Grassroots Democracy: Understanding Governance
Governance is the process of making decisions and organizing society. It involves creating rules and ensuring they're followed. This chapter explores how governance works and introduces the concept of democracy.
by Nayab Singh
The Need for Rules
1
Community Living
Rules maintain order and harmony in societies where many people live together.
2
Everyday Examples
Rules exist at home, school, work, and on roads to ensure smooth functioning.
3
Importance
Without rules, society would struggle to function effectively.
Three Organs of Government
Legislature
Makes and updates laws through an assembly of people's representatives.
Executive
Implements laws, including the head of state and law enforcement agencies.
Judiciary
System of courts that interprets laws and decides on legal cases.
Separation of Powers
Purpose
Ensures checks and balances between government organs.
Function
Each organ can check and balance the actions of others.
Benefit
Prevents any single organ from becoming too powerful.
Three Levels of Government
1
Local
Deals with immediate community issues.
2
State/Regional
Handles matters within a state or region.
3
National
Addresses issues affecting the entire country.
Indian Government Structure
Level
Legislature
Executive
Judiciary
National
Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha
President, Prime Minister
Supreme Court
State
Vidhan Sabha
Governor, Chief Minister
High Court
Democracy: Rule of the People
Definition
Democracy means 'rule of the people', derived from Greek words dēmos and kratos.
Representative Democracy
People elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
Indian Democracy
World's largest democracy with 970 million voters in 2024.
Grassroots Democracy
Participation
Encourages ordinary citizens to participate in decision-making.
Local Involvement
Enables citizens to have a say in decisions affecting them.
Bottom-Up Approach
Empowers the base of the societal pyramid.
Inspiring Leadership: Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
1
Background
Renowned scientist and 11th President of India (2002-2007).
2
Contributions
Crucial role in India's space, missile, and nuclear programs.
3
Legacy
Inspired millions with his humility and dedication to education and innovation.