This chapter delves into the role of Parliament in facilitating citizen participation in decision-making and governance oversight in India. Serving as a cornerstone of Indian democracy and a fundamental aspect of the Constitution, Parliament holds significant importance. To gain further insights into its functioning, delve into CBSE Notes Class 8 Civics Chapter 3 – Why Do We Need a Parliament? These notes are also valuable for exam revision purposes.

Chapter 3: Parliament and Making of Laws| Class 8 Civics Notes

Why Should People Decide?

In a democratic nation, the input of citizens holds significance for several reasons:

• Democratic governance operates based on the consent, endorsement, and active involvement of its populace.
• Citizens constitute the essence of democracy, forming an indispensable component of its framework.
• Through elections, citizens choose representatives who voice their collective concerns and interests within the Parliament.

The Role of Parliament

The Indian Parliament embodies the trust that the Indian populace places in democratic principles. As a representative body, it wields considerable authority in the Indian governance system.

• Parliamentary elections follow a process akin to state legislature elections.
• The Lok Sabha undergoes elections every five years.

Functions of Parliament

India comprises numerous electoral districts, each of which elects one representative to Parliament. Typically, these candidates represent various political parties and assume the role of Members of Parliament (MPs). Following parliamentary elections, Parliament undertakes the following duties:

1. Formation of the National Government

The Parliament of India comprises:

• The President
• The Rajya Sabha
• The Lok Sabha

Following Lok Sabha elections, a list is compiled indicating the number of MPs from each political party.

• The Lok Sabha comprises 543 elected members (plus 2 Anglo-Indian nominees).
• For a political party to establish the government, it must secure a majority of elected MPs. A majority party should possess at least half the total seats, i.e., 272 members or more.
• The opposition in Parliament consists of all political parties that oppose the majority party or coalition. The largest among these parties assumes the role of the opposition party.

The Lok Sabha’s pivotal role lies in selecting the executive, which comprises individuals responsible for executing laws formulated by Parliament, collectively termed as the government.

The Prime Minister of India leads the ruling party in the Lok Sabha. When multiple political parties unite to form a government, it’s termed a coalition government.

Conversely, the Rajya Sabha primarily represents India’s states in Parliament. It holds significance in scrutinizing and amending legislation initiated by the Lok Sabha. Additionally, the Rajya Sabha possesses the authority to introduce legislation.

For a bill to become law, it must pass through the Rajya Sabha. Its members are elected by the Legislative Assemblies of various states, consisting of 233 elected members and 12 members nominated by the President.

2. To Control, Guide, and Inform the Government

Parliament commences with a question hour, serving as a crucial avenue for MPs to acquire information about the government’s operations. Through questioning, MPs highlight government shortcomings, enabling the government to gauge public opinion via parliamentary representatives.

Parliament’s consent is imperative, particularly concerning financial matters, signifying its control over the government.

3. Law-Making

The process of creating laws is a crucial function of Parliament.

Who Are the People in Parliament?

The composition of Parliament now reflects greater diversity, with increased representation from various societal backgrounds. Moreover, political engagement from Dalits and backward classes has seen a rise.

Certain parliamentary seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Similarly, seats are also earmarked for women.

Chapter 3: Parliament and Making of Laws- FAQs

Why is citizen input important in a democratic nation?

Citizen involvement is crucial in democratic governance as it operates based on the consent, endorsement, and active participation of its populace.

What role do citizens play in the democratic process?

Citizens form the essence of democracy and are integral to its framework. Through elections, they choose representatives who voice their collective concerns and interests within the Parliament.

What is the significance of the Indian Parliament?

The Indian Parliament symbolizes the trust placed by the Indian populace in democratic principles. As a representative body, it holds considerable authority in the governance system.

How is the national government formed in India?

Following parliamentary elections, the national government is formed based on the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha, comprising elected members from various political parties.

What are the key functions of the Indian Parliament?

The Indian Parliament performs essential functions, including selecting the executive, controlling and guiding the government, and legislating laws. Additionally, it serves as a platform for diverse representation, including reserved seats for marginalized communities like Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women.