Oxford Solutions for ICSE Class 7 History Civics Chapter 12 The Constitution And The Preamble

EXERCISE

A. Fill in the blanks :

Question 1: The Constitution of India was framed by the constituent Assembly.

Answer: constituent Assembly.
The Constituent Assembly was a body of elected representatives who gathered to draft the foundational laws of our country. They worked for almost three years to ensure every aspect of Indian society was considered in the document.
Teacher's Tip: Remember "CA" for Constituent Assembly - they are the Creators of the Acts.
Exam Tip: Mention that the Assembly started its work in 1946 to show extra historical knowledge.

Question 2: The Preambles tells us about the source of the Constitution, the nature of the state and its main objectives of the Constitution.

Answer: source, objectives of the Constitution.
The Preamble acts as an introduction that sets the stage for the rest of the document. it highlights that the ultimate power lies with the citizens and lists the goals our nation strives to achieve.
Teacher's Tip: Think of the Preamble as the "ID card" of our Constitution; it gives all the basic details.
Exam Tip: If asked about the "source," always remember it is "The People of India."

Question 3: Socialism involves fair distribution of the country's wealth among all sections of the people.

Answer: fair, all.
This principle ensures that the gap between the rich and the poor is reduced as much as possible. It aims to provide equal economic opportunities so that everyone can lead a decent life.
Teacher's Tip: Associate "Socialism" with "Social Sharing" to remember it is about distributing wealth.
Exam Tip: Use the word "equality" when explaining the goal of a socialist state.

Question 4: The people of India elect their own government because India is a Democratic country.

Answer: Democratic.
In a democracy, the power to choose leaders rests with the citizens through the process of voting. This ensures that the government remains accountable and responsible to the people who elected them.
Teacher's Tip: Remember the famous phrase: "Government of the people, by the people, and for the people."
Exam Tip: "Universal Adult Franchise" is the system that makes our democracy work at the voting booths.

Question 5: The President of India has a fixed term of 5 years.

Answer: 5.
Every five years, a new President is elected to serve as the formal head of the state. This regular interval allows for a stable and democratic transition of leadership in our country.
Teacher's Tip: Most major political terms in India, like the Lok Sabha and President, last for "High Five" (5) years.
Exam Tip: Don't confuse the term of the President with the term of Rajya Sabha members, which is different.

B. Match the following :

A
1. 1946
2. 1947
3. 1949
4. 1950
5. 1976

B
(a) India became independent.
(b) The Constitution of India was passed.
(c) The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held.
(d) The Constitution of India was amended.
(e) India became a sovereign, democratic, Republic.
Answer:
1. 1946 - (c) The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held.
2. 1947 - (a) India became independent.
3. 1949 - (b) The Constitution of India was passed.
4. 1950 - (e) India became a sovereign, democratic, Republic.
5. 1976 - (d) The Constitution of India was amended.
These dates represent the most significant milestones in the journey of India as a nation-state. From the first meeting to the major amendments, these years define our political history.
Teacher's Tip: Create a timeline on a piece of paper to see how these events happened one after another.
Exam Tip: Always write the full event name next to the year in matching questions for better clarity.

C. Choose the correct answer :

Question 1: India won freedom from British/French/Portuguese rule on 15 August 1947.

Answer: India won freedom from British rule on 15 August 1947.
The British ruled India for nearly two hundred years before the long struggle for independence finally succeeded. 15 August is now celebrated every year as Independence Day to honor this victory.
Teacher's Tip: Just remember the "British Raj" ended on Independence Day.
Exam Tip: Be sure to mention the exact date (15 August) if asked when British rule ended.

Question 2: The chairman of the Constituent Assembly of India was Dr Rajendra Prasad/B. R. Ambedkar/Maulana Azad.

Answer: The chairman of the Constituent Assembly of India was Dr Rajendra Prasad.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad presided over the meetings and managed the overall work of the Assembly. He later went on to become the first President of Independent India.
Teacher's Tip: Don't get confused! Prasad was the Chairman of the "Assembly," while Ambedkar was the Chairman of the "Drafting Committee."
Exam Tip: Read the question carefully to see if it asks for the "Assembly" Chairman or "Drafting Committee" Chairman.

Question 3: The source of the Indian Constitution is the President/ the Prime Minister/the people of India.

