Understanding Power Sharing and Federalism

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies a 'holding together' federation?

Several independent nations merging to form a unified country with a strong central government to pool resources and enhance security.
A unitary state centralizing power to eliminate regional autonomy and enforce uniform laws throughout the country.
A small country dissolving its central government, granting full autonomy to its provinces, and establishing a loose cooperative agreement.
A large, diverse nation deciding to distribute powers between a central government and its constituent states to accommodate regional differences. (correct)

In a federal system, what mechanism ensures that no single level of government can unilaterally alter the fundamental constitutional provisions?

Direct decrees issued by the head of the executive branch.
Referendums held in each state or province.
The requirement for concurrent consent from multiple levels of government. (correct)
A simple majority vote in the national legislature.

Which of the following powers is most likely to be exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Union List in a federal country?

Local law enforcement and public order.
Management of local agriculture and irrigation projects.
Regulation of interstate commerce and foreign treaties. (correct)
Establishment and maintenance of public schools.

What is the key objective that federal systems aim to achieve by combining self-rule and shared rule?

Safeguarding national unity while accommodating regional diversity. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does horizontal power sharing, such as the separation of powers, contribute to preventing authoritarianism?

By ensuring each branch of government can check the power of the others. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason power sharing is considered an effective method for managing conflicts in diverse societies?

It reduces the potential for any one community to feel excluded or marginalized. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of courts in a federal system?

To interpret the constitution and resolve disputes between levels of government. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In what way does power sharing among political parties, pressure groups, and movements enhance democracy?

By providing citizens with multiple avenues to voice their opinions and influence policy. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best exemplifies how democracies accommodate social diversity to maintain peace and unity?

By adjusting political expression to inclusively address the needs of different groups. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of gender and politics, what is the primary focus of feminist movements?

To ensure women's equal rights across all aspects of life. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is secularism considered crucial in a diverse country with multiple religions?

It ensures the state does not base its policies on any particular religion. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How can caste be used in politics, and what constitutional provision addresses the negative aspects of this?

Caste is used to mobilize support, but the Constitution prohibits caste-based discrimination. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is most representative of how social movements differ from pressure groups in their approach to influencing public policy?

Social movements aim for broad social change, while pressure groups focus on specific policy changes. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining characteristic of a multi-party system?

Several parties compete for power, with more than two having a chance to govern. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an essential criterion for a political party to be recognized as a National Party in India?

Securing at least six percent of the total votes in four states' assembly elections and winning at least four Lok Sabha seats. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between how democratic and non-democratic regimes approach economic growth and development?

Democracies tend to prioritize equitable distribution of wealth alongside economic growth. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How do democracies typically handle social diversity compared to non-democratic regimes?

Democracies develop procedures to manage competition and prevent social divisions from turning violent. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does a democratic government ensure it remains accountable to its citizens?

By allowing citizens to choose their rulers and holding them responsible. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the foundational challenge to democracy in a non-democratic country?

Bringing down the non-democratic regime and keeping the military out of government. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which challenge to democracy focuses on strengthening the institutions and practices of democracy within a country that already has a democratic system?

Deepening of democracy (B) Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the 'challenge of expansion' in the context of promoting democracy?

Applying democratic governance principles across all regions, social groups, and institutions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the reduction of inequality and poverty relate to the outcomes of democracy?

Democracies tend to reduce inequality and poverty due to political equality and responsive governance. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In the Indian context, what is the significance of the State List within the constitutional framework?

It lists subjects exclusively under the State Governments' legislative authority. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Horizontal Power Sharing

Sharing power across different government branches, like legislature, executive, and judiciary.

Vertical Power Sharing

Dividing power between different levels of government, such as national and regional.