MCQs

1. What is the percentage of women in the Lok Sabha as of 2019?

a) 10.2%

b) 14.36%

c) 20.5%

d) 25%

2. What percentage of seats are reserved for women in Panchayati Raj institutions in India?

a) 25%

b) 33%

c) 40%

d) 50%

3. Which of the following is NOT a reason for low women’s representation in politics in India?

a) Patriarchal social norms

b) Reservation policies

c) Lack of financial resources

d) Political party biases

4. Which region has the highest percentage of women in national parliaments?

a) Asia

b) Nordic countries

c) Americas

d) Africa

5. What has been a major demand of women’s movements regarding political representation?

a) Reservation of 33% seats in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies

b) Introduction of a separate women’s political party

c) Complete ban on men contesting elections

d) Special financial incentives for women candidates

Answers and Explanations

1. (b) 14.36%.

• In 2019, the percentage of women in the Lok Sabha reached 14.36%, still lower than in many developing countries .

2. (b) 33%.

• One-third (33%) of seats are reserved for women in local government bodies like Panchayats and Municipalities .

3. (b) Reservation policies.

• Reservation policies support women’s representation, but factors like patriarchal norms, financial constraints, and party biases limit their participation .

4. (b) Nordic countries.

• Nordic countries have some of the highest percentages of women in politics, often exceeding 40% .

5. (a) Reservation of 33% seats in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

• Women’s movements have long advocated for a constitutional amendment ensuring 33% reservation in legislative bodies .