Legislature — Class 11 Political Science Notes

Legislature · Class 11 Political Science · 13 topics.

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Topics covered in Legislature

  1. 1.Introduction of Legislature

    Short Answer

    The legislature is a branch of government responsible for making laws. It consists of elected representatives who debate and pass legislation that affects the country. In India, the legislature is divided into two houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

    Long Answer

    Introduction to Legislature

    The legislature is a vital part of a democratic government, responsible for creating, amending, and repealing laws. It ensures that the laws reflect the will of the people and serve the public interest. Legislatures can be unicameral (one house) or bicameral (two houses).

    Functions of the Legislature

    1. Law-Making: The primary function of the legislature is to create laws. These laws regulate various aspects of society, such as education, health, and economy.
    2. Representation: Legislators represent the interests and concerns of their constituents. They voice the opinions and needs of the people who elected them.
    3. Oversight: The legislature monitors and evaluates the actions of the executive branch, ensuring accountability and transparency in governance.
    4. Budget Approval: The legislature approves the national budget, deciding how public funds are allocated and spent.
    5. Amendment of the Constitution: The legislature has the power to amend the constitution to reflect changing societal needs and values.

    The Indian Legislature

    In India, the legislature is known as the Parliament, which consists of two houses:

    1. Lok Sabha (House of the People):

      • Members are directly elected by the people.
      • It has 545 members, including representatives from each state and union territory.
      • The Lok Sabha is more powerful in financial matters and has the final say on budgetary issues.

    2. Rajya Sabha (Council of States):

      • Members are elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.
      • It has 245 members, with representatives from each state based on their population.
      • The Rajya Sabha reviews and suggests changes to legislation passed by the Lok Sabha.

    Example from Daily Life

    Imagine you and your friends decide to form a club at school to improve the library. You create rules about borrowing books, meeting times, and responsibilities. These rules are like laws created by a legislature. Just as you represent your friends in making these rules, legislators represent the people in making laws for the country.

    Activity

    Try to think of a rule or law that you believe should be implemented in your school or community. Discuss it with your friends or family, and consider why it is important and how it can be enforced.

    Careers Related to the Legislature

    1. Legislator: Elected officials who make laws.
    2. Policy Analyst: Experts who study and suggest policies.
    3. Lawyer: Professionals who interpret and apply the law.
    4. Political Scientist: Researchers who study political systems and behavior.
    5. Public Administrator: Officials who implement government policies.

  2. 2.Why Do We Need A Parliament?

    Short Answer:
    We need a Parliament to represent the people, make laws, control the government, and ensure democracy. It acts as a platform where diverse opinions are discussed, and decisions are made for the welfare of the country.

    Long Answer:

    Parliament is crucial for the smooth functioning of a democratic country. Here's why we need it, explained step-by-step with an example:

    1. Representation of People:

      • Parliament represents the voice of the people. Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected by citizens. These MPs bring the concerns, needs, and opinions of the people to the national level.
      • Example: If there is a need for better roads in your town, your MP can raise this issue in Parliament.

    2. Law-Making:

      • Parliament makes laws that everyone must follow. These laws help maintain order and address various issues in society.
      • Example: The Parliament can pass a law to ensure clean drinking water for all citizens.

    3. Control Over Government:

      • Parliament keeps a check on the government to prevent misuse of power. MPs can question government decisions and actions, ensuring transparency.
      • Example: If the government spends money on unnecessary projects, Parliament can hold the government accountable.

    4. Debate and Discussion:

      • Parliament is a platform where different ideas and opinions are debated. This helps in making balanced decisions that consider multiple perspectives.
      • Example: Before passing a new education policy, Parliament debates its pros and cons to make sure it benefits students.

    5. Budget Approval:

      • Parliament approves the budget, which is how the government plans to spend money. This ensures that public funds are used effectively.
      • Example: The government needs Parliament’s approval to allocate funds for building new hospitals.

