In today’s rapidly changing world, where global dynamics and domestic political landscapes are constantly evolving, the CBSE class 12 political science syllabus plays a vital role in equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate these complexities.
Whether it is analyzing the disintegration of the Soviet Union, understanding the rise of new global power centers, or examining the challenges of nation-building in India, the course offers a comprehensive platform for exploring the multifaceted dimensions of political science.
Let's take a look at the CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2024-25.
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| Political Science |
CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus for 2024-25: Introduction
Political Science is a dynamic discipline that not only delves into the fundamental theories of political life but also explores the practical functioning of governmental systems, both globally and within national borders.
Political theory is a branch of philosophy that explores fundamental questions about power, justice, freedom, and authority in society. It examines the nature and legitimacy of political systems, the roles of institutions, and the relationships between citizens and the state.
The CBSE class 12 political science syllabus for the academic year 2024–25 is designed to offer students a comprehensive insight into the workings of political institutions, ideologies, and processes. The syllabus emphasises both theoretical underpinnings and real-world political phenomena, and encourages learners to develop critical analytical skills, understand historical contexts, and actively engage in informed citizenship.
In this article, we will explore the structure and content of the CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2024-25, explaining how it is divided into two broad sections—Contemporary World Politics and Politics in India Since Independence.
We also explore the rationale behind this academic framework, the objectives it seeks to achieve, and the methods of assessment, including competency-based questions and project work.
Throughout, the focus remains on fostering a deeper understanding of political structures and processes, ensuring that students are well-prepared not only for board examinations but also for higher studies and active participation in a democratic society.
⇛ Overview & Rationale ⇚
A. Rationale of the Syllabus
The study of Political Science in Class 12 is founded on the belief that understanding political structures and processes is essential for active and responsible citizenship. The syllabus is designed with several key purposes in mind:
Understanding Governance: It introduces students to the complexities of political governance, both in the international arena and within India. Students can explore the historical evolution of political institutions, and learn why constitutions, electoral processes, and government functions matter.
Critical Analysis: Political Science develops analytical skills. Students are encouraged to critically assess the dynamics of power, policy, and political behavior. This critical engagement helps them evaluate political decisions and the consequences these decisions have on society.
Active Citizenship: The syllabus aims to build citizenship skills. Through discussions, debates, and project work, learners are guided to appreciate the roles and responsibilities of citizens in a democracy.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Given that Political Science overlaps with history, economics, sociology, and law, the curriculum is designed to draw connections between these fields. This interdisciplinary approach enriches students’ understanding of how diverse factors influence political outcomes.
B. Aims & Objectives
The primary objectives of Class 12 Political Science syllabus 2024–25 are:
- To analyze the foundations and evolution of constitutionalism.
- To explore various political theories and their relevance in contemporary society.
- To assess the impact of global political trends on national politics.
- To provide a platform for discussions on current issues, both within India and internationally.
- To develop competencies in critical thinking, debate, and research through both theoretical study and practical project work.
If we achieve these aims, the course will prepare students not only for board examinations but also for higher academic pursuits in political science and related disciplines.
⇛ Course Structure & Assessment ⇚
A. Overall Structure
CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2024-25 is organized into a clear and systematic structure and designed to cover all significant aspects of political science:
Total Periods: The theoretical part of the syllabus spans 213 periods, which are distributed across different chapters and units.
Marks Allocation: The board examination is designed to assess students on 80 marks of theory, with an additional 20 marks allocated for project work and practical assessments.
Division into Two Parts:
Part A – Contemporary World Politics: This part deals with global political phenomena, the evolution of international organizations, security concerns, environmental issues, and the dynamics of globalization.
Part B – Politics in India Since Independence: This part focuses on the political evolution of India after gaining independence. Topics include nation-building challenges, the era of one-party dominance, planning and development, India’s external relations, and contemporary political trends.
B. Assessment Methodology
Assessment in this course is designed to evaluate both the retention of factual knowledge and the ability to apply, analyze, and evaluate political phenomena. The question paper is competency-based and includes:
- Objective Questions (MCQs): To test memory and recall of factual information.
- Short Answer and Long Answer Questions: To assess understanding, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex ideas.
