Samacheer Kalvi Class 7 Social Science Solutions Term 1 Chapter 2 Political Parties

I. Choose the correct answer:

 

Question 1. What is meant by Bi-party system?
(a) Two parties run the government
(b) Two members run a party.
(c) Two major political parties contest election.
(d) None of the options
Answer: (a) Two parties run the government.
In simple words: A bi-party system means that two main political parties have control, and they usually take turns running the government. It offers clear choices for voters.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining political systems, always mention the number of dominant parties and their primary role, such as forming the government.

 

Question 2. Which system of government does India have?
(a) Single-party system
(b) Bi-party system
(c) Multi-party system
(d) None of the options
Answer: (c) Multi-party system
In simple words: India has a multi-party system, which means many different political parties exist and can compete in elections. This allows for a wider range of views and choices for citizens.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember that a multi-party system typically indicates a diverse political landscape where alliances often play a crucial role in forming governments.

 

Question 3. Recognition of a political party is accorded by..................
(a) The Election commission
(b) The president
(c) The supreme court
(d) A committee
Answer: (a) The Election commission
In simple words: The Election Commission is the body that decides if a political party is officially recognized or not. This is important for parties to be able to use symbols and contest elections properly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always identify the specific constitutional body responsible for crucial electoral processes like party recognition.

 

Question 4. Political parties are generally formed on the basis of.
(a) Religious principles
(b) Common interest
(c) Economic principles
(d) Caste
Answer: (b) Common interest
In simple words: Political parties usually form because a group of people share similar ideas and goals for the country. They work together to achieve these shared interests.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the unifying factor for party formation; while other factors might influence, common interest is the primary driving force.

 

Question 5. Single-party system is found in
(a) India
(b) U.S.A
(c) France
(d) China
Answer: (d) China
In simple words: A single-party system means only one political party is allowed to govern and hold power, like in China. This is different from countries with many parties.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for examples of political systems, be ready to provide a specific country that clearly represents that system.

II. Fill in the blacks:

 

1. ..................... form the back bone of democracy.
Answer: Political parties
In simple words: Political parties are very important for a democracy to work well, like the backbone of a body. They help people choose leaders and make decisions.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understanding the fundamental elements of democracy, like the role of political parties, is key for such fill-in-the-blank questions.

 

2. Every party in our country has to register with..................
Answer: Election Commission of India
In simple words: All political parties in India must register themselves with the Election Commission to be officially recognized and participate in elections. This helps keep elections fair and organized.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always specify the full name of the authoritative body, in this case, "Election Commission of India," not just "Election Commission."

 

3. Political parties serve as intermediaries between the ..................... and ....................
Answer: citizen, policy makers
In simple words: Political parties act like a bridge, connecting ordinary people with the leaders who make decisions and rules. They help tell leaders what people want and tell people about new policies.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize the two-way communication role of political parties between the public and government to answer this type of question.

 

4. A registered but ...................... political party cannot contest election on its own symbol.
Answer: unrecognised
In simple words: If a political party is registered but not recognized, it means they are official but can't use their own special election symbol. They have to use a "free symbol" instead.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate between "registered" and "recognized" status for political parties, especially regarding symbol allotment.

 

5. The leader of the opposition party enjoys the rank of...................
Answer: Cabinet minister
In simple words: The leader of the party that lost the election but has the second-highest number of seats is called the opposition leader, and they have a very important position, similar to a Cabinet Minister. This helps them effectively question the government.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the significance of the opposition leader's role and their equivalent rank, which ensures their effective functioning in a democracy.

III. Match the following:

 

Answer:

In simple words: Matching helps us connect important terms with their correct definitions or roles. For example, democracy means the people rule, and the Election Commission ensures elections are fair. The party with the most votes forms the government, while the opposition critiques its work.

🎯 Exam Tip: For matching questions, understand the core function or definition of each term in column A and find its direct correspondence in column B.

IV. Consider the following statements: Tick (√) appropriate answer:

 

Question 1. Which of the following statement is/are correct?
(a) Every party in the country has to register with the election commission.
(b) The commission treats all the parties equally.
(c) Election commission allots a separate symbol for recognized parties.
(d) All of the options
Answer: (d) All of the options
In simple words: All the statements about the Election Commission are true. Every party must register, the commission treats all parties fairly, and it gives special symbols to recognized parties. These rules help make elections transparent and fair for everyone.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked to identify correct statements, evaluate each option individually for its accuracy before selecting the final answer, especially in "all of the above" scenarios.

