How to Use This Page
This page provides complete exercise solutions for Samacheer Kalvi 7th Social Science — Civics Term 1, Chapter 2: Political Parties. Work through each section in order:
1. Read the Key Concepts for a quick recap of the chapter. 2. Attempt each exercise question on your own first. 3. Compare your answers with the detailed solutions below. 4. Review the Common Mistakes section to avoid losing marks. 5. Use the Exam Checklist before your test.
Key Concepts (Quick Recap)
- A political party is an organised group of people with common interests and principles who aim to contest elections and form government.
- Political parties form the backbone of democracy.
- Single-party system — only one party is allowed to rule (e.g., China).
- Bi-party system — two major parties contest elections (e.g., USA, UK).
- Multi-party system — several parties contest elections (e.g., India, France).
- India follows a multi-party system due to its vast social and regional diversity.
- Every party in India must register with the Election Commission of India.
- The Election Commission accords recognition to political parties and assigns election symbols.
- Recognised parties can contest elections on their own symbol.
- Unrecognised parties cannot contest elections on their own symbol.
- Political parties serve as intermediaries between citizens and policy makers.
- Parties are generally formed on the basis of common interest.
- National parties operate across the country; state parties operate within a state.
| Term | Definition |
|---|
| Political Party | Organised group with common interests aiming to contest elections and form government |
| Single-Party System | Only one party is allowed to rule (e.g., China) |
| Bi-Party System | Two major parties compete for power (e.g., USA, UK) |
| Multi-Party System | Several parties contest elections (e.g., India, France) |
| Election Commission | Body that registers and recognises political parties in India |
| Recognised Party | Party that meets minimum electoral criteria and can use its own symbol |
| Unrecognised Party | Registered party that cannot contest on its own symbol |
| National Party | Party operating across the country, recognised in 4+ states |
| State Party | Party operating primarily within one state |
| Coalition Government | Government formed by multiple parties joining together |
| Opposition Party | Parties that do not belong to the ruling party |
| Election Symbol | Exclusive symbol assigned to recognised parties for ballot identification |
| Common Interest | Foundational basis on which political parties are formed |
| Backbone of Democracy | Role political parties play in enabling democratic functioning |
Exercise Solutions
I. Choose the Correct Answer (MCQs)
1. What is meant by Bi-party system?
Answer
- a) Two parties run the government ✓
- b) Two members run a party
- c) Two major political parties contest election
- d) None of these
ExplanationIn a bi-party system, two major political parties compete for power. The party that wins the majority forms the government, while the other becomes the opposition. Examples include the USA and the UK.
2. Which system of government does India have?
Answer
- a) Single-party system
- b) Bi-party system
- c) Multi-party system ✓
- d) None of these
ExplanationIndia has a multi-party system because of its vast social, religious, linguistic, and regional diversity. Multiple parties represent different groups and interests, and coalition governments are common.
3. Recognition of a political party is accorded by \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
Answer
- a) The Election Commission ✓
- b) The President
- c) The Supreme Court
- d) A committee
ExplanationThe Election Commission of India is responsible for recognising political parties and assigning them election symbols. It determines whether a party qualifies as a national or state party based on electoral performance.
4. Political parties are generally formed on the basis of \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.
Answer
- a) Religious principles
- b) Common interest ✓
- c) Economic principles
- d) Caste
ExplanationPolitical parties are generally formed on the basis of common interests shared by a group of people. While some parties may emphasise religious, economic, or caste-based interests, the foundational basis is common interest.
5. Single-party system is found in
Answer
- a) India
- b) U.S.A.
- c) France
- d) China ✓
ExplanationChina follows a single-party system where only the Communist Party is allowed to rule. India has a multi-party system, the USA has a bi-party system, and France also has a multi-party system.
6. A party that secures at least 6% of total votes and wins minimum seats in a state is recognised as:
- a) National party
- b) State party ✓
- c) Unrecognised party
- d) Regional party
ExplanationA party that secures at least 6% of total valid votes in a state election and wins the minimum required seats is recognised as a state party in that state.
7. In a bi-party system, the party that does not form the government becomes:
- a) Ruling party
- b) Opposition party ✓
- c) Coalition party
- d) Independent party
ExplanationIn a bi-party system, the party that wins the majority forms the government, and the other party becomes the opposition.
8. Which of the following is an example of a national party?
- a) DMK
- b) TDP
- c) BJP ✓
- d) AIADMK
ExplanationBJP is a national party because it operates across multiple states. DMK, TDP, and AIADMK are state parties.
9. An unrecognised political party cannot contest elections on its own:
- a) Symbol ✓
- b) Name
- c) State
- d) Constituency
ExplanationAn unrecognised party cannot use its own election symbol and must choose from a list of free symbols.