- Map/Cartoon-Based Questions: To encourage students to interpret visual data and apply their knowledge in contextual scenarios.
- Project Work and Viva Voce: The project component not only reinforces classroom learning but also helps students develop research skills and an in-depth understanding of selected topics.
This comprehensive assessment strategy ensures that students are evaluated on various dimensions of learning, encouraging a holistic understanding of political science.
⇛ Part A – Contemporary World Politics ⇚
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| Contemporary World Politics |
CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2024-25 provides a global perspective on political phenomena. It is designed to help students understand how international political dynamics, organizations, and global trends influence world affairs.
Chapter 1: The End of Bipolarity
The first chapter explores the significant geopolitical shift following the Cold War:
The Soviet System and its Disintegration: Students study the historical context of the Soviet Union, the role of leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev, and the reasons behind the collapse of the bipolar world order. The concept of shock therapy—rapid economic reforms aimed at transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a market economy—is critically examined.
Emergence of New Political Entities: With the dissolution of the Soviet Union, new states emerged, including Russia, the Balkan states, and Central Asian countries. A critical analysis of the consequences of these geopolitical changes forms a significant part of the learning process.
India’s Relations with Post-Communist Countries: The chapter also focuses on how India redefined its foreign policy in response to the changing global dynamics, forging new relationships with emerging nations.
Chapter 2: Contemporary Centres of Power
This chapter examines the rise of alternative power centers in the world:
The European Union and ASEAN: The European Union is explored as a supranational entity that integrates member states economically and politically. ASEAN is examined as an example of regional cooperation in Asia.
Rise of China and Other Emerging Powers: China's rapid economic growth and increasing political influence are analyzed. The roles of Japan and South Korea as emerging powers in the global arena are discussed.
Comparative Perspectives: Students compare these regional power centers, analyzing their strategies, economic models, and political impacts on global governance.
Chapter 3: Contemporary South Asia
This chapter focuses on the political dynamics of the South Asian region:
Political Systems and Democratic Challenges: The chapter examines the varied political systems in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal, highlighting the challenges they face in building stable democracies.
Ethnic Conflicts and Regional Tensions: Issues such as ethnic conflicts in Sri Lanka and tensions between India and Pakistan are discussed.
Regional Cooperation: The importance of initiatives like SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) in fostering peace and collaboration is analyzed.
Chapter 4: International Organizations
International organizations play a critical role in global governance. This chapter covers:
Evolution and Role of the United Nations (UN): Students study the formation, structure, and functions of the UN, as well as debates on its need for reform in a unipolar or multipolar world.
Key Global Agencies: Other international bodies such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, World Trade Organization (WTO), International Labour Organization (ILO), and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are discussed.
NGOs and Reform Initiatives: The roles of non-governmental organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are also examined, along with future implications of these organizations on global politics.
Chapter 5: Security in the Contemporary World
This chapter addresses the multifaceted nature of security in today’s world:
Traditional vs. Non-Traditional Security: Traditional concepts of security based on military might and state boundaries are contrasted with non-traditional threats such as terrorism, cyber attacks, health pandemics, and environmental disasters.
New Sources of Global Threats: Students analyze emerging security challenges, including those arising from human rights abuses, migration, and global health crises.
Cooperative Security Measures: The importance of international cooperation in addressing these threats is emphasized, and India’s security strategy is evaluated within this broader context.
Chapter 6: Environment and Natural Resources
Global environmental concerns are increasingly intertwined with political decision-making:
Environmental Concerns and Global Commons: The chapter explores issues such as climate change, deforestation, and the overuse of natural resources.
Responsibilities and Movements: It also discusses the responsibilities of both developed and developing nations in conserving global commons and the role of environmental movements.
Resource Geopolitics and Indigenous Rights: The impact of resource geopolitics on international relations and the rights of indigenous peoples are critical aspects of this study.
Chapter 7: Globalisation
Globalisation is the interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and societies across the world. It involves trade, technology, communication, and migration, leading to economic growth and cultural exchange, while also raising challenges like inequality and environmental impact.
Concepts and Causes: Students learn the basic principles of globalisation, including economic integration, cultural exchanges, and political interdependence.
