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I. Chapter Summary

This chapter introduces students to the foundational concept of democracy—a system of government by the people, typically through elected representatives. It explains what democracy is and why it is considered the most preferred form of government in the modern world. Through examples from across the globe, students learn to distinguish democratic from non-democratic governments. It also discusses essential features of democracy like free and fair elections, rule of law, and citizen participation. The chapter evaluates democracy by addressing its merits and limitations, preparing students to critically assess political systems.

II. Key Concepts Covered

Concept	Explanation
Definition of Democracy	Rule of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Key Features of Democracy	Elections, one-person one-vote one-value, rule of law, fundamental rights, citizen participation.
Difference Between Democratic and Non-Democratic Governments	Based on power sharing, public participation, and transparency.
Examples of Democratic Governments	India, USA, Germany, Japan.
Examples of Non-Democratic Governments	North Korea, Myanmar (junta period), Saudi Arabia (monarchy).
Merits of Democracy	Accountability, improves decision-making, promotes equality, corrects its own mistakes.
Demerits of Democracy	Delays in decision-making, instability due to frequent changes in leadership, sometimes leads to bad decisions by uneducated voters.

III. Important Questions

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark)

1. Which of the following countries is considered a democracy?
   a) Saudi Arabia
   b) Myanmar
   c) India ✔️
   d) North Korea
2. What is the minimum condition of a democratic government?
   a) Army rule
   b) Elections ✔️
   c) Monarchy
   d) One-party rule
3. Which of the following is not a feature of democracy?
   a) Free and fair elections
   b) Equal rights for all
   c) Rule of one person ✔️
   d) Citizen participation
4. Which form of government is considered more accountable?
   a) Dictatorship
   b) Monarchy
   c) Democracy ✔️
   d) Military rule
   (PYQ 2020)

(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks)

1. What is democracy? Explain with one example. (PYQ 2019)
2. Why is democracy considered better than other forms of government? Give any two reasons.
3. Explain any three features of a democratic government. (PYQ 2018)
4. How does democracy ensure transparency?

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)

1. Explain any five arguments in favor of democracy. (PYQ 2020)
2. Compare democracy with dictatorship. Highlight key differences using examples.
3. “Democracy is not the perfect form of government, but it is better than others.” Explain.
4. What are the broader meanings and implications of democracy beyond elections?

(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills)

1. Can a country have elections and still not be a democracy? Justify with examples.
2. Why might a dictator make quick decisions but still be considered undemocratic? Explain.

IV. Key Formulas/Concepts

Term/Concept	Definition/Explanation
Democracy	A system of government where power is vested in the hands of the people, either directly or through elected representatives.
Universal Adult Franchise	The right of every adult citizen (18+) to vote, regardless of caste, gender, or wealth.
Rule of Law	Everyone, including leaders, is subject to the law.
Transparency	Government decisions are open to public scrutiny and accountability.

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
Chapter 1: What is Democracy? Why Democracy?	5–6 Marks	1 MCQ, 1 Short Answer, 1 Long Answer, 1 HOTS

VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Mark	Question	Year
1 mark	Which form of government is considered more accountable?	PYQ 2020
3 marks	What are the three features of a democratic government?	PYQ 2018
5 marks	Explain any five arguments in favor of democracy.	PYQ 2020
2 marks	Define democracy. Give an example of a democratic country.	PYQ 2019

VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics

• School Elections: Electing a head boy/girl mirrors democratic elections.
• RTI (Right to Information): Citizens can question government decisions—an example of transparency.
• Voting Campaigns: Youth participation in mock elections builds awareness of democratic processes.
• Media and Press: Free media acts as a watchdog of democracy.

IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success

 Time Management

• Allocate 2 days for understanding concepts and 1 day for revision and map/diagram practice.

 Exam Preparation

• Use flashcards for features of democracy, merits/demerits, and key terms.
• Practice writing answers using the introduction-body-conclusion format.

 Stress Management

• Discuss real-world democratic issues in class or group settings to build engagement.
• Watch short videos on global democracies or historical movements to deepen understanding.

X. Career Guidance & Exploration (Class 9 Focus)

• Streams After Class 10:
   Arts (Political Science, History, Law)
   Commerce (Civics in Business Law)
• Career Paths:
   Civil Services (IAS, IPS)
   Lawyer / Judge
   Political Analyst / Journalist
   Social Activist / NGO Leader Policy Advisor
• Relevant Exams & Activities:
   NTSE
   Youth Parliament Competitions
   CBSE Expression Series on Democracy
   Mock United Nations (MUN)

XI. Important Notes

 Understand the spirit and meaning of democracy, not just definitions.
 Democracy is not just about elections—it includes accountability, rights, equality, and participation.
 Focus on examples from India and the world while answering.
 Always check CBSE official updates for syllabus and exam formats.