Maharashtra Board Class 7 Civics Chapter 1 Introduction to Our Constitution Solutions

Question 1. Provisions in the Constitution
Answer: It is the basic or fundamental law that is stated directly in the Constitution. Therefore, the rules and provisions in the Constitution are the basic or fundamental law of the land. The government is bound to carry out the administration of the country as per the provisions of the Constitution.
In simple words: The Constitution contains the fundamental laws and rules for governing a country, ensuring the government operates within these established guidelines.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on understanding that the Constitution is the supreme law, guiding all governmental actions and policies.

Question 2. Constitution Day
Answer: The Constituent Assembly enacted the Constitution and adopted it on 26th November, 1949. Therefore, 26th November is observed as 'Constitution Day' in India.
In simple words: Constitution Day is celebrated on November 26th because it marks the date when India's Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution in 1949.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the specific date (November 26th) and its significance as the adoption date, not the enforcement date.

Discuss:

Question 1. A Constituent Assembly was established.
Answer:
(i) The process of the making of the Indian Constitution started in 1946.
(ii) The leaders of the freedom movement insisted that independent India will be governed not by the laws made by the British, but by laws made by Indians themselves.
(iii) A Committee was established to prepare the Constitution of Independent India and it came to be known as Constituent Assembly.
In simple words: The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 by Indian freedom fighters to create a new constitution, ensuring independent India would be governed by its own laws, not British ones.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the reason for its formation – the desire for self-governance – and its role in drafting the Constitution.

Question 2. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is called the 'Architect of the Indian Constitution'.
Answer:
(i) The draft of the Constitution was prepared by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and presented to the Constituent Assembly after an in-depth contemplation and study of the Constitution of different countries of the world.
(ii) It was discussed Article by Article. Many amendments were suggested by different members.
(iii) Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar would present the draft, answer the various questions raised on them and make changes in the draft as per the suggestions of the Constituent Assembly in order to make every provision of the Constitution flawless.
(iv) Due to his contribution towards the making of the Constitution, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is called the 'Architect of the Indian Constitution'.
In simple words: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is called the 'Architect' because he meticulously drafted the Indian Constitution after studying various global constitutions, ensuring its thorough discussion and refinement.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize Dr. Ambedkar's leadership in the Drafting Committee and his pivotal role in synthesizing diverse ideas into a comprehensive document.

Question 3. What is included in the administration of a country?
Answer:
(i) The Government has to make laws relating to several subjects such as defending the boundaries, protecting the people from external aggression, eradication of poverty, creating employment, education and health services, encouragement to commerce and industries, protection of the weaker sections, making policies for the progress of women, children and the tribal people, etc.
(ii) In short, governments in modem times have to take decisions related to different issues right from space research to public cleanliness. This is included in the administration of a country.
In simple words: The administration of a country covers a vast range of responsibilities, from national defense and economic development to social welfare and public services like education, health, and cleanliness.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the comprehensive nature of governmental responsibilities, spanning from basic security to social and economic development.

Choose The Right Option:

Question 1. The Constitution of this country is primarily unwritten
(a) America
(b) India
(c) England
(d) None of these
Answer: (c) England
In simple words: England has an unwritten constitution, meaning its fundamental laws are derived from various statutes, common law, and conventions, rather than a single codified document.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between written (codified) and unwritten (uncodified) constitutions, noting that "unwritten" doesn't mean non-existent, but rather not contained in a single text.

Question 2. Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly
(a) Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
(b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
(c) Durgabai Deshmukh
(d) B.B. Rai
Answer: (b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
In simple words: Dr. Rajendra Prasad served as the President of the Constituent Assembly, overseeing its proceedings and guiding the constitution-making process.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly differentiate between the President of the Constituent Assembly (Dr. Rajendra Prasad) and the Chairman of the Drafting Committee (Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar).

Question 3. Who among these was not a member of the Constituent Assembly?
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Moulana Azad I
(c) RajkumariAmritKaur
(d) Hansaben Mehta I
Answer: (a) Mahatma Gandhi
In simple words: Mahatma Gandhi, despite his immense influence, chose not to be a formal member of the Constituent Assembly that drafted India's Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that while many prominent leaders were part of the Constituent Assembly, Mahatma Gandhi was notably not a member.

