Chapter 6: Citizenship
- What is citizenship?
Citizenship is a legal status that grants individuals certain rights, duties, and participation in the political life of a country. - Why is citizenship important?
It gives people legal identity, access to rights, and the ability to influence governance through voting and political participation. - What are the main rights of a citizen?
- Civil rights (freedom, equality)
- Political rights (vote, contest)
- Social and economic rights (education, work, health)
- What are the duties of a citizen?
Obey laws, pay taxes, respect others’ rights, protect public property, and uphold the Constitution. - What is the difference between a citizen and a non-citizen?
Citizens enjoy full political and legal rights. Non-citizens (e.g., foreigners) may have limited or no political rights. - What is global citizenship?
It refers to identifying as part of a global community and acting with concern for human rights, environment, and global justice. - How is citizenship acquired in India?
By birth, descent, registration, naturalization, or incorporation of territory under the Citizenship Act, 1955. - What is dual citizenship?
It means being a citizen of two countries simultaneously. India does not allow dual citizenship. - What is the significance of the Constitution in citizenship?
It defines who is a citizen and guarantees rights and protections for all citizens under the law. - What is naturalization?
A legal process by which a foreigner can become a citizen after fulfilling specific criteria like residence and language. - What is the difference between legal and moral citizenship?
Legal citizenship is granted by law; moral citizenship involves actively fulfilling responsibilities like voting and community service. - What is the role of education in citizenship?
It creates awareness of rights and responsibilities, promotes tolerance, and encourages active participation in democracy. - Can citizenship be revoked?
Yes, in certain cases like fraud, disloyalty, or acquiring citizenship of another country (as per Indian law). - What is a stateless person?
Someone who is not recognized as a citizen by any country, often lacking basic rights and legal identity. - What are the challenges to citizenship in a diverse society?
Discrimination, exclusion, and unequal access to resources and participation can challenge inclusive citizenship. - What is cultural citizenship?
It means recognition of people’s cultural identity, language, and practices as part of inclusive citizenship. - What is political participation?
Involvement of citizens in decision-making through voting, protesting, joining parties, or civil society actions. - How does globalization affect citizenship?
It increases migration and challenges the traditional concept of citizenship linked to nation-states. - What is digital citizenship?
Responsible and informed use of technology and the internet to engage in civic and social activities. - How can youth participate in citizenship?
Through volunteering, awareness campaigns, voting, and using digital platforms to raise social and political issues. - What is active citizenship?
Citizens who engage in society, challenge injustice, and work for the common good beyond just legal status. - What is inclusive citizenship?
It ensures that all individuals, especially marginalized groups, are included in the political, social, and economic fabric. - What is the difference between civic and political citizenship?
Civic: Rights like equality and freedom
Political: Rights to participate in governance like voting or becoming a representative - What is constitutional citizenship?
Citizenship defined and protected under a country’s Constitution, ensuring equality and fundamental rights. - How is citizenship related to identity?
It shapes a person’s sense of belonging and responsibility in society and the state. - What is the role of judiciary in citizenship?
Courts protect citizen rights, resolve disputes, and interpret citizenship laws in accordance with the Constitution. - What is refugee citizenship status?
Refugees are non-citizens seeking asylum due to persecution. They may or may not get citizenship in the host country. - Why is voting an essential duty of a citizen?
It empowers people to choose their leaders and hold them accountable, ensuring the health of democracy. - What is the National Register of Citizens (NRC)?
A register to document all legal citizens of India. It was implemented in Assam to detect illegal immigrants. - How can we promote responsible citizenship?
Through civic education, promoting equality, respecting diversity, and encouraging active participation in nation-building.