    Real-Life Application:

    Understanding the role of Parliament can help you appreciate how decisions are made in the country and how you, as a citizen, can influence these decisions. For example, by voting in elections, you choose representatives who will make important decisions on your behalf. If you are interested in a career in politics, law, or public administration, knowing how Parliament functions is essential.

    Activity:
    Imagine you are an MP. Write down an issue in your community that you would like to address in Parliament. Think about how you would present this issue and what solutions you would propose.

  3. 3.Why do We Need Two Houses of Parliament?

    Short Answer:

    We need two houses of Parliament to ensure balanced and fair representation of different interests, prevent hasty decisions, and provide thorough scrutiny of laws. This system helps in maintaining checks and balances within the government.

    Long Answer:

    Having two houses of Parliament, commonly referred to as a bicameral legislature, serves several important purposes in a democratic system:

    1. Representation of Diverse Interests:

      • The two houses often represent different segments of society. For example, in India, the Lok Sabha (House of the People) represents the general population, while the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) represents the states and union territories. This ensures that both the people's direct interests and the regional interests are considered.

    2. Checks and Balances:

      • By having two houses, the power is not concentrated in one body. Each house acts as a check on the other, preventing any one group from having too much power. This helps in maintaining a balance and ensures that laws are carefully considered before being passed.

    3. Thorough Review and Debate:

      • Bills and policies proposed by one house are reviewed and debated in the other. This leads to more comprehensive discussions, improvements, and modifications, ensuring that the legislation is well thought out and beneficial for the country.

    4. Prevention of Hasty Decisions:

      • A bicameral system slows down the legislative process, which can be a good thing. It prevents impulsive or hasty decisions and ensures that there is ample time for discussion and deliberation on important issues.

    5. Expertise and Experience:

      • In many bicameral systems, the upper house (like the Rajya Sabha) often consists of members with significant experience and expertise. Their knowledge can be crucial in refining and improving legislation.

    Real-Life Example:

    Imagine a school with a student council. If the council only had one group of students deciding everything, they might make decisions that only benefit certain grades or interests. However, if the council had two groups – one representing younger students and one representing older students – both groups would need to agree on decisions. This way, the interests of all students are considered, and more balanced decisions are made.

    How It Applies in Real Life:

    1. Careers in Government and Politics: Understanding the need for two houses is crucial for those working in government, politics, law, and public administration. It helps in understanding how laws are made and how different interests are balanced.

    2. Daily Life: When participating in community decisions or school councils, the concept of having different groups to represent various interests ensures fairness and thorough consideration of all viewpoints.

  4. 4.Rajya Sabha

    Short Answer:

    The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of India's Parliament, representing the states and union territories. It plays a crucial role in the legislative process, providing a check on the Lok Sabha, the lower house.

    Long Answer:

    The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is an essential part of the bicameral Parliament of India. It was established to ensure representation of the states and union territories at the national level and to act as a revising chamber for legislation. Here’s a detailed explanation with a relatable example:

    Composition:

    • Members: The Rajya Sabha has a maximum of 250 members. Currently, there are 245 members, of which 233 are elected by the state and union territory legislatures using a single transferable vote system, and 12 are nominated by the President for their expertise in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
    • Term: Members serve for six years, with one-third retiring every two years, ensuring continuity.

    Functions:

    • Legislation: The Rajya Sabha reviews and suggests amendments to bills passed by the Lok Sabha. While it cannot reject money bills, it can delay them for up to 14 days and suggest changes.
    • Representation: It ensures that states have a voice in the central government, balancing regional interests with national policies.
    • Deliberation: It debates critical issues and policies, often providing more detailed scrutiny compared to the Lok Sabha.

    Real-life Example:
    Imagine a school where the Student Council represents different classes. The Lok Sabha is like the council members elected by all students, while the Rajya Sabha is like a group of senior teachers and staff who provide guidance and review the council's decisions. This system ensures that the council's ideas are well-considered and practical, benefiting the entire school community.

