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The Indian Constitution – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Indian Constitution

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5th

5th - Social Studies (SST)

The Indian Constitution

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Overview of the Chapter

The Indian Constitution is the supreme law of India, laying down the framework for governance, fundamental rights, and duties of citizens. This chapter introduces students to the basic concepts of the Constitution, its significance, and key features.

The Indian Constitution is a written document that defines the political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.

Key Features of the Indian Constitution

  • Lengthiest Constitution: It is the longest written constitution in the world, containing detailed provisions to accommodate diverse needs.
  • Federal System: It establishes a federal structure with a division of powers between the central and state governments.
  • Fundamental Rights: Guarantees six fundamental rights to all citizens, ensuring equality, freedom, and justice.
  • Directive Principles: Provides guidelines for the government to promote social and economic welfare.
  • Secularism: Ensures equal respect for all religions and prohibits discrimination based on religion.

Fundamental Rights

The Constitution guarantees six fundamental rights to citizens:

  1. Right to Equality
  2. Right to Freedom
  3. Right against Exploitation
  4. Right to Freedom of Religion
  5. Cultural and Educational Rights
  6. Right to Constitutional Remedies

Fundamental Rights are essential rights guaranteed to every citizen for their overall development and protection against injustice.

Fundamental Duties

The Constitution also lists fundamental duties for citizens, such as respecting the national flag, promoting harmony, and protecting the environment.

Importance of the Constitution

The Indian Constitution ensures democracy, justice, and equality for all citizens. It serves as a guiding document for governance and protects the rights of individuals.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
When was the Indian Constitution adopted?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950.

Question 2:
What is the purpose of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Preamble introduces the Constitution and highlights its core values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Question 3:
Name one fundamental right granted by the Indian Constitution.
Answer:

One fundamental right is the Right to Equality, which ensures equal treatment for all citizens.

Question 4:
How many articles are there in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution originally had 395 articles, but this number has increased with amendments.

Question 5:
What is the significance of Republic Day in India?
Answer:

Republic Day (26th January) marks the day when the Indian Constitution came into effect, making India a republic.

Question 6:
What is the role of the President in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The President is the head of the state and ensures the Constitution is followed, acting on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Question 7:
Name one fundamental duty of Indian citizens.
Answer:

One fundamental duty is to respect the national flag and the national anthem.

Question 8:
What does secularism mean in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

Secularism means the state treats all religions equally and does not favor any one religion.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
What is the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution is the supreme legal document of India. It lays down the framework for governance, fundamental rights, duties, and the structure of the government. It was adopted on 26th January 1950, marking India's transition to a republic.

Question 2:
Name the three organs of the government as per the Constitution.
Answer:

The three organs of the government are:

  • Legislature (makes laws)
  • Executive (implements laws)
  • Judiciary (interprets laws)

Question 3:
What is the significance of Fundamental Rights in the Constitution?
Answer:

Fundamental Rights ensure freedom and equality for all citizens. They protect individuals from injustice and discrimination, promoting dignity and democracy. Examples include the Right to Equality and Right to Education.

Question 4:
What is the purpose of the Preamble in the Constitution?
Answer:

The Preamble introduces the Constitution's goals and values, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It reflects the spirit of the document and the aspirations of the people.

Question 5:
Define Secularism as per the Indian Constitution.
Answer:

Secularism means the state treats all religions equally and does not favor any one religion. It ensures religious freedom and promotes harmony among different faiths.

Question 6:
What are Directive Principles of State Policy?
Answer:

Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to promote social welfare and economic justice. Though not enforceable in court, they aim to create a fair and just society.

Question 7:
Why is the Indian Constitution called a living document?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution is called a living document because it can be amended to adapt to changing times. This flexibility ensures it remains relevant and effective for future generations.

Question 8:
What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Preamble is the introduction to the Indian Constitution. It outlines the goals and values of the Constitution, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It also declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, and republic nation.

