Class 8 Social Science - BIHAR

The Parliamentary System: Legislature and Executive

This chapter introduces Class 8 Bihar Board students to the functioning of India's democratic government through the Parliamentary System. It explores the roles, powers, and relationship between the Legislature (Parliament) and the Executive (the President, Prime Minister, and Council of Ministers). Students will learn how laws are made, how the government is held accountable, and the importance of citizen participation in a democracy. This is a foundational chapter for Civics and frequently appears in board examinations, testing students on governance structures and the separation of powers.

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Key Concepts

Parliament

The supreme legislative body of India consisting of the President, the Lok Sabha (House of the People), and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

Lok Sabha

The lower house of Parliament whose members are directly elected by the citizens of India for a term of 5 years.

Rajya Sabha

The upper house of Parliament representing the states, whose members are indirectly elected for a staggered 6-year term.

Legislature

The branch of government responsible for making laws, debating national issues, and framing policies.

Executive

The branch of government responsible for implementing and enforcing the laws passed by the legislature, headed by the Prime Minister and the President.

Question Hour

The first hour of a sitting in Parliament where members can ask questions to ministers regarding government policies and actions.

Important Formulas

Parliament = Lok Sabha + Rajya Sabha + President
Lok Sabha Term = 5 Years
Rajya Sabha Term = 6 Years (with one-third members retiring every 2 years)
Minimum voting age in India = 18 Years

Board Exam Info

In Bihar Board Class 8 Social Science examinations, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions usually include objective (multiple-choice), short-answer questions defining key terms like Legislature and Executive, and long-answer questions explaining the functions of Parliament or the difference between the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

Lok Sabha is the lower house whose members are directly elected by the people for 5 years, while Rajya Sabha is the upper house representing states, elected indirectly for 6 years.

Who forms the Executive in the Indian Parliamentary system?

The Executive consists of the President, the Prime Minister, and the Council of Ministers, who are responsible for implementing the laws made by Parliament.

Why is Question Hour important in Parliament?

Question Hour allows members of Parliament to hold the government accountable by asking questions about its functioning and policies.

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