Class 10 Political Science MCQs help students assess their understanding of key political concepts and governance structures. These questions follow the NCERT syllabus and cover topics such as power sharing, federalism, democracy, political parties, and outcomes of democracy. By practicing these MCQs, students can strengthen their knowledge, boost their confidence, and prepare effectively for exams.
1. What does power-sharing help achieve in a democracy?
a) One person or group controls everything
b) Only the majority makes decisions
c) Military rule takes over
d) All groups get a fair share in governance
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Explanation: Power-sharing makes sure that different groups in society get a say in how the country is run. This helps prevent fights between groups and keeps democracy strong. If only one group had all the power, others might feel ignored or oppressed, leading to problems.
2. Which of these is NOT a reason for power-sharing?
a) To stop conflicts
b) To support dictatorship
c) To keep democracy stable
d) To protect the rights of smaller groups
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Explanation: Power-sharing is a key part of democracy because it helps reduce fights, protect minority groups, and keep politics stable. A dictatorship does the opposite it puts all power in one person or group, which can lead to unfair treatment and unrest.
3. Which ethnic group is the majority in Sri Lanka?
a) Sinhalese
b) French
c) Tamil
d) German
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Explanation: In Sri Lanka, Sinhalese people make up about 74% of the population. Tamils are a smaller group. Because of unfair treatment in the past, Tamils demanded equal rights, leading to conflicts in the country.
4. What is it called when power is shared among different levels of government?
a) Horizontal power-sharing
b) Vertical power-sharing
c) Community-based power-sharing
d) Political party-based power-sharing
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Explanation: Vertical power-sharing means dividing power between the central, state, and local governments. This way, decisions can be made at different levels instead of being controlled by just one authority.
5. When different social groups share power, what is it called?
a) Vertical power-sharing
b) Federal government
c) Horizontal power-sharing
d) Community government
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Explanation: Community government allows different social, linguistic, or religious groups to have a role in decision-making. Belgium is an example—both the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking people have a say in running the country.
6. What did the Belgian power-sharing model do?
a) Gave full control to the French-speaking minority
b) Allowed only Dutch speakers to rule
c) Gave equal power to Dutch and French speakers
d) Split the country into two nations
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Explanation: In Belgium, power-sharing made sure that both Dutch and French speakers had equal power. This helped prevent conflicts and kept both groups happy. Without this system, one group might have dominated the other, leading to unrest.
7. How does a federal government work?
a) Power is divided between different levels of government
b) The central government has all the power
c) Only political parties share power
d) States don’t have any power
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Explanation: In a federal system, power is shared between the central, state, and local governments. Each level handles different responsibilities. For example, in India, the central government makes big national decisions, while state governments focus on local issues.
8. What happens when one authority controls all the power?
a) It makes democracy stronger
b) It helps people participate equally
c) It prevents social conflicts
d) It leads to dictatorship
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Explanation: When power is concentrated in one place, it can lead to a dictatorship, where one person or group makes all the decisions. This can result in oppression, lack of freedom, and unhappy citizens. Democracy, on the other hand, spreads power to prevent abuse and ensure fairness.
9. Which is an example of vertical power-sharing?
a) Power is shared between central and state governments
b) Power is shared between different political parties
c) Power is divided among government branches
d) Power is shared between the military and civilians
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Explanation: Vertical power-sharing happens when power is divided between the central, state, and local governments. This ensures that local issues are handled locally, while national matters are taken care of by the central government.
10. What kind of power-sharing exists in India’s Panchayati Raj system?
a) Horizontal power-sharing
b) Community government
c) Vertical power-sharing
d) Federalism does not exist in India
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Explanation: India’s Panchayati Raj system is an example of vertical power-sharing. Power is divided between the central, state, and village (local) levels. This helps villages govern themselves and solve local problems without waiting for higher authorities.
11. In a federal system, which level of government is independent?
a) Only the state government
b) Both the central and state governments
c) Only the central government
d) Only the local government
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Explanation: In a federal system, both the central and state governments have their own powers and responsibilities. This ensures that power is not concentrated in one authority. For example, in India, states handle subjects like police and agriculture, while the central government controls defense and foreign policy.
12. What role does the Constitution play in a federal system?
a) It defines the powers of different levels of government
b) It allows the central government to take away state powers anytime
c) It removes the need for a judiciary
d) It makes state governments powerless
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Explanation: The Constitution acts as the foundation of a federal system. It clearly states the powers of the central, state, and local governments, ensuring that no level of government can interfere with another’s rights without legal procedures. In India, the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List define these divisions.
13. Which of these is an example of cooperative federalism?
a) States refusing to follow central laws
b) The central and state governments working together on policies
c) No division of power between center and states
d) Conflict between central and state governments
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Explanation: Cooperative federalism means the central and state governments work together to solve problems. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, both governments coordinated health policies, lockdown measures, and vaccination programs instead of acting separately.