Consequences and Resistance: The positive and negative consequences of globalisation are examined, including economic growth, cultural homogenization, and political resistance.
Impact on India: Specific attention is given to how globalisation affects India’s economy, society, and political landscape, prompting debates on the balance between global integration and national sovereignty.
⇛ Part B – Politics in India Since Independence ⇚
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| Politics in India Since Independence |
This part of the CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus for 2024-25 focuses on the evolution of political structures and processes within India since it gained independence in 1947. It covers the challenges of nation-building, the evolution of political parties, and recent developments that have shaped modern Indian politics.
Chapter 1: Challenges of Nation-Building
At the time of independence, India faced immense challenges in forging a unified nation:
Partition and Its Consequences: The partition of India created massive displacement and required complex rehabilitation processes. Students examine the humanitarian and political fallout of partition.
Integration of Princely States: One of the major challenges was the integration of over 500 princely states into the Indian Union. The role of leaders like Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is discussed in detail.
Reorganisation of States: Post-independence, linguistic and cultural factors necessitated the reorganization of state boundaries. This chapter explores how and why these changes were implemented and their long-term impact on national unity.
Chapter 2: Era of One-Party Dominance
In the initial decades after independence, the Indian National Congress played a dominant role:
Building Democracy: The early years of Indian democracy involved establishing a political system that could sustain free and fair elections. The challenges of maintaining unity in a diverse nation are examined.
Congress Dominance: The sustained dominance of the Congress party, its coalition-building, and management of internal factions are analyzed.
Emergence of Opposition Parties: As democratic processes matured, opposition parties began to emerge, offering alternative viewpoints and strategies. This evolution paved the way for a multi-party system.
Chapter 3: Politics of Planned Development
India’s approach to economic development has been a major area of focus:
Planned Development: The chapter covers the formulation and implementation of Five-Year Plans aimed at balancing rapid industrial growth with social justice.
Transition from State-Led to Market-Oriented Policies: The shift from a centrally planned economy to one that increasingly embraces market forces is discussed, highlighting key initiatives and reforms.
Role of Planning Commissions and NITI Aayog: The effectiveness of the Planning Commission and its eventual replacement by NITI Aayog is critically analyzed in light of contemporary economic challenges.
Chapter 4: India’s External Relations
India’s foreign policy has undergone significant evolution since independence:
Non-Alignment and Nehru’s Vision: The policy of non-alignment, a cornerstone of Nehru’s foreign policy, is explored, emphasizing its principles and strategic importance during the Cold War.
Regional and Global Engagement: Post-Cold War, India has reoriented its foreign policy to address regional challenges and engage more actively with global institutions.
Security and Nuclear Policy: The development of India’s nuclear policy, particularly the principle of No First Use, and its implications for regional security are discussed.
Peace and Conflict Dynamics: Ongoing conflicts, such as those with Pakistan and tensions with China, are analyzed alongside India’s efforts to build cooperative international relationships.
Chapter 5: Challenges to and Restoration of the Congress System
This chapter revisits the internal political dynamics that have periodically reshaped the Congress party:
Political Succession and Internal Splits: The challenges of leadership transition—from Nehru to subsequent leaders—are examined, along with the internal splits that weakened the party’s dominance.
Electoral Dynamics and Coalition Politics: The emergence of coalition politics and the eventual restoration efforts to revitalize the Congress system are analyzed.
Impact on Democratic Processes: The implications of these internal dynamics on India’s overall political stability and democratic order are critically evaluated.
Chapter 6: The Crisis of Democratic Order
A significant episode in modern Indian politics, this chapter focuses on the period of Emergency (1975–77):
Background to the Emergency: The socio-economic and political conditions leading up to the declaration of Emergency are explored.
Declaration and Consequences: The measures taken during the Emergency, including the suppression of civil liberties and the conflict between the executive and the judiciary, are critically examined.
Post-Emergency Reflections: Lessons learned from this period, including its impact on subsequent elections and policy reforms, are discussed in depth.
Chapter 7: Regional Aspirations
Regional diversity is both a strength and a challenge for India:
Demands for Autonomy: Various regions have sought greater autonomy, sometimes leading to insurgencies and demands for statehood. The historical and contemporary reasons behind these demands are analyzed.
