GITA AUTONOMOUS COLLEGE, BBSR
(Affiliated to BPUT, Odisha)
Subject: Constitution of India
QUESTION BANK WITH ANSWERS (EDITED
BY STUDENTS)
Part-I SHORT TYPE
1. What is the importance of Importance of the Preamble:
the Preamble to the Establishes the source of authority (the people)
Constitution? Defines India's character (Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic)
Sets out the Constitution's objectives (justice, liberty, equality, fraternity)
Provides a guiding light for interpreting the Constitution
2. How many Articles are 470 (including amendments)
there in the Constitution of
India?
3. Explain the significance Supremacy of the Constitution:
of ‘Supremacy of the The Constitution is the highest law of the land.
Constitution’. All other laws and actions must conform to it.
Courts can strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
4. In case a President dies Up to 6 months
while in office, the vice
President can act as
President for a maximum
period of how many
months?
5. How many members the 12
President nominates in
Rajya Sabha?
6. Who is the ex- Vice President
officio Chairman
of Rajya Sabha?
7. Who has the Parliament
final right to
sanction the
expenditure of
public money in
India?
8. Which State sends the Uttar Pradesh
maximum number of
members to Lok Sabha
and Rajya Sabha and how
much?
9. For which section Scheduled Castes (SC) - 84, Scheduled Tribes (ST) - 47
of the society seats
are reserved in the
Lok Sabha?
10. What is the meaning of One nationality for all Indian citizens (no dual citizenship by default)
single citizenship?
11. What are the main features Power sharing between central and state governments
of a federal system? Written constitution defining powers
Independent judiciary to safeguard the Constitution
12. Can preamble be used The Preamble can be used as an aid to interpret ambiguous provisions
for interpretation of the in the Constitution.
Constitution? Also It reflects the Constitution's basic philosophy and intent.
explain its significance.
13. What is meant by a Welfare Aims to promote social and economic well-being of citizens
State? Provides essential services like education, healthcare, social security
14. Mention any two Federal: Power sharing between center and states
characteristics of the Secular: Equal respect for all religions, no state religion
Indian State.
15. The Preamble contains the Objectives of the Constitution
.............................................
of the
Constitution.
(characteristics/objectives)
16. The Preamble of the Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic
Constitution described India
......................... (Unitary
State,
Sovereign,
Socialist, Secular,
Democratic State)
17. The word ‘Socialist’ and 42nd
Secular were added in the
Preamble by
................................................
Constitutional
Amendment. (42nd/46th)
18. Mention any four Federal with unitary bias
characteristics of the Indian Parliamentary form of government
Constitution. Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles
Independent judiciary
19. How many Articles are there 470
in the Constitution of India?
20. State any two federal features Distribution of legislative, executive, and
of the Constitution of India. "Federal with Unitary Bias" Statement: Tjudicial powers
Independent judiciary
21. State any two unitary Strong central government in emergencies
features of the Indian Single citizenship
Constitution.
22. “The Indian Constitution is True
federal in nature with unitary
bias” Is this statement True or
False?
23. Explain the meaning and Equal respect for all religions
relevance of secularism in No state religion
Indian Context. Right to freedom of religion (practice, preach, and propagate)
Promotes religious tolerance and harmony
24. What can be the maximum 250
strength of Rajya Sabha?
25. How many members the 12
President nominates in Rajya
Sabha?
26. Who can vote to elect the Elected members of state legislative assemblies
members of Rajya Sabha?
27. What is the tenure of a 6 years (one-third members retire every 2 years)
member of Rajya Sabha?
28. What is the minimum age 30 years
for becoming a member of
Rajya Sabha?
29. Who can dissolve the Lok President, on the advice of the Prime Minister
Sabha?
30. What do you mean by All ministers are jointly responsible for the government's decisions and
collective responsibility of the actions.
Council of Ministers. If the Lok Sabha loses confidence in the Council, they must resign.
