CBSE Class XI · 2026–27

State, government and organs

Class 11 Legal Studies · Syllabus-aligned study note

Unit 1 · Introduction to Political Institutions

State, government and organs

Distinguish the state (a continuing political community with territory, population, government and sovereignty) from the government (the current institutions exercising public authority). Study forms and organs of government, separation of powers, and checks and balances. Article 12 uses a constitutional definition of “State” for Part III; explain that context rather than treating it as a universal definition.

Practice: Why separate legislative, executive and judicial functions? Give one example of a check between institutions.

Apply and revise

Connect the key term to the unit context. Explain the relationship between the concept and an example, and use evidence or a stated condition in your answer.

Check your understanding: Define the central idea, explain it using a relevant example, and identify one limitation or condition that changes its application.

Practice

  1. Summarise the main concept in your own words.
  2. Apply it to a short real-life or classroom example and justify your reasoning.
  3. Write one question that would help you check the accuracy of your explanation.

Official CBSE syllabus

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