 

Question 2. Assertion (A) : Majority party plays a decisive role in making laws for the country. Reason (R) : The number of candidates elected is more than the others in the election.
(a) R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) R is wrong A is correct.
(d) A and R are wrong.
Answer: (a) R is the correct explanation of A.
In simple words: The first statement (A) is true because the party with the most votes (majority) makes the laws. The second statement (R) explains why they can do this: they have more elected members. So, (R) correctly tells us why (A) is true.

🎯 Exam Tip: For assertion-reason questions, first check if both statements are true. If they are, then check if the Reason logically explains the Assertion. Look for cause-and-effect relationships.

V. Answer in one or two sentences:

 

Question 1. What are the basic components of a political party?
Answer: The three main parts of a political party are the leader, the active members, and the followers. The leader guides the party, active members work hard, and followers support them. This structure helps the party function effectively.
In simple words: A political party has a leader, active members who do the work, and followers who support them.

🎯 Exam Tip: Always list the key components clearly when asked for basic elements of a concept.

 

Question 2. Name the three major types of party systems.
Answer: The three main types of party systems are single-party systems, bi-party systems, and multi-party systems. Each system has a different number of dominant political parties. This variety shows how different countries organize their politics.
In simple words: The three main party systems are single-party, bi-party, and multi-party.

🎯 Exam Tip: When listing types of systems, ensure you provide distinct categories that cover the main variations.

 

Question 3. Name the countries which follow the Bi – party system.
Answer: Countries like the UK (United Kingdom) and the USA (United States of America) follow a bi-party system. In these countries, two major political parties usually dominate the government. This gives voters two main choices.
In simple words: The UK and USA use a bi-party system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Provide clear examples of countries for each type of political system when asked, as this demonstrates specific knowledge.

 

Question 4. Write a note on Coalition Government.
Answer: A Coalition Government is formed when no single political party wins enough votes to have a majority on its own. In this situation, several parties join together to form the government. They work together to make decisions and govern the country. This helps ensure stability when no party has clear dominance.
In simple words: A Coalition Government is when different parties join up to form a government because no single party won enough votes alone.

🎯 Exam Tip: Define a coalition government by explaining the conditions under which it forms and its basic function (multiple parties governing together).

VI. Answer the following:

 

Question 1. Write any four functions of a political party?
Answer: Four important functions of a political party are:

• They act as the loyal opposition, holding the government accountable and providing stability.
• They propose different policies and plans for the well-being of the people.
• They connect the society with the state, representing public views.
• They form and manage the government, then create public policies.

Political parties are vital for making a democracy work efficiently.
In simple words: Political parties keep the government in check, offer new ideas for people's welfare, link people to the government, and help form and run the government.

🎯 Exam Tip: When asked for multiple functions, present them as distinct points or a list for clarity and completeness.

 

Question 2. When is a political party recognized as a National Party?
Answer: A political party is recognized as a National Party if it meets certain criteria set by the Election Commission. These include:

• Securing at least 6% of the valid votes in either a Lok Sabha election or assembly elections in four states.
• Winning at least 2% of the seats in the Lok Sabha from at least three different states in the most recent general election.
• Winning at least 4 seats in the Lok Sabha from any state or states.

These requirements ensure a party has broad support across the country.
In simple words: A party becomes a National Party if it gets at least 6% of votes in certain elections, or wins 2% of Lok Sabha seats from 3 states, or wins at least 4 Lok Sabha seats.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the specific percentage and seat requirements for a party to achieve National Party status; precision is crucial here.

VII. HOTS:

 

Question 1. Are political parties necessary for a democratic country?
Answer: Yes, political parties are definitely necessary for a democratic country because they are the foundation of democracy. They help citizens elect their representatives and give people a way to influence how the government is formed through voting. Additionally, they are key elements in running the government smoothly. Without parties, organizing elections and representing diverse opinions would be very difficult.
In simple words: Yes, political parties are needed for democracy because they are its backbone. They help people choose leaders and form the government.

🎯 Exam Tip: When answering "why necessary" questions, explain the foundational roles of political parties, such as representation, government formation, and electoral organization.

 

Question 2. Give any three names of National party, Regional party, and Registered but unrecognized party.
Answer: Here are names for each type of party:

• National Party: Indian National Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India.
• Regional Party: All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Desiya Murpokku Dravidar Kazhagam, Pattali Makkal Katchi.
• Registered but unrecognized party: Labour Party of India, Bhartiya Panchayat Party, Indian Indira Congress.

These examples show the variety of political groups in India.
In simple words: National parties include Indian National Congress and BJP. Regional parties include AIADMK and DMK. Examples of registered but unrecognized parties are Labour Party of India and Bhartiya Panchayat Party.

