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Discover the complexities and beauty of a federal system of governance with CBSE Class 10 Political Science chapter "Federalism." This chapter unravels the dynamic mechanism of power-sharing among various levels of government.

Introduction to CBSE Class 10 Social Science Political Science Chapter "Federalism"

The “Federalism” chapter in CBSE Class 10 Political Science provides students with an in-depth understanding of federalism as a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and its constituent units, typically states or provinces. It discusses how this division ensures a balance of power, catering to the diversity of the nation while maintaining unity.

Students learn about the key features of federalism, including the existence of two levels of government, the jurisdiction of respective governments as specified by the Constitution, and the supremacy of the Constitution. The chapter also delves into the role of the judiciary in upholding the constitutional provisions and resolving disputes between different levels of government.

The concepts of coming together and holding together federations are introduced, highlighting the differences between a unitary and a federal government structure. The chapter presents various models of federalism across the world and emphasizes the importance of decentralization in strengthening democracy.

Assignments for CBSE Class 10 Political Science Chapter “Federalism”

  1. Research Assignment: Study the federal structure of another country and compare it with that of India.
  2. Debate: Participate in a debate on the merits and demerits of a federal structure of governance.
  3. Case Study: Analyze a case where the Indian judiciary had to resolve a dispute between the Union and State governments.
  4. Project Work: Create a presentation on the role of local governments in the federal system.
  5. Essay Writing: Write an essay on the significance of federalism in a diverse country like India.

Conclusion
The study of “Federalism” in CBSE Class 10 Political Science provides students with critical insights into how countries manage governance and power-sharing across different levels of administration. It establishes the relevance of federalism in maintaining harmony in a pluralistic society and how it supports the democratic process and the principles of equality.

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Questions and Answers for CBSE Class 10 Political Science Chapter "Federalism"

  1. Q1: What is federalism?
    ANS: Federalism is a form of government where power is constitutionally divided between a central authority and various constituent units to accommodate the country’s diversity while maintaining unity.
  2. Q2: What are the two kinds of routes through which federations have been formed?
    ANS: Federations have been formed through the ‘coming together’ of independent states and the ‘holding together’ of a large country.
  3. Q3: Why is the Constitution considered supreme in a federal system?
    ANS: The Constitution is considered supreme in a federal system because it lays down the powers and functions of different levels of government and is the final authority.
  4. Q4: How does federalism contribute to democracy?
    ANS: Federalism contributes to democracy by allowing multiple levels of government to exist and function, giving citizens access to authority at different levels and protecting their interests and rights.
  5. Q5: What is the role of local government in a federal system?
    ANS: Local governments play a crucial role in a federal system by dealing with local issues directly and empowering local communities, thereby enhancing democratic participation.
  6. Q6: What is decentralization in the context of federalism?
    ANS: Decentralization refers to the distribution of power from central to local government bodies to ensure better governance and address the specific needs of localities.
  7. Q7: Can states in a federal union have their constitutions?
    ANS: Yes, in many federal systems, constituent states have their constitutions, which must align with the national Constitution.
  8. Q8: How does federalism accommodate diversity?
    ANS: Federalism accommodates diversity by allowing different regions with unique cultural, linguistic, and ethnic identities to govern themselves in certain respects while being part of a larger political system.
  9. Q9: What is a unitary system of government?
    ANS: A unitary system of government is one where all powers are held by the central government, and any administrative division (state, local) has no or limited power.
  10. Q10: Why are ‘holding together’ federations considered asymmetrical?
    ANS: ‘Holding together’ federations are considered asymmetrical because the constituent units (states) often have unequal powers relative to the central government, which may have more authority over some states than others.

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