Question

Answer the question briefly.
What is a political party? Explain four functions of political parties.

Answer 1

Political party refers to a group of people who join together for contesting elections and for holding power in government. A political party has three components, viz the leaders, the active members, and followers.

Following are the functions of a political party :

1. It contests elections by putting up their candidates and on getting the majority forms the government. The political party which losses the election plays the role of Opposition and acts as a watchdog to keep the party in power on the track.
2. It provides access to government machinery and welfare scheme. The local party leaders act as a link between government and citizens and help in solving the problems of the people.
3. It helps in the formulation of policies of administration based on their election manifesto. The policies are formed keeping in mind the general welfare.
4. It helps in forming public opinion. Political parties come close with the public through rallies, meetings, and conferences. It helps in making aware of the political, economic and social conditions of the country.