The Interim Government of India, established in 1946, was a provisional government tasked with governing British India during the transition period leading up to independence in 1947. The government was formed as a result of the Indian independence movement and the British Cabinet Mission Plan, which proposed a transition from British rule to self-government.
Members and Portfolios of the Interim Government (1946)
1.Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru
Portfolio: External Affairs and Commonwealth Relations
Role: Nehru was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress and played a pivotal role in the independence movement. As the Vice President of the Interim Government and the de facto head of the government, he was responsible for foreign relations and interactions with the Commonwealth.
2.Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Portfolio: Home, Information, and Broadcasting
Role: Patel, known as the “Iron Man of India,” was crucial in maintaining internal security and managing the country’s information and broadcasting services. He later became instrumental in integrating princely states into the Indian Union.
3.Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Portfolio: Food and Agriculture
Role: Prasad, who later became the first President of India, managed food and agricultural policies, crucial for addressing the needs of a largely agrarian society.
4.Dr. John Mathai
Portfolio: Industries and Supplies
Role: Mathai was responsible for industrial development and the supply chain, which were essential for economic growth and stability.
5.Jagjivan Ram
Portfolio: Labour
Role: Ram was a leader in the fight for social justice and labor rights, overseeing labor policies and workers’ welfare.
6.Sardar Baldev Singh
Portfolio: Defence
Role: Singh managed the defense portfolio, a critical role in ensuring the security and defense preparedness of the country.
7.C.H. Bhabha
Portfolio: Works, Mines, and Power
Role: Bhabha was responsible for infrastructure development, mining operations, and power generation, which were vital for economic progress.
8.Liaquat Ali Khan
Portfolio: Finance
Role: Khan was a key leader of the All India Muslim League and later became the first Prime Minister of Pakistan. As Finance Minister, he handled the country’s financial and economic policies.
9.Abdur Rab Nishtar
Portfolio: Posts and Air
Role: Nishtar managed postal services and civil aviation, ensuring efficient communication and transportation systems.
10.Asaf Ali
Portfolio: Railways and Transport
Role: Ali was responsible for the railway network and transportation infrastructure, which were essential for national integration and economic activity.
11.C. Rajagopalachari
Portfolio: Education and Arts
Role: Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, was a prominent freedom fighter and later the first Indian Governor-General. He managed education and cultural affairs, promoting literacy and preserving cultural heritage.
12. Chundrigar
Portfolio: Commerce
Role: Chundrigar was responsible for trade and commercial activities, vital for economic development and international trade relations.
13.Ghaznafar Ali Khan
Portfolio: Health
Role: Khan managed public health policies and healthcare services, focusing on improving health standards and combating diseases.
14.Joginder Nath Mandal
Portfolio: Law
Role: Mandal, a leader from the Dalit community, was responsible for legal affairs and the judicial system, playing a crucial role in lawmaking and justice.
The Interim Government functioned from September 2, 1946, to August 15, 1947, when India achieved independence and the Dominion of India was established, leading to the formation of the Constituent Assembly and the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
MCQs on The Interim Government of India (1946)
1.Who was the Vice President of the Interim Government and de facto head of the government?
A) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Liaquat Ali Khan
Answer: C) Jawaharlal Nehru
2.Which portfolio was held by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the Interim Government?
A) External Affairs and Commonwealth Relations
B) Food and Agriculture
C) Home, Information, and Broadcasting
D) Defence
Answer: C) Home, Information, and Broadcasting
3.Who was responsible for managing the food and agricultural policies in the Interim Government?
A) Dr. John Mathai
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Jagjivan Ram
Answer: C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
4.Which minister was in charge of industries and supplies?
A) C.H. Bhabha
B) Abdur Rab Nishtar
C) Dr. John Mathai
D) Asaf Ali
Answer: C) Dr. John Mathai
5.Who handled the defense portfolio in the Interim Government?
A) Jagjivan Ram
B) Sardar Baldev Singh
C) Ghaznafar Ali Khan
D) C.H. Bhabha
Answer: B) Sardar Baldev Singh
6.Which leader was responsible for the labor policies and workers’ welfare?
A) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Jagjivan Ram
D) I.I. Chundrigar
Answer: C) Jagjivan Ram
7.Who was responsible for postal services and civil aviation?
A) Abdur Rab Nishtar
B) C. Rajagopalachari
C) Sardar Baldev Singh
D) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: A) Abdur Rab Nishtar
8.Which portfolio did Liaquat Ali Khan hold in the Interim Government?
A) Finance
B) Commerce
C) Railways and Transport
D) Health
Answer: A) Finance
9.Who managed the railway network and transportation infrastructure?
A) Asaf Ali
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Sardar Baldev Singh
D) Dr. John Mathai
Answer: A) Asaf Ali
10.Which leader was in charge of education and cultural affairs?
A) C.H. Bhabha
B) I.I. Chundrigar
C) C. Rajagopalachari
D) Jagjivan Ram
Answer: C) C. Rajagopalachari
11.What was the role of Ghaznafar Ali Khan in the Interim Government?
A) Finance
B) Health
C) Law
D) External Affairs
Answer: B) Health
12.Who was the leader responsible for managing trade and commercial activities?
A) Abdur Rab Nishtar
B) I.I. Chundrigar
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: B) I.I. Chundrigar
13.Which leader was known as the “Iron Man of India” and played a crucial role in the Interim Government?
A) C. Rajagopalachari
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Dr. John Mathai
Answer: C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
14.Who was responsible for public health policies and healthcare services?
A) Jagjivan Ram
B) Abdur Rab Nishtar
C) Ghaznafar Ali Khan
D) Sardar Baldev Singh
Answer: C) Ghaznafar Ali Khan
15.Which minister was responsible for works, mines, and power?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) C.H. Bhabha
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Sardar Baldev Singh
Answer: B) C.H. Bhabha
16.Who was responsible for the legal affairs and judicial system in the Interim Government?
A) Joginder Nath Mandal
B) Liaquat Ali Khan
C) Asaf Ali
D) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Answer: A) Joginder Nath Mandal
17.Which leader later became the first President of India?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) C. Rajagopalachari
Answer: B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
18.What was the tenure period of the Interim Government?
A) August 15, 1947 to January 26, 1950
B) September 2, 1946 to August 15, 1947
C) January 26, 1950 to December 31, 1950
D) March 15, 1947 to July 15, 1948
Answer: B) September 2, 1946 to August 15, 1947
19.Which portfolio was held by Asaf Ali?
A) Railways and Transport
B) Home, Information, and Broadcasting
C) Food and Agriculture
D) Defence
Answer: A) Railways and Transport
20.Who was the Finance Minister in the Interim Government, and what was his later role?
A) Dr. Rajendra Prasad, later became President of India
B) Liaquat Ali Khan, later became the Prime Minister of Pakistan
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, later became the first Vice President of India
D) C. Rajagopalachari, later became the first Governor-General of India
Answer: B) Liaquat Ali Khan, later became the Prime Minister of Pakistan
2. The First Cabinet of Free India (1947)
Upon gaining independence on August 15, 1947, India formed its first cabinet under the leadership of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. This cabinet was responsible for setting the foundations of the newly independent nation, addressing immediate challenges, and laying the groundwork for future governance and development.
Members and Portfolios of the First Cabinet of Free India
1.Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru
Portfolio: Prime Minister, External Affairs and Commonwealth Relations; Scientific Research
Role: As the Prime Minister, Nehru was the head of the government, responsible for shaping India’s domestic and foreign policies. He also oversaw scientific research, aiming to promote technological and scientific advancements in the country.
2.Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Portfolio: Home, Information and Broadcasting; States
Role: Patel was responsible for maintaining internal security, managing the country’s information and broadcasting services, and integrating princely states into the Indian Union. His efforts earned him the title “Iron Man of India.”
3.Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Portfolio: Food and Agriculture
Role: Prasad managed policies related to food and agriculture, crucial for ensuring food security and improving agricultural productivity in a predominantly agrarian society.
