The Indian Constitution – Short Answer Type Questions
Class 8
Social Science
Chapter 1: The Indian Constitution — 50 Short Answer Q&A
CBSE Board Examinations (Systematic Order)
- Chapter: The Indian Constitution (Social & Political Life, Chapter 1)
- Question types: Very short, short and long answer questions
- Exam focus areas: Preamble, Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties
- Preparation tip: Learn definitions, memorize Preamble words, practice sample answers
Content Bank — Topics
- Basics: What is a Constitution, Preamble
- Features: Written, Federal, Parliamentary, Judiciary
- Fundamental Rights: Categories and examples
- Fundamental Duties & Directive Principles
- Democracy in Practice: Elections, Separation of Powers, Writs
Topic: Basics of Constitution
1. Define a constitution.
A constitution is a written set of rules and principles that determine how a country is governed and how power is distributed.
2. Why did India need a Constitution after independence?
India needed a Constitution to unite diverse groups, provide legal order, protect rights, and define government powers.
3. Who chaired the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution.
4. Is the Constitution of India a single document or many documents?
The Constitution of India is a single, written document containing fundamental laws and provisions.
5. What is the Preamble?
The Preamble is the introductory statement that lists the aims and values of the Constitution, such as Justice and Liberty.
6. Name four words from the Preamble.
Four words are: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic.
7. What does 'sovereign' in the Preamble signify?
It signifies that India is independent and not subject to any external authority.
8. What value does 'fraternity' promote?
Fraternity promotes a sense of brotherhood, unity, and mutual respect among citizens.
9. Give one reason why the Preamble is important.
The Preamble guides the interpretation of the Constitution's provisions and reflects its core objectives.
10. What role does the Constitution play in governance?
It provides the framework for making laws, running government institutions, and protecting citizens' rights.
Topic: Major Features of the Constitution
11. Is the Indian Constitution detailed or brief?
The Indian Constitution is very detailed and one of the lengthiest constitutions in the world.
12. What does 'federal structure' mean?
A federal structure means power is shared between the central government and state governments.
13. Mention one unitary feature of the Indian Constitution.
During an emergency, power shifts more towards the Centre, showing a unitary feature.
14. What is a parliamentary system?
A parliamentary system is one in which the executive is responsible to the elected legislature.
15. Why is an independent judiciary important?
An independent judiciary ensures laws are applied fairly and protects citizens' rights from misuse of power.
16. What does 'amendment' mean?
An amendment is a formal change made to the Constitution to update or improve it.
17. How does a written constitution help citizens?
A written constitution clearly records citizens' rights and government duties, making laws transparent and predictable.
18. What is the significance of having fundamental rights in a constitution?
Fundamental rights protect individual freedoms and ensure dignity, equality and justice for citizens.
19. What is meant by 'rule of law'?
Rule of law means everyone, including leaders, must follow the law and no one is above it.
20. Mention one way the Constitution balances power.
By separating powers among the legislature, executive, and judiciary to prevent concentration of power.
Topic: Fundamental Rights — Understanding
21. What are Fundamental Rights?
Fundamental Rights are basic rights guaranteed by the Constitution that protect citizens' freedoms.
22. Name three categories of Fundamental Rights.
Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right against Exploitation are three categories.
23. What is the Right to Equality about?
It guarantees equal treatment by law and prohibits discrimination on certain grounds.
24. What freedoms are included in the Right to Freedom?
Freedom of speech, assembly, movement, association and profession are included.
25. Which right protects people from forced labour and trafficking?
The Right against Exploitation prohibits forced labour and human trafficking.
26. What does the Right to Freedom of Religion guarantee?
It guarantees the freedom to practice, profess and propagate one's religion peacefully.
27. What are Cultural and Educational Rights?
These rights protect the interests of minorities to preserve their language, culture and establish institutions.
28. What is Article 32 known for?
Article 32 provides the Right to Constitutional Remedies and is called the heart of the Constitution.
29. Can Fundamental Rights be limited?
Yes, they can be reasonably restricted for public order, security, or morality as per law.
30. Who can approach the court when a Fundamental Right is violated?
Any person whose fundamental right is violated can file a petition in court seeking remedy.
Topic: Fundamental Duties & Directive Principles
31. What are Fundamental Duties?
Fundamental Duties are moral responsibilities of citizens toward the nation listed in the Constitution.
32. How many Fundamental Duties are there (basic answer)?
The Constitution lists several duties; students should refer to NCERT for the complete list. (Commonly memorized key duties.)
33. When were Fundamental Duties added?
They were added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.
34. Give one example of a Fundamental Duty.
Respecting the national flag and the national anthem is one Fundamental Duty.
35. Are Fundamental Duties legally enforceable?
Generally, Fundamental Duties are not legally enforceable like Fundamental Rights; they are moral obligations.
36. What are Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)?
DPSP are guidelines for the government to frame policies aimed at social welfare and justice.
37. Name one Directive Principle.
One example is the state's duty to provide free legal aid to the poor.
38. Do DPSP have legal force?
No, DPSP are not enforceable in courts but they guide the government in policy-making.
39. How do Fundamental Duties complement rights?
They encourage citizens to act responsibly while enjoying their rights, helping sustain democracy.
40. Why are DPSP important for a welfare state?
They direct the state to create policies that reduce inequality and promote social welfare for all citizens.
Topic: Democracy, Judiciary & Miscellaneous
41. How are free and fair elections ensured?
By institutions like the Election Commission and laws that regulate conduct of elections and prevent malpractice.
42. What is separation of powers?
Separation of powers divides government functions among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
43. Who makes laws at the national level?
The Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) makes laws at the national level.
44. Who ensures laws are implemented?
The executive branch (government) is responsible for implementing laws.
45. What is a writ jurisdiction?
Writ jurisdiction allows courts to issue orders (writs) to protect citizens' fundamental rights.
46. Give an example of a writ.
Habeas Corpus is a writ used to challenge unlawful detention of a person.
47. What is judicial review?
Judicial review is the power of courts to examine laws and declare them unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution.
48. Can the Constitution be amended to meet new needs?
Yes, the Constitution includes an amendment procedure to make changes when necessary.
49. How does the Constitution protect minority rights?
Through provisions like cultural and educational rights and guarantees of equality and freedom of religion.
50. Where should students study for authoritative content on this chapter?
Students should study the NCERT textbook Chapter 1 and refer to the Constitution text and class notes for accuracy.
Note: These 50 short-answer questions and answers are prepared strictly as per the NCERT Class 8 syllabus and are ideal for quick revision and exam practice.