Class 12 Political Science - KERALA
Recent Developments in Indian Politics
The chapter 'Recent Developments in Indian Politics' explores the major shifts in Indian politics since the 1980s. It marks a departure from the era of one-party dominance to an era of coalition governments, the rise of regional parties, and the emergence of new social and economic issues. Key developments include the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the Mandal Commission controversy, the rise of the BJP and the politics of Hindutva, economic reforms of 1991, and the consensus on major policy issues among different political formations. Understanding these themes is crucial for Kerala SCERT board exams as they explain the current political landscape of India.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Era of Coalition Governments
A period beginning in 1989 where no single party secured a majority in Lok Sabha, leading to governments formed by alliances of multiple regional and national parties.
Mandal Commission
Set up in 1979, its recommendation to reserve 27% of central government jobs for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) was implemented in 1990, transforming social justice politics.
New Economic Reforms (1991)
Policy changes initiated by the P.V. Narasimha Rao government introducing Liberalisation, Privatisation, and Globalisation (LPG), moving India towards a market-driven economy.
Rise of Regional Parties
Political parties focusing on regional identity and state-specific issues that gained significant power and became kingmakers in national coalition politics.
Ayodhya Dispute and Hindutva
The mobilization around the Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi site which shaped the electoral fortunes of the BJP and brought cultural nationalism to the forefront.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Kerala SCERT Class 12 Political Science board examination, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions usually include essay types on the causes and consequences of the coalition era, short notes on the Mandal Commission or New Economic Reforms, and objective questions regarding election years and political alliances.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by the 'era of coalition governments'?
It refers to the political period starting from 1989 where no single party won a clear majority in the Lok Sabha, forcing parties to join hands to form a government.
Why was the implementation of the Mandal Commission report significant?
It provided 27% reservation in central government jobs for Other Backward Classes (OBCs), which brought backward classes directly into the center stage of Indian politics.
What major consensus emerged among political parties in India during the 1990s?
A broad consensus emerged around the acceptance of new economic reforms (LPG), respect for the role of regional parties, and the political rise of the backward classes.
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