    Importance:

    • Checks and Balances: The Rajya Sabha ensures that laws are not passed hastily, providing a platform for detailed discussion and revision.
    • Expertise: Nominated members bring their knowledge and experience, enriching the legislative process with diverse perspectives.
    • Federal Structure: It maintains the federal character of India by representing state interests at the national level.

    Activity: To understand the Rajya Sabha better, you could:

    1. Watch a session of the Rajya Sabha on TV or online to see how debates and discussions take place.
    2. Research one or two current members, including how they were elected or nominated and what issues they focus on.

  5. 5.Lok Sabha

    Short Answer:
    The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's Parliament, responsible for making and passing laws. It is composed of representatives elected by the people of India.

    Long Answer:
    The Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, is one of the two houses in the Parliament of India, the other being the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The Lok Sabha is the primary legislative body in the country and plays a crucial role in the creation and enactment of laws.

    Key Features of the Lok Sabha:

    1. Composition:

      • The Lok Sabha can have a maximum of 552 members, including up to 20 members representing the Union Territories and up to 2 members appointed by the President to represent the Anglo-Indian community if deemed necessary.
      • Members are elected directly by the people of India through general elections.

    2. Term:

      • The term of the Lok Sabha is five years from the date of its first meeting unless dissolved earlier by the President.

    3. Role and Functions:

      • Legislation: The primary function of the Lok Sabha is to make laws. Bills can be introduced and debated in the Lok Sabha. If a bill is passed by the Lok Sabha, it is sent to the Rajya Sabha for approval.
      • Control over the Executive: The Lok Sabha exercises control over the government by asking questions, discussing policies, and approving budgets. The government is accountable to the Lok Sabha.
      • Representation: Members of the Lok Sabha represent the interests and concerns of their constituencies, bringing local issues to the national stage.

    4. Sessions:

      • The Lok Sabha meets in sessions, typically three times a year – the Budget Session, the Monsoon Session, and the Winter Session.

    Example from Daily Life:

    Imagine you and your classmates decide on the rules for a new school club. Everyone votes to choose leaders and discuss what activities to include. Similarly, the Lok Sabha members are elected by the people to represent their interests and make decisions on important issues for the country.

    How It Applies in Real Life:

    Understanding the Lok Sabha helps you appreciate how laws and policies are made in India. This knowledge is crucial for careers in politics, law, public administration, and social work. For instance, if you become a lawyer, you might work on cases that involve understanding the laws passed by the Lok Sabha.

    Activity:

    1. Research Assignment:

      • Find out who your local Member of Parliament (MP) is.
      • Research a recent law passed by the Lok Sabha and its impact on society.

    2. Discussion:

      • Discuss with your friends or family how the Lok Sabha's decisions have affected your community.

  6. 6.What Does The Parliament Do?

    Short Answer:

    The Parliament makes laws, represents the people, controls the government, and discusses important issues affecting the country.

    Long Answer:

    The Parliament is the highest law-making body in a country. It has several important functions:

    1. Law Making: One of the main functions of the Parliament is to make laws. Members of Parliament (MPs) propose new laws (called bills) and debate them. If a majority of MPs agree, the bill becomes law.

    2. Representation: Parliament represents the people of the country. MPs are elected by the public and represent their views and concerns.

    3. Government Oversight: Parliament monitors and controls the government. It ensures that the government is doing its job properly and is accountable to the people. This is done through questioning, debates, and committees.

    4. Budget Approval: Parliament approves the government’s budget, deciding how public money will be spent.

    5. Discussion of Issues: Parliament discusses important national and international issues. This allows MPs to express their views and bring attention to important matters.

    Example:

    Imagine you are part of a school student council. The council meets regularly to make decisions about school rules, activities, and budgets. Similarly, Parliament meets to make decisions about the country's laws, policies, and budget.

    Real-Life Application:

    Understanding how Parliament works can help you as a citizen to actively participate in democracy. You can vote in elections, express your views to your MP, and stay informed about what is happening in the country.

