Shubharambha Social studies-10, 2078

UNIT Social Problems and
Solutions
4

In this unit, you will learn the following subjects:
• Our Social Problems
• Domestic Violence and Untouchability
• Bad Social Practices
• Roles of International Organization to solve Social Problems
• Some Other International Organizations
• Identification of Social Problems and the Skills to Solve them

Social Studies Book 10 101

1 Our Social Problems

Lesson

The social activities that are against our good social values and traditions and they harm
harmony, equality and the feeling of brotherhood in the society are social problems. People
are treated on the basis of norms and values, traditions, superstitions and modern practices
of the communities. Some of these practices are good for us while some of them are against
our social harmony. These practices are social problems. The effects of these evil practices
eventually harm the development of society.
Some common social problems existing in our community are child labour, untouchability,
child age marriage, ghumtopratha, daijopratha, chhaupadipratha, Deukipratha, Jhumapratha,
etc. Moreover, some recent problems like girls trafficking, human organ trafficking, domestic
violence, and discrimination based on gender and disability, corruption, etc. are rapidly
growing in our society.(Nearly 1.5 million Nepalese are at risk of being trafficked.

Human Trafficking

Human trafficking refers to the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt
of persons, by means of the threat, abduction, deception and abuse of power. It is the trade
of humans, most commonly for the purpose of sexual slavery, forced labour, or commercial
sexual exploitation for the trafficker or others. This may encompass providing a spouse in
the context of forced marriage, or the extraction of organs or tissues, including for surrogacy
and ova removal. Human trafficking can occur within a country or trans-nationally. Human
trafficking is a crime against the person because of the violation of the victim's rights.
Trafficked victims often are taken to locations within Nepal, often from rural areas to the urban
centers. Mainly young girls and women are trafficked for sexual exploitation in places such as
cabin/dance restaurants, massage parlors, and other places within tourism sector. However,
these are also the places where many women who entered sex work voluntarily, and those
who might have entered voluntarily but were later not allowed to leave and end up in slave-
like conditions. Within Nepal, labor trafficking is also common. Most victims often end up in
carpet and garment factories, embroidering, sweet shops, brick-kilns, and others.
The border between Nepal and India is 1,000 miles long with just 14 checkpoints along
the route. This makes it easy to smuggle over 20,000 women and young girls (mostly aged
between 12 and 25) from Nepal to India every year. In recent times, some girls as young
as eight years have been rescued from traffickers. The girls are taken from their homes and
communities to work as sex slaves in the brothels of Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, Siliguri or
Kolkata. Moreover, many Nepalese have been trafficked for human organs. According to the

102 Social Studies Book 10

Annual report prepared by Office of the Attorney General as of Jestha 2071, the table below
shows the percentage of trafficked victims by age group:

Age Group Percentage of trafficked victims

Below 16 years 24%

16-18 years 41%

Above 18 24%

a. Girls Trafficking

Girls trafficking is an illegal and inhuman act of selling d/] f] cfF;'n] cfk\mgf] t[i0ff gd6]
innocent girls or women in brothels for sex business
or for forced labour. It is a dreadful social crime and a
curse on society. It is one of the growing problems of the
present world. This problem is mostly seen in developing
and underdeveloped countries like Nepal, India, Bhutan,
Bangladesh, etc. The main causes behind this problem
are illiteracy, poverty, unemployment, ignorance of the
government, etc.

It is said that more than 5,000 girls and women are trafficked from Nepal and sold in India
and different countries of the world every year. They are trafficked and sold primarily for
prostitution or flesh trade. Some of them are trafficked to work in factories or in household
works. Such trafficked girls or women are physically, mentally and sexually exploited. It has
been found that the brokers lure girls and women under various pretexts and sell them. The
victims are mostly from poor, innocent, illiterate and underprivileged families from rural areas.
Many of these victims suffer from various diseases like HIV AIDS, gonorrhea, syphilis, etc.
Finally, they are sent back home empty handed. They are compelled to live a quite miserable
life since they aren’t accepted by their family and society.

Causes Preventive Measures and Solutions

a. Poverty a. Strict legal measures must be taken against them.
b. Illiteracy and lack of awareness b. Public awareness should be raised.
c. Gender inequality c. Poverty elimination programmes should be
d. Lack of job opportunities
e. Ignorance of people and the launched.

government d. Strict checking in the border area
e. Management of employment
f. Poverty f. End gender discrimination
g. Open border g. Media should play a crucial role.
h. Unemployment

Social Studies Book 10 103

b. Child Trafficking

Children are trafficked for forced labour, domestic work,
as child soldiers, for begging, work on construction sites
and plantations but most children are trafficked for sexual
exploitation. Most girls trafficked for forced labor and
domestic work often end up sexually exploited by their
employers. Often they do not have contact with their
families and are at the mercy of their employers. Traffickers Child trafficking

in children may take advantage of the parents' extreme
poverty. Parents may sell children to traffickers in order to pay off debts or gain income, or
they may be deceived concerning the prospects of training and a better life for their children.
They may sell their children into labor, sex trafficking, or illegal adoptions. Children are often
trafficked, employed and exploited because, compared to adults, they are more vulnerable,
cheaper to hire and are less likely to demand higher wages or better working conditions.