Answer: The source of the Indian Constitution is the people of India.
The Constitution begins with "We, the People of India," which signifies that the laws are created by and for the citizens. It means the people have given themselves these rules to live by.
Teacher's Tip: The "Source" is always the "Strength," and the strength of a democracy is its people.
Exam Tip: This is a common question; always point to "the people" as the ultimate authority.

Question 4: A democratic/socialist/secular state does not have an official religion.

Answer: A secular state does not have an official religion.
In a secular country like India, the government treats all religions equally and does not promote one over the others. Every citizen has the freedom to practice and preach the religion of their choice.
Teacher's Tip: "Secular" means "Separate" - the state stays separate from religious favoritism.
Exam Tip: Link the word "Secular" with "Religious Freedom" to understand the concept better.

Question 5: A democracy can work only if there is a spirit of jealousy/brotherhood/competition among the different sections of society.

Answer: A democracy can work only if there is a spirit of brotherhood among the different sections of society.
Brotherhood, or fraternity, helps people of different cultures and beliefs live together in harmony. Without this mutual respect, the unity of the nation would be at risk.
Teacher's Tip: Think of "Fraternity" as being "Friends" with everyone in your big Indian family.
Exam Tip: The Preamble uses the word "Fraternity" specifically to mean this spirit of brotherhood.

D. State whether the following are true or false :

Question 1: The Constitution of India was framed by the British government.

Answer: False.
Correct : The Constitution of India was framed by the Constituent Assembly.
It was important for Indians to write their own laws to reflect our specific needs and culture. The Assembly was composed of Indian leaders who understood the country's diverse requirements.
Teacher's Tip: If the British had written it, it wouldn't be "Our" Constitution!
Exam Tip: For False statements, always provide the "Correct" sentence to earn full points.

Question 2: Sarojini Naidu was a member of the Constituent Assembly.

Answer: True.
She was one of the few prominent women who contributed to the making of the Constitution. Her presence ensured that the voices and rights of women were considered during the drafting process.
Teacher's Tip: Remember the "Nightingale of India" was also a "Maker of Laws."
Exam Tip: Knowing the names of women members like Sarojini Naidu adds value to your long answers.

Question 3: The Preamble is the conclusion to the Constitution.

Answer: False.
Correct : The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution.
The Preamble comes at the very beginning to explain the purpose and spirit of the document. It guides the reader on what the entire set of laws is trying to achieve.
Teacher's Tip: Introduction = Preamble; Conclusion = End. Don't mix them up!
Exam Tip: If asked where the Preamble is located, say it is the "prefix" or "opening statement."

Question 4: When the President of India dies, his/her son becomes the next President.

Answer: False.
In a Republic, positions are not inherited by family members but are filled through elections. This ensures that the most capable and chosen person leads the country.
Teacher's Tip: No "Kings and Queens" in a Republic; only elected leaders.
Exam Tip: Use this to explain the meaning of the term "Republic."

Question 5: All Indian citizens are equal in the eyes of the law.

Answer: True.
This means that no matter how rich or poor, or what religion someone belongs to, the law applies to everyone in the same way. It is the foundation of justice in our country.
Teacher's Tip: "Equality" means the law wears a blindfold and treats everyone the same.
Exam Tip: Mention "Right to Equality" as a Fundamental Right when discussing this topic.

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences :

Question 1: Define the term -constitution-.

Answer: A Constitution is a statement which defines the powers and functions of the government as well as the rights and duties of the citizens. It is the fundamental law of that nation.
It serves as a rulebook that prevents the government from misusing its power. Without a constitution, there would be no clear rules for how a country should be run.
Teacher's Tip: Think of the Constitution as the "Grand Rulebook" of India.
Exam Tip: Use keywords like "fundamental law" and "rights and duties" for a perfect definition.

Question 2: When did the Constitution of India come into force?

Answer: The Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950.
This day is celebrated as Republic Day every year with great pride. Although it was ready earlier, this specific date was chosen to honor the memory of the "Purna Swaraj" declaration.
Teacher's Tip: 26 January = Republic Day = Constitution in action!
Exam Tip: Do not confuse this with Independence Day (15 August); 26 Jan is for the Constitution.

Question 3: What is a preamble.

Answer: The Preamble is a kind of introductory statement which comes before the Constitution. It is not a law but it explains the true spirit of the Indian Constitution.
It acts like a compass, showing the direction in which the laws and the government should move. It contains the philosophy and basic values that India stands for.
Teacher's Tip: The Preamble is the "Soul" of the Constitution.
Exam Tip: Emphasize that it is an "introductory statement" to get full marks.

