SST Civics Class 10 Ch 4 Political Parties Notes 2025-26

Political parties are central to the functioning of a democratic government. They represent different views, interests, and goals, acting as a bridge between the government and the citizens. Chapter 4, Political Parties, in CBSE Class 10 Civics, explores what political parties are, their functions, types, roles in democracies, challenges, and reforms needed to make them more effective.

Here’s an overview of the concepts, types, examples, and significance of political parties. The class 10 civics chapter 4 notes, question banks, and other study materials are curated to help students understand concepts clearly, regardless of their learning style. 

CBSE Class 10 Ch 4 Political Parties Notes Material PDF Download

Below, you’ll find a table with links to downloadable PDFs of Class 10 Civics Chapter 4 notes, organized by each type of question format.

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Important Notes from Political Parties Class 10 

Political parties are organized groups of people with shared political views and ideologies who aim to gain political power through elections. Their primary role is to represent different sections of society, give citizens choices in governance, and work toward policies that reflect their ideologies.

Functions of Political Parties

• Contesting Elections: Political parties nominate candidates to run in elections at local, state, and national levels, competing to form the government.
• Policy Making: Once in power, parties create policies that align with their ideology, focusing on issues relevant to their platform and supporters.
• Organizing Government: The ruling party or coalition forms the government, and opposition parties play a vital role in providing checks and balances.
• Representation: Parties represent the needs and voices of various societal groups, working to address their concerns and bring them into policy discussions.
• Mobilizing Public Opinion: Through campaigns, rallies, and public outreach, parties create awareness and rally support on issues affecting the country.
• Developing Leaders: Parties groom leaders by giving them experience and responsibilities, building a pool of capable future leaders.

Types of Party Systems

1. One-Party System: Only one political party exists (e.g., China).
2. Two-Party System: Two main parties dominate (e.g., USA, UK).
3. Multi-Party System: Many parties compete for power (e.g., India).

Types of Political Parties

National Parties: Operate across India with a broad base, address national issues, and have influence across multiple states. Examples: Indian National Congress (INC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), etc.

State Parties: Have influence and support primarily within a particular state, often focusing on regional issues. Examples: Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu, etc.

Political Alliances & Coalition Governments

• Why are alliances formed? 

• Because no single party wins a clear majority.

• Example: UPA (Congress-led) & NDA (BJP-led) coalitions in India.

Role of Opposition

• Opposes unjust policies of the ruling party.
• Raises public awareness and represents alternative governance models.

Significance of Political Parties in Democracy

• Political parties provide a way for citizens to participate in governance by voting for their preferred representatives.
• They allow citizens to choose from different policy options and leaders, ensuring representation of diverse perspectives.
• Opposition parties serve as watchdogs, holding the ruling government accountable and ensuring transparency in governance.

Challenges Faced by Political Parties

• Dynastic Succession: Leadership is often inherited, which can prevent fresh talent and new leaders from emerging within the party.
• Money and Muscle Power: Election campaigns require substantial funds, making parties susceptible to the influence of wealthy donors and powerful individuals.
• Lack of Internal Democracy: Decisions are often made by top leaders without consulting ordinary members, which can cause dissatisfaction and limit diverse ideas.
• Growing Influence of Criminal Elements: Some candidates with criminal backgrounds join political parties, which affects the party’s credibility and the quality of governance.
• Ideological Shifts: Parties sometimes change their stance on issues to attract voters, leading to a compromise on core values and confusion among supporters.

Need for Political Party Reforms

• Encouraging Internal Democracy: Allowing open discussions and member involvement in decision-making to strengthen the democratic structure within parties.
• Transparency in Funding: Adopting transparent procedures for donations and campaign funding to reduce the influence of money power and prevent corruption.
• Discouraging Criminal Backgrounds: Imposing stricter eligibility criteria to prevent individuals with criminal records from holding party positions or running for office.
• Promoting Diversity in Leadership: Providing opportunities for candidates from all backgrounds, including women and minorities, to ensure inclusive representation.
• Empowering the Election Commission: Giving the Election Commission more authority to regulate parties and enforce rules that ensure fair and transparent elections.