Source: Kantipur
In a less secure environment, such as after the earthquake of 2072 BS, there is a greater risk of
increasing in trafficking of children and women in Nepal. Specifically, children who have been
separated from their families—either as a direct result of the earthquake, or because families
feel they can no longer care for their children—are particularly vulnerable to trafficking and

104 Social Studies Book 10

exploitation. Furthermore, many children from the earthquake affected areas were taken to
the cities in the name of giving shelter and education. But many of them have been reported
missing. This is claimed to be due to trafficking.

Causes Preventive Measures and Solutions

a. poverty a. strengthen the laws
b. loss of parents b. implement the laws effectively
c. lack of awareness c. stop child labour
d. low levels of education d. provide education
e. lack of employment opportunities e. reduce poverty
f. rapid urbanization f. manage strict checking in the border areas

c. Organ Trafficking

It is commonly believed that trafficking only takes
place for commercial, sexual exploitation or for forced
labour. But in fact, trafficking takes many forms such as
trafficking for forced marriage and trafficking for organ
trade among others.

Trafficking in organs is a crime that occurs in three Organ trafficking
broad categories. Firstly, there are cases where traffickers
force or deceive the victims into giving up an organ.
Secondly, there are cases where victims formally or informally agree to sell an organ and
are cheated because they are not paid for the organ or are paid less than the promised price.
Thirdly, the persons are treated for an illness, which may or may not exist and thereupon
organs are removed without the victim's knowledge. The vulnerable categories of persons
include migrants, especially migrant workers, homeless persons, illiterate persons, etc. It is
known that trafficking for organ trade could occur with persons of any age. Organs which are
commonly traded are kidneys and liver. In fact, any organ which can be removed and reused
can be trafficked.

According to the Human Body Organ Transplantation (Regulation and Prohibition) Act,
1998, the illegal selling of human organs for transplantation is a crime in Nepal.

Causes Preventive Measures

a. open borders with no travel restrictions a. strict checking in the border areas
b. unemployment and poverty b. mass awareness
c. high demand of kidneys for transplantation c. reduce unemployment
d. ignorance of people and government d. strict punishment to the traffickers
e. organized network of organ traffickers e. global commitment against this problem
f. lack of coordinated effort to tackle the situation

Social Studies Book 10 105

EDITORIAL Office in Lalitpur and the kidney recipient village in Kavre had sold their kidneys
The illicit organ trade himself. Alarmingly, every one of the accused on the black market to buy land and
Disclosures of illegal transplants highlight the and arrested, besides the patient, is a member build houses. The victim in this case,
need for tougher controls. of Nidan's Kidney Transplantation Approval too, was a man from Kavre living in
It has been reported that five people were Committee. All hospitals offering kidney 'abject poverty' in Bhaktapur who had
arrested on October 16 for their alleged transplant services are required by law to been a patient at Nidan before the
involvement in illegal kidney trade. The case set up such panels to check the authenticity transplant. When people are living in
is a bizarre one, where everyone involved of the donors and recipients. Nepal's law poverty and lack credible information,
seems to be in the wrong and could face up to states that only close relatives are allowed to it is easy to dupe them into selling one
five years in jail. The case highlights the height donate organs to those that are in need. The of their kidneys illegally to make some
of immorality and corruption prevalent in the exception to the rule is when the donor and money, no matter the risk. And with
system set up to prevent such illegal trade recipient are not related, but the donor is the need for kidneys growing a 2012
in the first place. it also shows how doctors, willing to provide the organ free of duress and estimate puts the number of illegal
supposed to be in the profession to care for without any compensation; the immediate transplants per year at over 10,000 or
people, can also forget their many oaths, to family members of both parties have to sign a more than one every hour-the problem
serve and to protect, for personal gains. It release. It seems that the transplant approval will only grow.
points to cases where poor Nepalis can be committee first consented to let the patient For this case to have occurred in the
duped into selling their organs for much- receive a kidney donated by his nephew. Capital, in a private hospital, shows
needed cash. This not only puts their health However, on the day of the surgery, the the seriousness of the issue. This
at risk but also ultimately puts them on the family brought in an impostor, the nephew. very instant, there may be many poor
wrong side of the law. It is, after all, as illegal When suspicions arose and a complaint patients across the country being
to sell a kidney as it is to buy one. Lastly, this reached Nidan's management, the transplant approached by hospital personnel and
case highlights the need for stricter regulation committee stood by the forged documents being pressured to sell their organs.
of kidney donations, and a change in the law and assured the hospital that the donor was The thought is chilling. The need
to allow for a kidney 'swap' programmed to an authentic one. The surgery went through of the hour is stronger regulation of
mitigate incentives to trade illegally. as planned on August 8, and it took the police the kidney transplant committees.
In the present case, the five people arrested some time to find the real donor and build a There is further need to research and
include three personnel attached to Nidan case against members of the committee and implement kidney exchange markets,
Hospital in Lalitpur. They also include a the recipient. such as those designed by economist
section officer of the District Administration This is not the first time such an incident has Alvin Roth and implemented all across
occurred in Nepal. In fact, the Daily Mail in the US, which allows for a safe, ethical
Word Meaning 2015 exposed that the entire population of a and money free exchange of kidneys.