    Career Connection:

    Jobs related to Parliament include becoming a politician, legislative assistant, political analyst, or public policy advisor. These careers involve working closely with laws, public policies, and representing people's interests.

  7. 7.Powers of Rajya Sabha

    Short Answer

    The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of India's Parliament. It has several important powers, including legislative, financial, and executive powers. These powers help in making laws, approving budgets, and holding the government accountable.

    Long Answer

    The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is a crucial part of the Indian Parliament. It represents the states and union territories of India and plays a significant role in the legislative process. Let's break down its powers and functions:

    1. Legislative Powers:

      • Passing Bills: The Rajya Sabha participates in the passing of all bills, except money bills. Both houses must approve a bill for it to become a law.
      • Amendments: The Rajya Sabha can suggest amendments to bills. If the Lok Sabha does not agree with these amendments, the bill is sent back to the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration.

    2. Financial Powers:

      • Money Bills: The Rajya Sabha cannot initiate or amend money bills, which deal with taxes and government spending. However, it can make recommendations on these bills, which the Lok Sabha may accept or reject.
      • Approval of Budgets: While the primary responsibility for financial matters lies with the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha discusses and debates the budget and financial proposals.

    3. Executive Powers:

      • Questioning the Government: Members of the Rajya Sabha can ask questions and seek information from ministers, holding them accountable for their actions.
      • Debates and Discussions: The Rajya Sabha conducts debates on important national and international issues, providing a platform for discussing government policies and actions.

    4. Special Powers:

      • State Legislation: The Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution allowing the Parliament to make laws on subjects listed in the State List if it is in the national interest.
      • Creating New States: The Rajya Sabha can approve the creation of new states or changes in the boundaries of existing states.

    Real-Life Example

    Imagine you and your friends are planning a school event. The Rajya Sabha is like the group of teachers and parents who review your plans. While you (representing the Lok Sabha) come up with ideas and budgets, the Rajya Sabha reviews these plans, suggests changes, and ensures everything is in order. They can't start the event (money bills), but they can help make it better and ensure it's done correctly.

    Application in Daily Life and Careers

    Understanding the powers of the Rajya Sabha can help in various careers like law, public administration, journalism, and politics. For instance, as a journalist, you might report on debates in the Rajya Sabha, or as a public administrator, you might help implement laws passed by both houses.

    Activities to Learn Better

    1. Mock Parliament: Organize a mock parliament in your class, assigning roles of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha members to understand the legislative process.

    2. Debate: Conduct a debate on a current national issue, with one group representing the Rajya Sabha and the other representing the Lok Sabha.

  8. 8.Special Powers of Rajya Sabha

    Short Answer:

    The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) has special powers that include:

    1. Authorizing the Parliament to make laws on subjects listed in the State List.
    2. Approving the creation of All-India Services.
    3. Reviewing and passing constitutional amendments and money bills.

    Long Answer:

    The Rajya Sabha, as the upper house of India's Parliament, holds several special powers distinct from those of the Lok Sabha (House of the People):

    1. Legislation on State List Subjects:

      • Explanation: The Rajya Sabha can authorize the Parliament to legislate on matters listed in the State List, which are typically under the jurisdiction of state governments.
      • Example: Suppose there is an urgent need to legislate on a health crisis affecting multiple states. The Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution allowing the Parliament to make laws on this subject.

    2. Creation of All-India Services:

      • Explanation: The Rajya Sabha can approve the creation of new All-India Services, such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS), which serve both the central and state governments.
      • Example: If there is a need for a new service to manage disaster response across India, the Rajya Sabha can pass a resolution to establish such a service.

    3. Constitutional Amendments and Money Bills:

      • Explanation: While both houses of Parliament must pass constitutional amendments, the Rajya Sabha can only suggest amendments to money bills, which are primarily related to taxation and government spending.
      • Example: If a constitutional amendment is proposed to change the structure of the judiciary, it must be passed by both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. However, for a money bill related to the annual budget, the Rajya Sabha can suggest changes, but the final decision rests with the Lok Sabha.