🎯 Exam Tip: Memorize at least two examples for each category (National, Regional, Unrecognized) to provide specific answers when requested.

VIII. Activity

 

Question 1. Write an election manifesto (if you were a party leader).
Answer: If I were a party leader, my election manifesto would focus on these points:

• We would aim to establish a government that is free from corruption.
• The agriculture sector would be given the highest priority.
• Students would learn practical technical skills in school to boost their chances of getting jobs.
• We would ensure that all people who need it receive free and good quality medical care.

A manifesto outlines a party's promises to the public.
In simple words: My party would promise a corruption-free government, prioritize farming, teach students job skills, and provide free, good medical care for all.

🎯 Exam Tip: For manifesto-type questions, focus on practical, impactful points that address major public concerns, such as governance, economy, education, and health.

7th Social Science Guide Political Parties Additional Important Questions and Answers

I. Choose the Correct answer:

 

Question 1. Who was the supreme head of the legislative, Executive, and Judiciary in ancient India?
(a) King
(b) Queen
(c) Prince
(d) Cheif minister
Answer: (a) King
In simple words: In ancient India, the King was the most powerful person who oversaw law-making, governance, and justice. This shows how centralized power was back then.

🎯 Exam Tip: For historical questions, correctly identify the central authority in different periods, such as the King in ancient India.

 

Question 2. India became a democratic country in
(a) 1946
(b) 1947
(c) 1950
(d) 1952
Answer: (c) 1950
In simple words: India officially became a democratic country when its Constitution came into effect in 1950. This date marks the beginning of India as a Republic with a democratic government.

🎯 Exam Tip: Accurately recall key dates in a nation's history, especially those related to its political structure and independence.

 

Question 3. A recognised party should secure how much of total votes in the last general election?
(a) 4%
(b) 5%
(c) 6%
(d) 10%
Answer: (c) 6%
In simple words: To be recognized as a party, it generally needs to get at least 6% of the total votes in the last general election. This shows it has a notable level of public support.

🎯 Exam Tip: Specific percentage thresholds for party recognition are important details to remember for such questions.

 

Question 4. Which party system is existence in India France, Sweden, and Norway?
(a) Single party
(b) Two-party
(c) Triple party
(d) Multiparty
Answer: (d) Multiparty
In simple words: Countries like India, France, Sweden, and Norway have a multiparty system. This means many political parties compete for power, giving citizens a wide range of choices.

🎯 Exam Tip: Associate specific countries with their respective party systems to correctly answer questions about global political structures.

 

Question 5. The headquarter of the election commission in India is located in
(a) New Delhi
(b) Mumbai
(c) Kolkatta
(d) Chennai
Answer: (a) New Delhi
In simple words: The main office, or headquarters, of the Election Commission of India is in New Delhi. This central location helps it oversee elections across the entire country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Knowing the location of important governmental or constitutional bodies is a common factual question.

II. Fill in the blanks:

 

1. A Vibrant democracy needs a strong ......................Party.
Answer: Opposition
In simple words: For a democracy to be strong and lively, it needs a powerful opposition party. This party questions the government and makes sure it works well.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the crucial role of a strong opposition in maintaining checks and balances in a democracy.

 

2. In Cuba ......................party system existed.
Answer: Single
In simple words: Cuba has a single-party system, meaning only one political party is in power. This is a characteristic feature of its political landscape.

🎯 Exam Tip: Connect specific countries with their unique political systems, like Cuba's single-party system.

 

3. ......................is an autonomous statutory body.
Answer: Election commission
In simple words: The Election Commission is an independent body that is set up by law. It works on its own to manage elections without interference from the government, ensuring fairness.

🎯 Exam Tip: Identify key independent bodies that uphold democratic processes, such as the Election Commission.

 

4. Recognised parties are given a unique ......................by the election commission.
Answer: Symbol
In simple words: The election commission gives a special symbol to political parties that are recognized. This helps voters easily identify the party they want to vote for.

🎯 Exam Tip: The role of election symbols for recognized parties is crucial for voter identification, especially in diverse electorates.

 

5. A free symbol is reserved for ......................party.
Answer: unrecognized
In simple words: Parties that are registered but not recognized get to use a "free symbol" from a list. They don't have their own special symbol yet.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand the distinction between recognized and unrecognized parties in terms of election symbol allocation.

 

6. A ......................symbol for a recognised political party.
Answer: reserved
In simple words: A reserved symbol is a unique sign given only to a recognized political party. No other party can use this symbol.

🎯 Exam Tip: Note the difference between "reserved" symbols for recognized parties and "free" symbols for unrecognized parties.

