NCERT Class 8 Social Science Chapter 6
The Parliamentary System: Legislature and Executive
Chapter 6 of NCERT Class 8 Social Science Exploring Society explains the structure and functions of India's Parliamentary system, focusing on the Legislature and the Executive. This CBSE Class 8 civics chapter covers how laws are made, the roles of the President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, and Parliament. Students will understand the principles of checks and balances and how democratic governance works in India.
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Key Terms
- Parliamentary System
- A form of democratic governance in which the executive derives its legitimacy from and is accountable to the legislature (Parliament).
- Legislature
- The branch of government responsible for making laws; in India this is Parliament, comprising the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
- Executive
- The branch of government responsible for implementing laws and running the administration; headed by the President and Prime Minister.
- Council of Ministers
- The body of senior ministers headed by the Prime Minister that is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
- Collective Responsibility
- The principle that all members of the Council of Ministers are jointly responsible to the Lok Sabha for all decisions taken by the Cabinet.
- Bill
- A draft of a proposed law presented before Parliament for discussion and voting before it becomes an Act.
- Question Hour
- The first hour of a Parliament sitting when members may question ministers on matters of public importance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Parliamentary system of government Class 8 NCERT?▾
The Parliamentary system is a form of government where the executive (Council of Ministers led by the Prime Minister) is part of the legislature and is accountable to it. In India, the Prime Minister must maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha to remain in power.
What are the functions of the Indian Parliament Class 8?▾
Parliament makes laws, approves the national budget, debates national issues, holds the government accountable through questions and debates, and represents the will of the Indian people through their elected representatives.
What is the difference between Legislature and Executive Class 8?▾
The Legislature (Parliament) makes the laws of the country, while the Executive (President, Prime Minister, and Council of Ministers) implements those laws and runs the day-to-day administration of the country.
What is the role of the Prime Minister in India Class 8 Social Science?▾
The Prime Minister is the head of the government and the leader of the Council of Ministers. They advise the President, chair Cabinet meetings, coordinate government policy, and are accountable to the Lok Sabha.
What is collective responsibility Class 8 NCERT?▾
Collective responsibility means that all Cabinet ministers stand together on every decision. If the government loses a vote of no confidence in the Lok Sabha, all ministers must resign together, not just individual members.
How does a Bill become a Law in India Class 8?▾
A Bill is introduced in either house of Parliament, debated and amended, then passed by both houses. It is then sent to the President for assent. Once the President signs it, the Bill becomes a law (Act).
What is the role of the President of India Class 8?▾
The President is the constitutional head of state and supreme commander of the armed forces. In practice, the President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers. Key powers include appointing the Prime Minister and summoning Parliament.
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