14. What type of federalism does India follow?
a) Confederal federalism
b) Unitary system
c) Dual federalism
d) Cooperative federalism
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Explanation: India follows cooperative federalism, where different levels of government collaborate on governance. Unlike dual federalism, where governments work separately, India’s system ensures flexibility. For example, both the center and states work on education and disaster management policies.
15. Who appoints the Governor of an Indian state?
a) The President
b) The Chief Minister
c) The Prime Minister
d) The Supreme Court
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Explanation: The Governor is appointed by the President of India and serves as the central government’s representative in the state. The Governor’s duties include approving bills, overseeing state administration, and even recommending President’s Rule if necessary.
16. Which of these is NOT part of the three-tier Panchayati Raj system?
a) Panchayat Samiti
b) Rajya Sabha
c) Zilla Parishad
d) Gram Panchayat
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Explanation: The three levels of the Panchayati Raj system are:
- Gram Panchayat (village level)
- Panchayat Samiti (block level)
- Zilla Parishad (district level)
Rajya Sabha is the upper house of Parliament and is not related to local governance.
17. What is an example of decentralization in India?
a) No division of power at all
b) The central government controlling everything
c) Transferring power to local self-government institutions
d) State governments having complete power over governance
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Explanation: Decentralization means giving more decision-making power to local governments like municipalities and Gram Panchayats. This helps solve local problems faster. India strengthened this with the 73rd and 74th Amendments, which gave villages and cities more control over their development.
18. If a state law conflicts with a Union law on a Concurrent List subject, what happens?
a) The Union law is followed
b) The state law is followed
c) The dispute goes to the High Court
d) The dispute is resolved by the President
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Explanation: The Concurrent List contains subjects like education, forests, and marriage, where both the center and states can make laws. However, if a state law clashes with a Union law, the Union law prevails, unless the state law gets the President’s special approval.
19. How are powers divided between different levels of government in India?
a) The President decides
b) The Supreme Court decides
c) The Constitution decides
d) The Prime Minister decides
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Explanation: The Indian Constitution defines the powers of central, state, and local governments through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. This ensures that no level of government can unfairly dominate the others.
20. What is the main goal of gender equality in India?
a) Equal rights and opportunities for both men and women
b) Gender-specific roles in society
c) Only political rights for women
d) Only equal access to education
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Explanation: Gender equality means that both men and women should have the same rights, opportunities, and responsibilities in every field—whether in education, jobs, or politics. Laws like the Maternity Benefit Act and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao aim to reduce discrimination and promote equality.
21. What is a secular state?
a) A state that has an official religion
b) A state that treats all religions equally
c) A state that bans religious practices
d) A state that promotes atheism
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Explanation: A secular state treats all religions equally. It does not favor any particular religion or force people to follow one. India is a secular country, meaning the government allows freedom of religion without discrimination.
22. What does ‘vote bank’ politics mean?
a) Buying votes with money
b) Electronic voting systems
c) Equal voting rights for all
d) Political parties relying on caste or religious groups for votes
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Explanation: ‘Vote bank’ politics happens when political parties try to get votes by appealing to caste or religious groups instead of focusing on real issues. This can lead to division in society and unfair policymaking.
23. Which of the following is an example of religious discrimination?
a) Allowing freedom of religion
b) Denying rights to people based on their religion
c) Providing equal opportunities to all religions
d) Promoting religious harmony
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Explanation: Religious discrimination happens when people are treated unfairly because of their religion. Examples include banning religious symbols, denying jobs based on religion, or stopping people from practicing their faith.
24. What is one of the main goals of the women’s movement in India?
a) To ensure equal rights and opportunities for women
b) To limit women’s participation in politics
c) To promote religious traditions
d) To reduce women’s education
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Explanation: The women’s movement in India works to give women equal rights in education, jobs, and politics. It has helped bring important laws like women’s reservations in government jobs and protection against domestic violence.
25. Which is an example of caste-based reservations in India?
a) Providing free education for all
b) Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) in educational institutions
c) Equal pay for men and women
d) Special benefits for wealthy families
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Explanation: Caste-based reservations help historically disadvantaged communities like SCs, STs, and OBCs get better education and job opportunities. This system aims to reduce social inequality and provide fair chances to everyone.
26. How does caste influence elections in India?
a) Political parties do not consider caste while campaigning
b) Caste does not play any role in elections
c) Only upper castes participate in elections
d) Candidates are chosen based on caste demographics
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Explanation: Many political parties pick candidates based on the major caste groups in an area. They do this because people often vote for someone from their own caste, making caste an important factor in Indian politics.
27. What is communalism?
a) The use of religion for political purposes
b) A belief in religious harmony
c) A democratic system
d) A secular ideology
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Explanation: Communalism means using religion in politics to create divisions between different religious groups. It often leads to conflicts, riots, and tensions in society. A secular democracy promotes unity instead of division.
