Parliament and the Making of Laws Class 8 Civics Extra Questions and Answers  

1. What is Parliament?

Answer: Parliament is the supreme legislative body of a country.

2. Name the two houses of Parliament in India.

Answer: The two houses of Parliament in India are the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

3. What is the main function of Parliament?

Answer: The main function of Parliament is to make laws.

4. Who can introduce a bill in Parliament?

Answer: A bill can be introduced by a member of Parliament, either from the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha.

5. Define a bill.

Answer: A bill is a proposal for a new law or an amendment to an existing law.

6. What is the process of lawmaking in Parliament?

Answer: The process involves the introduction, discussion, and voting on a bill in both houses of Parliament.

7. What is a session of Parliament?

Answer: A session of Parliament is the period during which it meets to conduct its business.

8. How is a session of Parliament convened?

Answer: A session of Parliament is convened by the President of India on the advice of the Cabinet.

9. Explain the role of the Lok Sabha in lawmaking.

Answer: The Lok Sabha is the lower house of Parliament and has the primary responsibility for lawmaking. Most bills are introduced and debated in the Lok Sabha.

10. Describe the composition of the Rajya Sabha.

Answer: The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of Parliament and is composed of members elected by the state legislatures and nominated by the President.

11. What is a joint sitting of Parliament?

Answer: A joint sitting of Parliament is called to resolve a deadlock between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on a particular bill.

12. How are members of Parliament elected?

Answer: Members of Parliament are elected through general elections held every five years.

13. What is the role of the Speaker in the Lok Sabha?

Answer: The Speaker presides over the meetings of the Lok Sabha and ensures orderly conduct of proceedings.

14. Explain the concept of a Private Member's Bill.

Answer: A Private Member's Bill is a bill introduced by a member of Parliament who is not a minister.

15. What is the difference between a Money Bill and a Non-Money Bill?

Answer: A Money Bill deals with financial matters, such as taxes and government expenditure, while a Non-Money Bill covers other subjects.

16. How is a Money Bill different from an Ordinary Bill?

Answer: A Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, while an Ordinary Bill can be introduced in either house.

17. What happens after a bill is passed by both houses of Parliament?

Answer: After being passed by both houses, the bill is sent to the President for assent. Once the President gives assent, it becomes law.

18. Explain the term 'Parliamentary majority'.

Answer: Parliamentary majority refers to the political party or coalition with the most seats in Parliament, which allows them to form the government and pass legislation.

19. What is the role of the opposition in Parliament?

Answer: The opposition holds the government accountable, scrutinizes its policies, and offers alternative viewpoints.

20 Describe the process of Question Hour in Parliament.

Answer: During Question Hour, members of Parliament ask questions to ministers, who are required to provide answers.

21. What is a Standing Committee in Parliament?

Answer: Standing Committees are specialized committees of Parliament responsible for examining specific issues or bills in detail.

22. Explain the concept of 'Division' in Parliament.

Answer: A Division is a method used in Parliament to determine the outcome of a vote. Members vote by physically walking into either the 'Ayes' or 'Noes' lobbies.

23. How does Parliament ensure transparency and accountability?

Answer: Parliament ensures transparency and accountability through various mechanisms such as debates, discussions, question sessions, and committee hearings.

24. Describe the role of the Prime Minister in Parliament.

Answer: The Prime Minister leads the government and is responsible for coordinating its legislative agenda and representing it in Parliament.

25. What is the significance of the Preamble to the Constitution?

Answer: The Preamble summarizes the ideals and objectives of the Constitution and serves as its guiding spirit.

26. How does Parliament represent the diversity of India?

Answer: Parliament represents the diversity of India through its members who come from different regions, communities, and backgrounds.

27. Discuss the importance of parliamentary democracy in India.

Answer: Parliamentary democracy ensures that the government is accountable to the people and allows for the peaceful transfer of power through elections.

28. What are the limitations of Parliament in the lawmaking process?

Answer: Parliament is limited by factors such as time constraints, political considerations, and the need to balance conflicting interests.

29 How does Parliament contribute to the protection of citizens' rights?

Answer: Parliament enacts laws and oversees their implementation to safeguard citizens' rights and freedoms.