4.Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Portfolio: Education
Role: Azad focused on educational reforms and promoting literacy. He aimed to modernize the education system and make education accessible to all segments of society.
5.Dr. John Mathai
Portfolio: Railways and Transport
Role: Mathai oversaw the development and maintenance of the railway network and transportation infrastructure, vital for national integration and economic activity.
6.R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
Portfolio: Finance
Role: Chetty was responsible for managing the country’s financial and economic policies, including the formulation of budgets and economic planning.
7.Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Portfolio: Law
Role: Ambedkar, a principal architect of the Indian Constitution, managed legal affairs and the judicial system, playing a crucial role in lawmaking and ensuring justice.
8.Jagjivan Ram
Portfolio: Labour
Role: Ram focused on labor policies and workers’ welfare, advocating for social justice and labor rights.
9.Sardar Baldev Singh
Portfolio: Defence
Role: Singh managed the defense portfolio, ensuring the security and defense preparedness of the newly independent nation.
10.Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
Portfolio: Health
Role: Kaur was responsible for public health policies and healthcare services, focusing on improving health standards and combating diseases. She was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in India.
11.C.H. Bhabha
Portfolio: Commerce
Role: Bhabha managed trade and commercial activities, essential for economic development and international trade relations.
12.Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
Portfolio: Communication
Role: Kidwai was responsible for postal services, telecommunications, and ensuring efficient communication systems.
13.Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
Portfolio: Industries and Supplies
Role: Mukherji oversaw industrial development and the supply chain, aiming to boost economic growth and self-reliance in industrial production.
14.V.N. Gadgil
Portfolio: Works, Mines and Power
Role: Gadgil was responsible for infrastructure development, mining operations, and power generation, which were vital for economic progress and modernization.
This cabinet was instrumental in addressing the immediate challenges of post-independence India, including integration of princely states, economic planning, social reforms, and establishing a framework for democratic governance. The efforts and policies of these leaders laid the foundation for India’s future growth and development.
MCQs on The First Cabinet of Free India (1947)
1.Who was the Prime Minister and also held the portfolio for External Affairs and Commonwealth Relations in the first cabinet of free India?
A) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Answer: B) Jawaharlal Nehru
2.Which portfolio was held by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the first cabinet?
A) Defence
B) Finance
C) Home, Information and Broadcasting; States
D) Education
Answer: C) Home, Information and Broadcasting; States
3.Who was responsible for managing food and agricultural policies in the first cabinet?
A) Dr. John Mathai
B) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Jagjivan Ram
Answer: C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
4.Which leader focused on educational reforms and promoting literacy in the first cabinet?
A) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
B) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
C) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
D) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
Answer: B) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
5.Who was responsible for railways and transport in the first cabinet?
A) Dr. John Mathai
B) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
C) R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
D) C.H. Bhabha
Answer: A) Dr. John Mathai
6.Which minister managed the country’s financial and economic policies?
A) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
B) R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
C) V.N. Gadgil
D) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
Answer: B) R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
7.Who handled legal affairs and the judicial system in the first cabinet?
A) Jagjivan Ram
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
D) Sardar Baldev Singh
Answer: B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
8.Which leader was responsible for labor policies and workers’ welfare?
A) Sardar Baldev Singh
B) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
C) Jagjivan Ram
D) Dr. John Mathai
Answer: C) Jagjivan Ram
9.Who managed the defense portfolio in the first cabinet of free India?
A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
B) Sardar Baldev Singh
C) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
D) V.N. Gadgil
Answer: B) Sardar Baldev Singh
10.Which minister was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in India?
A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
B) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
Answer: A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
11.Who was responsible for managing trade and commercial activities?
A) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
B) C.H. Bhabha
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
Answer: B) C.H. Bhabha
12.Which minister was in charge of postal services and telecommunications?
A) V.N. Gadgil
B) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
C) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
D) Jagjivan Ram
Answer: B) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
13.Who oversaw industrial development and the supply chain?
