Indian Constitution — Social Science STD 8 — Question
Gujarat BoardEnglish MediumSTD 8Social ScienceIndian Constitution5 Marks
Question
Describe the main features of the Constitution.
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Answer
The Constitution starts with the Preamble in which basic principles and aims of the administration of our country are mentioned, The preamble is a hallmark of the Constitution of India. The main features of the Constitution of India are as below:
$(1)$ Democracy : India has adopted democratic way of governance. Democracy is defined as the 'rule of the people, by the people and for the people. The rule, authorised and managed by the people is called democracy. In our country, the elections are usually held every five years. Voters of $18$ years or above age elect their representatives by secret ballot voting system. Any citizen of the country can be a candidate in election irrespective of any discrimination based on religion, caste, class and gender. Independence is important aspect of an democracy. In a democracy, every citizen has the freedom to speak, think, express and follow his religion as his wish.
$(2)$ Secularism : India is a secular country. Secularism means that the country is not run on the basis of ideology or beliefs of any sect or religion. No discrimination is made or practised on the basis of sect or community. The Constitution of India has provided assurance of certain sect or religion related to freedom to each citizen of India. On its basis, citizens have freedom to follow and propagate their religion and beliefs. No one can unnecessarily interfere with it. The Government of India remains impartial and neutral in matters of religion as per the provisions of the Constitution.
$(3)$ Republic : India is a republic country. A republic is a country which is run by its own people, who are elected directly or indirectly. The head of the state is not decided by inheritance. as it happens in monarchy. but elected through indirect voting. In the system of republic, all positions from Panchayat to Parliament are open to all citizens irrespective of religion. caste or gender. The people of India have the sovereign power to form a new government by overthrowing any government through elections. Thus. India is a republic country.
$(4)$ Union Territory/State : India is a Federal Union comprising different states. India being a huge country like subcontinent with great diversities, it is difficult to run the country from one central place. Therefore the Constitution has made provisions for federal structure. Federal structure of government has been formed in two parts:$1.$ Federal (Union or Central) and $2.$ State Governments. The work areas and authorities of these two types of governments are clearly divided(defined). The functions and powers of both the governments are divided into three lists namely Union Territory List. State List and Joint List. The Federal Government is entrusted with important tasks and authority.The Federal (Union) Government is also known as the Central Government.
$(5)$ Fundamental Rights and Duties : Fundamental rights and duties of citizens are stated clearly in our Constitution.
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