Question 4. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee
(a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
(b) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
(c) Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
(d) J.B. Kripalani
Answer: (c) Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
In simple words: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar led the crucial Drafting Committee, which was responsible for preparing the initial text of the Indian Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: It is essential to correctly identify Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee due to his fundamental role.

Answer The Following Questions:

Question 1. On what subjects does the Government have to make laws?
Answer: Government has to make laws relating to several subjects:
• Defending the boundaries.
• Protecting the people from external aggression.
• Eradication of poverty.
• Creating employment, education and health services, encouragement to commerce and industries.
• Protection of the weaker section, making policies for the progress of women, children and the tribal people.
In simple words: Governments make laws across a broad spectrum of issues including national security, public welfare, economic development, and social justice for all citizens.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing subjects, ensure to cover diverse areas like defense, economy, and social welfare to show a comprehensive understanding.

Question 2. Why do we celebrate 26th January as Republic Day?
Answer:
• Our country began to be governed according to the provisions of the Constitution from 26th January, 1950.
• The Indian Republic came into existence from this day.
• Therefore, 26th January is celebrated as Republic Day.
In simple words: January 26th is celebrated as Republic Day because on this date in 1950, India's Constitution officially came into effect, establishing the nation as a republic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state that Republic Day commemorates the enforcement of the Constitution, marking India's full transition to a republic.

Question 3. What are the advantages of running the government as per the provisions of the Constitution?
Answer: There are several advantages of governing a country with the help of rules or provisions included in a Constitution:
(i) The Government has to function within a set of rules. This reduces the possibility of the misuse of the power and authority they have been given.
(ii) A Constitution includes the rights and freedom of the citizens. The Government cannot take away these rights. Therefore, people's rights and freedoms are safeguarded.
(iii) Running a country as per the provisions of the Constitution is the same as establishing the rule of law, so there is no scope for the misuse of power or high-handed administration.
(iv) If a country is run as per the Constitution, the faith that the common people have in the government increases. They then become more keen on participating in the activities of the government. Democracy is strengthened due to the increased participation of the people.
(v) The Constitution presents some political ideals before the country. The nation is also bound to act in that direction. It creates an atmosphere conducive to attain world peace and security, and preservation of human rights.
(vi) Since the Constitution also includes the list of citizens' duties, it fixes the responsibility of the citizens as well.
In simple words: Governing by the Constitution ensures limited government power, safeguards citizen rights, establishes the rule of law, builds public trust, strengthens democracy, guides national ideals, and defines citizen responsibilities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the core benefits: preventing abuse of power, protecting rights, fostering public trust, and strengthening democratic participation.

Activities

1. Several committees were established for the effective functioning of the Constituent Assembly. Find out more information about them and discuss the role of different committees.
2. Prepare a report on how you celebrated Constitution Day in your school.
3. Make a collection of the photos of the members of the Constituent Assembly.

In-text Questions.

Question 1. Do you wish to ask the questions that puzzled Sameer and Vandana?
Answer: Yes, I wish to ask such questions.
In simple words: The question asks if one shares the same curiosity as Sameer and Vandana regarding the Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: This is an open-ended question designed to prompt student engagement and critical thinking about civic topics.

Question 2. Where can we find all the rules according to which the administration of the country is carried out?
Answer: The rules according to which the administration of the country is carried out are found mentioned in a country's constitution.
In simple words: All the rules and guidelines for governing a country are contained within its constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that the Constitution is the foundational document that outlines governance principles and procedures.

Question 3. Who makes those rules?
Answer: These rules are made by the Constituent Assembly which consist of the representatives of the states and provinces and the leaders of that country.
In simple words: The fundamental rules for a country's administration are formulated by a Constituent Assembly, comprised of elected representatives and national leaders.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify the Constituent Assembly as the body responsible for drafting these foundational rules, representing the will of the people.

Question 4. Is it binding on us to follow them?
Answer: Yes. All the rules mentioned in the Constitution are binding on every citizen of the country.
In simple words: Yes, all citizens are legally obligated to adhere to the rules and provisions set forth in the Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Stress the mandatory nature of constitutional rules for all citizens, highlighting that no one is above the law.

Let's Find Out:

Find out some information about the Constitution of any one country of your choice with the help of the following points.

Question 1. Name of the country
Answer: India
In simple words: The chosen country for this exercise is India.

🎯 Exam Tip: This question is introductory; ensure you clearly state the country you are focusing on for subsequent points.

