Class Viii Civics Chap --1 The Indian Constitution

 Class Viiith Civics  

 Chap --1 The Indian Constitution 

1. What is meant by Constitution? 

2. Why do we need a Constitution? 

3. The Basic Features of the Indian Constitution 

1. What is meant by constitution? 

Constitution is a set of rules that helps to govern the country . These rules determine the fundamental nature of a society. 

In the absence of rules, there will be complete chaos in the country. 

2. Why do we need a constitution? 

It is required as it serves the following objectives: 

A. It defines the basic nature of society 

The constitution indicates the fundamental nature of a society /country as to whether it is a democracy, monarchy, autocracy or any other form. 

B. It defines the ideals for the country

Every society is based upon certain core ideals that it believes in.  In our case these ideals are clearly specified in the preamble to the constitution. They are Secularism, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. 

C. It protects the fundamental rights of the citizen 

 The government try to muzzle the voice of citizens through some laws. Therefore, to prevent people from misusing their power, the constitution has laid down certain fundamental rights. 

D. It protects the minority group from the domination by the Majority group

There is a huge chance of minority being dominated by the majority community. Some special provisions are given in the constitution to safeguard their rights. 

3. The Basic Features of the Indian Constitution 

1. Federalism 

India has three level of government with the Central Government at the center,State Governments at the state level and local government at the district and village level.

This is known as federalism.

2. Separation of Powers

The three main organs of the State namely the legislature, Executive and Judiciary are kept separate from each other. 

The legislature makes the laws, the executive implements it and judiciary upholds it. 

3. Fundamental Rights 

The makers of the Indian constitution were aware of the importance of the rights of the citizens.  In order to ensure it they included the provisions of fundamental rights for the people. They are:

a. Right to Equality 

b. Right to freedom 

c. Right against exploitation

d. Right to freedom of Religion 

e. Educational and Cultural Rights 

f. Right to constitutional Remedy 

4. Fundamental Duties 

Similarly, there are Fundamental duties which every citizen must carry out.

The fundamental duties were added later in the constitution by 1976.

It includes:

 ➡️ the Constitution, National Flag and National Anthem.

➡️ Developing scientific temper and spirit of inquiry  etc.