Question 9:
Name the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
Answer:

The Indian Constitution guarantees six fundamental rights:

  • Right to Equality
  • Right to Freedom
  • Right against Exploitation
  • Right to Freedom of Religion
  • Cultural and Educational Rights
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies

Question 10:
What is the significance of secularism in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

Secularism means that India does not have an official religion and treats all religions equally. The Constitution ensures freedom of religion and prohibits discrimination based on religion. This promotes unity and harmony among diverse communities.

Question 11:
What is the role of the President in India?
Answer:

The President is the head of the state and the first citizen of India. The President's role includes:

  • Appointing the Prime Minister
  • Approving laws passed by Parliament
  • Representing India in international matters

Question 12:
How does the Indian Constitution protect the rights of children?
Answer:

The Constitution protects children's rights through:

  • Right to Education (Article 21A) for free and compulsory education
  • Right against Exploitation (Article 24) banning child labor
  • Special laws like the Juvenile Justice Act for their welfare

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What is the purpose of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Preamble is like an introduction to the Indian Constitution. It tells us the main goals and values of our country, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It also declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The Preamble helps us understand what our Constitution stands for.

Question 2:
Why is the Indian Constitution considered the supreme law of the land?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution is called the supreme law because it is the highest rulebook for our country.
1. All other laws must follow it.
2. It defines the powers of the government and the rights of citizens.
3. No one, not even the Prime Minister or President, can go against it. This ensures fairness and order in India.

Question 3:
Explain the term Fundamental Rights given in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:

Fundamental Rights are special freedoms given to all Indian citizens by the Indian Constitution.

  • They include the Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right against Exploitation, and more.
  • These rights protect us from unfair treatment and ensure our dignity.
  • If someone violates these rights, we can go to court for justice.

Question 4:
What is the role of the President as per the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The President is the head of India, but the real power lies with the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.
1. The President signs laws and represents the country.
2. They appoint the Prime Minister and judges.
3. They also ensure the government works as per the Constitution. The President is like a guardian of our democracy.

Question 5:
How does the Indian Constitution ensure equality among citizens?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution ensures equality in many ways:

  • It prohibits discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, or place of birth.
  • It provides equal opportunities in jobs and education.
  • It abolishes untouchability and titles like 'Raja' or 'Maharaja'.
This way, everyone gets a fair chance to grow.

Question 6:
What is the significance of Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to create a just society.
1. They aim to reduce poverty, provide education, and ensure fair wages.
2. Though not enforceable in court, they help in making laws for public welfare.
3. They inspire policies like free meals in schools and healthcare for all.

Question 7:
What is the significance of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:

The Preamble is like an introduction to the Indian Constitution. It tells us the core values and principles of our country, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It also declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The Preamble helps us understand the purpose and goals of the Constitution.

Question 8:
Explain the term Fundamental Rights given in the Indian Constitution.
Answer:

Fundamental Rights are basic rights guaranteed to all citizens of India. They ensure freedom, equality, and justice. Some key rights include:

  • Right to Equality
  • Right to Freedom
  • Right against Exploitation
  • Right to Freedom of Religion
  • Cultural and Educational Rights
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies
These rights protect citizens from unfair treatment and help maintain democracy.

Question 9:
What is the role of the Supreme Court in protecting the Constitution?
Answer:

The Supreme Court acts as the guardian of the Constitution. It ensures that all laws and government actions follow the Constitution. If any law violates the Constitution, the Supreme Court can declare it unconstitutional. It also protects Fundamental Rights through Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and resolves disputes between states or citizens.

Question 10:
How does the Indian Constitution promote equality among citizens?
Answer:

The Indian Constitution promotes equality by:
1. Prohibiting discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, or place of birth.
2. Ensuring equal opportunities in jobs and education for all.
3. Abolishing untouchability and titles like Raja or Maharaja.
4. Providing reservations for backward classes to reduce social inequality.
These measures help create a fair and just society.

