Political Science MCQs
Topic Notes: Political Science
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
In a bicameral legislature, how are the powers of the two houses typically characterized?
Answer:
Co-ordinate in powers
The term 'co-ordinate' implies that both houses of a legislature possess equal or balanced authority in the legislative process. While many systems have asymmetric bicameralism, the concept of co-ordinate powers describes a system where both chambers must agree for legislation to pass, ensuring checks and balances between the two bodies.
2
How many members are typically included in the panel of chairpersons appointed by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha?
Answer:
Six chairmen
Under the rules of procedure for the Lok Sabha, the Speaker nominates a panel of chairpersons from among the members. This panel consists of six members who can preside over the House in the absence of the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker. This ensures the continuity of legislative proceedings and maintains the orderly conduct of business within the chamber during sessions.
3
Following the passing of G.V. Mavalankar, who assumed the position of Speaker of the first Lok Sabha in India?
Answer:
None of the above
Ganesh Vasudev Mavalankar was the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Upon his death in 1956, M. Ananthasayanam Ayyangar, who was the Deputy Speaker, succeeded him. Since the option 'M.A. Ayyangar' is listed as A, but the provided answer key is D, this indicates a potential conflict between historical fact and the provided key.
4
Why does the legislature play a significant role in shaping public opinion?
Answer:
It consists of elected representatives of the people
Legislatures are composed of elected representatives who serve as a bridge between the citizenry and the government. By debating issues, conducting public hearings, and articulating the concerns of their constituents, legislators bring public grievances to the forefront, thereby influencing and reflecting the broader public opinion within the political system.
5
Which article of the Indian Constitution provides for the establishment of a bicameral parliament?
Answer:
Article 79
Article 79 of the Indian Constitution explicitly states that there shall be a Parliament for the Union which shall consist of the President and two Houses to be known respectively as the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). This establishes the bicameral nature of the Indian legislative system.
6
What is the designated term length for the President of the Senate?
Answer:
3 years
The term length for the President of the Senate is established by constitutional or procedural rules specific to the legislative body. In this context, the term is fixed at three years, ensuring a periodic rotation of leadership within the upper house to maintain democratic accountability and legislative oversight.
7
Which specific legislative instrument is required to authorize the withdrawal of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India following the approval of demands for grants?
Answer:
The Appropriation Bill
Under Article 114 of the Indian Constitution, the Appropriation Bill is the mandatory legislative vehicle that authorizes the government to withdraw money from the Consolidated Fund of India. This bill is introduced after the Lok Sabha has voted on the demands for grants, ensuring that all government expenditures are legally sanctioned and aligned with the budgetary process.
8
Who was designated as the pro-tem speaker for the 16th Lok Sabha?
Answer:
Kamal Nath
Kamal Nath was appointed as the pro-tem speaker for the 16th Lok Sabha. The pro-tem speaker is a temporary position held by a senior member of the house, responsible for overseeing the initial proceedings, administering the oath to newly elected members, and presiding over the election of the permanent Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
9
Under what specific circumstance is the Speaker of the House prohibited from presiding over the proceedings?
Answer:
But when his removal is discussed
According to parliamentary rules, the Speaker cannot preside over the House when a resolution for their own removal is under consideration. During such sessions, the Deputy Speaker or a member of the panel of chairpersons presides. This rule is essential to maintain impartiality and prevent a conflict of interest, ensuring that the debate regarding the Speaker's tenure remains fair and transparent for all members involved.
10
In parliamentary procedure, what is the term for a closure method where a bill is divided into specific sections, each assigned a deadline for completion?
Answer:
Guillotine closure
The guillotine closure is a procedural device used in legislatures to expedite the passage of a bill. It involves setting a strict timetable for the discussion of different parts of a bill. Once the time allocated for a specific section expires, the debate is cut off, and the remaining parts are put to a vote without further discussion, ensuring the bill passes within the allotted time.