The Indian Constitution – Very Short Answer Type Questions
Class 8
Social Science
Chapter 1: The Indian Constitution — Very Short Q&A (50)
CBSE Board Examinations (Systematic Order)
- Chapter topic: The Indian Constitution
- Question types: Very short answer, short answer, long answer
- Exam focus: Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Duties, features
- Study tip: Learn definitions, remember Preamble words, practice examples
Content Bank — Topics Covered
- What is a constitution & why India needed one
- The Preamble
- Main features of the Indian Constitution
- Fundamental Rights (categories & examples)
- Fundamental Duties
- Directive Principles & importance for democracy
Topic: Basics of Constitution
1. What is a constitution?
A constitution is a set of rules and principles that governs a country and defines its government.
2. Why does a country need a constitution?
To provide a legal framework, distribute power, and protect citizens' rights.
3. Is the Constitution of India written or unwritten?
The Constitution of India is a written document.
4. Who played a major role in drafting the Indian Constitution?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee and played a major role.
5. What is the Preamble?
The Preamble is an introductory statement that sets out the Constitution's aims and values.
6. Name two words from the Preamble.
Examples: "Justice" and "Liberty".
7. What does "sovereign" mean in the Preamble?
It means India is independent and not under another country's control.
8. What does "secular" mean?
Secular means the state does not favour any religion and treats all equally.
9. What is meant by "democratic" in the Preamble?
It means the government is elected by the people and for the people.
10. What does "republic" mean?
A republic has an elected head of state, not a hereditary monarch.
Topic: Features of the Indian Constitution
11. Is the Indian Constitution long or short?
It is one of the longest constitutions in the world.
12. What kind of government system does India follow?
India follows a parliamentary system of government.
13. What does federal mean?
Federal means power is divided between the Centre and the states.
14. Does India have a federal or unitary system?
India has a federal structure with some unitary features.
15. What ensures independence of judiciary?
Constitutional provisions that protect judges and the court system ensure judicial independence.
16. Can the Constitution be amended?
Yes, the Constitution provides an amendment process to change it when needed.
17. What is the importance of written laws in the Constitution?
Written laws provide clarity, certainty, and a record of citizens' rights and duties.
18. What is Parliamentary democracy?
A system where the executive is responsible to the elected legislature (parliament).
19. What is meant by the rule of law?
Rule of law means everyone, including rulers, must follow the law.
20. Who interprets the Constitution?
The judiciary, especially the Supreme Court, interprets the Constitution.
Topic: Fundamental Rights — Categories
21. What are Fundamental Rights?
Fundamental Rights are basic freedoms guaranteed to all citizens by the Constitution.
22. Name one Fundamental Right.
Right to Equality is a Fundamental Right.
23. Which article gives the Right to Constitutional Remedies?
Article 32 gives the Right to Constitutional Remedies.
24. What does the Right to Freedom include?
It includes freedom of speech, assembly, movement, and association.
25. Which right protects children from child labour?
Right against Exploitation (prohibits child labour) protects children.
26. What is the Right to Freedom of Religion?
It allows people to practice, profess and propagate their religion peacefully.
27. Who can enforce Fundamental Rights?
Any citizen whose rights are violated can approach courts to enforce them.
28. Can Fundamental Rights have restrictions?
Yes, certain rights may be reasonably restricted for security, public order or morality.
29. What is the Right to Equality about?
It means equal treatment before law and no discrimination on certain grounds.
30. What is the Right to Constitutional Remedies called?
It is called the "heart" of the Constitution because it protects all other rights.
Topic: Fundamental Duties & Directive Principles
31. What are Fundamental Duties?
Fundamental Duties are moral obligations of citizens towards the nation.
32. When were Fundamental Duties added?
They were added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.
33. Give one example of a Fundamental Duty.
Respecting the national flag and national anthem is a Fundamental Duty.
34. Are Fundamental Duties legally enforceable?
Generally no; they are moral obligations, not legally enforceable like rights.
35. What are Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)?
DPSP are guidelines for the government to make laws promoting welfare and social justice.
36. Are DPSP enforceable in courts?
No, DPSP are not legally enforceable but guide government policy.
37. Give one example of a Directive Principle.
Provision of free legal aid to the poor is an example of a Directive Principle.
38. How do Fundamental Duties and DPSP help the Constitution?
They encourage responsible citizenship and guide the state to build a just society.
Topic: Democracy & Constitution in Practice
39. How does the Constitution ensure free elections?
By laying down rules and institutions like the Election Commission to conduct elections.
40. What is separation of powers?
It is dividing government functions among legislature, executive, and judiciary.
41. Who makes laws in India?
The Parliament at the Centre and state legislatures make laws.
42. Who implements laws?
The executive (government) implements the laws made by the legislature.
43. Who interprets laws?
The judiciary interprets laws and resolves disputes.
44. What is a writ?
A writ is a court order issued to protect a citizen's legal rights.
45. Name one writ available to citizens.
Habeas Corpus is a writ to protect unlawful detention.
46. How does the Constitution protect minorities?
By providing cultural and educational rights and guaranteeing equality and freedom of religion.
47. What is the role of the Supreme Court?
To protect the Constitution, settle disputes, and uphold fundamental rights.
48. Can laws be struck down if they violate the Constitution?
Yes, the judiciary can declare laws unconstitutional and strike them down.
49. Why is the Constitution important for democracy?
It provides rules, protects rights, and ensures the government remains accountable to the people.
50. Where should students refer for authorized content on this chapter?
Students should refer to the NCERT textbook and the Constitution text for accurate information.
Note: These very short questions and answers follow the NCERT Class 8 syllabus and are designed for quick revision and classroom practice.