Explore the field of polity, focusing on the organization and functioning of governments and political systems. Learn about governance structures, political theories, and key institutions. Discover how polity shapes policy-making, influences social and economic progress, and impacts the relationship between citizens and the state.
FAQs on Polity
- What is Polity?
Polity refers to the form of government, the political system, and the administrative structure of a country or state. It encompasses the constitution, laws, institutions, and processes involved in governance.
- What is the structure of the Indian government?
India has a parliamentary system of government, which is a democratic form of government where the executive branch derives its legitimacy from the legislature. The government is structured into three branches:
- Legislature: The Parliament, consisting of the President, the Lok Sabha (Lower House), and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). It makes laws and policies for the country.
- Executive: The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Prime Minister, along with the Council of Ministers, is responsible for implementing laws and policies.
- Judiciary: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in India, followed by High Courts in each state and lower courts. It interprets and upholds the Constitution, safeguards fundamental rights, and resolves disputes.
- What is the difference between a parliamentary and presidential system of government?
- In a parliamentary system, the executive branch is derived from and responsible to the legislature. The head of government (Prime Minister) is usually a member of the legislature.
- In a presidential system, the executive branch is separate from the legislature. The President is both the head of state and the head of government and is directly elected by the people.
- What are Fundamental Rights?
Fundamental Rights are a set of basic human rights guaranteed to all citizens of India by the Constitution. They include:
- Right to Equality
- Right to Freedom
- Right against Exploitation
- Right to Freedom of Religion
- Cultural and Educational Rights
- Right to Constitutional Remedies
- What are Directive Principles of State Policy?
Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines to the state for creating a just and equitable society. They are not enforceable by courts, but they are fundamental to the governance of the country.
- What is the role of the Election Commission of India?
The Election Commission of India is an autonomous constitutional authority responsible for conducting free and fair elections in India. It supervises, directs, and controls the entire process of elections to the Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice-President.
- What is the difference between the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?
- Lok Sabha (House of the People): The lower house of Parliament, with a maximum strength of 552 members, directly elected by the people. It represents the will of the people and has more power in money matters.
- Rajya Sabha (Council of States): The upper house of Parliament, with a maximum strength of 250 members, elected indirectly by the state legislatures. It represents the states and acts as a revising chamber for legislation.
- What are the different types of emergencies in India?
The Indian Constitution provides for three types of emergencies:
- National Emergency: Declared due to external aggression or armed rebellion.
- State Emergency (President’s Rule): Imposed when the state government cannot function according to the Constitution.
- Financial Emergency: Declared due to a threat to the financial stability or credit of India.