Why is a system of checks and balances important in a democracy?

• To ensure equal distribution of power

• To prevent misuse of power

• To maintain law and order

• To promote economic development

What are two differences between the legislatures at the centre and in the state?

• The centre legislature has two houses, while the state legislature has only one house

• The centre legislature makes laws for the whole country, while the state legislature makes laws for the state

• The centre legislature is elected by the people, while the state legislature is appointed by the President

• The centre legislature keeps a check on the executive branch, while the state legislature keeps a check on the judiciary

Explain the pyramid shaped structure of the judiciary with the help of a diagram.

• The pyramid structure represents the hierarchy of courts in India

• The pyramid structure represents the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive

• The pyramid structure represents the division of power between the centre and the states

• The pyramid structure represents the separation of powers in a democracy

Name the three lists under which the power is shared between the centre and the states. Give one example of the subject under each list.

• Union list: Education, State list: Defense, Concurrent list: Railways

• Union list: Railways, State list: Police, Concurrent list: Education

• Union list: Defense, State list: Education, Concurrent list: Railways

• Union list: Police, State list: Railways, Concurrent list: Defense

How are the union territories different from the states of India?

• Union territories have their own legislatures, while states are governed directly by the union government

• Union territories are governed directly by the union government, while states have their own legislatures

• Union territories have more autonomy than states in decision-making

• Union territories have a higher level of economic development compared to states