Part-II FOCUSED SHORT
1. What do you mean by rights Rights: Fundamental entitlements and freedoms guaranteed by the
and duties? How are they Constitution (e.g., right to equality, right to freedom of speech)
interrelated? Duties: Moral and civic obligations of citizens to uphold the Constitution
and contribute to society (e.g., respecting fundamental rights of others,
upholding the sovereignty and integrity of India)
Interrelation: Responsible exercise of rights is essential for a well-
functioning democracy; duties support the enjoyment of rights by all citizens.
2. What are the freedoms The Indian Constitution guarantees six fundamental rights that are essential
provided in the Indian for a free and democratic society:
Constitution? 1. Right to Equality (Article 14-18): Ensures equal treatment before the
law and prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or
place of birth.
2. Right to Freedom (Article 19-22): Guarantees freedoms of speech,
assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.
3. Right Against Exploitation (Article 23-24): Prohibits human
trafficking, forced labour, and child labour.
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25-28): Ensures freedom of
conscience and the right to practice, preach, and propagate any religion.
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Article 29-30): Protects the right to
conserve one's culture and language, and the right to education.
6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32): Guarantees the right to
approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights.
3. What is the difference Constitutional Law: The body of legal rules and principles that define
Between Constitutional Law the structure, functions, and limitations of government as established by
and Constitutionalism? the Constitution. It's the legal framework that courts use to decide cases.
Constitutionalism: A broader concept encompassing the philosophy
and practices that uphold the principles of a constitution, such as the
rule of law, separation of powers, and checks and balances. It's about
the spirit behind the legal document.
4. What is “Impeachment”? The process by which the legislature (Parliament in India) can remove a high
government official (President, Vice President, or judge of the Supreme Court
and High Courts) from office for serious misconduct or violation of the
Constitution.
5. What is the meaning of A document that sets out the fundamental principles by which a country is
Constitution? governed. It establishes the framework for the government, defines the
fundamental rights of citizens, and allocates power among different branches of
government.
6. What do you mean The group of ministers who assist the President in running the day-to-
by Union Council of day affairs of the government. They are collectively responsible to the
Ministers? Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament).
7. The council of Ministers in a The Council of Ministers (headed by the Prime Minister) can remain in office
Parliamentary type of as long as they enjoy the confidence (majority support) of the Lok Sabha. If
Government can remain in they lose a no-confidence motion, they must resign.
office till it
enjoys the support of the
whom.
8. Write six Fundamental Rights 1. Right to Equality (Article 14-18): Ensures equal treatment before the
granted to us by law and prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or
place of birth.
the Constitution.
2. Right to Freedom (Article 19-22): Guarantees freedoms of speech,
assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.
3. Right Against Exploitation (Article 23-24): Prohibits human
trafficking, forced labor, and child labor.
4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25-28): Ensures freedom of
conscience and the right to practice, preach, and propagate any religion.
5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Article 29-30): Protects the right to
conserve one's culture and language, and the right to education.
6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32): Guarantees the right to
approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights.
9. What do you mean by The body elected by the people in 1946 to draft the Constitution of India. It
Constituent Assembly? consisted of eminent leaders and representatives from different communities.
10. What are the main features Federal with unitary bias
of the Indian Constitution? Parliamentary form of government
Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles
Independent judiciary
11. Why Indian judiciary is called The Indian judiciary has a unified structure with the Supreme Court at the apex,
an integrated judiciary? followed by High Courts in each state and subordinate courts below them. This
ensures uniform application of laws throughout the country.
12. What do you mean by Federal A system of government where power is shared between a central (national)
State? government and regional governments (states). Each level has its own set of
powers defined by the Constitution.
13. Define Preamble. A preamble is essentially an introduction to a formal document, most
commonly a legal one like a constitution or statute. It spells out the purpose,
guiding principles, and reasoning behind the document's creation. Think of it as
setting the stage for what's to come.