Source: The Kathmandu Post

• surrogacy  : woman agreeing to carry a pregnancy for another person
• brokers : agents
• lure : tempt, entice
• pretexts : excuse
• prospects : chances
• vulnerable : weak
• speculate : estimate

Points to Remember:

"" The social problems are practices that are against our social values and traditions.
"" Human trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt

of persons, by means of the threat, abduction, deception and abuse of power.
"" There is a growing trend in girls trafficking, human organ trafficking, domestic

violence, and gender based discrimination, etc. in our society.
"" Human trafficking is mostly done for the purpose of sexual slavery, forced labour,

or commercial sexual exploitation for the trafficker or others.
"" Children from the earthquake affected areas are taken to the cities in the name of

giving shelter and education.
"" Organs which are commonly traded are kidneys and liver.

106 Social Studies Book 10

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. What is a social problem? Give your answer in a sentence.
b. Name some social problems in your community.
c. What is human trafficking?
d. Write one cause of girls trafficking in Nepal.
e. Girls' trafficking is a common social problem. Explain in a sentence.
f. What is child trafficking?
g. Suggest one measure for reducing child trafficking in Nepal.
h. What is organ trafficking?

2. Short answer questions

a. What is human trafficking? What are different forms of human trafficking?
b. Why do you think the problem of human trafficking is increasing in the world

day by day?
c. Large number of Nepalese girls are trafficked in India and other countries of the

world. What are the causes behind this problem?
d. Make a list of the roles of community and the government to control the problem

of girls trafficking in Nepal.
e. What is child trafficking? Why are they trafficked?
f. We often hear the cases of child trafficking during the period of crisis. It was also

reported in Nepal after earthquake. What precautions are to be adopted to save
our children from traffickers?
g. Do you think some people willingly and knowingly sell their organs for money?
What are the reasons behind organ trafficking?
h. What are the preventive measures and solutions for solving organ trafficking in
Nepal? Explain.

3. Community Work

Do people in your community have awareness of social problems? Make a set of
questionnaire to ask people regarding their awareness on one of the following social
problems.
"" Girls trafficking

"" Child trafficking

"" Organ trafficking

Social Studies Book 10 107

2 Domestic Violence and
Untouchability
Lesson

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence means any form of physical, mental, sexual and economic abuse
committed by any person to the other person with whom he has a family relationship. It
also implies to the acts of reprimand or emotional abuse. In other words, it often occurs in
a relationship between two persons who live together in a shared household and who are
related by marriage, adoption or are family members living together. Domestic Violence
(Crime and Punishment) Act, 2008, Nepal, says any form of domestic violence is an offence
and a punishable act.
Domestic violence is a growing problem in our country. The victims of domestic violence
are mostly women and children. It is a common problem in the rural areas. We often hear the
news about women burned alive, children brutally beaten, many women committing suicide,
brides murdered for bringing no dowry, house maids and domestic child workers physically,
mentally and sexually exploited. These are some of the forms of domestic violence prevalent
in Nepal.

Causes Preventive Measures and Solutions
(a) Lack of education (a) Strict implementation of laws
(b) Lack of consciousness (b) Public awareness
(c) Gender and class discrimination (c) Publicly condemn the act of criminals
(d) Unemployment (d) Conduct programmes for women
(e) Lack of socio-economic and political
empowerment
rights for women and children (e) Eliminate dowry system
(f) Superstition

Effects of Domestic Violence

"" The victim of violence will be in tension and mentally disturbed.
"" S/he will be timid and suffer from depression.
"" S/he loses interest for work curiosity.
"" S/he may begin to take drugs. Many of such victims commit suicide too.
"" Domestic violence may cause family disputes or break up of families.
"" It may cause social disputes, lose of social prestige.
"" It will badly affect the children and senior citizens in the family and the society.

108 Social Studies Book 10

Ways to Control the Domestic Violence

"" Raise public awareness.
"" Treat everyone equally.
"" Establish equal ownership in property.
"" Respect everyone’s views in the family.
"" Always work with the group decision.
"" Be civilized and disciplined.
"" Inform police or the authority concerned

in case of such violence.
"" Be united against the violence.

Untouchability

Nepalese society is a caste based society. People
belonging to different caste live here. Traditionally
some people in our country believe in high born
and low born. Mostly, so called upper caste people
think themselves superior to other castes. They
think that the things used by others become
impure. Hence, some people in Nepal are deprived
to use public water taps, inns, hotels, temples,
public places, etc. This is obviously an inhuman act.

Untouchability is against the principle of human
rights and the laws of the country. A person
committing this act is punishable the law. Several
efforts have been taken to eliminate in Nepal
since Rana
Regime. The
Muluki Ain
of 2020 banned this evil tradition. Similarly our present
constitution has introduced Right against untouchability
and caste discrimination as a fundamental right of the
citizen. However this evil practice still exists in some
traditional minded societies of Nepal. This practice
Untouchability has created division, dissension, mistrust, conflict and

disharmony in the society. It no doubt has been a threat to national unity.

