Class 11 Political Science - MAHARASHTRA
Constitution: Why and How
The chapter 'Constitution: Why and How' from Class 11 Political Science under the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) board introduces students to the fundamental principles of constitution-making and its significance in a democracy. It explains why a society needs a constitution, how constitutions shape power relations, and the historical journey of the Indian Constitution. Students will learn about the Constituent Assembly, the philosophy behind our constitution, and institutional design. This chapter is foundational for board exams as it tests core conceptual understanding of democratic institutions, carrying significant weightage in both objective and descriptive question formats.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Constitution
A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state or other organization is acknowledged to be governed.
Constituent Assembly
A body of representatives elected for framing or drafting a constitution for a country, which for India met between December 1946 and November 1949.
Institutional Design
The arrangement of government organs—such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary—ensuring a balance of power and checks and balances.
Universal Adult Franchise
The principle in democracy that all adult citizens have the right to vote regardless of wealth, income, gender, social status, or race.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 11 Political Science board-level assessments, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Common question types include short answer questions on the functions of a constitution, objective fill-in-the-blanks regarding dates, and descriptive answers on why India needed a Constituent Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a country need a constitution?
A constitution provides a set of basic rules that allow for minimal coordination among members of a society and specifies who has the power to make decisions.
How was the Indian Constitution made?
It was framed by the Constituent Assembly, which consisted of representatives elected indirectly, representing diverse regions, communities, and political ideologies of India.
What is the difference between adopting and enforcing the Constitution?
The Constitution was adopted and passed on 26 November 1949, but it came into full force and effect on 26 January 1950, a date chosen to honor the historic Purna Swaraj declaration.
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