to practice, profess, and propagate any religion of their choice, and there is no state interference in religious matters, except when public order is at stake.
Separation of Religion from the State: While India recognizes the importance of religion in people’s lives, it maintains a separation between religion and the functions of the state, meaning religion should not influence government policies.
Respect for Pluralism: Indian secularism promotes pluralism, where multiple religions and cultures coexist, and no religion is imposed on anyone.

Is politics different from political science? Why or why not?

Yes, politics and political science are different, though related.

Politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies that influence governance and decision-making within a society. It involves the exercise of power, the competition for control of resources, and the implementation of policies by political leaders and institutions.
Political Science is the academic discipline that studies politics, examining its theory, practice, structures, processes, and behavior. Political science is a systematic study of political systems, ideologies, institutions, and processes using empirical and theoretical methods.

In short, politics is the practical application of governance, while political science is the study of how politics works.

CBSE Class 11 – Political Science Sample Paper (2) 2024