Question 2. Year of the making of the Constitution:
Answer: The Constituent Assembly enacted the Constitution and adopted it on 26th November 1949. However the country began to be actually governed according to the provisions of the Constitution only from 26th January 1950.
In simple words: India's Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, and fully came into effect on January 26, 1950.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between the date of adoption (1949) and the date of enforcement (1950) of the Indian Constitution.

Question 3. Two features of the Constitution:
Answer:
(a) The lengthiest Constitution in the world: The Indian Constitution is the lengthiest and the most detailed of all the written Constitutions of the world containing 449 articles in 25 parts, 12 schedules, 5 appendices and 101 Amendments.
(b) Parliamentary form of Government: The constitution of India establishes a parliamentary form of a government both at the Centre and the State. The essence of the parliamentary government is its responsibility to the Legislature. The President is the constitutional head of the State but the real executive power is vested in the council of ministers whose head is the Prime Minister.
In simple words: Key features of the Indian Constitution include its remarkable length and detail, making it the longest written constitution, and its establishment of a parliamentary system of government at both central and state levels.

🎯 Exam Tip: When describing features, provide specific details like the number of articles/amendments for the "lengthiest" point, and clearly explain the relationship between the executive and legislature in the "parliamentary form."

Activity:

Question 1. Several committees were established for the effective functioning of the constituent Assembly. Find out more information about them and discuss the role of different committees.
Answer:
1. Committee on the Rules of Procedure: Rajendra Prasad
2. Steering Committee : Rajendra Prasad
3. Finance and Staff Committee: Rajendra Prasad
4. Credential Committee: Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar
5. House Committee: B. Pratibha Sitaramayya
6. Order of Business Committee: K.M. Munsi
7. Adhoc Committee on the National Flag: Rajendra Prasad
8. Committee on the Functions of the Constituent Assembly: G.V. Mavalankar
9. States Committee: Jawaharlal Nehru
10. Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities and Tribal and Excluded Areas: Vallabhbhai Patel
11. Minorities Sub-Committee: H. C. Mookherjee
12. Fundamental Rights Sub-Committee: J. B. Kripalani
13. North-East Frontier Tribal Areas and Assam Excluded & Partially Excluded Areas Sub-Committee: Gopinath Bardoloi
14. Excluded and Partially Excluded Areas (Other than those in Assam) Sub-Committee: A.V. Thakkar
15. Union Powers Committee: Jawaharlal Nehru
16. Union Constitution Committee: Jawaharlal Nehru
17. Drafting Committee: B.R. Ambedkar
In simple words: Numerous committees, each with specific leaders like Rajendra Prasad and B.R. Ambedkar, were crucial for the Constituent Assembly to systematically draft the Constitution, covering rules, finance, fundamental rights, and various regional concerns.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on remembering the key committees like the Drafting Committee and their chairpersons, as they are frequently asked. Understand that each committee focused on a specific aspect of the Constitution.

Complete The Sentence By Choosing The Appropriate Words From The Options Given Below:

Question 1. The administration of our village or city is carried out in accordance with _____ (will of the majority, rules, orders of the Collector)
Answer: rules
In simple words: The governance of local bodies like villages or cities follows established rules, ensuring organized administration.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that even local administration is governed by a framework of rules, not just arbitrary decisions.

Question 2. The book in which all the provisions regarding the administration of the country are mentioned together in a systematic way is called a _____. (Law book, Guide, Constitution)
Answer: Constitution
In simple words: The Constitution is the comprehensive document that systematically outlines all the provisions for a country's administration.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that the term "Constitution" specifically refers to the foundational legal document governing a nation.

Question 3. Democracy is _____ due to increased participation of the people. (strengthened, maintained, weakened)
Answer: strengthened
In simple words: Greater involvement of citizens actively participating in governance directly leads to the strengthening of democratic principles.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize the direct correlation between active public participation and the robustness of a democratic system.

Question 4. The process of the making of the Indian Constitution started in the year _____. (1952,1947,1946)
Answer: 1946
In simple words: The process of drafting the Indian Constitution commenced in the year 1946.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the year 1946 as the initiation point for the Constitution-making process in India.

Question 5. A committee which was established to prepare the Constitution of independent India was the _____ Assembly) (Drafting Committee, StandingCommittee, Constituent
Answer: Constituent Assembly
In simple words: The Constituent Assembly was the body specifically tasked with framing the Constitution for independent India.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between the general Constituent Assembly and specific sub-committees like the Drafting Committee when answering questions about the constitution-making body.

