Working of Institutions
The chapter explains how legislature, executive, and judiciary interact to govern a democracy and why institutional checks are important.
Learning Objectives
- •Describe roles of legislature, executive, judiciary
- •Explain cabinet decision-making
- •Understand checks and balances
Key Concepts
Legislature
Parliament makes laws and represents people’s interests.
Executive
The executive implements laws and runs administration through the cabinet.
Prime Minister and Cabinet
The Prime Minister leads the executive; the cabinet takes major policy decisions.
Judiciary
Courts interpret laws and protect constitutional rights.
Independent Judiciary
Judicial independence ensures fair judgments even against the government.
Checks and Balances
Institutions monitor each other to prevent abuse of power.
Terminology
Historical Insight
Question Hour
MPs question ministers to ensure accountability.
Judicial Review
Courts can strike down unconstitutional laws.
Quick Check
Who makes laws in India?
What is the role of the judiciary?
Why do we need checks and balances?
How to use this lesson
Read the overview first, then explain the main idea in your own words before checking the key concepts. Use the quick-check questions without looking at the answer. For examination preparation, verify dates, definitions, and syllabus requirements against your official textbook and school or examination-board guidance.
Test Your Knowledge
Ready to check your understanding of this chapter? Take our interactive practice quiz.