Social Studies Book 10 109

Causes Preventive Measures and Solutions

a. lack of education a. educate people

b. lack of awareness b. launch awareness programmes
c. feudal social structure c. ensure equal rights and opportunities
d. poor implementation of laws d. implement the country's law effectively

e. economic inequality e. conduct poverty alleviation programmes

f. superstition

Effects of Untouchability
"" Loss of the feeling of dignity
"" Humiliation
"" Disparity in facilities and opportunities
"" Decrease of social respect
"" State of social disparity
"" Increase in social conflict
"" Lack of mutual help and co-operation

Solution and Measures of Untouchability
"" Raise awareness.
"" Educate people.
"" Make provision of strict laws.
"" Conduct programmes for mutual work and help.
"" Implement the policy of social inclusiveness.
"" Maintain social justice.

Word Meaning

• surrogacy  : woman agreeing to carry a pregnancy for another person

• recruitment : selection, enrollment

• deception : trick

• underprivileged : poor and deprived

• dissension : angry disagreement

Points to Remember

"" Domestic violence also implies to the acts of reprimand or emotional abuse.
"" Untouchability is against the principle of human rights and the laws of the country.
"" Untouchability has created division, dissension, mistrust, conflict and disharmony

in the society.

110 Social Studies Book 10

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. Explain domestic violence in a sentence.
b. When was the Domestic Violence Act passed in Nepal?
c. Write one cause of Domestic Violence.
d. Write any two effects of Domestic Violence.
e. Suggest any two measures of Domestic Violence.
f. Explain untouchability in a sentence.
g. Write any two causes of untouchability.
h. When did the Muluki Ain ban untouchability?

2. Short answer questions

a. What is domestic violence? Write a paragraph describing a case of domestic
violence you have seen or heard about.

b. What are the effects of domestic violence? Explain.
c. Mostly women and children become the victim of domestic violence. Justify with

reasons.
d. What is the practice of untouchability? How has it been a threat to national unity?
e. What role can you play to eliminate the tradition of untouchability from your

community? Prepare your plan.
f. Domestic violence is a growing problem in our country. Explain.
g. You must have seen a father or mother severely beating his/her son or daughter

for not completing domestic work. Prepare a dialogue between you and the
parents of the child.

3. Community work

Visit at least ten families in your community. Find out whether domestic violence is
growing or declining in your community. Then prepare an editorial on it and present in
class.

Social Studies Book 10 111

3 Bad Social Practices

Lesson

Nepal is rich in social and cultural practices. Some of our traditional practices are good but
some have been a blot in the fair face of Nepal and Nepalese people. These bad practices can
be taken as the evils of the society that harm our good social tradition of equality, justice,
harmony, respect, co-operation and mutual help. Some examples of social evils are child
marriage, untouchability, caste-based discrimination, gender discrimination, polygamy,
Chhaupadi Pratha, Deuki Pratha, Ghumto Pratha, Jhuma Pratha, accusing of women and
men as witches, mistreating widows, spending excessive money in the name of social and
cultural practices, dowry system (Daijo Pratha), etc. Such evil social practices harm the peace,
harmony and development of the society.

Some of the bad social practices are introduced in short below.

a. GhumtoPratha

The tradition according to which married women cover
up their faces by a piece of cloth before senior persons
and male members is ghumto pratha. This tradition is
prevalent in the eastern and central terai of Nepal. This
tradition prohibits the women even to purge during day
until they have the first child. Similarly, Muslim women
cover their faces with a Burka (Shawl) to hide their
faces from men. This tradition hinders the personality Ghumto Pratha

development of women. Such practices hurt the mind,
emotion, health and dignity of women. They fall backward even in their married life. They get
deprived of the opportunities of education, employment and involvement in socio-economic
activities.

b. Deuki Pratha and Jhuma Pratha Deuki Pratha

Deuki is a bad social tradition existing in the
hills of the Far-Western Development Region.
In this Pratha, people offer their daughters
to Gods or temples in the belief of attaining
blessings from the God. People generally offer
them so as to please the god in case they suffer
from vulnerable disease, they are not able to
have son or they have lawsuit. Rich people may

112 Social Studies Book 10

buy girls from poor families and offer them to Gods in the temples but the poor offer their
own daughter. The girls once offered to the temple can’t marry. They are deprived of living a
social life. They have to live on the alms given. They spend their whole life as the caretaker
of the temple. They are entirely helpless. So, many of them often face the cases of sexual
misbehaviors. This evil practice is against the principle of gender equality and justice. This
tradition is disappearing day by day with the development of mass education.

Similarly, Jhuma pratha is the tradition of offering the second daughter in the monastery.
She has to spend her whole life as the caretaker of the monastery. If the parents have three
daughters, they offer the second daughter. She is Jhuma. But if they have three sons, the
second son is offered who is called Dhawa (Lama). Jhuma can’t get married. She stays under
the guardianship of the head Lama in the Gumba. We often hear these girls forced to have
sexual relationship. It is inhumane and against women’s rights. These traditions are really the
black spots in the fair face of our social dignity. We must work to eliminate these evils from
our society.