Role of Regional Parties: The rise of regional political parties, their impact on national politics, and the efforts by the government to balance regional aspirations with national integration are discussed.
Case Studies: Specific examples such as the politics of Jammu and Kashmir, the demands in the Northeast, and issues in Punjab are examined to highlight regional complexities.
Chapter 8: Recent Developments in Indian Politics
The final chapter brings the discussion to the present day:
Coalition Politics and New Political Trends: The transformation of the Indian political landscape with the rise of coalition politics and the emergence of new parties, particularly the dominance of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is detailed.
Electoral Shifts and Voter Behavior: Recent elections, changes in voter preferences, and the impact of social media and technology on political campaigning are analyzed.
Contemporary Challenges: The chapter concludes with a discussion on the current issues facing Indian democracy, including debates on governance, corruption, and the balance between central and regional powers.
⇛ Additional Components and Project Work ⇚
A. Question Paper Design
The CBSE examination format for Political Science is designed to test a range of skills:
Diverse Question Types: The paper includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to assess factual knowledge, short answer questions to test understanding, and long answer questions to gauge the ability to analyze and synthesize information.
Competency-Based Approach: Approximately 50% of the questions are designed to be competency-based. This means that students must not only recall information but also interpret data (through maps, cartoons, or case studies) and present well-organized arguments.
Visual and Integrated Questions: Map-based and cartoon-based questions are included to encourage visual interpretation and integration of knowledge from different sources.
B. Project Work and Internal Assessment
Project work is an integral part of the syllabus and plays a crucial role in the overall assessment:
Purpose and Objectives: The project component is intended to promote independent research, critical analysis, and the practical application of theoretical concepts. Projects can range from research papers and presentations to creative projects such as debates or role plays.
Guidelines for Project Work: Students are guided to select topics based on current issues, news extracts, or historical case studies. Teachers facilitate the research process, help develop research questions, and ensure that students properly cite their sources.
Assessment Criteria: Projects are assessed on multiple criteria including the relevance of the topic, depth of research, presentation skills, and the ability to answer viva voce questions. This ensures that students develop not only academic proficiency but also practical skills in communication and analysis.
Integration with Curriculum: The project work ties into various sections of the syllabus, encouraging students to explore contemporary political issues in greater depth and connect them with theoretical frameworks discussed in class.
C. Prescribed Textbooks and Reference Material
The core textbooks for the course are published by NCERT:
"Contemporary World Politics" (Class XII): This textbook forms the basis for Part A of the syllabus and covers global political trends, international organizations, security issues, and environmental challenges.
"Politics in India Since Independence" (Class XII): This textbook provides a detailed account of India’s political evolution post-independence, covering topics from nation-building to recent electoral trends.
Additional Reference Material: Supplementary materials and annexures are provided to help students delve deeper into specific topics, offering case studies, historical documents, and contemporary analyses.
Conclusion: Class 12 Political Science Syllabus
The CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2024-25 is structured to provide a robust framework that covers both international and domestic political phenomena.
Class 12 political science syllabus 2024-25 divides the curriculum into two major parts; Contemporary World Politics and Politics in India Since Independence. The syllabus ensures that students gain a balanced perspective on global issues and the unique challenges of Indian political life.
The comprehensive course structure not only focuses on imparting theoretical knowledge but also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, research skills, and active citizenship.
The assessment methodology, which includes a mix of competency-based questions and project work, is designed to encourage students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts. This approach helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world political issues, preparing students for higher education and informed participation in a democratic society.
Class 12 CBSE Political Science syllabus reflects an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from history, economics, sociology, and law. This enables students to appreciate the complex interplay of various factors that shape political outcomes.
The inclusion of project work and viva voce assessments further reinforces the importance of research and independent learning, ensuring that students are not merely passive recipients of information but active contributors to academic discussions.
Ultimately, by engaging with both contemporary issues and historical developments, students are encouraged to think critically about the role of political institutions and policies in shaping society.
This holistic educational experience fosters not only academic excellence but also the development of responsible, well-informed citizens who are capable of contributing meaningfully to the democratic process.