The NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 10, Grassroots Democracy – Part 1: Governance (What is Government?), explain the meaning and role of government in our daily lives. The chapter helps students understand why rules and laws are necessary, how governments make decisions, and how they work for the welfare of people. It also illustrates different levels of government, including local, state, and national, along with their respective responsibilities.
By studying these NCERT Solutions, students can clearly see how governments provide essential services such as education, healthcare, roads, and public safety. The solutions make it simple to answer textbook questions and prepare for exams. The chapter “What is Government?” also teaches the importance of people’s participation in governance and how democracy ensures that citizens have a say in decision-making.
Download NCERT Solutions for Class 6 Social Science Chapter 10 Grassroots Democracy – Part 1: Governance (What is Government?) in our free PDF, designed by experts for simple learning and quick revision.
Chapter 10, “Grassroots Democracy – Part 1: Governance (What is Government?),” from the Class 6 Social Science textbook explains the concept of government and its role in organising society. The chapter highlights how governments are formed, their responsibilities, and how they ensure the smooth functioning of communities. Referring to the NCERT Solutions helps students understand how local governance works and why democratic participation is essential.
This chapter helps students understand that the government exists to serve people, maintain order, and encourage participation in democratic processes, forming the foundation of grassroots democracy in India.
1. What is the meaning of democracy? What is the difference between direct democracy and representative democracy?
Ans. Democracy is a form of government where the people have the authority to choose their governing legislation. In simple terms, it means that the citizens of a country take part in decision-making either directly or through representatives. The word 'democracy' comes from two Greek words - demos meaning 'people', and kratos meaning 'rule' or 'power'; so 'democracy' means the 'rule of the people'. Direct and representative are part of democratic government, and they mainly differ on the process of decision making.
Direct Democracy:
In a direct democracy, all citizens have the opportunity to participate directly in the decision-making process. People vote on laws and policies themselves rather than electing representatives to do it for them.
This system works best in smaller communities or groups, where everyone can be involved in every decision.
Example: Switzerland
Advantages: It makes citizens more active towards their duty and responsibilities. Keeps a direct check on the functioning of the government.
Representative Democracy: In a representative democracy, citizens elect representatives who make decisions and create laws on their behalf. These representatives are chosen through elections. This system is used in larger countries where it is not practical for every citizen to participate directly in the decisionmaking process. Example: India, USA, UK, Germany etc. Advantages: It allows citizens to elect experts or leaders who make informed decisions on their behalf. It promotes stability by reducing the complexity and time required for decision-making compared to direct democracy.
2. Recall the three organs of government. What are their different roles?
Ans. The three organs of government are: Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. Their different roles are as follows:
3. Why do we need three tiers of government?
Ans. The three tiers of government - Central, state and local - are necessary to effectively govern a vast and diverse country like India. Each tier has its own responsibilities, ensuring better administration and representation at different levels.
This division allows for better administration, ensures people's needs are met at different levels, and promotes democracy by involving people in governance at all tiers.
Understanding Government: Discusses the simple concept of government and its role in governing a country and society.
Functions of Government: Describes the functions of government - how they create laws and regulations, how they keep people safe, and how they provide fundamental services.
Types of Government: Introduces types of government and helps students recognise how decisions are made at each level of government.
Real-Life Examples: Apply governance to real-life events and situations, allowing students to learn these concepts through concrete examples.
NCERT Aligned Solutions: The step-by-step NCERT chapter summary helps students easily answer questions and prepare for the exam.
(Session 2025 - 26)