Find an Overview of Chapters in NCERT 6th Class (Civics) - Social and Political Life
Chapter-1 Understanding Diversity
In this chapter, we will understand that India is a country of many diversities. We speak different languages, have various types of food, celebrate different festivals, and practice different religions. So, how do we explain diversity and unity in diversity, and what does diversity add to our lives? This chapter will also discuss Ladakh, its trade and culture, and the relation of history with unity in diversity.
Chapter 2 Diversity and Discrimination
This chapter will explain the meanings of difference and prejudice, inequality, and discrimination, and what the Constitution says about equality. After reading this chapter, you will be able to answer, How do Stereotypes affect all of us? What are the reasons behind discrimination? What is the difference between discrimination and stereotypes? Who is considered the father of the Indian Constitution?
Chapter 3 What is Government
In this chapter, you will learn about what a government is and the important role it plays in our lives. What do governments do? How do they decide what to do? What is the difference between different types of governments, such as monarchies and democracies? What are the functions for which every country needs a government? What are the different levels of government- central, state, and local levels?
Chapter 4 Key Elements of a Democratic Government
In this chapter, you will read about some of the key elements that influence the working of a democratic government. These include people's participation, conflict resolution, and equality and justice. In addition, this chapter will answer such questions as: Why do we have regular elections? What is the period or term of service of a particular elected government? Moreover, at last, how rivers can become a source of conflict between states.
Chapter-5 Panchayati Raj
In this chapter, you will read about what happens after people elect their representatives. How are decisions made? You will also learn about Gram Sabha, where people directly participate and seek answers from their elected representatives at this meeting. After reading this chapter, you will be able to answer such questions as who the members of Gram Sabha are, the functions of the secretary of Gram Sabha, the function of Gram Sabha concerning Panchayat, and the three levels of Panchayat.
Chapter 6 Rural Administration
In this chapter, you will read about rural administration, which involves the area and work at the police station. Who is Patwari, and what are their responsibilities of Patwari. Who is responsible for maintaining the land records, organizing the collection of land revenue from the farmers, and providing information to the government? Moreover, last, who is the head of the District and who works under him?
Chapter 7 Urban Administration
In this chapter, you will read about urban administration, which involves the Ward Councillor and Administrative Staff. For example, how does the Municipal Corporation get its money? This chapter will also explain who is responsible for running all crowded markets, many buses and cars, water and electricity facilities, traffic control, and hospitals. How are decisions made? How is the planning done? Who are the people who do all the work?
Chapter-8 Rural Livelihoods
In this chapter, we will look at how people earn their living in rural villages. Moreover, here too, as in the first two chapters, we will examine whether people have equal opportunities to earn a living. We will look at the similarities in their life situations and their problems. This chapter will also explain to you Terrace Farming in Nagaland and how rural people's lives revolve around certain seasons.
Chapter 9 Urban Livelihoods
In this chapter, we will find out about the work people do in the city. Does someone employ them, or are they self-employed? How do they organise themselves? Moreover, do they have similar employment and earning opportunities? This chapter will also explain to you the work people do in the city. Does someone employ them, or are they self-employed? How do they organise themselves? Moreover, do they have similar employment and earning opportunities?
What is the function of political parties in political life?
The key functions are
- Elections: Parties contest elections. In most democracies, elections are contested mainly among the candidates put up by political parties.
- Declaration of Policies: There are always some socio-economic and political issues before the nation at the domestic and international levels. Political parties put forward their considered views and policies before the people and suggest ways to tackle the issues.
- Moulding Public Opinion: The parties stimulate the interest of the public in the issues before the nation. They use all means of mass communication to educate, influence and mould public opinion in their favour. Political parties are significant agencies for creating public opinion.
- To form and run the Government: Formation of government is one of the aims and functions of a political party. In a Parliamentary system, the leader of the party in power becomes the Prime Minister and he appoints the other ministers to his Cabinet.
- Function of Criticism: The party or parties that fail to form the government constitute the opposition and perform the most important function of criticising the working of government, its policies and its failures. They check the government from assuming dictatorial powers.