28. What does political empowerment of women mean?
a) Women making decisions in family matters
b) Women getting equal chances in politics and leadership
c) Women only focusing on household activities
d) Women’s involvement in business and finance
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Explanation: Political empowerment means giving women equal opportunities to take part in elections, decision-making, and leadership. In India, the Women’s Reservation Bill aims to increase female representation in government.
29. What is the primary function of a political party?
a) To organize protests
b) To provide education
c) To contest elections and form the government
d) To make laws independently
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Explanation: A political party takes part in elections to win power and form the government. Once elected, it works on creating laws, implementing policies, and addressing public concerns.
30. What is the role of caste in Indian elections?
a) Caste plays no role in elections
b) Political parties use caste to gain votes from specific groups
c) Only upper castes are allowed to vote
d) Political leaders are selected without considering caste
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Explanation: Caste influences voting patterns in many parts of India. Political parties often appeal to specific caste groups and promise benefits to gain their support. This practice affects how leaders are chosen and how policies are made.
31. What is a two-party system?
a) A system where only one party can contest elections
b) A system where no political party exists
c) A system where two major parties dominate politics
d) A system where multiple parties compete
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Explanation: In a two-party system, two major political parties control the government. One of them wins the elections, while the other forms the opposition. The United States is a great example, with the Democratic Party and the Republican Party being the two major players. Other parties may exist but do not have much power.
32. Which of the following is an example of a national party in India?
a) Indian National Congress
b) Rashtriya Janata Dal
c) Aam Aadmi Party
d) Samajwadi Party
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Explanation: A national party has a presence in multiple states and influences national politics. The Indian National Congress (INC) is a well-known national party with a long history. In contrast, Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal mainly operate in specific states, making them regional parties.
33. What is a regional party?
a) A party that contests elections across the entire country
b) A party that focuses only on international relations
c) A party that has no specific political agenda
d) A party that operates only within a particular state or region
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Explanation: A regional party is active only in a particular state or region and focuses on local issues. For example, DMK (Tamil Nadu) and TMC (West Bengal) are strong in their respective states but do not have much influence in national politics.
34. Which institution in India regulates political parties?
a) President of India
b) Supreme Court
c) Election Commission of India
d) Parliament
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Explanation: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is responsible for conducting elections, registering parties, ensuring fair play, and monitoring election expenses. It ensures that elections are free and fair, preventing unfair advantages for any party.
35. What is a political alliance?
a) A merger of all political parties
b) A constitutional amendment
c) A military agreement between parties
d) A group of parties coming together to contest elections
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Explanation: A political alliance is formed when two or more parties join hands to contest elections or form a government. This often happens when no single party gets a majority. Examples include NDA (led by BJP) and UPA (led by Congress).
36. What does the term “party system” refer to?
a) The number of political parties in a country
b) The process of forming a political party
c) The structure of party leadership
d) The way parties organize themselves in the government
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Explanation: A party system refers to how many political parties operate in a country. There can be:
- One-party system (China, North Korea)
- Two-party system (USA, UK)
- Multi-party system (India, Germany)
India’s multi-party system allows voters to choose from many options.
37. What does the acronym BJP stand for?
a) Bharat Janata Party
b) Bharatiya Janata Party
c) Bharat Janta Parishad
d) Bhartiya Janta Sangh
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Explanation: BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) is one of India’s largest political parties. It was established in 1980 and follows right-wing ideology. It has led the central government multiple times.
38. Which of the following is a function of the ruling party?
a) Participating in elections
b) Giving speeches to the public
c) Passing laws in Parliament
d) Organizing rallies
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Explanation: The ruling party is responsible for governing, making laws, implementing policies, and managing national issues. Opposition parties check the ruling party’s actions and offer alternatives.
39. What is a manifesto in elections?
a) A type of election symbol
b) A form to apply for voting
c) A list of candidates contesting elections
d) A document stating a political party’s policies and promises
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Explanation: A manifesto is a written document in which a political party outlines its promises and policies before elections. It helps voters understand what a party stands for and what it plans to do if elected.
40. Which of the following is NOT an outcome of democracy?
a) Social inequality
b) Political participation
c) Improved quality of governance
d) Political accountability
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Explanation: Democracy aims to reduce social inequality by ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all citizens. It promotes accountability, participation, and good governance. While inequalities exist, democracy provides ways to correct them through laws and policies.
41. What does accountability in a democracy mean?
a) Governments are free to make decisions without input from citizens
b) Governments do not need to explain their decisions
c) Governments control all resources
d) Governments are responsible to the people for their actions
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Explanation: Accountability in democracy means that the government is answerable to the people for its actions. Leaders must justify their decisions and policies. If they fail to serve the people well, they can be questioned, criticized, or even voted out in elections.