Question 4: How do we know that the Constitution of India was not imposed on us by the British?

Answer: Constitution of India was not imposed on us by the British. After we got independence in 1947, a constituent Assembly under the chairmanship of Dr. Rajendra Prasad was appointed to frame the constitution.
Because our own chosen leaders debated every word of it, it is a document created by Indians for Indians. It wasn't forced upon us by any foreign power, making it truly our own.
Teacher's Tip: It was "Home-made" laws, not "British-made" ones.
Exam Tip: Mentioning the "Constituent Assembly" is the best proof that it wasn't imposed.

Question 5: Who gives the government of India the authority to govern the country?

Answer: Our Constitution gives the government of India the authority to govern the country
The Constitution lays down the limits and powers of the government, so they must follow its rules. The authority ultimately comes from the people through the Constitution.
Teacher's Tip: The Constitution is the "Boss" of the government.
Exam Tip: Briefly mention that the "People" are the ultimate source behind the Constitution.

F. Answer the following questions briefly :

Question 1: Explain the meaning of the following terms : (a) Sovereign (b) Democratic (c) Republic

Answer: (a) Sovereign : Means that India is an independent country. No external power can control or interfere in its internal affairs.
(b) Democratic : A democratic government is a government of the people, for the people, by the people.
(c) Republic : A country where head of the state is elected by the people.
These three terms define the political status of India as a free nation. Being sovereign means we make our own decisions, being democratic means the people choose, and being a republic means our leader is not a king.
Teacher's Tip: Sovereign = Independent; Democratic = Voting; Republic = No King.
Exam Tip: When asked for definitions, always provide a clear one-sentence explanation for each term.

Question 2: State the basic features of the following : (a) a socialist state (b) a secular state

Answer: (a) Socialist state : Is one where there is fair distribution of the county's wealth among all sections of the people. It means providing equal opportunities to all in order to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor.
(b) Secular state : A secular state is one which :
- does not have an official or state religion.
- does not discriminate against anybody on grounds of religion.
- does not favour or promote any particular religion.
- guarantees the freedom of every individual to profess, practise and propagate his or her own religion.
These features ensure both economic and religious fairness for every citizen. A socialist state looks after people's needs, while a secular state looks after their religious freedom.
Teacher's Tip: Socialist = Wealth Balance; Secular = Religious Balance.
Exam Tip: For "Secular state," try to list at least two of the bullet points provided in the answer.

Question 3: State the objectives of the Constitution with reference to : (a) Justice (b) Liberty (c) Equality

Answer: (a) Justice : All citizens are equal in the eyes of law. Justice shall not be denied to anybody on the basis of place of birth, race, caste, creed, sex status or religion. Every individual will get what is his or her due,
(b) Liberty : Even, Indian citizen shall enjoy certain fundamental rights such as the freedom to think and express oneself and the freedom to follow the religion of our choice.
(c) Equality : All citizens are equal before law and will be protected equally by the laws of the land. The state shall not discriminate between people on the basis of place of birth, sex. Caste, creed, race, religion or wealth.
These objectives are the promises made to every Indian to ensure a life of dignity. They protect us from unfair treatment and allow us to grow as individuals.
Teacher's Tip: Think of J-L-E (Justice, Liberty, Equality) as the three gifts the Constitution gives you.
Exam Tip: Note that "Justice" covers social, economic, and political aspects of life.

Question 4: Why did the farmers of the Constitution decide to promote fraternity among the people of India?

Answer: A democracy can work only if there is a spirit of brotherhood and oneness among the different sections of society. When this feeling of being -one people- is promoted and firmly established, social evils such as untouchability and communalism can be removed. Harmony will prevail and the country can progress unitedly towards its goal of securing justice, liberty and equality for all its citizens.
Promoting fraternity helps unite the diverse population of India into one single identity. It is the key to maintaining peace in a country with so many different languages and traditions.
Teacher's Tip: Fraternity is the "Glue" that keeps the different pieces of India stuck together.
Exam Tip: Mention that fraternity is necessary to remove "social evils" like untouchability.

G Picture study :

This is a picture of the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly of India which drafted the Indian Constitution.

Question 1: Identify the person in the Picture

Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
He was a very respected leader from Bihar who led the Assembly with great wisdom. His leadership was crucial during the long debates involved in making the Constitution.
Teacher's Tip: He is the same person who became India's first President.
Exam Tip: Always include "Dr." before his name to show proper respect.