 

7. The party which gets the second largest number of seats is called ......................party.
Answer: opposition
In simple words: The party that comes in second with the most seats after the winning party is called the opposition party. They play a very important role in a democracy.

🎯 Exam Tip: The "second largest" criterion is key to identifying the opposition party, which performs crucial checks on the ruling government.

 

8. The symbols are excepted by the election commission are the ......................and the ......................
Answer: Lion, elephant
In simple words: Some symbols, like the lion and elephant, are not given to parties by the Election Commission. These symbols are usually linked to specific animals or historical contexts, and may not be chosen for various reasons.

🎯 Exam Tip: Be aware that certain symbols may be excluded or have specific restrictions in electoral processes.

 

9. ......................commission is responsible for free and fair elections in India.
Answer: Election
In simple words: The Election Commission is the body that makes sure elections in India are free and fair for everyone. They manage everything from voter registration to counting votes.

🎯 Exam Tip: The Election Commission's primary responsibility is to conduct unbiased and fair elections, ensuring democratic integrity.

 

10 commission is a body for the implementation of election procedures.
Answer: Election
In simple words: The Election Commission is the group responsible for carrying out all the rules and steps of elections. This includes announcing dates, managing campaigns, and ensuring smooth voting.

🎯 Exam Tip: Understand that the Election Commission is not just a policymaker but also the primary implementer of electoral rules.

 

11. ......................Minister is a member of parliament or legislative assembly cabinet.
Answer: Cabinet
In simple words: A Cabinet Minister is a special type of minister who is part of the main group of decision-makers in the government. They are also members of parliament or a legislative assembly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Know the structure of government and the role of a Cabinet Minister as a key decision-maker.

 

12. A political party must have at least ......................members.
Answer: 100
In simple words: For a political party to be properly formed and recognized, it needs to have a minimum of 100 members. This shows a basic level of organization and support.

🎯 Exam Tip: Quantitative requirements like minimum member count are often specific criteria for party formation or recognition.

 

13. ......................has the largest number of political parties in the world
Answer: India
In simple words: India has more political parties than any other country in the world. This shows the country's huge size and diverse population.

🎯 Exam Tip: Recognize India's unique position in terms of the number of political parties, reflecting its democratic diversity.

 

14. The election commission of India has some ......................for the recognition of political parties in India.
Answer: Criteria
In simple words: The Election Commission of India has certain rules or "criteria" that political parties must meet to be officially recognized. These rules ensure fairness and order.

🎯 Exam Tip: The term "criteria" is essential when discussing the conditions or standards set by regulatory bodies like the Election Commission.

 

15. State parties need to win a minimum of ......................in the legislative assembly
Answer: 3%
In simple words: To be recognized as a state party, they usually need to win at least 3% of the total seats in the state's legislative assembly. This shows they have a significant presence in the state.

🎯 Exam Tip: Differentiate the criteria for state party recognition from those for national parties, paying close attention to percentages and legislative bodies.

III. Match the following:

 

Answer:

In simple words: Election symbols are given by the Election Commission. A National party needs 6% of votes for recognition. China has a single-party system. The U.S.A has a bi-party system.

🎯 Exam Tip: Ensure that each item in Column A is matched with its most accurate and direct corresponding item in Column B.

IV. Consider the following statements: Tick (√) the appropriate answer:

 

Question 1. Assertion (A) : Some parties join together to form the coalition government. Reason (R) : A single party may not secure the majority to form the government,
(a) A and R correct R explains A
(b) R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) R is wrong A is correct.
(d) A and R are wrong.
Answer: (a) A and R correct R explains A
In simple words: Both statements are true. Assertion (A) says parties form coalition governments. Reason (R) explains why: because one party alone might not win enough votes. So, R is the correct reason for A. This is a common situation in multi-party democracies.

🎯 Exam Tip: When evaluating assertion-reason pairs, remember to first check the truthfulness of each statement independently, and then assess if the reason provides a logical explanation for the assertion.

V. True or false:

 

1. National parties are political parties which participate in different elections in only two states of India.
Answer: False
In simple words: This statement is false. National parties must participate in elections and have a presence across many states, not just two. They aim for support throughout the whole country.

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly understand the scope of national parties, which extends beyond just two states, to correctly identify false statements.

 

2. In India, the election symbols order was. passed on 1968.
Answer: True
In simple words: This statement is true. The rules for election symbols in India were indeed put into effect in 1968. This order helps manage how parties choose and use their symbols.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember specific historical dates related to electoral reforms or foundational acts, as they often appear in true/false questions.