Question 11:
What are Directive Principles of State Policy? Why are they important?
Answer:

Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to ensure the welfare of people. They aim to create a just society by:

  • Providing equal pay for equal work
  • Promoting education and healthcare
  • Protecting the environment
  • Reducing economic inequality
Though not legally enforceable, they help the government frame policies for the greater good of society.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Explain the significance of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution. How does it reflect the values of our country?
Answer:

The Preamble is like an introduction to the Indian Constitution. It tells us about the goals and values of our country. The Preamble starts with the words 'We, the People of India', which means the power to govern comes from the people.

Here’s why the Preamble is important:

  • It declares India as a sovereign country, meaning it is free from outside control.
  • It states India is a socialist country, ensuring fair wealth distribution.
  • It calls India a secular nation, where all religions are respected equally.
  • It describes India as a democratic republic, where leaders are chosen by the people.
  • It promises justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity to all citizens.

The Preamble reflects the dreams of our freedom fighters and guides the government in making fair laws.

Question 2:
Describe the Fundamental Rights given in the Indian Constitution. Why are they essential for citizens?
Answer:

Fundamental Rights are special rights given to all citizens of India to ensure their freedom and dignity. These rights are written in Part III of the Indian Constitution.

The six main Fundamental Rights are:

  • Right to Equality: All citizens are equal before the law, and no one can be discriminated against based on caste, religion, or gender.
  • Right to Freedom: Citizens have freedom of speech, assembly, and the right to practice any profession.
  • Right against Exploitation: Forbids child labor and forced work.
  • Right to Freedom of Religion: People can follow any religion and celebrate their festivals.
  • Cultural and Educational Rights: Protects the culture and language of minorities.
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies: Allows citizens to approach the court if their rights are violated.

These rights are essential because:

  • They protect citizens from unfair treatment.
  • They ensure freedom and justice for all.
  • They help maintain peace and unity in the country.

Without these rights, people could be mistreated, and democracy would not work properly.

Question 3:
Explain the significance of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution. How does it reflect the values of the Indian people?
Answer:

The Preamble is like the introduction to the Indian Constitution. It tells us the main ideas and goals of our Constitution. It starts with the words "We, the People of India", which means the power to make decisions comes from the people.

The Preamble mentions important values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These values show what India stands for:

  • Justice means fairness for all people.
  • Liberty means freedom to think, speak, and follow any religion.
  • Equality means everyone is treated the same, no matter their caste, religion, or gender.
  • Fraternity means brotherhood and unity among all Indians.

The Preamble also says India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. These words mean India is free to make its own decisions, works for the welfare of all, respects all religions equally, and is ruled by elected leaders.

In short, the Preamble is like the soul of the Constitution. It reminds us of our duties and rights as citizens of India.

Question 4:
Describe the Fundamental Rights given in the Indian Constitution. Why are they important for citizens?
Answer:

The Fundamental Rights are special rights given to all citizens of India by the Indian Constitution. They are like a shield that protects people from unfair treatment. There are six main Fundamental Rights:

  • Right to Equality: All people are equal before the law. No one can be discriminated against based on religion, caste, gender, or place of birth.
  • Right to Freedom: Citizens have freedom of speech, freedom to form groups, freedom to travel, and freedom to choose any job.
  • Right against Exploitation: No one can be forced to work for free (like slavery) or as a child laborer.
  • Right to Freedom of Religion: People can follow any religion they choose and practice it freely.
  • Cultural and Educational Rights: Minorities can protect their language, culture, and run their own schools.
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies: If any right is violated, citizens can go to court for justice.

These rights are important because:

  • They protect citizens from misuse of power by the government or others.
  • They ensure equality and justice for all.
  • They help maintain peace and unity in the country.
  • They give people the confidence to live with dignity and freedom.

Fundamental Rights make sure India remains a fair and just country for everyone.

Question 5:
Describe the Fundamental Rights given to Indian citizens under the Indian Constitution. Why are they important?
Answer:

Fundamental Rights are special rights given to all citizens of India by the Indian Constitution. These rights protect our freedom and ensure equality. There are six main Fundamental Rights:

  • Right to Equality: All citizens are equal before the law. No one can be discriminated against based on religion, caste, or gender.
  • Right to Freedom: Citizens have freedom of speech, assembly, and movement.
  • Right against Exploitation: No one can be forced to work as a slave or child labor.
  • Right to Freedom of Religion: Everyone can follow any religion they choose.
  • Cultural and Educational Rights: Minorities can protect their language and culture.
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies: If any right is violated, citizens can go to court.