    Real-Life Application:

    Understanding the special powers of the Rajya Sabha helps in recognizing its role in balancing the legislative process and ensuring that states' interests are considered in national policymaking. For example, a career in public administration, law, or politics would require a deep understanding of how these powers influence legislative decisions and governance.

  9. 9.How Does The Parliament Makelaws?

    Short Answer

    The Parliament makes laws through a process that includes proposing a bill, debating it, and then voting on it. If the bill is approved by both houses of Parliament and receives the President's assent, it becomes a law.

    Long Answer

    Steps to Make a Law in Parliament

    1. Drafting the Bill:

      • The process begins with drafting a bill. A bill is a proposal for a new law or an amendment to an existing law. It can be introduced by either a Minister (Government Bill) or a Member of Parliament (Private Member's Bill).

    2. Introduction (First Reading):

      • The bill is introduced in either the Lok Sabha (House of the People) or the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). During the first reading, the title and objectives of the bill are read out, but no discussion on the bill takes place.

    3. Second Reading:

      • This stage involves a detailed examination of the bill. It includes two sub-stages:
        • General Discussion: Members discuss the principles and purpose of the bill.
        • Committee Stage: The bill is referred to a select committee, a joint committee, or the committee of the whole house for detailed scrutiny. The committee examines the bill clause by clause and can suggest amendments.

    4. Report Stage:

      • The committee submits its report, which is discussed by the house. Members can move amendments to the bill, and each clause of the bill is voted on.

    5. Third Reading:

      • The final version of the bill is debated. Members can discuss the overall content and principles of the bill, but no further amendments can be made. The bill is then put to a vote.

    6. Passage in the Other House:

      • If the bill is passed by the house where it was introduced, it is sent to the other house. The second house goes through similar stages of reading, committee review, and voting.

    7. Presidential Assent:

      • Once both houses pass the bill, it is sent to the President for approval. If the President gives their assent, the bill becomes a law. If the President returns the bill for reconsideration, the Parliament must reconsider it. If the Parliament passes the bill again with or without amendments, the President must give their assent.

    Example from Everyday Life

    Imagine you and your friends decide to make a new rule for your club. First, you write down the rule (drafting the bill). Then, you introduce the rule to everyone in your club (first reading). You all discuss the rule to understand its importance (second reading). A few members form a committee to examine the rule in detail and suggest changes (committee stage). The committee reports back, and you discuss and vote on each part of the rule (report stage). Finally, you have a final discussion and vote on the whole rule (third reading). If everyone agrees, you ask your club president to approve it. Once approved, the rule is official (presidential assent).

    Application in Careers

    Understanding how laws are made is essential for careers in law, public administration, and politics. Lawyers need to know the legislative process to interpret and apply laws correctly. Public administrators use this knowledge to implement policies. Politicians use it to create and debate laws that can benefit society.

  10. 10.How Does The Parliament Control The Executive?

    Short Answer:

    The Parliament controls the Executive by making laws, approving budgets, asking questions, and debating government policies.

    Long Answer:

    The Parliament controls the Executive through various mechanisms, ensuring the government acts in the country's best interests. Here’s how it works:

    1. Legislation: Parliament makes laws that the Executive must follow. By creating, amending, or repealing laws, Parliament shapes the policies the Executive implements.

    2. Budget Approval: The Executive cannot spend money without Parliament's approval. Parliament reviews, amends, and approves the national budget, ensuring funds are used properly.

    3. Question Hour: Members of Parliament (MPs) can ask questions to ministers, holding them accountable for their actions and decisions. This keeps the Executive transparent and responsible.

    4. Debates and Discussions: Parliament debates government policies and actions. These discussions can highlight issues, suggest changes, and ensure the Executive is on the right track.

    5. Committees: Parliamentary committees investigate government activities, scrutinize bills, and ensure policies are effectively implemented. These committees have the power to summon officials and demand reports.

