Class 11 Political Science - GUJARAT

Legislature

The chapter 'Legislature' in Class 11 Political Science under the Gujarat (GSEB) curriculum explores the law-making organ of government. It examines why we need a parliament, the functions and powers of the legislature, and the distinction between a unicameral and bicameral legislature. Students will learn about the structure of the Indian Parliament, comprising the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, along with the law-making procedure and how the legislature exercises control over the executive. This chapter is vital for board exams as it forms the foundation of understanding democratic governance and the separation of powers.

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Key Concepts

Bicameral Legislature

A legislative system consisting of two houses, such as the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) in the Indian Parliament.

Lok Sabha

The Lower House of the Indian Parliament whose members are directly elected by the people of India on the basis of universal adult suffrage.

Rajya Sabha

The Upper House of the Parliament that represents the States of India and consists of members elected indirectly by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.

Money Bill

A special financial bill dealing with taxation, borrowing, or expenditure that can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha with the prior recommendation of the President.

Parliamentary Control over Executive

The power of the legislature to oversee the executive branch through instruments like question hour, zero hour, adjournment motions, and no-confidence motions.

Important Formulas

Lok Sabha Strength: Maximum 552 members (currently 543 elected members)
Rajya Sabha Strength: Maximum 250 members (currently 245 members)
Quorum: One-tenth (1/10th) of the total number of members of each House
Term of Lok Sabha: 5 years (unless dissolved earlier)
Term of Rajya Sabha: Permanent body with members serving 6-year terms (1/3rd retiring every 2 years)

Board Exam Info

In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 11 Political Science board exams, this chapter generally carries around 8 to 10 marks. Questions commonly include short answers on the functions of Parliament, differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and long descriptive answers regarding how the legislature controls the executive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does India need a bicameral legislature?

India needs a bicameral legislature to ensure double-check on laws, represent both the citizens directly (Lok Sabha) and the federating states (Rajya Sabha), and accommodate diverse interests in a large, federal nation.

What is the difference between a Money Bill and an Ordinary Bill?

An Ordinary Bill can be introduced in either house of Parliament and requires approval from both. A Money Bill deals exclusively with financial matters, can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and the Rajya Sabha has limited powers to delay or amend it.

How does the Parliament control the executive?

Parliament controls the executive through discussions, debates, Question Hour, budget approval, and ultimately by passing a vote of no-confidence which can force the government to resign.

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