Class 8 DAV SST - Chapter 16: Our Constitution (Detailed Q&A)
1. What is a Constitution? Why is it important for a country?
The Constitution is the supreme law of a country that outlines the structure of the government,
rights, and duties of citizens.
It ensures justice, equality, and fundamental rights while preventing misuse of power. It provides a
framework for governance
and maintains national unity. In India, the Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950,
replacing the Government of
India Act, 1935.
2. Who is known as the 'Father of the Indian Constitution'? Why?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution because he was the
Chairman of the Drafting Committee and
played a key role in shaping the Constitution. He ensured that the Constitution provided
fundamental rights, social justice,
and equality for all citizens, especially marginalized communities. His efforts helped make India a
sovereign, socialist,
secular, and democratic republic.
3. What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
- Sovereign: India is free to make its own decisions.
- Socialist: Aims for equal wealth distribution.
- Secular: No official religion; freedom to follow any faith.
- Democratic: Government is elected by the people.
- Republic: The head of state (President) is elected.
- Fundamental Rights & Duties: Protects citizens' rights.
- Directive Principles: Guidelines for social and economic welfare.
4. What do you understand by Fundamental Rights? List them.
Fundamental Rights protect individual freedoms. They include:
- Right to Equality: No discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender.
- Right to Freedom: Includes freedom of speech and expression.
- Right against Exploitation: Prohibits forced labor and child labor.
- Right to Freedom of Religion: Freedom to follow any faith.
- Cultural & Educational Rights: Protection for minorities' culture and education.
- Right to Constitutional Remedies: Citizens can approach courts for rights violations.
5. What are Fundamental Duties? Why are they important?
Fundamental Duties, added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, remind citizens of their
responsibilities towards the nation. These include:
- Respecting the Constitution and national symbols.
- Promoting harmony and brotherhood.
- Protecting the environment and public property.
- Defending the country when needed.
These duties help in building a responsible and disciplined society.
6. What is the Preamble? What values does it represent?
The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution that highlights its objectives. It represents
values like:
- Justice (social, economic, and political).
- Liberty (freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship).
- Equality (equal opportunity for all).
- Fraternity (promoting unity and dignity).
It reflects the democratic ideals of India and guides the government in policy-making.
7. What are the Directive Principles of State Policy? How are they different from Fundamental
Rights?
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines for the government to achieve social
and economic justice. They include:
- Equal pay for equal work.
- Promotion of education and health.
- Protection of the environment.
They are non-enforceable, meaning courts cannot be approached for their implementation,
whereas Fundamental Rights are legally enforceable.
8. How does the Indian Constitution ensure secularism?
The Indian Constitution ensures secularism by:
- Not promoting any official religion.
- Allowing citizens to freely practice, propagate, and follow any faith.
- Prohibiting religious discrimination.
- Preventing the government from interfering in religious affairs.
This ensures that all religions are treated equally in India.
9. What is Universal Adult Franchise? Why is it important?
Universal Adult Franchise means that every Indian citizen above 18 years of age has the right to
vote without discrimination.
It ensures equal political participation, strengthens democracy, prevents discrimination, and
encourages political awareness.
10. What is the significance of January 26, 1950, in Indian history?
On January 26, 1950, India's Constitution came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act,
1935. It marks the birth of
India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. This day is celebrated as
Republic Day every year.
... (Questions 11-20 follow the same format) ...
