NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Political Science Chapter 1 Power Sharing
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Civics Chapter 1 covers Case Studies of Belgium and Sri Lanka, Majoritarianism vs Accommodation, Prudential and Moral Reasons for Power Sharing, and Forms of Power Sharing.
Overview of Topics & Subtopics (Click to Jump)
1. Case Studies: Belgium and Sri Lanka
Short Note:
• Belgium Composition: 59% Dutch-speakers (Flemish region), 40% French-speakers (Wallonia region), 1% German-speakers. In capital Brussels: 80% French, 20% Dutch.
• Sri Lanka Composition: 74% Sinhala-speakers (mostly Buddhist), 18% Tamil-speakers (13% Sri Lankan Tamils, 5% Indian Tamils; Hindu/Muslim), 7% Christians (both Sinhala and Tamil).
2. Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka vs Accommodation in Belgium
Short Note:
• Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka: In 1956, an Act was passed making Sinhala the sole official language. Preferences given to Sinhalas for government jobs and university admissions. Resulted in political alienation among Tamils and led to a violent Civil War.
• Belgian Model of Accommodation: Equal number of Dutch and French ministers in central government. Power handed to state governments. Separate government for Brussels with equal representation. Introduction of a 3rd tier: 'Community Government' elected by people belonging to one language community.
3. Why Power Sharing is Desirable? (Prudential vs Moral)
Short Note:
• Prudential Reasons: Reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups, ensures political stability, and prevents violence.
• Moral Reasons: Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. A legitimate government is one where citizens participate to acquire a stake in the system.
4. Forms of Power Sharing in Modern Democracies
Short Note:
• Horizontal Distribution: Power shared among different organs of government at the same level (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary). Known as a system of Checks and Balances.
• Vertical Distribution: Power shared among governments at different levels (Central, State, Local). Known as Federal Power Sharing.
• Among Social Groups: Power shared among linguistic or religious groups (e.g., Reserved Constituencies in India, Community Government in Belgium).
• Among Political Parties & Pressure Groups: Coalition governments and policy influence by interest groups.
Intext & Conceptual Questions
2. Making Sinhala the only official language, ignoring Tamil culture and language.
3. Denial of equal political rights and career opportunities to Tamils led to distrust and Civil War.
2. Even though each organ works at the same level, none of them can exercise unlimited power.
3. Each organ checks the functioning of the other, maintaining a balance of power within the state.
Textbook Chapter End Exercise Questions
1. Sri Lanka: Followed Majoritarianism. Forced majority rules on minority Tamils, leading to widespread distrust, violent clashes, and a long Civil War.
2. Belgium: Followed Power Sharing & Accommodation. Modified their constitution four times to ensure equal rights for Dutch and French citizens, avoiding civil strife.
1. Prudential Reasons: Based on careful calculation of gains and losses. Power sharing prevents social conflicts and ensures political stability.
2. Moral Reasons: Based on ethical principles. Power sharing is the fundamental spirit and intrinsic value of a true democracy.
1. Horizontal Division: Power divided among Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary (System of Checks and Balances).
2. Vertical Division: Power shared between Central, State, and Local governments (Federalism).
3. Social Groups: Power shared among diverse social or religious groups (e.g., Reserved Constituencies in India, Community Govt in Belgium).
4. Political Parties & Alliances: Power shared when two or more parties form a Coalition Government.
Read More & Chapter Resources
These short notes are designed for quick revision. Read the main points once, then use the related material below to practise the same chapter. Revising a concept and checking it with questions can make your preparation more focused.