Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

Political parties perform the following functions in a democracy:

1. Contesting Elections: Parties put forward candidates, campaign for them, and contest elections to gain power and form the government.

1. Making Policies and Programmes: Parties present different policies and programmes to the voters. When elected, the ruling party implements its policies through the government.

1. Playing Opposition: Parties that lose elections sit in opposition, criticise the government's failures, and keep it accountable to the people.

Source: Democratic Politics – II, Chapter 4

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• The question asks for any three functions, so pick three well-known ones and state them clearly — one point per function.
• Each function should be in 1–2 lines; avoid over-explaining.
• Other valid functions include: forming public opinion, providing social and welfare schemes, acting as a link between citizens and the government. Any three will earn full marks.
• Examiners look for accurate terminology and distinct points — do not repeat the same idea in different words.