    6. No-Confidence Motion: If the Parliament loses confidence in the Executive, it can pass a no-confidence motion. If this motion passes, the government must resign, ensuring the Executive remains accountable to Parliament.

    Example from Daily Life:

    Think of the Executive as the class monitor and the Parliament as the class. The class makes rules (like being quiet in the library), approves how class funds are spent (like buying sports equipment), asks the monitor questions about their decisions, discusses and suggests improvements, and can even replace the monitor if they are not performing well. This ensures the monitor acts in the class's best interest.

    Real-World Application:

    Understanding how Parliament controls the Executive can be useful if you pursue a career in law, public administration, or politics. It helps you appreciate the checks and balances in government, ensuring transparency, accountability, and effective governance.

    Activity:

    Try to list the ways your school ensures the class monitor acts responsibly. Compare this to how Parliament controls the Executive. This activity will help you understand the similarities between governance at different levels.

  11. 11.Instruments of Parliamentary Control

    Short Answer:

    Instruments of Parliamentary Control are tools and mechanisms used by a parliament to oversee and regulate the actions and policies of the government, ensuring accountability and transparency.

    Long Answer:

    Instruments of Parliamentary Control are essential in a democratic system to ensure that the government remains accountable to the parliament and, ultimately, to the citizens. These instruments help in maintaining a balance of power and preventing any misuse of authority by the government. Some of the key instruments include:

    1. Question Hour:

      • Definition: A designated time during parliamentary sessions where members can ask questions to ministers about their departments.
      • Example: Imagine you're in a class, and you have a specific time every day to ask your teacher questions about the subjects you're studying. This helps you understand better and ensures the teacher is doing their job well.

    2. Zero Hour:

      • Definition: A time immediately following the Question Hour where members can raise urgent matters without any prior notice.
      • Example: It's like having a sudden doubt during your study time and asking the teacher immediately without waiting for the next day.

    3. Motions and Resolutions:

      • Definition: Formal proposals made by members to discuss and decide on specific issues.
      • Example: Think of it as suggesting a new topic to be added to your school curriculum and then discussing and voting on it.

    4. Debates and Discussions:

      • Definition: Time allocated for discussing various bills, policies, and national issues.
      • Example: Just like class debates where you discuss different viewpoints on a topic, helping everyone understand it better.

    5. Vote on Account:

      • Definition: Temporary approval of government expenditure to ensure continuity until the annual budget is passed.
      • Example: It's like asking for some pocket money from your parents to manage your expenses until you get your monthly allowance.

    6. Committees:

      • Definition: Smaller groups of members assigned to examine specific issues in detail.
      • Example: Forming a committee in your school to plan an event, ensuring every detail is covered efficiently.

    7. No-Confidence Motion:

      • Definition: A motion moved by the opposition stating that the government no longer has the confidence of the majority.
      • Example: Imagine if the students in a class believe the class monitor is not doing a good job, they can express their lack of confidence and choose a new monitor.

    8. Financial Committees:

      • Definition: Committees like the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) that examine government expenditure and financial administration.
      • Example: Similar to a group of students checking if the funds collected for a school event were spent properly.

    Real-Life Application:

    Understanding and participating in these instruments can prepare you for various careers:

    • Public Administration: Ensuring government accountability.
    • Journalism: Reporting on parliamentary proceedings.
    • Law: Understanding legislative processes and government regulations.
    • Political Science: Analyzing and advising on political strategies and governance.

  12. 12.What Do The Committees of Parliament Do?

    Short Answer

    Parliamentary committees are small groups of Members of Parliament (MPs) who are appointed to deal with specific issues or tasks. They help in the detailed examination of proposed laws, scrutinize government policies, and oversee the work of the government.

    Long Answer

    Parliamentary committees play a crucial role in the functioning of the Parliament. Here’s a detailed look at what they do:

    1. Detailed Examination of Bills:

      • When a new law (bill) is proposed, it often requires thorough examination and discussion. Committees can take a closer look at the details of the bill, suggesting amendments and improvements before it is presented to the whole Parliament.
      • Example: A committee might review a new education bill to ensure it addresses the needs of students and teachers effectively.