VI. Answer in one or two sentences:

 

Question 1. How the political party is to be recognised?
Answer: A political party is recognized if it has been active in politics for five years and its candidates get at least six percent of the total votes in the most recent general election. Meeting these conditions helps establish its legitimacy. This allows them to use their own reserved symbols.
In simple words: A party is recognized if it's been active for five years and gets at least six percent of votes in the last election.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the minimum time period of political activity and the vote percentage as key criteria for party recognition.

 

Question 4. How to form a political party?
Answer: To form a political party, it first needs to be registered with the Election Commission of India. It must have at least 100 members. Also, every member needs to have a voting card. Forming a party requires legal recognition to participate in elections.
In simple words: A party needs to register with the Election Commission, have 100 members, and each member must have a voting card.

🎯 Exam Tip: Remember the three key requirements: registration, minimum members, and voting cards for members.

 

Question 5. What are the criteria for a regional party?
Answer: A regional party must get at least 6% of the valid votes in an election for the state's legislative assembly. It also needs to win either one Lok Sabha seat for every 25 seats, or at least two seats in the Legislative Assembly. Finally, it should win at least 3% of the total seats in the Legislative Assembly. These criteria help ensure that regional parties have a significant level of public support.
In simple words: A regional party needs at least 6% of votes or certain seats in state elections, or 3% of total seats in the Legislative Assembly.

🎯 Exam Tip: Focus on the percentage of votes or number of seats required at the state level, as these are specific to regional parties.

 

Question 6. What is Free symbols 'Poll Panel'?
Answer: According to the Election Symbols Order of 1968, political symbols can be either 'reserved' or 'free'. A reserved symbol is given to a political party that is officially recognized. A free symbol, on the other hand, is for parties that are not yet recognized. These symbols help voters identify parties, especially in areas with lower literacy rates.
In simple words: The Election Symbols Order of 1968 says symbols are either reserved (for recognized parties) or free (for unrecognized parties).

🎯 Exam Tip: Clearly distinguish between reserved symbols (for recognized parties) and free symbols (for unrecognized parties or independent candidates).

 

Question 7. Write a short note on the party system in India.
Answer: India's system of political parties began in the late 1800s. Today, India has the highest number of political parties globally. These parties can be national, regional, or registered but unrecognized, like independent candidates. All parties in India must register with the Election Commission. This diverse party landscape reflects the vast cultural and social variety across the nation.
In simple words: India's party system started in the late 1800s and has the most parties in the world, including national, regional, and unrecognized ones, all registered with the Election Commission.

🎯 Exam Tip: Mention the origin, the large number of parties, their categories, and the mandatory registration with the Election Commission.

VI. Answer the following:

 

Question 1. What are political parties? Explain.
Answer: Political parties are groups of people who willingly come together. They share common ideas and agree on certain policies. Their goal is to create a plan and program for society. They try to carry out their plans by getting support from people and winning elections. Parties are crucial for a healthy democracy, allowing diverse voices to be represented. There are three main types of party systems:
1. Single-party system: Only one major party exists, like in China and Cuba.
2. Bi-party system: Two main parties usually compete, as seen in the UK and USA.
3. Multi-party system: Many parties exist and can form governments, such as in India, France, and Sweden.
In simple words: Political parties are groups of people with similar ideas who want to form a government and carry out their plans by winning elections. There are single-party, bi-party, and multi-party systems around the world.

🎯 Exam Tip: When defining political parties, include their purpose (formulating agenda, winning elections) and mention the different types of party systems with examples.

 

Question 2. What is the role of the opposition party in Democracy?
Answer: The opposition party is the one that wins the second-highest number of seats in an election, after the ruling party. They are just as important as the party that is in power. Opposition parties carefully check the plans and laws that the government wants to introduce. They speak up when the government makes mistakes or uses wrong policies. They also bring attention to important problems that the government might not be addressing. The leader of the opposition party has a status similar to a Cabinet Minister. By questioning the government, the opposition helps maintain transparency and accountability in governance.
In simple words: The opposition party is the second largest party. It keeps an eye on the government, checks its policies, and speaks out against mistakes. Its leader has a high rank.

🎯 Exam Tip: Highlight the opposition's roles in scrutinizing government policies, raising public issues, and ensuring accountability.

 

Question 3. What are the differences between the National Party and the Regional Party?
Answer:

This distinction ensures both broader national perspectives and specific local needs are represented in the political system.
In simple words: National parties operate across India and have a country-wide symbol, focusing on national issues. Regional parties operate in one or two states, have a state-specific symbol, and focus on local issues.

🎯 Exam Tip: When comparing, highlight differences in geographical reach, electoral criteria, symbol exclusivity, and the scope of issues they address.