10. Multiple parties joining together to form a government is called:
- a) Opposition
- b) Coalition ✓
- c) Single-party rule
- d) Bi-party system
ExplanationWhen no single party wins a majority, multiple parties join together to form a coalition government.
II. Fill in the Blanks
1. Political parties form the backbone of democracy.
2. Every party in our country has to register with the Election Commission of India.
3. Political parties serve as intermediaries between the citizens and policy makers.
4. A registered but unrecognised political party cannot contest election on its own symbol.
5. A party that secures at least 6% of the total votes in Lok Sabha or Assembly elections is recognised as a state party.
6. A party that secures 6% of votes in four or more states is recognised as a national party.
7. In a bi-party party system, two major parties compete for power.
8. Multiple parties joining together to form a government is called a coalition government.
III. Match the Following
| S.No. | Column A | | Column B |
|---|
| 1. | Single-party system | → | d) China |
| 2. | Bi-party system | → | a) USA, UK |
| 3. | Multi-party system | → | e) India, France |
| 4. | Election Commission | → | b) Recognises political parties |
| 5. | Unrecognised party | → | c) Cannot use own symbol |
Explanation
- A single-party system exists in China where only one party rules.
- A bi-party system exists in the USA and UK where two major parties compete.
- A multi-party system exists in India and France with multiple parties.
- The Election Commission recognises parties and assigns symbols.
- Unrecognised parties cannot contest on their own election symbol.
IV. True or False (with corrections)
1. India follows a single-party system.
- False. India follows a multi-party system due to its social and regional diversity, which allows multiple parties to represent different interests.
2. Political parties form the backbone of democracy.
- True. Political parties are essential for the functioning of democracy as they organise public opinion, contest elections, and form governments.
3. An unrecognised party can contest elections on its own symbol.
- False. A registered but unrecognised political party cannot contest elections on its own symbol. Only recognised parties can use their own election symbols.
4. The Election Commission recognises political parties in India.
- True. The Election Commission of India accords recognition to political parties and assigns them election symbols.
5. A bi-party system means two members run a party.
- False. A bi-party system means two major political parties compete for power in elections. One of them forms the government and the other serves as opposition.
6. A coalition government is formed when no single party gets a majority.
- True. When no single party wins enough seats, multiple parties join together to form a coalition government.
7. The President of India recognises political parties.
- False. The Election Commission of India recognises political parties, not the President.
8. DMK and AIADMK are examples of national parties.
- False. DMK and AIADMK are state parties in Tamil Nadu, not national parties. National parties operate across multiple states.
V. Very Short Answers (1–2 sentences)
1. What is a political party?
Answer
A political party is an organised group of people who come together on the basis of common interests and shared principles to contest elections, form government, and shape public policy.
2. Name the types of party systems.
Answer
The three types of party systems are: single-party system (one party rules), bi-party system (two major parties compete), and multi-party system (several parties compete in elections).
3. What is the role of the Election Commission regarding political parties?
Answer
The Election Commission of India registers political parties, accords them recognition as national or state parties, and assigns election symbols to recognised parties.
4. What is an unrecognised party?
Answer
An unrecognised party is a registered political party that has not met the minimum electoral performance criteria and therefore cannot contest elections on its own symbol.
5. Why does India have a multi-party system?
Answer
India has a multi-party system because of its vast social, religious, linguistic, and regional diversity, which requires multiple parties to represent the diverse interests and aspirations of different groups.
VI. Short Answers (3–5 sentences)
1. Distinguish between single-party system and multi-party system.
Answer
| Feature | Single-party System | Multi-party System |
|---|
| Definition | Only one political party is allowed to rule | Multiple parties contest elections |
| Citizen choice | No choice — only one party | Wide choice of parties and policies |
| Opposition | No opposition party | Multiple opposition parties |
| Example | China | India, France |
In a single-party system, the ruling party controls everything without opposition. In a multi-party system, citizens have the freedom to choose from multiple parties, and coalition governments are common.
2. Explain the role of political parties in a democracy.
Answer
Political parties play several vital roles in a democracy. They contest elections and present different policies and programmes for voters to choose from. They serve as intermediaries between citizens and policy makers, conveying public demands to the government. The winning party forms the government and implements its policies, while opposition parties hold the government accountable. Parties also educate voters about important issues and mobilise people to participate in the democratic process. Without political parties, democracy cannot function effectively.
3. How does the Election Commission recognise political parties?
Answer
The Election Commission of India recognises political parties based on their electoral performance. A party that secures at least 6% of the total valid votes in a Lok Sabha or State Assembly election and wins at least 4 seats in the Lok Sabha or 3% of the total Assembly seats is recognised as a state party in that state. A party that fulfils this criterion in four or more states, or secures at least 6% of total votes in four or more states in the last Lok Sabha election, is recognised as a national party. The Commission assigns exclusive election symbols to recognised parties.