These rights are important because they ensure that every citizen lives with dignity and freedom. They protect us from unfair treatment and help maintain peace and justice in society.

Question 6:
Describe the Fundamental Rights provided by the Indian Constitution. Why are they important for citizens?
Answer:

The Fundamental Rights are special rights given to all citizens of India by the Indian Constitution. These rights ensure freedom, equality, and justice for everyone. Here are the six main Fundamental Rights:

  • Right to Equality: All citizens are equal before the law, and no one can be discriminated against based on religion, caste, or gender.
  • Right to Freedom: Citizens have freedom of speech, assembly, and movement.
  • Right against Exploitation: Prohibits child labor and forced work.
  • Right to Freedom of Religion: People can follow any religion of their choice.
  • Cultural and Educational Rights: Protects the rights of minorities to preserve their culture and language.
  • Right to Constitutional Remedies: Allows citizens to approach courts if their rights are violated.

These rights are important because they protect citizens from unfair treatment and ensure a just society. They help maintain peace and harmony in the country by giving everyone equal opportunities.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
Riya learned in class that the Indian Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights to all citizens. She wonders how these rights protect her in daily life. Explain with two examples how Right to Equality and Right to Education help her as a student.
Answer:

The Indian Constitution ensures Fundamental Rights to protect citizens like Riya. Here’s how two rights help her:

  • Right to Equality: This ensures Riya is treated fairly in school, regardless of gender, religion, or background. For example, she can participate in any school activity or competition without discrimination.
  • Right to Education: This guarantees Riya free and compulsory education up to age 14. Her school cannot deny her admission or charge fees, ensuring she learns and grows.

These rights empower Riya to study confidently and demand fair treatment.

Question 2:
During a school assembly, the principal announced a new rule: 'Only boys can play football.' Some students felt this was unfair. Which Fundamental Right does this rule violate? Explain why it is important to follow the Constitution in such cases.
Answer:

The rule violates the Right to Equality (Article 14-18) under the Indian Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on gender. Here’s why it matters:

  • The Constitution ensures equal opportunities for all. Girls have the same right to play football as boys.
  • Following such rules promotes fairness and respect among students, building a just society.

Schools must align rules with the Constitution to protect every child’s rights.

Question 3:
Amit’s teacher explained that the Indian Constitution has Directive Principles to guide the government. Amit wants to know how one such principle, 'Providing free legal aid,' helps poor people. Explain with an example.
Answer:

The Directive Principles advise the government to work for people’s welfare. Free legal aid (Article 39A) ensures justice for all, especially the poor:

  • Example: If a poor farmer is unfairly evicted from his land, he can get a lawyer’s help without cost to fight his case in court.

This principle bridges the gap between rich and poor, making justice accessible to everyone, as promised by the Constitution.

Question 4:
Riya learned in class that the Indian Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights to all citizens. She wonders how these rights protect her in daily life. Explain with two examples how Right to Equality and Right to Education help children like her.
Answer:

The Indian Constitution ensures that every child enjoys certain Fundamental Rights to live with dignity and freedom. Here’s how two of these rights help Riya and other children:

  • Right to Equality: This right ensures that no child is treated unfairly based on religion, caste, or gender. For example, Riya can attend the same school as her friends, regardless of her background, and no one can stop her from entering public places like parks or libraries.
  • Right to Education: This right guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14. For instance, Riya’s school cannot deny her admission or ask for high fees, ensuring she gets quality education without financial barriers.

These rights empower children to grow confidently and contribute to society.