Question 6. There were a total of _____ members in the Constituent Assembly. (298, 299, 289)
Answer: 299
In simple words: The Constituent Assembly, responsible for creating the Indian Constitution, comprised 299 members.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recall the specific number of members in the Constituent Assembly to ensure accuracy in factual recall.

Question 7. _____ was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. (Durgabai Deshmukh, J.B. Kripalani, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar)
Answer: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar
In simple words: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar held the pivotal role of Chairman for the Drafting Committee.

🎯 Exam Tip: It is crucial to correctly identify Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.

Question 8. Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar is called the _____ of the Indian Constitution'. (Architect, Visionary, Inspiration)
Answer: Architect
In simple words: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar is famously recognized as the 'Architect' due to his foundational work on the Indian Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar with the title 'Architect of the Indian Constitution' due to his central role in its creation.

Question 11 _____is observed as 'Constitution Day'. (26th November, 26th January, 15th August)
Answer: 26th November
In simple words: November 26th is celebrated as Constitution Day because it marks the adoption of India's Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Distinguish between Constitution Day (November 26th, adoption) and Republic Day (January 26th, enforcement).

Question 10. 26th January is celebrated as _____ Day. (Independence, Republic, Constitution)
Answer: Republic
In simple words: January 26th is observed as Republic Day, marking the official establishment of India as a republic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that January 26th is Republic Day, signifying the date the Constitution came into full effect.

Question 11. Our Constitution is a/an _____ document of the provision related to the administration of the country. (written, oral, inspirational)
Answer: written
In simple words: The Indian Constitution is a codified, written document outlining the administration of the country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note that India has a 'written' constitution, which is a key characteristic distinguishing it from an 'unwritten' one.

Match The Following:

Question 1.

Answer:
1-c
2-a
3-b
4-d
In simple words: This matching exercise connects significant dates in Indian history (August 15th, November 26th, January 26th, and January 26th, 1950) with their corresponding historical events or designations.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure you clearly distinguish between Independence Day (August 15th), Constitution Day (November 26th), and Republic Day (January 26th, 1950).

Answer In One Or Two Sentences:

Question 1. Why do we follow norms and rules?
Answer: We follow norms and rules in order that the activities in the family, our school, our village or city are carried out smoothly.
In simple words: Norms and rules are followed to ensure smooth and orderly functioning of activities in various social units, from families to cities.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the role of rules in ensuring order, efficiency, and smooth functioning in any organized group or society.

Question 2. How is the administration of our country carried out?
Answer: The administration of our country is carried out through a system of rules.
In simple words: The country's administration operates under a structured system of established rules and regulations, primarily laid out in the Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: The administration relies on a clear framework of rules to ensure consistency and accountability in governance.

Question 3. Explain the term 'Constitution'.
Answer: The book in which all the provisions related to the administration of the country are mentioned together in a systemic way is called Constitution.
In simple words: The Constitution is the foundational document that comprehensively and systematically details all the rules and principles for governing a nation.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define the Constitution as a systematic record of governance provisions, emphasizing its role as the supreme law of the land.

Question 4. What are the basic or fundamental law of the land?
Answer: The rules and provisions in the Constitution are the basic or fundamental law of the land.
In simple words: The Constitution's rules and provisions serve as the fundamental and supreme laws that govern the entire country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly state that the Constitution's contents form the highest legal authority in the nation.

Question 5. How were decisions made in the Constituent Assembly?
Answer: Decisions in the Constituent Assembly were made on the basis of debate and discussion.
In simple words: Decisions within the Constituent Assembly were reached through extensive debates and thorough discussions among its members.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the democratic process of debate and discussion that characterized decision-making in the Constituent Assembly.

Question 6. What is governance?
Answer: Government in modem times have to take decisions related to different issues right from space research to public cleanliness. This is governance.
In simple words: Governance encompasses all the decisions and actions taken by a government to manage public affairs and provide services, from complex national initiatives to local civic services.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define governance broadly as the exercise of political authority and management of public affairs, covering a wide range of issues.

Name The Following:

Question 1. Name the well-known members of the constituent assembly.
Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Abdul Kalam Azad, Sarojini Naidu, J. B. Kriplani, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Durgabai Deshmukh, Hansaben Mehta and others.
In simple words: Prominent members of the Constituent Assembly included Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Sardar Patel, and Sarojini Naidu, among others.

