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I. Chapter Summary:
This chapter introduces the Constitution of India, explaining its importance as the supreme law of the land. It discusses the reasons why India needed a Constitution, the process of drafting it, and its role in establishing a democratic government. The chapter highlights key features of the Constitution such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, and explains how it protects the rights and duties of citizens. It also describes the role of the Constitution in maintaining the unity and integrity of India.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
Constitution: The fundamental law that governs the country.
Need for a Constitution: To replace colonial laws and to establish a democratic government.
Constituent Assembly: The body that drafted the Constitution.
Preamble: The introductory statement outlining the aims and values of the Constitution.
Fundamental Rights: Rights guaranteed to all citizens for equality and freedom.
Fundamental Duties: Responsibilities expected from citizens.
Directive Principles of State Policy: Guidelines for the government to establish social and economic democracy.
Democracy: Government of the people, by the people, for the people.
Rule of Law: Everyone is subject to the law, including rulers.
Secularism and Sovereignty: Principles ensuring equality and independence of the nation.
III. Important Questions:
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):
Who was the chairman of the drafting committee of the Indian Constitution?
a) Mahatma Gandhi
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
d) Sardar Patel
Answer: c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(PYQ 2021)The Constitution of India was adopted on:
a) 15 August 1947
b) 26 January 1950
c) 26 November 1949
d) 2 October 1950
Answer: c) 26 November 1949The Preamble of the Constitution begins with the words:
a) We the People of India
b) The Government of India
c) This Constitution
d) Our Country
Answer: a) We the People of IndiaFundamental Rights are also called:
a) Directive Principles
b) Duties of Citizens
c) Rights of Citizens
d) Liberties
Answer: d) Liberties
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
What is the significance of the Constitution in India?
Name any two Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
What are Fundamental Duties? Give two examples.
Explain the importance of the Directive Principles of State Policy.
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
Describe the process of drafting the Indian Constitution.
Explain the key features of the Constitution of India.
Discuss the significance of Fundamental Rights and Duties for citizens.
How does the Constitution ensure democracy in India?
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) Questions:
Why is the Constitution called a ‘living document’?
How do Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles complement each other in the governance of India?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
Definition of Constitution and its importance.
Understanding of Preamble and its ideals: Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.
Fundamental Rights and Duties with examples.
Directive Principles as guidelines for the government.
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):
Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
---|---|---|
The Constitution of India — An Introduction | 8 – 10 | MCQs, Short Answer, Long Answer, HOTS Questions |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
2022: MCQ on chairman of drafting committee (1 mark)
2021: Short answer on Fundamental Rights (2 marks)
2020: Long answer on key features of Constitution (5 marks)
2019: HOTS on ‘living document’ nature of Constitution (3 marks)
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:
The Constitution ensures equality by banning discrimination based on religion, caste, or gender.
Protection of free speech and expression in daily life.
Duties such as voting help strengthen democracy.
Directive Principles guide government policies like education and welfare.
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:
Memorize key dates related to the Constitution (drafting, adoption, enforcement).
Understand the Preamble deeply as it summarizes the Constitution’s spirit.
Practice writing answers with examples.
Relate Fundamental Rights and Duties to current affairs and your own life.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration:
For Classes 9–10:
Foundation for Civics, Political Science, and Legal Studies.
Useful for NTSE, Olympiads preparation.
For Classes 11–12:
Relevant for careers in Law, Public Administration, Political Science, and Governance.
Important for civil services and judiciary entrance exams.
XI. Important Notes:
Always refer to the latest CBSE circulars and NCERT textbooks.
Focus on conceptual clarity rather than rote learning.
Practice past years’ questions regularly to improve answer writing skills.