Indian Democracy
Overview
Indian Democracy is a foundational topic for CG TET Paper II Social Studies, covering the institutional framework that governs the world's largest democracy. Questions typically test your understanding of the structure and functions of Parliament, the executive branch, the judiciary, and the electoral process. This topic connects directly to the Indian Constitution unit and often overlaps with questions on fundamental rights and local self-government.
For CG TET, focus on the composition and powers of each organ, the relationships between them (separation of powers, checks and balances), and the basic mechanics of how elections work in India. Expect factual questions on terms of office, qualifications, and key constitutional articles, as well as application-based questions on how these institutions function in practice.
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Key Concepts
- **Parliamentary Democracy**: India follows a parliamentary system where the executive is drawn from and accountable to the legislature. The Prime Minister and Council of Ministers must maintain majority support in Lok Sabha.
- **Separation of Powers**: The Constitution distributes power among three organs — Legislature (makes laws), Executive (implements laws), and Judiciary (interprets laws). Each organ acts as a check on the others.
- **Bicameral Parliament**: The Indian Parliament consists of two houses — Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States) — plus the President.
- **Federal Executive**: The President is the constitutional head; the Prime Minister is the real executive head. The Council of Ministers aids and advises the President.
- **Independent Judiciary**: The Supreme Court and High Courts function independently, with the power of judicial review to strike down unconstitutional laws.
- **Universal Adult Franchise**: Every citizen aged 18 years and above has the right to vote, regardless of caste, religion, gender, or economic status.