42. How does democracy ensure political participation?
a) By limiting the right to vote
b) By controlling media content
c) By allowing citizens to elect representatives
d) By promoting one-party rule
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Explanation: Democracy allows citizens to elect their representatives, ensuring their voices are heard. This participation isn’t just limited to voting—it also includes freedom of speech, protests, and political discussions. These rights help people actively shape their government.
43. In a democracy, who has the ultimate power?
a) The military
b) The citizens
c) The judiciary
d) The president
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Explanation: The power in a democracy lies with the people. They elect leaders through free and fair elections. If a government does not perform well, people can vote them out in the next election. Unlike in dictatorships, where leaders stay in power without public approval, democracies depend on citizen participation.
44. Why is democracy considered a legitimate government?
a) It is chosen by the people through elections
b) It allows leaders to rule for life
c) It suppresses public opinions
d) It is the fastest way to make decisions
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Explanation: A government is legitimate when it is formed with the approval of the people. In a democracy, leaders are elected through public voting, making the system fair. In contrast, dictatorships and monarchies are not elected by the people and often rule by force.
45. Which policy helps reduce inequality in a democracy?
a) Concentration of power in the hands of elites
b) Limiting access to jobs and education
c) Promoting discrimination
d) Inclusive economic and social policies
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Explanation: Democracies aim to reduce inequalities by introducing inclusive policies. These include free education, job reservations for marginalized communities, and equal opportunities in employment. These policies ensure that everyone, regardless of background, gets a fair chance.
46. How can we assess the outcomes of democracy?
a) By considering the level of citizen participation
b) By focusing on military power
c) By examining government secrecy
d) By reducing citizens’ rights
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Explanation: A democracy’s success is measured by how actively its people participate in governance. High voter turnout, freedom of speech, and transparent decision-making are signs of a healthy democracy. If citizens are not involved, democracy becomes weak and ineffective.
47. How do we know if democracy is working well?
a) The opposition is not allowed
b) People’s rights and freedoms are protected
c) Government decisions are secret
d) Only the ruling party makes decisions
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Explanation: A well-functioning democracy protects people’s rights and freedoms, such as free speech, religious freedom, and equality. If the opposition is banned or people’s rights are restricted, it is no longer a true democracy but a dictatorship in disguise.
48. What is economic inequality?
a) Unequal distribution of wealth
b) Equal distribution of resources
c) Government controlling all wealth
d) No rich or poor people
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Explanation: Economic inequality means that wealth is not distributed fairly, causing some people to be very rich while others struggle to meet basic needs. Democracies try to reduce this gap through fair wages, progressive taxation, and social welfare programs.
Class 10 Political Science MCQs – Chapter-wise Practice
Explore the topics below to practice multiple-choice questions (MCQs) from each chapter of Class 10 Political Science:
- Class 10 Political Science Chapter 1 – Power Sharing
- Class 10 Political Science Chapter 2 – Federalism
- Class 10 Political Science Chapter 3 – Gender, Religion, and Caste
- Class 10 Political Science Chapter 4 – Political Parties
- Class 10 Political Science Chapter 5 – Outcomes of Democracy
Why Should You Practice Class 10 Political Science MCQs?
Practicing Class 10 Political Science MCQs is a great way to prepare for exams and strengthen your understanding of important political concepts.
- Quick Revision: MCQs help you review topics like power sharing, federalism, democracy, and political parties in less time.
- Better Exam Skills: Regular practice improves your speed and accuracy, helping you answer questions faster in exams.
- Clear Understanding: Solving different questions makes it easier to understand government, rights, and political systems.
- Reduces Exam Stress: Practicing more MCQs boosts your confidence and helps you feel ready for the exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Class 10 Political Science MCQs
Q1. What are the key chapters to focus on for Class 10 Political Science MCQs?
The important chapters in the NCERT Class 10 Political Science syllabus include:
- Power Sharing
- Federalism
- Gender, Religion, and Caste
- Political Parties
- Outcomes of Democracy
Q2. How do MCQs help in exam preparation?
MCQs help in revising key political concepts, improving speed and accuracy, managing time effectively, and identifying weak areas that need more attention.
Q3. Are Class 10 Political Science MCQs based on the NCERT syllabus?
Yes, these MCQs are strictly based on the NCERT syllabus and cover all the important topics from your curriculum.
Q4. How often should I practice Class 10 Political Science MCQs?
Practicing MCQs daily or a few times a week helps with consistent revision, better retention, and a clear understanding of political concepts.
Q5. Can MCQs help with quick revision?
Yes, MCQs are an effective way to quickly review important facts and concepts in less time.
Q6. Are Class 10 Political Science MCQs useful for all types of exams?
Yes, solving MCQs is helpful for school exams as well as other competitive exams that include political science topics.