A) Dr. John Mathai
B) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
C) V.N. Gadgil
D) R.K. Shanmukham Chetty
Answer: B) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
14.Which portfolio did V.N. Gadgil hold in the first cabinet?
A) Commerce
B) Works, Mines and Power
C) Labour
D) Health
Answer: B) Works, Mines and Power
15.Who was responsible for scientific research and technological advancements in the first cabinet?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: A) Jawaharlal Nehru
16.Which leader was responsible for overseeing the integration of princely states into the Indian Union?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Answer: C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
17.Who managed public health policies and healthcare services?
A) Dr. John Mathai
B) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
C) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
D) Jagjivan Ram
Answer: B) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
18.Which minister was responsible for infrastructure development, mining operations, and power generation?
A) C.H. Bhabha
B) V.N. Gadgil
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Answer: B) V.N. Gadgil
19.Who was responsible for ensuring the efficient communication systems in the first cabinet?
A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
B) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
C) Dr. John Mathai
D) Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherji
Answer: B) Rafi Ahmed Kidwai
20.Which portfolio was held by Dr. Rajendra Prasad?
A) Health
B) Food and Agriculture
C) Labour
D) Railways and Transport
Answer: B) Food and Agriculture
3. Sources of the Indian Constitution
The Indian Constitution, adopted on January 26, 1950, is a comprehensive document that has incorporated elements from various other constitutions around the world. The framers of the Indian Constitution studied different political systems and borrowed features that would suit the Indian context. Here are the main sources and the specific provisions borrowed from each:
Government of India Act, 1935
Federal Scheme: The concept of a federal structure with a central government and individual states.
Declaration of Emergency Powers: Provisions related to the proclamation of emergency and the central government’s authority during such times.
Ordinance Defining the Power of the President and Governors: Powers granted to the President and Governors to issue ordinances.
Office of the Governor: The establishment and functions of the office of the Governor.
Power of Federal Judiciary: Structure and jurisdiction of the federal judiciary.
Administration at the Centre and State Level: Detailed administrative framework for the functioning of central and state governments.
United Kingdom
Parliamentary System: Adoption of a parliamentary system of government.
Bicameral Parliament: The establishment of a two-house parliament consisting of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
Prime Minister and Council of Ministers: Role and responsibilities of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.
Single Citizenship: Concept of single citizenship for the entire country.
Office of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG): Role and duties of the CAG.
Writ Jurisdiction of Courts: Authority of courts to issue writs.
Rule of Law: Principle of the rule of law as a foundational element.
USA
Written Constitution: The idea of a single written document as the Constitution.
Fundamental Rights: Enshrinement of fundamental rights for citizens.
Supreme Court: Establishment and powers of the Supreme Court.
President as Executive Head of the State: The President’s role as the head of the executive branch.
Impeachment of the President and Removal of Judges: Procedures for impeaching the President and removing judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
Vice President as Chairman of Rajya Sabha: The Vice President’s role as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Judicial Review and Independence of Judiciary: The power of judicial review and ensuring the independence of the judiciary.
Australia
Concurrent List: Adoption of the concurrent list in the distribution of powers between the central and state governments.
Cooperative Federalism: Principles of cooperation between the central and state governments.
Joint Sitting of Two Houses of Parliament: Procedure for resolving deadlocks through a joint sitting of both houses of parliament.
USSR
Fundamental Duties: Introduction of fundamental duties for citizens.
Weimar Constitution of Germany
Suspension of Fundamental Rights during Emergency: Provision for the suspension of fundamental rights during emergencies.
Ballot System: The method of voting through a ballot system.
Canada
Federal System: Adoption of a federal system of government with a division of powers between the central and state governments.
Residuary Powers: Central government’s authority over residuary powers.
Appointment of Governor: Procedure for the appointment of the Governor.
Advisory Jurisdiction of Supreme Court: Provision for the Supreme Court’s advisory jurisdiction.
South Africa
Procedure of Constitutional Amendment: Process for amending the Constitution.
Electing Members to Rajya Sabha: Method of electing members to the Rajya Sabha.
