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Non-Rationalised Civics / Political Science NCERT Notes, Solutions and Extra Q & A (Class 6th to 12th)
6th 7th 8th 9th 10th 11th 12th

Class 10th Chapters
1. Power-Sharing 2. Federalism 3. Democracy And Diversity
4. Gender, Religion And Caste 5. Popular Struggles And Movements 6. Political Parties
7. Outcomes Of Democracy 8. Challenges To Democracy

Class 10th Civics NCERT Notes, NCERT Question Solutions and Extra Q & A (Non-Rationalised)

1. Power-Sharing

This chapter explores the concept of **power-sharing**, explaining how political power can be distributed among different organs of government, levels of government, or social groups. It uses case studies like **Belgium** (successful accommodation of diversity through power-sharing) and Sri Lanka (failure to share power leading to conflict) to illustrate the importance of power-sharing in reducing tensions and maintaining stability in diverse societies. Different forms of power-sharing (horizontal, vertical, among social groups) are discussed, highlighting that sharing power is crucial for the legitimacy and functioning of a democracy like India.

2. Federalism

This chapter delves into the concept of **federalism**, a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent regional units (states or provinces). It discusses the key features of federalism, such as having two or more levels of government, each with its own jurisdiction, and constitutional guarantee of power. Different types of federalism (coming together vs. holding together) are explained. The chapter focuses on **Indian federalism**, analyzing the distribution of powers between the Union and State governments (Union List, State List, Concurrent List) and the importance of decentralized government (Panchayati Raj, Municipalities) in managing diversity and governance in India.

3. Democracy And Diversity

This chapter explores the relationship between **democracy** and **diversity**. It discusses how societies are often characterized by various social divisions based on ethnicity, religion, language, or caste. The chapter examines how democracy provides a framework for accommodating these diversities and managing social conflicts peacefully. It discusses case studies (e.g., Northern Ireland, Yugoslavia, Mexico) to illustrate how political expression of social divisions can be managed in a democracy, highlighting that successful democracies find ways to include various groups and recognize their identities while promoting national unity, relevant for India's diverse society.

4. Gender, Religion And Caste

This chapter examines how social divisions based on **gender**, **religion**, and **caste** interact with and influence politics in India. It discusses how gender inequalities persist despite legal equality and the role of feminist movements. The chapter explores how religion can be politicized, leading to communalism and challenges to secularism, while also noting the positive role of religious groups in social reform. It analyzes the impact of the caste system on social hierarchy and political participation, and discusses constitutional provisions and policies aimed at addressing caste inequalities and promoting social justice and equality for all citizens in India.

5. Popular Struggles And Movements

This chapter explores the role of **popular struggles** and **social movements** in deepening democracy and bringing about social change. It discusses how people organize and mobilize outside formal political parties to voice their demands and challenge injustices. Case studies of movements, both in India (e.g., Narmada Bachao Andolan, Right to Information movement) and globally (e.g., movement for democracy in Nepal), are discussed. The chapter highlights how these movements contribute to democratic politics by raising public awareness, influencing policy decisions, and holding governments accountable to citizens' needs and aspirations, showcasing the power of collective action.

6. Political Parties

This chapter introduces **political parties** as essential components of a democracy. It defines political parties as organizations that aim to contest elections and hold power in the government. The chapter discusses the key **functions** of political parties: contesting elections, forming and running governments, playing the role of opposition, making policies, and shaping public opinion. Different types of party systems (one-party, two-party, multi-party) are explored. The chapter focuses on **political parties in India**, their classification (National parties, State parties), challenges (e.g., dynastic succession, money and muscle power), and reform efforts, highlighting their vital role in making democracy work and representing diverse interests.

7. Outcomes Of Democracy

This chapter critically assesses the **outcomes** and performance of **democracy** compared to other forms of government. It evaluates democracy on various parameters, such as providing accountability, responsiveness, and legitimacy to the government. The chapter discusses democracy's potential to reduce inequality and poverty, accommodate social diversity, and promote dignity and freedom of citizens. It also acknowledges the challenges and failures of democracies, such as corruption, slow decision-making, and failing to meet expectations. By examining these outcomes, the chapter encourages students to critically evaluate democracy and understand that its success depends on active citizen participation and effective institutions in contexts like India.

8. Challenges To Democracy

This chapter examines various **challenges** faced by **democracy** around the world, including those relevant to India. It discusses challenges such as the foundational challenge (transitioning to democracy), the challenge of expansion (applying democratic principles to all groups and regions), and the challenge of deepening democracy (strengthening institutions and practices). Specific challenges like corruption, inequality, poverty, criminalization of politics, decline in citizen participation, and the need for institutional reforms are discussed. The chapter highlights that while democracy has spread, it faces ongoing challenges that require continuous efforts from citizens, political parties, and institutions to strengthen it and ensure its effectiveness in diverse contexts like India.