🎯 Exam Tip: Aim to recall at least 3-5 key figures to demonstrate knowledge of the Constituent Assembly's composition.

Question 2. The President of the Constituent Assembly.
Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
In simple words: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the esteemed President who presided over the Constituent Assembly.

🎯 Exam Tip: It is important to correctly identify Dr. Rajendra Prasad as the President of the Constituent Assembly.

Question 3. The States in pre-independence period where the local princes carried out the administration.
Answer: Princely states.
In simple words: During the pre-independence era, territories administered by local rulers were known as Princely States.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the term "Princely states" refers to the regions under the direct rule of Indian monarchs before 1947.

Give Reasons:

Question 1. We celebrate 26th January as Republic Day.
Answer:
(i) Our country began to be governed according to the provisions of the Constitution from 26th January, 1950.
(ii) The Indian Republic came into existence from this day. Therefore, 26th January is celebrated as Republic Day.
In simple words: January 26th is celebrated as Republic Day because it marks the date in 1950 when the Indian Constitution was fully implemented, establishing India as a sovereign republic.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly link January 26th, 1950, to the enforcement of the Constitution and the birth of the Indian Republic.

Question 2. Nature of the Constitutions of different countries is different.
Answer:
• There are differences of history, social structures, culture, traditions, etc., between the countries.
• Similarly, their needs and objectives also might be different.
• Each country tries to create a Constitution that is not only suited to its needs and objectives, but also is in tune with its distinct nature.
In simple words: Constitutions vary globally because each country's unique history, societal structure, culture, and national objectives shape its fundamental laws to fit its specific context.

🎯 Exam Tip: Emphasize that a constitution is a reflection of a nation's distinct identity, values, and practical requirements.

Explain In Detail:

Question 1. If the government does not follow the Constitution while making laws, the Judiciary can declare those laws null and void or unconstitutional. Explain.
Answer:
• The Government is established by the representatives elected by the people.
• It is bound to carry out the administration of the country as per the provisions of the Constitution.
• The rules and provisions in the Constitution are the basic or fundamental law of the land.
• While making laws, the government is bound to follow the Constitution.
• If it does not do so, then the Judiciary can declare those laws null and void or unconstitutional.
In simple words: The Judiciary acts as a guardian of the Constitution; if the government creates laws that violate the constitutional framework, the courts have the power to strike them down as unconstitutional, upholding the supremacy of the Constitution.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the principle of judicial review and the supremacy of the Constitution, explaining how the judiciary safeguards against governmental overreach.

Question 2. How long did it take to write the Constitution? OR Why is it the lengthiest Constitution in the world?
Answer:
(i) It took 2 years, 11 months and 17 days to complete the writing of the Constitution.
(ii) There were 22 parts, 395 Articles and 8 Schedules in the original Constitution, thus making it the lengthiest Constitution in the world.
In simple words: The Indian Constitution took 2 years, 11 months, and 17 days to write, and it is the world's lengthiest because it originally contained 22 parts, 395 Articles, and 8 Schedules, reflecting its comprehensive nature.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the precise duration for drafting the Constitution and cite the vast number of articles and schedules as reasons for its extensive length.

Question 3. Write about the wide range of issues in the Constitution which were contributed by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar.
Answer: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's contribution was in a wide range of issues like water conservation, foreign policy, national security, journalism, economics, social justice etc.
In simple words: Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar contributed extensively to the Constitution, influencing policies on diverse subjects such as water management, foreign relations, national defense, economic principles, and social justice.

🎯 Exam Tip: When discussing Dr. Ambedkar's contributions, demonstrate a broad understanding of his influence across multiple key policy areas, not just social justice.

Question 4. We are proud of our Constitution.
Answer:
(i) Decisions in the Constituent Assembly were made on the basis of debate and discussion. A respect for opposing view points and the acceptance of the appropriate suggestions were a characteristic of the working of the Constituent Assembly.
(ii) It took 2 years, 11 months and 17 days to complete the writing of the Constitution.
(iii) There were 22 parts, 395 Articles and 8 schedules in the original Constitution.
In simple words: We are proud of our Constitution because it was meticulously crafted through democratic debate, ensuring inclusivity and thoroughness, and is a comprehensive document reflecting diverse perspectives.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the democratic process of its creation, its comprehensive nature, and its representation of diverse viewpoints as reasons for national pride.