4. What is the difference between a national party and a state party?
Answer
A national party operates across the country and has a presence in multiple states. It must secure at least 6% of total votes in four or more states in Lok Sabha elections. Examples include BJP, INC, and CPI(M). A state party operates primarily within one state and must secure at least 6% of total votes in that state's Assembly election. It can contest elections only in that state on its own symbol. However, a state party can become a national party if it meets the criteria in multiple states.
VII. Detailed Answers (Paragraph-length)
1. Explain the different types of party systems with examples.
Answer
There are three main types of party systems in the world. Single-party system: Only one political party is allowed to exist and rule. There is no opposition and citizens have no choice in elections. China is the most prominent example, where the Communist Party holds all power. This system often leads to authoritarian rule and lack of democratic freedoms. Bi-party system: Two major political parties dominate the political landscape. One party forms the government while the other forms the opposition. Citizens choose between two clear alternatives. Examples include the United States (Democratic and Republican parties) and the United Kingdom (Conservative and Labour parties). Smaller parties may exist but rarely win major elections. Multi-party system: Several political parties contest elections and no single party usually wins an absolute majority. Coalition governments are formed when parties join together. This system is most suitable for diverse societies as it allows representation of multiple interests and groups. India is the best example, with numerous national and state parties representing its vast social, religious, linguistic, and regional diversity. France also follows a multi-party system.
2. Describe the functions of political parties in a democracy.
Answer
Political parties perform several essential functions in a democracy. Contesting elections: Parties nominate candidates and present their manifestos to voters, giving them choices in elections. Forming government: The party or coalition that wins a majority forms the government and implements its policies. Opposition role: Parties that lose form the opposition, scrutinising government actions and providing alternative policies. Intermediary role: Parties serve as a link between citizens and policy makers, conveying public demands and grievances to the government. Educating voters: Parties raise awareness about important issues through campaigns, rallies, and media, helping citizens make informed choices. Mobilising participation: Parties encourage people to vote, join political processes, and participate in democratic institutions. Providing stability: In parliamentary democracies, parties ensure stable governance by organising majorities and providing structured opposition. Without political parties, democracy would be chaotic with no organised way to form governments, present policies, or hold those in power accountable.
3. Explain how political parties are recognised and regulated in India.
Answer
In India, the recognition and regulation of political parties is handled by the Election Commission of India under the provisions of the Constitution and the Representation of People Act. Registration: Every political party must register with the Election Commission of India to contest elections. The registration process requires parties to submit their constitution, manifesto, and organisational details. Recognition: The Election Commission accords recognition based on electoral performance. A party that secures at least 6% of total valid votes in a Lok Sabha or Assembly election and wins the minimum required seats is recognised as a state party in that state. A party that meets this criterion in four or more states is recognised as a national party. Currently, India has several recognised national and state parties. Election symbols: Recognised parties are assigned exclusive election symbols that appear on ballot papers and EVMs, making it easier for voters to identify their preferred party. Unrecognised parties cannot use their own symbols and must choose from a list of free symbols. Regulation: The Election Commission monitors party finances, ensures compliance with election laws, and can take action against parties that violate the Model Code of Conduct. This regulatory framework ensures that political parties operate transparently and democratically.
Common Mistakes
1. ❌ Thinking bi-party system means two members run a party → ✅ Bi-party system means two major parties compete for power 2. ❌ Saying India has a bi-party system → ✅ India has a multi-party system due to its social and regional diversity 3. ❌ Confusing recognised and unrecognised parties → ✅ Recognised parties can use own symbols; unrecognised parties cannot 4. ❌ Saying the President recognises political parties → ✅ The Election Commission of India recognises political parties 5. ❌ Confusing national and state parties → ✅ National parties operate across the country; state parties operate within one state 6. ❌ Thinking single-party system is democratic → ✅ Single-party systems (like China) lack opposition and voter choice 7. ❌ Forgetting parties are formed on common interest → ✅ Political parties are fundamentally formed on the basis of common interest
Exam Checklist
- [ ] Can you define a political party and explain its purpose?
- [ ] Can you name and explain the three types of party systems with examples?
- [ ] Do you know which type of party system India follows and why?
- [ ] Can you explain the role of the Election Commission in recognising political parties?
- [ ] Can you distinguish between recognised and unrecognised parties?
- [ ] Can you distinguish between national parties and state parties?
- [ ] Can you list the functions of political parties in a democracy?
- [ ] Do you know the criteria for a party to be recognised as a state party or national party?
- [ ] Can you explain why political parties form the backbone of democracy?
- [ ] Can you match countries to their party systems (China — single, USA/UK — bi-party, India/France — multi-party)?
- [ ] Can you explain what a coalition government is and when it is formed?
- [ ] Can you give examples of national parties and state parties in India?