30. Why is it important for citizens to engage with Parliament and participate in the democratic process?

Answer: Citizen engagement ensures that Parliament remains responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people and strengthens the democratic fabric of the country.

31. What is the main function of Parliament?

Answer: The primary function of Parliament is to enact laws that govern the country. Parliament, comprising the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing legislation on various matters affecting the nation. Through the legislative process, Parliament addresses issues related to governance, public welfare, and the functioning of institutions. Additionally, Parliament plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability, scrutinizing government actions, and representing the diverse interests of the populace.

32.  Who can introduce a bill in Parliament?

Answer: Any member of Parliament, whether from the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, can introduce a bill. Bills can originate from either a government minister or a private member. A bill introduced by a government minister is known as a government bill, while a bill presented by a member who is not a minister is called a private member's bill. Regardless of its origin, a bill undergoes a process of debate, amendment, and voting in both houses of Parliament before it can become law.

33.  What is the composition of the Lok Sabha?

Answer: The Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, consists of members directly elected by the people of India. The total number of seats in the Lok Sabha is 545, including two nominated members from the Anglo-Indian community. Members of the Lok Sabha represent various constituencies across the country, and they serve a term of five years. The composition of the Lok Sabha reflects the democratic principle of representation, ensuring that the voices and interests of citizens are heard and addressed in the legislative process.

34. Define the term 'Ordinary Bill'.

Answer: An Ordinary Bill is a proposed law that deals with matters other than financial issues. These bills cover a wide range of subjects, including social, economic, political, and administrative matters. Unlike Money Bills, which exclusively focus on financial matters, Ordinary Bills address diverse topics such as healthcare, education, environment, and governance. Ordinary Bills can be introduced in either house of Parliament, and they undergo a rigorous process of scrutiny, debate, and voting before they can be enacted into law.

35. Who presides over the meetings of the Lok Sabha?

Answer: The Lok Sabha is presided over by the Speaker, who is elected by its members. The Speaker plays a crucial role in conducting the proceedings of the Lok Sabha, maintaining order, and ensuring that parliamentary rules and procedures are followed. As the presiding officer, the Speaker also represents the Lok Sabha in its dealings with the President, the Rajya Sabha, and other authorities. The Speaker's impartiality and commitment to upholding democratic norms are essential for the smooth functioning of the Lok Sabha.

36. What is the significance of a joint sitting of Parliament?

Answer: A joint sitting of Parliament is convened to resolve a deadlock between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on a particular bill. When the two houses of Parliament disagree on a bill, and efforts to reach a compromise fail, the President can call for a joint sitting to break the impasse. During a joint sitting, members of both houses convene together, and the bill is put to vote. The decision is based on a simple majority, with each member having one vote. A joint sitting is a rare occurrence but demonstrates the commitment of Parliament to resolve legislative disputes democratically.

37. What is the role of the opposition in Parliament?

Answer: The opposition in Parliament plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable, scrutinizing its policies and actions, and providing alternative viewpoints. Through debates, discussions, and questioning, the opposition highlights issues of public concern, challenges the government's decisions, and advocates for the interests of marginalized groups. The opposition acts as a check on the ruling party, ensuring that its power is exercised responsibly and in the best interests of the nation. By offering constructive criticism and proposing alternative solutions, the opposition contributes to the democratic functioning of Parliament and promotes transparency and accountability in governance.

38. What is the purpose of the Question Hour in Parliament?

Answer: The Question Hour in Parliament serves as a vital mechanism for members to seek information from government ministers on various matters of public interest. During this hour, members of Parliament ask questions related to government policies, programs, and actions. Ministers are required to provide answers, either orally or in writing, thereby enabling Parliament to hold the government accountable for its decisions and actions. The Question Hour also allows for clarification on issues affecting the welfare of citizens, enhances transparency in governance, and fosters public awareness and participation in the legislative process.