c. Chhaupadi Pratha

This is the tradition of keeping women and girls in a shed
(chhaugoth) during menstruation. This social evil exists mostly
in the Mid-Western and the Far-Western hills of our country
without decent food and clothes. Menstruation is a natural
cycle. But the people misinterpret it in the name of religion
and compel women to live an unsafe and risky life. They
have to live in dark isolated shelters during the period. They
are not allowed to see or touch or mix up with other people.
They aren’t allowed to use regular household goods, utensil, Chhaupadi Pratha

blankets, bedding etc. Many women suffer from mental stress
because of this tradition. Similarly, we hear these women get snake bite, be victim of several
criminal activities, get attacked by the wild animals etc. This practice is against the principle
of gender equality. Hence, development of education, mass awareness, gender equity and
equality etc. can be the best way for the remedy of this problem.

d. Daijo Pratha

Dowry is the property, i.e. valuable articles or money given to the bride to take to her husband's
house when she gets married. This system of giving property to daughter exists in our country,
especially in Terai region. It is one of the rotten, harmful, old and useless traditions prevailing
in our society. People give money, furniture, jewelries, land, and plants and so on as dowry.
The forms of dowry are determined by the availability of goods and status of people. Many
married women are living in troubles and hardships because of the lack of prosperous dowry
from partners. They are tortured and burnt alive. Thus, it's the worst custom found in our
society.

Social Studies Book 10 113

Marriage in fact is an occasion to decide the lifelong companion to make the conjugal life happy
and prosperous with the sense of sharing. This harmful tradition commercializes marriage
contract. This evil custom is the consequence of the influence of Indian social life in Nepal.
It is a great curse and challenge to the poor. The poor people have been facing challenges
to marry their daughters. Married women due to the lack of huge dowry from parents are
tortured and burnt alive. Some even commit suicide and many parents become beggar. Thus,
it is obviously a cruel custom that destroys one's entire life causing disasters in conjugal life.
This system is a social evil that harms our good social tradition. It must be abolished and up-
rooted from the society as soon as possible. Mass awareness is only the perfect remedy of this
evil. All the educated girls and boys should resolve to discourage and abolish this custom. We
all must work jointly to eliminate this custom to make our society well-cultured and civilized.

Word Meaning

• blot : stain

• mistreating : behaving in a wrong way

• vivid : clear/obvious

• immovable : that cannot be carried from place to place

Points to Remember:

"" Some traditional practices have been a blot in the fair face of Nepal and Nepalese
people.

"" These bad practices harm equality, justice, harmony, respect, co-operation and
mutual help.

"" Child marriage, untouchability, caste-based discrimination, gender discrimination,
polygamy, Chhaupadi Pratha, Deuki Pratha, Ghumto Pratha, Jhuma Pratha,
accusing of women and men as witches, mistreating widows, spending excessive
money in the name of social and cultural practices, dowry system (Daijo Pratha),
etc are our bad social practices. Such evil social practices harm the peace, harmony
and development of the society.

"" Deuki Pratha is gradually disappearing with the social awareness.
"" Chhaupadi Pratha exists in Mid-Western and the Far-Western hills of our country.
"" Dwory Pratha is an Indian tradition that is spreading all over the country these

day.

114 Social Studies Book 10

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. Name any two bad social practices of Nepal.
b. What is Daijo Pratha? Write in a sentence.
c. What is Chhaupadi Pratha? Write in a sentence.
d. What isDeuki Pratha and Jhuma Pratha? Write in a sentence.
e. What is Ghumto Pratha? Write in a sentence.

2. Short answer questions

a. Make a list of some separate good and bad social practices found in your society.
b. Why have some social practices been a blot in the fair face of Nepalese people?

Discuss.
c. How can you say that Ghomto Pratha is an example of gender discrimination?
d. Compare Jhuma Pratha and Deuki Pratha? Why are they bad customs of our

society?
e. What is Chhau Ghot? How is the life of women and girls in the hills of mid-

western and far-western region of Nepal during their menstruation?
f. Prepare a dialogue between two friends about the causes and consequences of

dowry system.
g. The given picture was published on www.sajhapost.

com, an online magazine on 2015/12/22. What
social problem is it related to? How can we overcome
this problem? Explain.

3. Community work

Visit at least ten families in your community. Find out whether domestic violence is
growing or declining in your community. Then prepare an editorial on it and present in
class.

Social Studies Book 10 115

Lesson 4 Roles of International
Organizations to Solve Social

Problems

There are many international level organizations working to control or solve social problems.
They are working in many countries of the world. These organizations are actively working in
Nepal too. Some of the organizations among them are described below.

a. International Red Cross Society

International Red Cross Society was established on Logo of Nepal Red Cross
26 Oct 1863 in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded
by Jean Henri Dunant. The name of the organization
comes from its flag. It has a Red Cross on white
background. Red Cross Society has now spread all over
the world. Although it is widely known as Red Cross
all over the world, it is called Red Crescent in Muslim
countries and Red Star Israel. The main functions of
Red Cross Society are given below.

"" It rescues and provides treatment to the war/conflict affected people.

"" It negotiates between the conflicting groups and observes them during seize fire.

"" It provides necessary things to the victims of natural calamities.

"" It conducts blood donation programmes, maintains blood bank and provides blood
to needy people.

"" It helps refugees managing their settlement.

"" It provides nutritious food to needy children and mothers.

