Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

Democratic governance is responsive to the expectations of citizens. This can be justified as follows:

1. Accountable Government: Democracy produces a government accountable to citizens. People have the right to choose and control their rulers through regular, free, and fair elections.

1. Transparency: Decision-making in a democracy follows set norms and procedures. Citizens have the right to examine this process (Right to Information), making the government transparent.

1. Participation: Citizens can participate in decision-making that affects them, ensuring the government remains attentive to their needs.

1. Legitimate Government: Democratic government is people's own government, chosen by elected representatives. This gives it legitimacy and overwhelming public support — over 88% in South Asia find democracy suitable.

1. Resolves Conflicts: Democracy provides a method to resolve conflicts and correct mistakes through open public debate and deliberation.

Thus, though democracy may be slow, it is more acceptable, people-centred, and responsive than any non-democratic alternative.

Source: Chapter 5 — Outcomes of Democracy, Accountable, Responsive and Legitimate Government

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• Examiners expect 5 distinct points for a 5-mark answer — one point per mark is a safe formula.
• Key terms to include: accountable, transparent, legitimate, responsive, participation.
• Support with the South Asia data (88% suitability) — it shows the examiner you've read the chapter carefully.
• Avoid writing that democracy always delivers — the textbook itself says the record is "mixed," so nuance scores marks.
• End with a concluding line to round off the answer neatly.