Ireland
Concept of Directive Principles of State Policy: Introduction of directive principles to guide the state in policy-making.
Nomination of Members to Rajya Sabha by the President: The President’s power to nominate members to the Rajya Sabha.
Presidential Election: Procedure for the election of the President.
These diverse influences have resulted in a unique and flexible Constitution that addresses the needs and aspirations of a diverse and pluralistic society like India.
MCQs on Sources of the Indian Constitution
1.Which Act provided the framework for the federal structure and emergency powers in the Indian Constitution?
A) Government of India Act, 1935
B) Indian Independence Act, 1947
C) Indian Constitution Act, 1950
D) Indian Act, 1919
Answer: A) Government of India Act, 1935
2.From which country did India borrow the concept of a parliamentary system of government?
A) USA
B) United Kingdom
C) Australia
D) Canada
Answer: B) United Kingdom
3.Which provision related to the impeachment of the President and removal of judges was adopted from the USA?
A) Written Constitution
B) Fundamental Rights
C) Impeachment of the President and Removal of Judges
D) Vice President as Chairman of Rajya Sabha
Answer: C) Impeachment of the President and Removal of Judges
4.Which feature of the Australian Constitution was included in the Indian Constitution?
A) Single Citizenship
B) Concurrent List
C) Writ Jurisdiction of Courts
D) Fundamental Duties
Answer: B) Concurrent List
5.The concept of Directive Principles of State Policy was borrowed from which country?
A) Ireland
B) Canada
C) USSR
D) South Africa
Answer: A) Ireland
6.Which provision from the Weimar Constitution of Germany was incorporated into the Indian Constitution?
A) Ballot System
B) Concurrent List
C) Federal System
D) Advisory Jurisdiction of Supreme Court
Answer: A) Ballot System
7.The idea of fundamental duties for citizens in the Indian Constitution was influenced by which country’s constitution?
A) USA
B) USSR
C) Canada
D) South Africa
Answer: B) USSR
8.From which country did India adopt the concept of a written Constitution?
A) United Kingdom
B) Canada
C) USA
D) Australia
Answer: C) USA
9.The principle of the rule of law in the Indian Constitution was borrowed from which country?
A) USA
B) United Kingdom
C) Australia
D) Canada
Answer: B) United Kingdom
10.Which feature of the Indian Constitution, related to the election of members to the Rajya Sabha, was inspired by South Africa?
A) Direct Election
B) Nomination by the President
C) Election through a Ballot System
D) Advisory Jurisdiction
Answer: B) Nomination by the President
11.The power of judicial review and the independence of the judiciary in the Indian Constitution were influenced by which country’s system?
A) USSR
B) USA
C) Canada
D) Australia
Answer: B) USA
12.The provision for the suspension of fundamental rights during emergencies was adapted from which country’s constitution?
A) South Africa
B) Weimar Constitution of Germany
C) Canada
D) Australia
Answer: B) Weimar Constitution of Germany
13.Which feature of the Indian Constitution’s federal system was inspired by the Canadian Constitution?
A) Residuary Powers
B) Concurrent List
C) Advisory Jurisdiction
D) Single Citizenship
Answer: A) Residuary Powers
14.The process for amending the Constitution was borrowed from which country?
A) USA
B) South Africa
C) Canada
D) Ireland
Answer: B) South Africa
15.The office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) in India was modeled after which country’s system?
A) USA
B) United Kingdom
C) Canada
D) Australia
Answer: B) United Kingdom
16.Which constitutional feature, related to the role of the Vice President, was influenced by the USA?
A) Vice President as Chairman of Rajya Sabha
B) Impeachment Procedures
C) Written Constitution
D) Fundamental Rights
Answer: A) Vice President as Chairman of Rajya Sabha
17.The Indian Constitution’s provision for a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament was borrowed from which country’s system?
A) Australia
B) USA
C) United Kingdom
D) Canada
Answer: A) Australia
18.The concept of a federal system with a division of powers between central and state governments was borrowed from which country?