"" It conducts provides first aid trainings.

b. The Scouts Logo of Nepal Scouts

British citizen Robert Baden Powell established the Scout in 1907
AD as a voluntary organization. It is probably the first organization
established in the world with the aim of developing leadership
quality, providing skills and inculcating the virtue of responsibility
among the unemployed youngsters. With this objective, he
established the organization of 20 boys. There are millions of Boys
and Girls scouts in about 182 countries. The boys wear dark brown
pants and light brown shirt and the girls wear green frocks or saree.
Nepal Scout was established in 1952 AD with its headquarters in
Lainchaur, Kathmandu. Now, it has spread all over the country.

116 Social Studies Book 10

There are over 32,000 scouts in Nepal. The main activities of the Scout are given below.

"" It rescues and helps the victims of natural calamities.
"" It involves in crowd control during festivals.
"" It conducts programmes to make young people disciplined and to build up their skill.
"" It carries out plantation programme and sanitation.
"" It works for the protection of environment.

c. Save Our Soul (SOS)

Save Our Soul (SOS) was established by Dr Hermann
Gmeiner, a professor from Austria established in 1949 to
help the orphans of the Second World War.

SOS is a voluntary childcare organisation where orphaned Logo of SOS
and destitute children are given shelter in houses specially
built in the ‘village’. Trained women will act as caring
parents till they grow old enough to be independent. The
children’s education is completely taken care of by the
organisation.

SOS keeps the helpless and orphan boys and girls of different places with an aunt forming
a family. Such many families are kept in a place. So these children get an aunt who love and
take care of them like their own mother. They get brothers and sister and the society. It helps
them to grow up in the good family environment. The children in the SOS Children Villages
get ample opportunity for education and recreation. There are such villages in more than 133
countries at present including Nepal.

There are nine SOS Children Villages in Nepal. They are in Sanothimi, Bhaktapur
Banepa(Kavre), Itahari (Sunsari), Pokhara-2 (Kaski), Surkhet, Jorpati (Kathmandu),
Bharatpur and Lumbini. The SOS Village at Jorpati is especially for orphans with all kinds of
disabilities. There are schools up to 10 + 2 levels. More than 1200 children have been living in
these SOS Children Villages in Nepal.

Moreover, some other organizations are also working in Nepal in different sectors. They are
Asian Development Bank, World Bank, European Union, World Food Programme, United
Nations Development Programme, Danish International Development Agency, Jaycees,
Leo and Lions Clubs etc. They have been supporting Nepal in economic, infra-structural,
educational, social and environmental sectors.

Word Meaning

• crescent : semi-circular
• ample : plenty
• recreation : amusement

Social Studies Book 10 117

Points to Remember:

"" The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is the world's largest
humanitarian network. 

"" International Red Cross Society was established on 26 Oct 1863 in Switzerland.
"" The basic principles of Red Cross Society are humanity, freedom, unity, neutrality,

voluntary services and non-alignment.
"" The Nepal Branch of the Red Cross Society was set up in 1963 AD.
"" Robert Baden Powell founded Scout in 1907 AD.
"" Dr Hermann Gmeiner established SOS in 1949 to help the helpless orphans of

different countries.

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. Who is the founder of Red Cross?
b. Where is Red Cross known as Red Crescent and Red Star?
c. When was Scout founded?
d. What is the full form of SOS? Who founded SOS?
e. Mention any two work done by SOS Nepal?

2. Short answer questions

a. What are the main functions of Red Cross Society? Explain.
b. What are the main activities of Scouts?
c. International organizations are playing important roles for social reform and

development works in Nepal. Prepare an editorial on it.
d. Mention any four international organizations working in Nepal with their functions.
e. "Scouting is not only helping the poor and needy but an education for light." Justify?
f. Although many international organization have been working in Nepal to solve

social problems, problems are not solved. What might be the reason?
g. Why was SOS established in Nepal? What are its main activities?

h. Identify the following personalities :

3. Community work

Visit the local Red Cross Society's office in your village or town. Collect information on
how it helped the earthquake victims and present a short report on it.

118 Social Studies Book 10

Lesson 5 Some Other International
Organizations

The International Nepal Fellowship [INF]

The International Nepal Fellowship [INF] is serving Nepali people Logo of INF
through health and development work.It was established in 1952 A.D.
It works in Nepal among people with disabilities, leprosy, TB and
HIV/AIDS, poor communities, refugees and displaced people. It has
established hospitals in Pokhara and Surkhet to provide treatment to
the target people.

Plan Nepal

Plan International has been working in Nepal since 1978, helping poor Logo of Plan Nepal
children to access their rights to health, education, economic security
and protection. This organization mainly constructs school buildings
and distributes textbooks and educational materials and establishes
libraries and runs them.

International Labour Organization (ILO)

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the International Labor Logo of ILO
Organization (ILO) seeks to strengthen worker rights, improve working
and living conditions, create employment, and provide information
and training opportunities. ILO programs include the occupational
safety and health hazard alert system and the labor standards and
human rights programs. It works against child labour in Nepal.

Rotary International

Rotary International has been working in various countries to help Logo of Rotary
disables and backward communities. It has been supported by the
expert professionals from various countries. It works in coordination
with various organizations. It runs health camps, distributes clean
drinking water, constructs school buildings, establishes libraries and
conducts trainings for skill and leadership development.

The Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation
(Norad)

The Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation Logo of Norad
(Norad) has been working in Nepal since 2028 B.S. Its main
goal is to contribute towards lasting improvements in the
economic, social and political conditions under which people

Social Studies Book 10 119

live in developing countries, with special emphasis on assistance, which benefits the poorest
sector of the community. In Nepal, it has been working in school improvement sectors, women
rights promotion, and free legal services to women belonging to disadvantaged groups.

The  International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural
Resources (IUCN)

The  International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Logo of IUCN
Resources (IUCN) is an international organization working in the
field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources.
It was established in 1948. It has been working to solve the problem
of environmental degradation caused by poverty and uneducation.
Moreover, it is working for the conservation of bio-diversity.

Danish International Development Agency(DANIDA)

Danish International Development Agency(DANIDA)
aims to contribute to reducing poverty in some of the
poorest countries in the world and helping people to
take charge of their own lives. It aims to assist Nepal in
Logo of DANIDA

the present challenges of ensuring stability and peace and
reducing poverty.  Moreover, it is working to uplift the working skills of disables and their
self-reliance.

Word Meaning

• disabilities : a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements,
senses, or activities
• displaced : to leave home, typically because of war, persecution, or natural disaster
• alert : warn, caution
• bio-diversity : the variety of organisms present in ecosystem
• stability : remain unchanged

Points to Remember

"" The International Nepal Fellowship was established in 1952 A.D.
"" Plan International has been working in Nepal since 1978.
"" ILO works against child labour in Nepal.
"" The main goal of Norad is to improvements people's economic, social and political

conditions.
"" IUCN was established in 1948.
"" DANIDA's main aim is to reduce poverty.

120 Social Studies Book 10

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. Write the full form of IUCN and DANIDA.
b. Write one work done by ILO in Nepal.

c. Write one work done by INF.
d. What is the main aim of DANIDA? Write in a sentence.
e. How has Norad helped Nepal? Answer in a sentence.

f. What is the main function of Rotary International? Write in a sentence.

2. Short answer questions

a. Write the role played by IUCN in Nepal.

b. How has DANIDA helped Nepal? Explain.
c. Write the works done by Norad in Nepal.

d. How has Plan Nepal helped Nepal? Explain

e. Write any two works done by The International Nepal Fellowship. How has it
benefitted Nepal?

f. Constructing more school buildings and distributing free textbooks and
educational materials and establishing libraries can help increase Nepal's literacy.
How? Explain.

g. Make a list of all the International Organizations working in Nepal and write a
short paragraph on each.

3. Community work

a. List all the international organizations working in your province. Find out which
organization is working in your community and make a short report based on
your field study.

� Name of the organization � Name of the program running:
� Its starting and ending period � Total amount of funding:
� Total number of human resources � Works it has finished:
� Works yet to be finished:

Social Studies Book 10 121

6 Identification of Social
Lesson Problems and the Skills to

Solve them

Read this speech given by Niya Bajracharya, a tenth grader student at her school in a speech
contest organized on the occasion of International women’s day.

Respected teachers, guardians,
My dear friends and ladies and gentlemen !
I express my heartiest thanks to the organizer for granting me this opportunity to express
my views in front of you. Today is international women’s day. Internationally, this day is
observed for equality, justice, harmony and empowerment of women. While talking about
women’s rights, the news about the life of trafficked women and girls come in my mind. I
remember the life of an innocent and hardworking woman in my neighbourhood who is
often tortured physically and mentally by her drunkard husband for no reason. These are
only the examples of social perversions existing in our country.
We have so many social problems. They are obstacles for our national and social development.
First, it is essential to find out the root cause of these problems. We should know that we
have created these problems and nature has nothing to do with it. If we detect the actual
factors behind the problems, we can find measures for their permanent solution.
Ladies and gentlemen, our social problems are caused by various factors. Gender inequality
and dowry system are the result of our male dominated social structure while problems
related to class, caste, language and religion were caused due to our feudal political system
that favoured and fostered only certain groups of the society. A particular caste or language
or religion was always prioritized while the rest were neglected in the nation.
We are now in the different situation. We have got new constitution. This constitution is the
consequence of our long years of struggle to write constitution ourselves ensuring equality
and justice. It looks upon Nepalese society equally. However we should not be fully satisfied
only with the promulgation of the constitution, its effective implementation is necessary.
The effective implementation is possible only when you and I and everyone work with
strong commitment and motivation towards our common goal. Everyone has their duties
to accomplish.
Our government should make needy laws, implement them effectively and launch
programmes to raise awareness among the people. People should be informed about the
hazards of social problems as well as their role towards the solution.
I would like to conclude my few words here.
Thank You.

122 Social Studies Book 10

Aashish and Amar are close friends. Amar fell into the company of drug addicts. He too
has been addicted to drugs these days. He sometimes persuades Aashish to take drugs.
But Ashish does not like it.

a. Identify the problem related to the above given condition.
b. Prepare the possible alternatives to get rid of this problem.
c. Make separate lists of advantages and disadvantages of each alternative.
d. Which alternative will be suitable? And why?
e. How to implement the suitable alternative?
Saru’s group prepared the following conclusion regarding the above mentioned
problem.

a. Problem related to the condition: Drug Addiction
b. Possible alternatives to get rid of this problem: Refuse, Agree, Ignore
c. List of advantages and disadvantages of each alternative:

Alternatives Advantages Disadvantages

- get rid from bad habit - Friendship may break up.
- no fear of insult - Friend may be angry.
- good relation in the society
Refusing - no risk of poor health

- love and respect in the
family

Agreeing - Friend will be happy. - risk of poor health
Ignoring - Good relation with friend - risk of falling into addiction
- possibility of getting insulted
- extravagant life
- may fall in bad company

- may be good for the short time - may be persuaded again
- may have time to think - friend may get aggressive.

about other alternatives

d. Most suitable alternative:
Among the three alternatives given above, refusing is the best one because it has
many advantages. It’s only a few disadvantages that we do not need to take into
account. Hence, Aashish will be happier with this alternative.