Question 2: Name two other prominent members of the Constituent Assembly.

Answer: (a) B. R. Ambedkar (b) Maulana Azad
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the Father of the Constitution for his role in the Drafting Committee. Maulana Azad was a great scholar and freedom fighter who contributed significantly to the Assembly's vision.
Teacher's Tip: Remember "Ambedkar and Azad" - the A-team of the Assembly.
Exam Tip: Listing these names correctly shows that you know the key figures behind our laws.

Question 3: When was the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly held?

Answer: 9 Dec 1946.
The work for India's future began even before we gained full independence. This meeting was the first step towards creating a self-governing India.
Teacher's Tip: It happened just before the end of 1946 - in the last month (December).
Exam Tip: Memorize the exact date (9 December) for factual questions.

Question 4: When did the Constitution come into force?

Answer: 26 January 1950
Coming into "force" means that from this day onwards, the rules of the Constitution became the law of the land. It marked the official birth of the Republic of India.
Teacher's Tip: This is why we have a parade on Republic Day!
Exam Tip: Ensure you differentiate between the "Passing" date (Nov 1949) and the "Force" date (Jan 1950).

Question 5: What is the introduction to the Constitution called? What does it tell us about the source of the Constitution?

Answer: The Preamble is an introduction to the Constitution. It helps us to understand the vision and the aspirations of the farmers of our Constitution. The Preamble tells us about the source of the Constitution, the nature of the state and its main objectives.
It clarifies that the Constitution is not something given to us by a king, but something we have given to ourselves. It captures the heart of India's democratic philosophy in a few lines.
Teacher's Tip: Think of it as the "Preface" of a book that tells you what the book is about.
Exam Tip: Mention that it tells us about the "vision and aspirations" of our leaders.

Question 6: Mention the objectives stated in the introduction.

Answer:
- Justice : All citizens are equal in the eyes of law. Justice shall not be denied to anybody.
- Liberty : Every Indian citizen shall enjoy certain fundamental rights such as the freedom to think and express oneself and the freedom to follow the religion of our choice.
- Equality : All citizens are equal before law and will be protected equally by the laws of the land.
- Fraternity : A democracy can work only if there is a spirit of brotherhood and oneness among the different sections of society.
These four objectives serve as the pillar of our nation's progress and unity. They ensure that every citizen feels safe, free, and respected in their own country.
Teacher's Tip: Memorize these four: Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity (J-L-E-F).
Exam Tip: Use these bullet points to structure your answer for maximum marks.

OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Question 1: Give three points which define the philosophy underlying the Constitution?

Answer: The philosophy underlying the Constitution is :
1. The Constitution derives all its authority from the citizens of the country and the state is the creation of the people.
2. The country must be governed according to the limits set by the sovereign people.
3. The Supreme Court has the sole authority to interpret the Constitution.
This philosophy ensures that the power of the government is never unlimited and always stays under the law. It protects the rights of the citizens by having an independent court check the laws.
Teacher's Tip: Philosophy = Authority from People + Limits on Government + Supreme Court power.
Exam Tip: Mention the role of the "Supreme Court" as the interpreter of the Constitution.

Question 2: Throw some light on the Equality of all the individuals as stated in the Constitution?

Answer: According to the constitution, all the individuals are equal in the eye of law and no discrimination should be done on the basis of caste, creed, race, gender, religion or wealth.
Equality ensures that everyone has the same chance to succeed and be heard in society. It removes the unfair barriers that existed in the past based on birth or status.
Teacher's Tip: Equality is like a fair race where everyone starts at the same line.
Exam Tip: List the factors (caste, gender, religion, etc.) to show a complete understanding of non-discrimination.

Question 3: What is Universal Adult Franchise?

Answer: The Constitution gives all adult India citizens the right to vote, irrespective of caste, sex, religion, social status, wealth and education. The right to vote is denied to those who are of unsound mental health or are insolvent. This right is called Universal Adult Franchise.
It is the most important tool of our democracy because it makes every citizen's voice count. Whether someone is rich or poor, their one vote has exactly the same value in choosing the government.
Teacher's Tip: "Universal" means everyone, "Adult" means 18+, and "Franchise" means the right to vote.
Exam Tip: Always mention that it applies "irrespective of caste, sex, or religion" for a high-scoring answer.