These Constitution: Why and How? Class 11 Political Science Notes explain the meaning, importance and functions of a constitution in a democratic society. The chapter discusses why constitutions are necessary, how they distribute powers, limit government authority and protect citizens’ rights.
These NCERT notes are prepared for quick revision and competitive exam preparation, covering important constitutional concepts, the making of the Indian Constitution, Constituent Assembly debates and key democratic principles useful for UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Railways, CUET and board examinations.
Constitution: Why and How? introduces students to the concept of a constitution and explains its role in maintaining order, coordination and justice in society. The chapter highlights how constitutions define the structure of government, distribute powers and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens.
The chapter also explains the making of the Indian Constitution through the Constituent Assembly, the authority of the Constitution, the role of national movements and the importance of democratic deliberations. It further discusses how the Constitution reflects the aspirations and identity of the Indian people.
These NCERT Notes explain why every society requires a constitution.
A constitution is a body of fundamental principles according to which a state is governed. It provides rules, powers and limitations for governance.
First Function of Constitution: The constitution provides basic rules for coordination among members of society.
These NCERT notes explain how constitutions allocate powers.
The constitution specifies:
Second Function of Constitution: The constitution specifies who has the power to make decisions in society and how government is constituted.
These notes explain how constitutions prevent misuse of power.
Purpose: Protect citizens from arbitrary government action.
Third Function of Constitution: The constitution limits government power and protects citizens’ freedoms.
These NCERT notes explain how constitutions express social ideals.
The Indian Constitution empowers government to:
Purpose: Guide government in achieving social and economic justice.
Fourth Function of Constitution: The constitution enables government to fulfil the aspirations of society and establish a just social order.
These notes explain how constitutions shape national identity.
The constitution creates:
Meaning: Constitution was framed through discussion and debate.
Every adult citizen has voting rights irrespective of religion, caste, gender, education or income.
| Leader | Contribution |
|---|---|
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar | Chairman of Drafting Committee |
| Jawaharlal Nehru | Objectives Resolution |
| Rajendra Prasad | President of Constituent Assembly |
| Sardar Patel | Integration and administration |
India adopted:
| Country | Borrowed Features |
|---|---|
| Britain | Parliamentary system, Rule of Law |
| USA | Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review |
| Ireland | Directive Principles |
| France | Liberty, Equality, Fraternity |
| Canada | Federal system with strong centre |
Rights in the Indian Constitution Notes
Election and Representation Notes
Executive Notes
Legislature Notes
Judiciary Notes
Federalism Notes
Local Governments Notes
Constitution as a Living Document Notes
The Philosophy of the Constitution Notes
| Important Topic | Page Reference |
|---|---|
| Meaning of Constitution | Pages 2–3 |
| Functions of Constitution | Pages 3–8 |
| Decision-Making Powers | Pages 4–5 |
| Fundamental Rights | Pages 5–6 |
| Authority of Constitution | Pages 10–14 |
| Constituent Assembly | Pages 14–16 |
| Objectives Resolution | Page 20 |
A constitution is a set of fundamental rules and principles that governs a country.
It provides structure to government, protects rights and maintains order in society.
The Constituent Assembly framed the Indian Constitution.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution.
These are rights guaranteed by the Constitution to protect citizens’ freedoms and equality.