Class VII

Social Sciences Class VII Solution

Social and Political Life – Class VII

Chapter 1: Equality in Indian Democracy

Question 1: In a democracy why is universal adult franchise important?

Answer: In a democracy, letting all adults vote is important because it makes sure everyone’s voice is heard. It helps create a government that represents different views, protects personal freedoms, and treats everyone equally in the political process.

Question 2: Re-read the box on Article 15 and state two ways in which this Article addresses inequality?

Answer: Article 15 of the Indian Constitution addresses inequality in two ways:

• Prohibition of Discrimination: Article 15 prohibits the state from discriminating against any citizen on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It emphasizes equal treatment for all individuals, irrespective of these factors.
• Special Provisions for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes: Article 15(4) allows the state to make special provisions for the advancement of socially and educationally backward classes. This provision enables affirmative action and policies to uplift marginalized sections of society.

Question 3: What do you understand by the term “all persons are equal before the law”? Why do you think it is important in a democracy?

Answer: “All persons are equal before the law” means that every individual, regardless of their background or status, is treated impartially by the legal system. This principle is vital in a democracy as it ensures fairness, justice, and protects citizens from arbitrary treatment, fostering the core democratic values of equality and the rule of law.

Question 4: According to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, persons with disabilities have equal rights, and that the government should make possible their full participation in society. The government has to provide free education and integrate children with disabilities into mainstream schools. This law also states that all public places including buildings, schools, etc., should be accessible and provided with ramps. Look at the photograph (given in your book) and think about the boy who is being carried down the stairs. Do you think the above law is being implemented in his case? What needs to be done to make the building more accessible for him? How his being would carried down the stairs affect his dignity as well as his safety?

Answer: By looking into this case, it is very clear that Rights of Person with Disabilities 2016 is not implemented properly. There should be a ramp and stairs for the disabled students in wheelchairs. This affected his dignity for sure, as he wasn’t able to alight by himself and needed help, and he must have felt dependent on others.

Chapter 2: Equality in Indian Democracy

Question 1: In this chapter you have read that health is a wider concept than illness. Look at this quote “duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living and to improve public health” from the Constitution and explain the terms ‘living standard’ and ‘public health’ in your own words.

Answer: “Living standard” refers to the overall well-being of citizens, encompassing factors like income, housing, and education. “Public health” involves efforts to safeguard and enhance the well-being of the entire population, focusing on disease prevention, healthcare access, and sanitation. The Constitution emphasizes the state’s obligation to elevate these aspects for the citizens’ benefit.

Question 2: What are the different ways through which the government can take steps to provide healthcare for all? Discuss.

Answer: The government can ensure healthcare for all by expanding public health programs, subsidizing medical services, and building more affordable clinics. Implementing universal health coverage, regulating drug prices, and promoting preventive care are crucial. Collaborating with private sector and NGOs can enhance access, making healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone.

Question  3: [Answer this question on the basis of your knowledge]

Question 4: ‘Improvement in water and sanitation can control many diseases.’ Explain with the help of examples.

Answer: Enhancing water and sanitation prevents diseases by reducing the spread of germs. Clean water prevents waterborne illnesses like cholera, while proper sanitation prevents fecal-oral diseases. Improved hygiene lowers infections. In communities with good water and sanitation, instances of diseases decrease, emphasizing the vital role of these basic amenities in public health.

Chapter 3: How the State Government Works?

Q1. Use the terms ‘constituency’ and ‘represent’ to explain who an MLA is and how is the person elected?

Answer: An MLA, or Member of the Legislative Assembly, represents a specific geographical area known as a constituency. Elected through a democratic process, the MLA represents the interests and concerns of the constituents in the legislative body. Voters in the constituency cast their ballots, and the candidate with the majority of votes becomes the elected MLA, tasked with representing and addressing the needs of the constituency.

Q2. How did some MLAs become Ministers? Explain.

Answer: Some MLAs become ministers by being appointed to the cabinet by the head of government (Chief Minister). Right after the election the house elects its Chief Minister and CM appoints minsters among MLAs. The leader selects individuals based on their expertise, loyalty, and ability to contribute to governance. Ministers oversee specific portfolios, implementing policies and managing affairs related to their designated areas of responsibility.

Q3. Why should decisions taken by the Chief Minister and other ministers be debated in the Legislative Assembly?

Discussing decisions in the Legislative Assembly is important because it helps make sure that the Chief Minister and other ministers are accountable and transparent in their actions. This debate allows different representatives from even opposition to share their views, ensuring that decisions are well thought out and consider the best interests of the people.

Q4. What is the difference between the work that MLAs do in the Assembly and the work done by government departments?

Work of MLAs in the Assembly

– Formulate and debate laws.

– Represent constituents’ concerns.

– Discuss and scrutinize government policies.

– Approve budgets and expenditures.

Work of Government Departments

– Implement laws and policies.

– Manage day-to-day administrative functions.

– Execute projects and programs.

– Provide public services and utilities.

– Develop and enforce regulations within their specific areas of responsibility.