A) USA
B) Canada
C) Australia
D) South Africa
Answer: B) Canada
19.The method of voting through a ballot system in the Indian Constitution was inspired by which country?
A) Weimar Republic of Germany
B) USA
C) United Kingdom
D) South Africa
Answer: A) Weimar Republic of Germany
20.The advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court in India was modeled after which country’s Constitution?
A) Canada
B) Australia
C) South Africa
D) USA
Answer: A) Canada
4.Making of the Indian Constitution
The drafting of the Indian Constitution was a monumental task that involved extensive deliberation and contributions from numerous leaders and experts. Here are the key details:
Early Proposals and Demands
M. N. Roy’s Proposal (1934): The idea of a Constituent Assembly to frame the Constitution of India was first proposed by M. N. Roy, a pioneer of the communist movement in India.
Indian National Congress Demand (1935): The Indian National Congress (INC) officially demanded the formation of a Constituent Assembly to draft the Constitution in 1935.
August Offer (1940): The British government accepted the principle of a Constituent Assembly in the August Offer of 1940.
Cabinet Mission Plan (1946)
Formation of the Constituent Assembly: Under the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946, a Constituent Assembly was constituted in November 1946 to draft the Indian Constitution.
Composition:
Total Members: The Constituent Assembly had 389 members.
British India Representatives: 296 members were indirectly elected from British India.
Princely States Representatives: 93 members were nominated by the princely states.
The elected members were chosen indirectly by the members of the provincial assemblies.
Key Events and Milestones
First Meeting: The Constituent Assembly held its first meeting on December 9, 1946.
Boycott by Muslim League: The Muslim League boycotted the Constituent Assembly.
Temporary President: Dr. Sachidanand Sinha, the senior-most member, was elected as the temporary President of the Assembly.
Permanent President: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the permanent President of the Assembly.
Legal Advisor: Sir B. N. Rau was appointed as the legal advisor to the Assembly.
Objective Resolution: Jawaharlal Nehru moved the ‘Objective Resolution’ on December 13, 1946, which later became the Preamble to the Constitution.
Draft Constitution: The first draft of the Constitution was published in February 1948, prepared by Sir B. N. Rau.
Adoption: The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, after being signed by the President of the Assembly. This day is now celebrated as Constitution Day.
Commencement: The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950. Provisions related to citizenship, elections, provisional parliament, and temporary provisions became effective from November 26, 1949.
Final Session: The Constituent Assembly held its final session on January 24, 1950. It continued as a provisional parliament from January 26, 1950, until the formation of the new parliament in May 1952.
Contributions and Legacy
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee, is widely regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution due to his pivotal role in drafting and shaping the document.
Time Taken: The Constituent Assembly took nearly three years (2 years, 11 months, and 18 days) to draft the Constitution.
Sessions and Deliberations: The Assembly held 11 sessions covering a total of 165 days of debate and discussion.
The making of the Indian Constitution was a collaborative and exhaustive process that involved meticulous planning and extensive debate. The resulting document is a testament to the vision and commitment of the Constituent Assembly members to create a robust and democratic framework for the newly independent nation.
MCQs on Making of the Indian Constitution
1.Who first proposed the idea of a Constituent Assembly to frame the Constitution of India?
A) M. N. Roy
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Sardar Patel
D) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
Answer: A) M. N. Roy
2.In which year did the Indian National Congress officially demand the formation of a Constituent Assembly?
A) 1934
B) 1935
C) 1940
D) 1946
Answer: B) 1935
3.The British government accepted the principle of a Constituent Assembly in which offer?
A) August Offer
B) Cripps Mission
C) Mountbatten Plan
D) Simon Commission
Answer: A) August Offer
4.When was the Constituent Assembly of India formed under the Cabinet Mission Plan?
A) November 1946
B) December 1946
C) January 1947
D) August 1947
Answer: A) November 1946
5.How many total members were there in the Constituent Assembly?
A) 350
B) 389
C) 400
D) 450
Answer: B) 389
6.How many members of the Constituent Assembly were elected from British India?
