Indian Governance and Constitutional Framework

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary terms related to Indian governance, the legislative process, and constitutional frameworks, aiding in the understanding and retention of key concepts for exam preparation.

Bicameral Legislature

A system of governance in which the legislature comprises two separate chambers or houses.

Vidhan Sabha

Also known as the Legislative Assembly, it is one of the two houses of a bicameral legislature in Indian states.

Vidhan Parishad

The Legislative Council, which is the upper house in some Indian states with a bicameral legislature.

Money Bill

A type of bill related primarily to financial matters that can only be introduced in the Vidhan Sabha.

Presiding Officer

The designated leader in a legislative assembly, such as the Speaker in the Vidhan Sabha.

Governor

The constitutional head of a state in India, appointed by the President of India.

Chief Minister

The head of the government in a state, appointed by the Governor.

Basic Structure Doctrine

A judicial principle that prevents Parliament from altering the fundamental framework of the Constitution.

Emergency Provisions

Articles in the Constitution that allow for extraordinary measures during national emergencies.

Panchayati Raj

A system of local government in rural India, structured in a three-tier system.

Cooperative Federalism

A concept of federalism in which the central and state governments work together to solve issues.

Electoral College

A body of representatives that elects the President in India and the USA.

Universal Adult Franchise

A policy that allows all adult citizens to vote, regardless of status.

Reservation System

A policy designed to improve opportunities for historically marginalized groups.

State Election Commission

An independent constitutional authority responsible for overseeing elections in the states.

Elector's Photo Identity Card (EPIC)

An identity card issued to every registered voter in India to facilitate the electoral process.

Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT)

A method that allows voters to verify their vote on an electronic voting machine by providing a paper trail.

Mandal Commission

A commission established to identify and recommend measures for the backward classes in India.

Women's Reservation Bill

Legislation aimed at reserving seats for women in the legislature.

Constitutional Amendment

A formal change or addition to the Constitution that requires specific procedures for enactment.

Judiciary's Role

The function of the judiciary in interpreting the Constitution and adjudicating disputes.

Election Commission of India

The authority responsible for administering election processes in India.

Democratic Decentralisation

The distribution of power from central and state governments to local self-governments.

Legislative Assembly Strength

The maximum number of members allowed in the Vidhan Sabha as prescribed by the law.

Legislative Powers of the Governor

The various powers vested in the Governor, including giving assent to bills and calling the assembly.

Judicial Powers of the Governor

Powers related to the appointment of judges and the execution of judicial decisions.