14. What is a constitution? Constitution: The Supreme Law
The Constitution is the supreme law of the land. All other laws and actions
must conform to it. Courts can strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
15. Who framed the Constitution The Constituent Assembly, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, drafted the Constitution
of India? of India.
16. What is meant by ‘Universal Universal adult franchise (also known as universal suffrage) is the principle
Adult Franchise’? that all adult citizens of a country have the right to vote in elections, regardless
of factors like:
Caste, religion, race, or gender
Educational background or economic status
Place of birth or residence
17. Describe the importance of the The Constitution is the foundation of a democratic nation. Here's why
Constitution. it's crucial:
Defines the Framework of Government: It establishes the structure of
the government, outlining the powers and limitations of each branch
(legislature, executive, judiciary).
Guarantees Fundamental Rights: It protects the basic rights and
freedoms of citizens, ensuring equality and justice.
Promotes Rule of Law: It establishes the principle that everyone,
including the government, is subject to the law.
Provides Stability and Certainty: It lays down a set of rules for how
the country is governed, promoting stability and predictability.
Sets Out National Goals: It outlines the nation's objectives, such as
securing justice, liberty, and equality for all citizens.
18. What do you mean by The doctrine of pleasure is a principle in parliamentary systems like India
‘Doctrine of Pleasure’? where the Council of Ministers (including the Prime Minister) holds office at
the "pleasure" of the President. However, in practice, the President acts on the
advice of the Prime Minister, and the Council remains in office as long as it
enjoys the confidence (majority support) of the Lok Sabha (lower house of
Parliament).
19. What do you understand about The All India Services (AIS) are a group of elite central government
All India Services? administrative positions in India. These officers serve in both the central
government and state governments, providing continuity and uniformity in
administration across the country.
20. What is the meaning of Equal Equal protection of laws is a fundamental principle enshrined in the Indian
Protection of laws? Constitution (Article 14). It guarantees that all citizens are treated equally before
the law, and that the government cannot discriminate against any individual or
group. This means everyone has the right to:
Be governed by the same laws
Have access to the same legal remedies
Be treated equally by government officials
Part -III LONG
1. Explain the significance of Significance:
Fundamental Rights in our Fundamental Rights are crucial in our daily lives because they:
day-to-day life. Which Protect basic freedoms: They guarantee essential freedoms like
fundamental right do you speech, expression, assembly, religion, and movement. These allow us
consider the most important to express ourselves, participate in society, and live our lives according
in your life and why? to our beliefs.
Ensure equality: They guarantee equal treatment before the law and
prohibit discrimination based on factors like religion, caste, or gender.
This promotes a just and fair society.
Empower citizens: They empower individuals to stand up for their
rights and hold the government accountable.
Provide a sense of security: Knowing that these rights are protected
creates a sense of security and allows individuals to pursue their goals
freely.
There's no single "most important" right, as each individual's needs and
priorities differ. Here are some commonly valued rights:
Right to Equality: Ensures fairness and prevents discrimination,
allowing equal opportunities for everyone.
Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression: Allows us to express
ourselves freely, participate in public discourse, and hold the
government accountable.
Right to Life and Liberty: Protects basic human dignity and allows us
to live our lives without fear of arbitrary arrest or detention.
Right to Education: Empowers individuals to improve their lives,
participate meaningfully in society, and contribute to the nation's
development.
2. What are the salient features Federal with Unitary Bias: Power is shared between the central
of the Constitution of India? government and states, but the central government has more power in
some areas.
Parliamentary Democracy: The executive (Council of Ministers) is
responsible to the legislature (Parliament).
Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles: Fundamental Rights
guarantee basic freedoms, while Directive Principles outline goals for
the government to achieve social and economic welfare.
Independent Judiciary: The judiciary is independent of the legislature
and executive, safeguarding the Constitution and Fundamental Rights.
