Answer The Following Question.
1. Talk to two workers (For example, construction workers, farm workers, factory workers, workers at any shop) to find out if they are receiving the minimum wages laid down by law.
Ans : Students need to conduct this research independently by talking to workers in their community and understanding whether they are being paid according to the minimum wage laws.
2. What are the advantages to foreign companies in setting up production in India?
Ans : Foreign companies set up production in India due to the following advantages:
Cheap Labour: The wages paid to workers in India are much lower than those in foreign countries, making it more economical for companies to set up production here.
Low Operational Costs: With lower wages and long working hours, companies can significantly cut down on their operational expenses.
Minimal Additional Expenses: The cost of providing housing facilities for workers is minimal, allowing companies to maximize profits.
Cost-Cutting via Unsafe Working Conditions: Some companies reduce expenses by compromising on safety measures and working conditions, which may lead to unsafe working environments.
3. Do you think the victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy got justice? Discuss.
Ans : While the victims of the Bhopal gas tragedy received some monetary compensation, they did not truly get justice. The tragedy occurred due to negligence by the factory management, and the compensation given (only a fraction of what was demanded) was inadequate to meet the needs of the affected individuals. Many victims still face the consequences, such as lack of access to clean water, healthcare, and employment, and the compensation amount was insufficient for those who suffered life-altering injuries. Therefore, justice was not fully served.
4. What do we mean when we speak of law enforcement? Who is responsible for enforcement? Why is enforcement so important?
Ans : Law enforcement refers to the implementation of laws to ensure that they are followed. The government is responsible for enforcement through various agencies like the police, labor departments, and judiciary. Enforcement is crucial because it ensures that laws, which are designed to protect citizens and uphold justice, are followed. It becomes especially important for protecting weaker sections of society, such as workers, from exploitation. For example, workers can be coerced into accepting lower wages due to fear of losing their job. Without enforcement, these workers would remain vulnerable.
5. How can laws ensure that markets work in a manner that is fair? Give two examples to support your answer.
Ans : Laws can ensure that markets operate fairly by setting regulations that prevent exploitation and ensure equitable access. Two examples are:
Child Labour Prevention Act: This law prevents the employment of children under the age of 14 in factories, mines, or any hazardous employment, ensuring that children are not exploited for cheap labor.
Right Against Exploitation: This law prohibits forced labor and practices like bonded labor, ensuring that workers are not forced into exploitative working conditions for low wages.
These laws help create a fair market by protecting the rights of vulnerable workers and preventing exploitative practices.
6. Imagine yourself to be a worker working in a chemical factory, which has received orders from the government to move to a different site 100 kms away from the present location. Write about how your life would change?
Ans : This exercise requires personal reflection and creativity. Students should think about how their daily life would change, such as changes in commute, accommodation, family impact, or lifestyle if they were to relocate for work due to a factory move.
7. Write a paragraph on the various roles of the government that you have read about in this unit.
Ans : The government plays several vital roles to ensure fairness and welfare in society:
Providing Public Facilities: It ensures access to essential services like healthcare, sanitation, and water supply for all citizens.
Enforcing Laws Against Exploitation: The government enforces laws like the Minimum Wage Act and the Child Labour Act to protect workers from exploitation.
Regulating Workplace Safety: It mandates safety measures in industries and ensures the welfare of workers by inspecting workplaces.
Environmental Protection: It enforces laws to protect the environment and reduce pollution through various regulations and policies.
Consumer Protection: The government ensures that products in the market are of standard quality and protects consumers from overpricing.
8. What are the sources of environmental pollution in your area? Discuss with respect to (a) air; (b) water and (c) soil. What are the steps being taken to reduce pollution? Can you suggest some other measures?
Ans : Sources of environmental pollution in my area include:
Air Pollution: Smoke from factories, vehicles running on petrol and diesel, and burning of waste materials contribute to air pollution.
Water Pollution: Chemical fertilizers, industrial effluents, and untreated sewage from homes and factories pollute water sources.
Soil Pollution: Use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers in agriculture, along with garbage disposal, leads to soil contamination.
Steps taken to reduce pollution:
Laws have been enacted to control industrial emissions and waste disposal.
Promotion of CNG vehicles to reduce air pollution.
Stringent action against industries violating environmental regulations.
Additional measures:
Encouraging recycling and waste segregation at the individual level.
Increased tree plantation and green cover.
Strengthening public awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of reducing pollution.
9. How was the environment treated earlier? What has been the change in perception? Discuss.
Ans : Earlier, the environment was treated as a “free resource,” with minimal regulations in place to prevent pollution. Industries and individuals polluted without facing significant consequences. There was little awareness about the importance of environmental conservation.
However, the perception has changed over time. Today, there is a growing understanding of the need to protect and conserve the environment. The government has introduced various laws to protect the environment, such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and initiatives to clean rivers. Courts have recognized the right to a healthy environment as part of the fundamental right to life, and the government now imposes fines on violators. This shift reflects a more responsible approach toward environmental conservation.