NCERT 6th Class (CBSE) Social Science: Essence of Democracy

Question: What system of government does India follow? What does it mean?

Answer: Democracy means government by the people. The people have the right to participate in the governing of the country. They do this by electing their representatives. The role of the citizens is very important in a democracy. The citizens have to be aware of their rights as well as duties. They must have the capability and sincerity to elect their representatives.

Question: List three reasons why people do not vote.

Answer: 

1. Many people do not cast their vote. Some are too lazy.
2. Some are indifferent and feel that their vote will not make any difference.
3. People do not know enough about the candidates and cannot decide who will be the right choice.

Question: What rights do minorities have in a democracy?

Answer: All minority communities whether religious, linguistic or otherwise have equal rights to reside in different parts of the country and to protect their individuality.

Question: What is a party manifesto?

Answer: India follows the system of representative democracy. This means that people elect their representatives to run the government for them. During the campaign before an election, the candidates announce the programmes and policies that their party will undertake if voted to power. This is known as as the ‘party manifesto’.

Question: Explain five conditions essential for the successful working of a democratic government.

Answer: 

1. Awareness among citizens: In a democracy the people must be aware of their rights as well as their duties. They should also keep themselves informed about the functioning of the government. Political awareness is an important condition of democracy.
2. Enlightened and wise leadership: It is assumed that enlightened voters are led by wise and enlightened voters are led by wise and enlightened leadership.
3. Disciplined citizens: Citizens should have self-control. They should have the ability to give up self interest for the welfare of society. Citizen should have the ability to accept the view of the majority, even if they disagree.
4. Discipline in political parties: if parties are well-organized and disciplined, the elections will be smooth and the government will function efficiently. Political parties should work to promote national interest.
5. Social and economic equality: Society should be free from narrow considerations of caste, subcaste, regions or languages. All sections of society should be equal partners in the development of the community. None should be denied the basic necessities of life. There should be equal economic opportunities.