Secular State: The state treats all religions equally and does not have
an official religion.
Single Citizenship: Generally, Indian citizens cannot hold citizenship
of another country simultaneously
3. Discuss the functions of Legislation: Makes laws for the country.
Parliament? Oversight of the Executive: Holds the government accountable for its
actions.
Approval of Budget: Approves the government's budget for spending.
Electoral Function: Elects the President of India.
Amendment of the Constitution: Amends the Constitution with a
special majority.
4. Describe the fundamental The Indian Constitution outlines eleven fundamental duties for citizens, promoting
duties of the citizens of responsible behavior and a sense of national pride:
India. 1. To respect the Constitution and the National Anthem.
2. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
3. To defend the country and render national service when called upon.
4. To promote harmony and brotherhood among all Indians.
5. To renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.
7. To protect and improve the environment and natural resources.
8. To develop the scientific temper and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
9. To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective
activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and
achievement. 10. To provide opportunities for education by promoting
compulsory education for children.
10. To promote peace and co-existence with all nations.
5. What is Preamble? Is it a The Preamble
Part of the Constitution? Not a Part of the Constitution: Technically not a numbered article, but it
Can it be used for sets the tone for the entire document.
interpretation of the Used for Interpretation: While not directly enforceable, courts can use it
Constitution? Also explain to interpret ambiguous provisions in the Constitution.
its significance. Significance:
o Defines India's character (Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic
Republic)
o Outlines the Constitution's objectives (justice, liberty, equality,
fraternity)
o Provides a guiding principle for the government
6. Write short notes on: (a) Supremacy and Independence of Judiciary
(a) Supremacy and The judiciary is the highest interpreter of the Constitution.
Independence of It can strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
Judiciary It is independent of the legislature and executive, ensuring impartial justice.
(b) Role of the Constituent (b) Role of the Constituent Assembly
Assembly. Drafted the Constitution of India after India's independence in 1947.
Comprised of eminent leaders and representatives from various
communities.
Debated and deliberated on the principles of the Constitution for nearly three
years.
7. Describe the composition Composition:
of Rajya Sabha and Maximum Strength: 250 members
method of election of its Distribution:
members? o 12 nominated by the President from people with special knowledge
or experience in various fields (arts, literature, science, and social
service)
o 238 elected by the elected members of the state legislative assemblies
of all states and the Union Territories of Delhi and Puducherry.
Election Method:
Indirect Election: Members are not directly elected by the people.
Single Transferable Vote System: A proportional representation system
used to ensure fair representation of various parties and groups.
Term: Six years, with one-third of the members retiring every two years.
This ensures continuity and experience in the Rajya Sabha.
8. Explain the significance Fundamental Rights are the bedrock of a free and democratic society. They play a
of Fundamental Rights in crucial role in our daily lives by:
our day-to-day life. Which Guaranteeing basic freedoms: They ensure essential freedoms like
fundamental right speech, expression, assembly, religion, and movement. These allow us to
do you consider the most express ourselves freely, participate in public life, and live according to our
important in your life and beliefs.
why? Promoting equality: They prohibit discrimination based on factors like
religion, caste, or gender, fostering a just and fair society.
Empowering citizens: They empower individuals to stand up for their
rights and hold the government accountable.
Providing a sense of security: Knowing that these rights are protected
creates a sense of security and allows individuals to pursue their goals
freely.
There's no single "most important" right, as each person's needs and priorities
differ. Here are some commonly valued rights:
Right to Equality: Ensures fairness and prevents discrimination, allowing
equal opportunities for everyone.
Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression: Allows us to express
ourselves freely, participate in public discourse, and hold the government
accountable.
Right to Life and Liberty: Protects basic human dignity and allows us to
live our lives without fear of arbitrary arrest or detention.
Right to Education: Empowers individuals to improve their lives,
participate meaningfully in society, and contribute to the nation's
development.
