Political Science: Working of Institutions

Topics in this chapter

• Democratic Political Institutions
• Parliament and Legislative Oversight
• Political Executive and Cabinet
• Permanent Executive and Civil Services
• Judiciary and Judicial Review
• Institutional Accountability and Decision-Making

Cheat sheet

Practice questions

1. Question 1Q-1F05FC

   Who is the head of the government in India and exercises all actual governmental powers?

   1. A.The President of India
   2. B.The Prime Minister
   3. C.The Chief Justice of India
   4. D.The Speaker of the Lok Sabha
   See the answer and solution
2. Question 2Q-FE406D

   What is the primary function of the Parliament in a democratic country like India?

   1. A.To implement laws and policies
   2. B.To execute court judgments
   3. C.To enact laws and exercise control over the government
   4. D.To manage the armed forces directly
   See the answer and solution
3. Question 3Q-91AE37

   Which institution in India can resolve disputes between citizens and the government, or between the central and state governments?

   1. A.The Election Commission
   2. B.The Judiciary
   3. C.The Union Cabinet
   4. D.The NITI Aayog
   See the answer and solution
4. Question 4Q-E0EF15

   What does a 'No-Confidence Motion' passed against the Union Council of Ministers signify?

   1. A.The President must dissolve the Supreme Court.
   2. B.The entire Council of Ministers, including the Prime Minister, must resign.
   3. C.Only the Prime Minister loses their seat while others stay in power.
   4. D.The ruling party can still pass laws without approval.
   See the answer and solution
5. Question 5Q-A90C79

   Why are civil servants (permanent executive) considered more expert in policy matters than political executives (ministers)?

   1. A.Civil servants are elected directly by the public every five years.
   2. B.Ministers do not have any advisors.
   3. C.Civil servants are permanent employees with specialized professional training and long-term experience.
   4. D.Ministers are legally barred from understanding technical policies.
   See the answer and solution