Class 9 Social Science - ICSE-HISTORY-CIVICS
The State Legislatures
The chapter 'The State Legislatures' in Class 9 ICSE Civics introduces students to the law-making organs of the state government in India. It covers the structure of state legislatures, which can be bicameral or unicameral, detailing the composition, tenure, and qualifications of members of both the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) and the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad). Students also learn about the presiding officers, powers, and functions of these bodies. Understanding this chapter is crucial for board exams as it forms the foundational building block for comprehending India's federal structure and democratic governance at the regional level.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Bicameral vs. Unicameral Legislature
A unicameral legislature has only one house (Legislative Assembly), whereas a bicameral legislature has two houses: the Legislative Assembly (Lower House) and the Legislative Council (Upper House).
Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha)
The popularly elected lower house of the state legislature consisting of representatives chosen directly by the people of the state on the basis of universal adult suffrage.
Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad)
The permanent upper house of the state legislature found in select larger states, whose members are indirectly elected through a complex system representing local bodies, graduates, teachers, and the Legislative Assembly.
Qualifications for Membership
Candidates must be Indian citizens, at least 25 years of age for the Legislative Assembly and 30 years for the Legislative Council, mentally sound, and not bankrupt.
Speaker of the Legislative Assembly
The presiding officer elected by the members of the Vidhan Sabha who maintains order during debates, grants permission to speak, and casts a casting vote in case of a tie.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In ICSE History & Civics Class 9 exams, this chapter typically carries about 5 to 8 marks. Questions usually include short-answer questions, structural composition details, differences between the Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad, and objective-type or multiple-choice questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which states in India currently have a bicameral legislature?
As of now, only six states have a bicameral legislature: Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Can the Legislative Council be dissolved like the Legislative Assembly?
No, the Legislative Council is a permanent house and cannot be dissolved. However, it can be created or abolished by Parliament upon a recommendation passed by the State Legislative Assembly.
What is the role of the Governor in the State Legislature?
The Governor is an integral part of the state legislature because no bill passed by the houses can become a law without the Governor's assent. The Governor also summons, prorogues, and addresses the house.
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