    2. Scrutiny of Government Policies:

      • Committees analyze existing policies and programs to ensure they are effective and meeting their objectives. They can suggest changes or improvements to these policies.
      • Example: A committee on health might evaluate the implementation of a national health program to ensure it is reaching all parts of the country.

    3. Oversight of Government Work:

      • Committees monitor the work of various government departments to ensure they are functioning properly and using public funds effectively.
      • Example: The Public Accounts Committee examines the government’s expenditures to check for any misuse of funds.

    4. Investigations:

      • Committees can investigate specific issues or problems. They gather information, call witnesses, and compile reports to address the issues at hand.
      • Example: A committee might investigate an environmental disaster to find out what went wrong and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future.

    5. Representation and Advice:

      • Committees allow MPs to represent the interests of their constituents more effectively. They provide a platform for MPs to bring up issues affecting their regions or communities.
      • Example: A regional committee might discuss local development projects to ensure they meet the needs of the community.

    Real-Life Example

    Think of a school where the principal cannot manage everything alone. So, there are different committees for sports, cultural events, discipline, etc. Each committee has specific tasks and responsibilities to ensure the smooth functioning of the school. Similarly, in Parliament, different committees focus on different aspects of governance to ensure everything runs efficiently.


    Activity

    Imagine you are part of a committee in your school responsible for organizing a science fair. What steps would you take to ensure the event is successful? Write down a plan detailing the tasks, roles, and timeline for the event.


    Application in Careers

    Understanding how parliamentary committees work can be useful in various careers such as:

    • Public Administration: Professionals in this field need to understand how to implement and manage government policies.
    • Law: Lawyers often deal with laws and regulations that have been scrutinized by parliamentary committees.
    • Journalism: Journalists report on the work of these committees and how their decisions impact society.

  13. 13.How Does The Parliament Regulate Itself?

    Short Answer:

    The Parliament regulates itself through rules and procedures established by its members, which are documented in the rules of procedure and conduct of business. It has committees to ensure smooth functioning and members adhere to a code of conduct.

    Long Answer:

    1. Rules and Procedures:

    • Documentation: Parliament has a comprehensive set of rules known as "Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business." These rules guide the functioning of both houses: Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
    • Amendments: These rules can be amended as needed to address new situations or improve the legislative process.

    2. Committees:

    • Types of Committees: There are several committees like the Public Accounts Committee, Estimates Committee, and Departmentally Related Standing Committees.
    • Functions: These committees examine bills, budget allocations, policies, and administrative actions to ensure proper implementation and accountability.

    3. Code of Conduct:

    • Behavioral Guidelines: Members of Parliament (MPs) must follow a code of conduct that dictates their behavior inside and outside the Parliament. This includes rules about maintaining decorum during sessions.
    • Disciplinary Actions: If members violate these rules, they can face disciplinary actions, which may include warnings, suspensions, or even expulsion.

    4. Sessions and Meetings:

    • Regular Sessions: Parliament meets in three sessions each year: the Budget Session, Monsoon Session, and Winter Session.
    • Quorum: A minimum number of members must be present for the proceedings to be valid. This is called a quorum.

    5. Role of the Speaker:

    • Lok Sabha: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is responsible for maintaining order and ensuring that debates and discussions proceed smoothly.
    • Rajya Sabha: The Vice President of India acts as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, performing similar duties.

    Example from Daily Life:

    • School Assembly: Think of Parliament like your school assembly. There are rules about how students should behave, a schedule to follow, and teachers (like parliamentary committees) who ensure everything runs smoothly. The school principal (like the Speaker) maintains order.

    Real-Life Application:

    • Legal Careers: Lawyers and judges need to understand parliamentary procedures to interpret laws.
    • Political Careers: Politicians must know these rules to participate effectively in legislative processes.
    • Public Administration: Civil servants use this knowledge to implement policies and ensure government accountability.

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