Question 5:
During a school assembly, the principal explained the importance of Secularism in India. Students were confused about how this principle is reflected in their daily lives. Provide two real-life examples showing Secularism in action and explain its significance.
Answer:

Secularism means that India respects all religions equally and does not favor any one religion. Here are two examples of how it works in daily life:

  • School Holidays: Schools grant holidays for festivals like Diwali, Eid, and Christmas, showing respect for all religions. This ensures no child feels left out due to their faith.
  • Government Policies: The government supports all religious communities equally, such as funding for pilgrimages or protecting places of worship for every religion.

This principle promotes unity and peace, allowing people of different faiths to live together harmoniously.

Question 6:
A class discussion revolved around the Directive Principles of State Policy. The teacher asked how these principles aim to improve people’s lives. Explain one such principle related to children’s welfare and describe how it benefits society.
Answer:

One important Directive Principle focuses on child welfare, stating that the government should ensure children are not forced into labor and receive opportunities for healthy development. Here’s how it helps:

  • Free Education: The government provides free schooling and mid-day meals to encourage education and reduce child labor.
  • Protection from Exploitation: Laws like the Child Labour (Prohibition) Act prevent children from working in hazardous jobs, ensuring their safety and future.

By following this principle, society ensures that every child gets a fair chance to grow, learn, and contribute positively to the nation.

Question 7:
During a school debate, Aarav argued that the Indian Constitution is special because it has Directive Principles of State Policy. His friend questioned why these principles matter. Explain what these principles are and give one example of how they improve people’s lives.
Answer:

The Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines in the Indian Constitution to help the government create fair and just laws. Though not enforceable in court, they aim to improve society.

For example, one principle directs the government to provide free legal aid to the poor. This ensures everyone, regardless of wealth, can seek justice. Another principle promotes equal pay for equal work, protecting workers’ rights.

These principles help build a better India by guiding policies for welfare and equality.

Question 8:
In a village meeting, people discussed how the Indian Constitution allows them to elect leaders. A child asked, 'How does voting make our country democratic?' Explain the role of Universal Adult Franchise in democracy with an example.
Answer:

Universal Adult Franchise is a key feature of democracy in India. It means every citizen aged 18 or above, rich or poor, can vote to choose their leaders.

For example, in a village election:
1. A farmer, a teacher, and a shopkeeper all cast their votes.
2. Their votes have equal value, ensuring everyone’s voice matters.

This system keeps democracy alive because leaders are accountable to the people. Without it, some groups might be excluded from decision-making.

Question 9:
Riya learned in class that the Indian Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights to all citizens. She wonders how these rights protect her in daily life. Explain with two examples how Fundamental Rights like Right to Equality and Right to Education help children like her.
Answer:

The Indian Constitution ensures that every citizen, including children, enjoys certain Fundamental Rights. Here’s how two of these rights help Riya and other children:

  • Right to Equality: This right ensures that no child is discriminated against based on religion, caste, or gender. For example, Riya can attend the same school as her classmates, regardless of her background.
  • Right to Education: This right guarantees free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14. It means Riya can go to school without her family worrying about fees, ensuring she gets a proper education.

These rights empower children to grow up with dignity and opportunities.

Question 10:
During a school assembly, the principal explained the importance of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Students were asked to identify one key value from the Preamble and explain how it promotes unity in India. Choose one value and describe its significance.
Answer:

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution highlights key values like Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. One important value is Fraternity, which means brotherhood or unity among all citizens.

Fraternity promotes unity by encouraging people to respect each other despite differences in religion, language, or culture. For example, during festivals like Diwali or Eid, people from different communities celebrate together, showing harmony. This value reminds us that we are all part of one nation and must work together for its progress.

Question 11:
Aarav’s teacher discussed the Directive Principles of State Policy in class. He is curious about how these principles guide the government to improve people’s lives. Explain one Directive Principle and how it benefits society.
Answer:

The Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government to create a fair and just society. One such principle is Providing Free and Compulsory Education for children.

This principle ensures that every child, like Aarav, has access to education, which helps in:

  • Reducing illiteracy and poverty.
  • Empowering children with knowledge to build a better future.

For example, government schools and mid-day meal programs encourage parents to send their children to school, improving overall literacy rates in the country.

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