A) 296
B) 300
C) 250
D) 350
Answer: A) 296
7.Who was the temporary President of the Constituent Assembly?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Dr. Sachidanand Sinha
D) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
Answer: C) Dr. Sachidanand Sinha
8.Who was elected as the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly?
A) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Sardar Patel
Answer: B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
9.Which legal advisor was appointed to the Constituent Assembly?
A) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
B) Sir B. N. Rau
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) M. N. Roy
Answer: B) Sir B. N. Rau
10.When was the ‘Objective Resolution’ moved by Jawaharlal Nehru?
A) December 9, 1946
B) December 13, 1946
C) November 26, 1949
D) January 26, 1950
Answer: B) December 13, 1946
11.Who is known as the father of the Indian Constitution?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
D) Sardar Patel
Answer: C) Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
12.When was the first draft of the Indian Constitution published?
A) December 1946
B) February 1948
C) August 1948
D) January 1949
Answer: B) February 1948
13.On what date was the Indian Constitution adopted?
A) January 26, 1950
B) November 26, 1949
C) December 9, 1946
D) August 15, 1947
Answer: B) November 26, 1949
14.When did the Constitution come into effect?
A) November 26, 1949
B) January 26, 1950
C) August 15, 1947
D) December 9, 1946
Answer: B) January 26, 1950
15.What was the final session date of the Constituent Assembly?
A) January 24, 1950
B) December 9, 1946
C) November 26, 1949
D) August 15, 1947
Answer: A) January 24, 1950
16.How long did the Constituent Assembly take to draft the Constitution?
A) 2 years
B) 2 years, 6 months
C) 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days
D) 3 years
Answer: C) 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days
17.How many days did the Constituent Assembly spend in debate and discussion?
A) 100 days
B) 150 days
C) 165 days
D) 200 days
Answer: C) 165 days
18.Which body continued as the provisional parliament from January 26, 1950, until May 1952?
A) The Interim Government
B) The Constituent Assembly
C) The British Indian Parliament
D) The Viceroy’s Council
Answer: B) The Constituent Assembly
19.Who was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in India, as part of the interim government before the adoption of the Constitution?
A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
B) Sarojini Naidu
C) Vijayalakshmi Pandit
D) Sucheta Kriplani
Answer: A) Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur
20.Which document became the Preamble to the Indian Constitution?
A) Draft Constitution
B) Objective Resolution
C) August Offer
D) Cabinet Mission Plan
Answer: B) Objective Resolution
5. Important Committees of the Constituent Assembly
The Constituent Assembly of India formed several committees to handle different aspects of drafting the Constitution. These committees were instrumental in shaping various provisions and ensuring that the Constitution was comprehensive and inclusive. Here are some of the key committees and their chairmen:
Drafting Committee
Chairman: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (Father of the Indian Constitution)
Members:
Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar
N. Gopala Swami Ayyangar
Dr. K.M. Munshi
Syed Mohammad Saadullah
N. Madhava Rao
T.T. Krishnamachari
The Drafting Committee was responsible for preparing the draft of the Constitution. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, as the chairman, played a pivotal role in shaping the final document.
Flag Committee
Chairman: J.B. Kriplani
The Flag Committee was tasked with designing the national flag of India.
Union Constitution Committee
Chairman: Jawaharlal Nehru
This committee was responsible for outlining the framework for the Union Constitution, focusing on the structure and powers of the central government.
Provincial Constitution Committee
Chairman: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
The Provincial Constitution Committee dealt with the organization and powers of the provincial governments within India.
Union Powers Committee
Chairman: Jawaharlal Nehru
The Union Powers Committee was tasked with defining the distribution of powers between the central government and the states.
Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
Chairman: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
This committee was responsible for framing the fundamental rights and ensuring adequate safeguards for minorities.
Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
Chairman: Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer
This special committee was established to review and examine the draft Constitution in detail before its final adoption.
Finance & Staff Committee
Chairman: Dr. Rajendra Prasad
The Finance & Staff Committee managed the financial and administrative matters of the Constituent Assembly.
Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
Chairman: S. Varadachariar
This committee focused on the establishment and jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India.
Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
Chairman: Dr. Rajendra Prasad
This committee was responsible for finalizing the design and specifications of the national flag.
Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
Chairman: B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya
The Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces dealt with the administrative and governance structures of the Chief Commissioners’ Provinces.
These committees collectively contributed to the drafting of the Indian Constitution, addressing various aspects such as fundamental rights, distribution of powers, administrative structures, and the national symbols. The work of these committees ensured that the Constitution of India was a well-thought-out document, reflecting the diverse needs and aspirations of the Indian people.
MCQs on Important Committees of the Constituent Assembly
1.Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
C) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
D) Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar
Answer: C) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
2.Which committee was responsible for designing the national flag of India?
A) Flag Committee
B) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
C) Union Powers Committee
D) Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
Answer: A) Flag Committee
3.Who chaired the Union Constitution Committee?
A) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) J.B. Kriplani
Answer: C) Jawaharlal Nehru
4.Which committee was tasked with defining the distribution of powers between the central government and the states?
A) Provincial Constitution Committee
B) Union Powers Committee
C) Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
D) Finance & Staff Committee
Answer: B) Union Powers Committee
5.Who was the Chairman of the Provincial Constitution Committee?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
D) Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar
Answer: C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
6.What was the main responsibility of the Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities?
A) Drafting the Fundamental Duties
B) Framing the fundamental rights and safeguards for minorities
C) Designing the national flag
D) Establishing the Supreme Court
Answer: B) Framing the fundamental rights and safeguards for minorities
7.Which committee was responsible for managing the financial and administrative matters of the Constituent Assembly?
A) Finance & Staff Committee
B) Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
C) Union Powers Committee
D) Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
Answer: A) Finance & Staff Committee
8.Who chaired the Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution?
A) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
B) S. Varadachariar
C) Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer
D) J.B. Kriplani
Answer: C) Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer
9.Which committee focused on the establishment and jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India?
A) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
B) Union Powers Committee
C) Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
D) Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
Answer: C) Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
10.Who was the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Answer: C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
11.What was the primary function of the Union Powers Committee?
A) To draft the Constitution
B) To outline the framework for the Union Constitution
C) To finalize the design of the national flag
D) To review the draft Constitution
Answer: B) To outline the framework for the Union Constitution
12.Which committee was tasked with dealing with the administrative and governance structures of the Chief Commissioners’ Provinces?
A) Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
B) Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
C) Union Constitution Committee
D) Flag Committee
Answer: A) Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
13.Who chaired the Flag Committee?
A) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
B) J.B. Kriplani
C) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
D) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: B) J.B. Kriplani
14.Which committee was responsible for reviewing and examining the draft Constitution before its final adoption?
A) Finance & Staff Committee
B) Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
C) Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
D) Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
Answer: B) Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
15.What was the role of the Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court?
A) To design the national flag
B) To frame the fundamental rights
C) To establish and define the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
D) To outline the federal structure
Answer: C) To establish and define the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
16.Which committee was headed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and focused on the rights of minorities?
A) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
B) Union Powers Committee
C) Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
D) Finance & Staff Committee
Answer: C) Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities
17.Who chaired the Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces?
A) B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya
B) Jawaharlal Nehru
C) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D) Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar
Answer: A) B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya
18.Which committee was involved in managing both the financial and administrative aspects of the Constituent Assembly?
A) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
B) Finance & Staff Committee
C) Special Committee to Examine the Draft Constitution
D) Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
Answer: B) Finance & Staff Committee
19.What was the focus of the Union Constitution Committee chaired by Jawaharlal Nehru?
A) Drafting the Fundamental Rights
B) Designing the national flag
C) Outlining the framework for the Union Constitution
D) Establishing the Supreme Court
Answer: C) Outlining the framework for the Union Constitution
20.Which committee was responsible for finalizing the specifications of the national flag of India?
A) Ad-hoc Committee on Supreme Court
B) Committee on Chief Commissioners’ Provinces
C) Flag Committee
D) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
Answer: D) Ad-hoc Committee on National Flag
