Class 11 Political Science - KERALA
Legislature
The chapter 'Legislature' in Class 11 Political Science (Kerala SCERT) explores the law-making organ of government, focusing primarily on the Indian Parliament and State Legislatures. It explains why a democratic nation needs a bicameral legislature, the powers and functions of both houses—Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha—and how laws are made. Students will learn about the instruments of parliamentary control over the executive, the role of committees, and anti-defection laws. This chapter is vital for board exams as it forms the bedrock of understanding the separation of powers and federal legislative structures in India.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Bicameral Legislature
A legislative system consisting of two houses, such as the Parliament of India featuring the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).
Lok Sabha
The Lower House of Parliament whose members are directly elected by the citizens of India based on universal adult suffrage for a five-year term.
Rajya Sabha
The Upper House of Parliament representing the states of India, whose members are indirectly elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.
Parliamentary Control
The mechanism through which the legislature keeps the executive (government) accountable through instruments like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and no-confidence motions.
Anti-Defection Law
A law introduced via the 52nd Constitutional Amendment to prevent elected representatives from changing political parties arbitrarily, carrying the penalty of losing their seat.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Kerala (SCERT) Class 11 Political Science examinations, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently appear as objective types, short answers regarding the differences between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, and essay questions detailing the functions and powers of Parliament or how a bill becomes an act.
Frequently Asked Questions
India is a vast and diverse federal country. A bicameral system ensures representation for both the general population (through Lok Sabha) and the constituent states of the federation (through Rajya Sabha), while also providing a mechanism for double-checking laws.
India is a vast and diverse federal country. A bicameral system ensures representation for both the general population (through Lok Sabha) and the constituent states of the federation (through Rajya Sabha), while also providing a mechanism for double-checking laws.
What is the difference between a Money Bill and an Ordinary Bill?
An Ordinary Bill can be introduced in either house of Parliament and deals with general legislative matters. A Money Bill deals exclusively with financial matters like taxation and expenditure, can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and the Rajya Sabha cannot reject or amend it significantly.
How does the Parliament control the executive in India?
Parliament controls the executive through tools like discussions during Question Hour and Zero Hour, passing adjournment motions, cutting budgets, and ultimately by passing a vote of no-confidence which can force the government to resign.
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