39. How are members of Parliament elected?

Answer: Members of Parliament are elected through general elections held every five years. The electoral process begins with the Election Commission of India announcing the schedule for elections, followed by the nomination of candidates by political parties or individuals. Campaigning takes place, during which candidates present their manifestos and seek the support of voters. On election day, eligible citizens cast their votes through a secret ballot. The candidate who receives the highest number of votes in a constituency is declared the winner and becomes a member of Parliament representing that constituency. This democratic process ensures that citizens have the opportunity to elect representatives who will voice their concerns and aspirations in Parliament.

40 What is the significance of the Speaker in the Lok Sabha?

Answer: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha holds a position of great significance in India's parliamentary system. Elected by members of the Lok Sabha, the Speaker presides over its proceedings, ensuring that debates are conducted in an orderly manner and parliamentary rules are followed. The Speaker plays a neutral role, upholding the principles of democracy, fairness, and impartiality. As the custodian of the rights and privileges of members, the Speaker represents the Lok Sabha in its dealings with the President, the Rajya Sabha, and other authorities. The Speaker's role is crucial in maintaining the dignity and integrity of the Lok Sabha and upholding democratic values in the legislative process.

41. Discuss the role of the Rajya Sabha in the legislative process of India. How does its composition differ from that of the Lok Sabha?

Answer: The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, plays a crucial role in the legislative process of India. Unlike the Lok Sabha, which represents the people directly through elected members, the Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories. Its members are elected by the state legislatures and nominated by the President, ensuring a federal character in India's parliamentary system. The Rajya Sabha acts as a revising chamber by reviewing and suggesting amendments to bills passed by the Lok Sabha, thus providing a platform for states' interests to be represented at the national level. Additionally, the Rajya Sabha has special powers in certain matters, such as the amendment of the Constitution, where its consent is required along with that of the Lok Sabha. Overall, the Rajya Sabha serves as a check on the Lok Sabha and ensures that the interests of states are adequately addressed in the legislative process.

42.  Explain the procedure for passing a Money Bill in Parliament. What distinguishes a Money Bill from an Ordinary Bill?

Answer: The passage of a Money Bill in Parliament follows a specific procedure outlined in Article 109 of the Constitution. Firstly, a Money Bill can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and it must be accompanied by a certificate from the Speaker certifying that it is indeed a Money Bill. Once introduced, the Money Bill undergoes the same stages of scrutiny as any other bill, including debates and voting. However, unlike an Ordinary Bill, a Money Bill cannot be amended by the Rajya Sabha. Instead, the Rajya Sabha must return it to the Lok Sabha within fourteen days with recommendations, if any. The Lok Sabha can either accept or reject these recommendations, but it is not bound to incorporate them. If the Rajya Sabha fails to return the Money Bill within fourteen days, it is deemed to have been passed by both houses. The distinguishing feature of a Money Bill is its exclusive focus on financial matters, such as taxation, government expenditure, or borrowing. This restriction ensures that the Lok Sabha, which represents the people directly, retains control over crucial financial decisions, thereby upholding the principle of parliamentary supremacy in fiscal matters.

43. Discuss the significance of parliamentary committees in the functioning of Parliament. How do they contribute to the legislative process?

Answer: Parliamentary committees play a vital role in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of Parliament by providing a platform for detailed examination and scrutiny of legislative proposals and other matters of public interest. These committees are specialized bodies composed of members of Parliament from both houses, tasked with specific functions such as examining bills, scrutinizing government policies, and overseeing the functioning of ministries and departments. The two main types of parliamentary committees are Standing Committees and Ad Hoc Committees. Standing Committees are permanent bodies constituted for a specific purpose, such as the Public Accounts Committee and the Committee on Estimates, while Ad Hoc Committees are formed for a limited duration to address specific issues or inquiries. The significance of parliamentary committees lies in their ability to conduct in-depth studies, solicit expert opinions, and engage stakeholders to gather comprehensive insights into complex matters. By facilitating bipartisan cooperation and consensus-building, these committees contribute to informed decision-making and ensure accountability and transparency in the legislative process. Moreover, their reports and recommendations serve as valuable inputs for Parliament in formulating laws and policies that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of the people. Overall, parliamentary committees serve as indispensable instruments of parliamentary democracy, strengthening the oversight and scrutiny functions of Parliament and fostering public trust in the legislative process.