National and State Parties in India

• National parties address nationwide issues, focusing on policies and programs that impact the entire country. State parties prioritise regional issues and cater to local demands and concerns.
• India’s multi-party system allows for a rich diversity of political representation, balancing the federal structure by enabling both national and state issues to be addressed.

Importance of Political Participation

• Political parties facilitate political participation by encouraging citizens to vote, join campaigns, and express their opinions.
• By actively involving citizens, parties strengthen democracy, build public awareness, and empower people to contribute to governance.

Impact of Political Parties on Society

• Political parties influence social and economic policies, which directly impact people’s lives and promote development.
• They play a crucial role in resolving societal issues, such as social equality, economic growth, education, and healthcare.

Future of Political Parties in India

• Reforms to strengthen internal democracy, reduce the role of money in politics, and promote clean, credible leadership will be essential in making political parties more effective.
• With a commitment to inclusiveness, transparency, and ethical governance, political parties can work towards a more representative and resilient democracy in India.

Important Questions from Ch 4 Political Parties Class 10

Here are important questions with answers from Ch4 Political Parties Class 10 Civics. These cover all key concepts, including definitions, functions, challenges, and case-based questions.

1. What is a political party?

Answer: A political party is a group of people who share a common ideology and work together to contest elections and form the government.

2. What are the main components of a political party?

Answer: The three main components of a political party are:

1. Leaders – They guide the party and make major decisions.
2. Active Members – They participate in party activities and campaigns.
3. Followers – The general supporters who vote for the party.

3. What are the functions of political parties?

Answer: The major functions of political parties are:

1. Contesting elections by nominating candidates.
2. Forming and running the government after winning elections.
3. Making laws by participating in the legislature.
4. Providing leadership to the government and people.
5. Acting as an opposition to criticize and check the ruling party.
6. Shaping public opinion through debates and campaigns.

4. What are the different types of party systems?

Answer: There are three types of party systems:

1. One-party system – Only one political party is allowed (e.g., China).
2. Two-party system – Two main parties dominate politics (e.g., USA, UK).
3. Multi-party system – Multiple parties compete for power (e.g., India).

5. Why does India follow a multi-party system?

Answer: India has a diverse population with multiple social, cultural, and regional interests. A multi-party system allows representation of different communities, making governance more inclusive.

6. What is a coalition government?

Answer: When no single party wins a majority, multiple parties join together to form a government. This is called a coalition government.

7. What are the national political parties in India?

Answer: The recognized national political parties in India are:

1. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
2. Indian National Congress (INC)
3. Communist Party of India (CPI)
4. Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M)
5. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
6. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)
7. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)

8. How does the Election Commission recognize a national party?

Answer: A party is recognized as a national party if it:

• Wins 2% of seats in the Lok Sabha from at least three different states, OR
• Gets 6% of the total votes in four or more states in a Lok Sabha or Assembly election and wins four Lok Sabha seats, OR
• Is recognized as a state party in at least four states.

9. What is the difference between a national party and a regional party?

Answer:

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10. What are the major challenges faced by political parties?

Answer: The major challenges include:

1. Lack of internal democracy – No transparency in decision-making.
2. Dynastic succession – Leadership is often inherited.
3. Use of money and muscle power – Wealthy candidates influence elections.
4. Lack of meaningful choice – Different parties may have similar policies.

11. How do political parties create public opinion?

Answer: Political parties influence public opinion by:

• Organizing rallies and protests.
• Spreading information through social media and newspapers.
• Engaging in public debates and discussions.

12. How does the Election Commission regulate political parties?

Answer: The Election Commission of India ensures:

1. Recognition and de-recognition of political parties.
2. Implementation of the Model Code of Conduct during elections.
3. Monitoring of election expenses to prevent excessive spending.
4. Allotment of election symbols to parties.

13. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a multi-party system?

Answer:

Advantages:
✔ Provides a choice to voters.
✔ Represents diverse opinions.
✔ Reduces dictatorship-like rule.

Disadvantages:
❌ Leads to instability due to coalition governments.
❌ Slows down decision-making.

14. What is meant by the ‘opposition’ in a democracy?

Answer: The opposition consists of parties that do not win a majority in elections. They play a key role in:

• Questioning government policies.
• Highlighting public issues.
• Preventing misuse of power.

15. What role do political parties play in the functioning of a democracy?

Answer:
Political parties are essential in a democracy because they:

• Give people choices in elections.
• Form governments and make policies.
• Act as a link between the government and the public.
• Provide a platform for political debate and awareness.

16. Case-Based Question

Case Study:
“A country has a system where only two political parties contest elections. Smaller parties exist but have little to no influence in government formation.”

Q: Identify the type of party system. Mention one advantage and one disadvantage of this system.

Answer:

• The country follows a two-party system (like the USA or UK).
• Advantage: Provides stability as one party usually gets a majority.
• Disadvantage: Limits voter choice since only two main parties dominate.

17. Source-Based Question

Source:
"In India, elections are fought mainly among the national and regional parties. Sometimes, different parties come together to form an alliance. These alliances are called coalition governments."

Q1: Why do political parties form coalitions in India?
Answer: Due to the multi-party system, no single party often wins a clear majority. To form a stable government, parties form coalitions.

Q2: Name one coalition government in India’s history.
Answer: The United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress (2004-2014) or the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) led by BJP (1998-present).

Benefits of Notes into your study routine

1. Organised Learning: Chapter-wise resources help break down the Class 10 SST Syllabus into manageable segments, making it easier to focus on one topic at a time and retain information more effectively.
2. Targeted Revision: By studying chapter by chapter, students can identify which sections require more revision and focus their efforts accordingly. It also allows them to track progress, ensuring no topic is left uncovered.
3. Better Understanding of Concepts: Chapter-wise materials are often designed to simplify complex concepts, making it easier to understand foundational principles and their applications within each topic.
4. Efficient Time Management: Dividing study time by chapter helps students allocate their time more effectively, ensuring all chapters get sufficient attention. This is especially useful for structured study plans before exams.
5. Boosts Confidence and Readiness: Completing and mastering each chapter one by one gives students a sense of accomplishment, boosting confidence and readiness to tackle exams with ease.

For students, This chapter helps students appreciate the complex dynamics within political parties and the crucial role they play in governance. Keeping chapter-wise study material into your routine can make preparation smoother, more organised, and ultimately more effective, setting up a solid foundation for exam success. Happy learning!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of political parties in a democracy?

Political parties play an important role in democracies by representing different sections of society and providing choices to voters. They contest elections, create policies, and represent the interests of various groups, ensuring that diverse voices are heard in governance.

What are the differences between national and state political parties in India?

National parties have influence across multiple states and focus on nationwide issues, while state parties operate within a specific state, concentrating on local or regional concerns. National parties must meet specific criteria set by the Election Commission to maintain their status.

What are some of the challenges faced by political parties in India?

Key challenges include dynastic succession, influence of money and muscle power, lack of internal democracy, and the growing involvement of candidates with criminal backgrounds. These issues can hinder parties’ effectiveness and reduce public trust in the political system.

Why is internal democracy important within political parties?

Internal democracy ensures that all members of a party have a voice in decision-making, leading to diverse perspectives and fairer policies. It also helps prevent power centralisation, fosters new leadership, and enhances transparency within the party.

What reforms are suggested to improve political parties in India?

Reforms include increasing transparency in party funding, encouraging internal democracy, establishing stricter eligibility criteria for candidates, and promoting diverse representation. These measures aim to make political parties more accountable, democratic, and reflective of society’s needs.