Social Studies Book 10 123

e. Way to implement this alternative:
"" Aware about the disadvantages of drug addiction.
"" Advise him not to take the drug.
"" Tell him confidently that you will never take it.
"" Inform his parents on time about his habit.

Word Meaning

• empowerment : provide authority or power 
• tortured : inflict severe physical or mental pain
• perversions : behaviour that is considered abnormal and unacceptable
• launch : to begin or start
• hazards : dangers or risks

Points to Remember

"" Many social problems and obstacles hinder in our national and social development.
"" We need to find out the root cause of these problems, then only we can trace the

actual factors behind the problems.
"" Social problems are caused by various factors like gender inequality, dowry system,

class division , caste, language and religion.
"" Nepal's constitution must be effectively implemented to end all social problems.
"" Every citizen has their duties and responsibilities.

Activities

1. Very short answer questions

a. Write one social problem of your community.
b. Write one solution to end gender discrimination in our society.
c. What is drug abuse? Explain in a sentence.
d. Name one reason why drug addiction is growing in our society.
e. Write one disadvantages of drug addiction.
f. If your friends invite you taste some drugs, what will you say to them? Answer in

a sentence.

124 Social Studies Book 10

2. Short answer questions

a. What are social problems? How do they harm our society?
b. Why do you consider drug abuse as a social problem?
c. Make a list of all the social problems found in your community. Briefly explain

any two of them.
d. Despite the government's efforts to end social problems, there are many such

problems in our society. What should be done to solve them?
e. Our society is greatly affected by gender inequality. Explain the possible reasons

behind it.
f. What are the main causes of social problems in our society? What should we do

to eliminate them?
g. If you were the Minister for Social Welfare, what would you do to solve the social

problems?
h. Write a letter to the head of your state stating the urgent need to end social

problems in your province.
i. Write a name of social problem existing in your community and make a list of

roles you can play to solve this problem.
j. We all have responsibilities to implement laws effectively and to end social

problems. Explain.
k. Social problems are the hindrances of social harmony, development and human

civilization. Justify.
l. One of your school mates is a drug addict. As a responsible friend of his, what is

your responsibility towards him and his problem?
m. If you happen to know one of your family members has drug addiction problem,

how would you solve it?

3. Community work

Visit a rehabilitation centre in your community and prepare a short report based on the
following headings.
"" Name of the rehabilitation centre:
"" Date of establishment:
"" Number of people undergoing treatment:
"" Identification of their individual problems:
"" Type of family they belong to:
"" Time they joined the rehab:
"" Expected time of their discharge:

Social Studies Book 10 125

5UNIT Civic Sense

You will learn the following subjects in this unit:
• Legislature
• Executive
• Judiciary
• Constitutional Bodies
• Other Constitutional Commissions
• Political Parties
• Election Process
• Roles of Citizen in Election
• Human Rights and National and International Organizations
• Rights of Women and Indigenous Nationalities
• Identity of Citizen and Citizenship

126 Social Studies Book 10

1 Legislature

Lesson

There are three organs of the government. They are
Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. Among them
legislature is one of the most important organs. It
is formed from the elected representatives of the
people. Hence, this organ is said to represent people's
will and aspiration.

Legislature is the law making body. It makes laws in Sambidhan Sabha Bhawan (BICC)
the country as per the country's need and people's
will. It can also amend the constitution by two-
third majority. Moreover, it possesses power to
control overall mechanism of the country directly or
indirectly.

Part 8 of the Constitution of Nepal states about legislature. There shall be federal legislature
in Nepal including the House of Representatives and National Assembly. The House of
Representatives is the lower house and National Assembly is the upper House. Federal
Legislature of our country is also called federal parliament which is a bicameral parliament.
Parliament having single house is called unicameral parliament and having two houses is
called bicameral parliament.

House of Representatives (Lower House)

The House of Representatives will have 275 members. Its tenure will be of five years. They
will be elected as follows.

a. One hundred and sixty five members elected through the first-past-the-post
electoral system consisting of one member from each of one hundred and sixty five
constituencies formed by dividing Nepal based on geography and population,

b. One hundred and ten members elected from proportional representation electoral
system where voters vote for parties, while treating the whole country as a single
electoral constituency.

The House of Representatives will have a Speaker and a Deputy speaker. While electing them,
either of them must be a woman and they must belong to different political parties.

National Assembly (Upper House)

National Assembly shall be a permanent house. The tenure of a member of National Assembly
will be six years, but the tenure of one third of its member will be over every two years. There
shall be fifty nine members in National Assembly.

Social Studies Book 10 127

It will be formed as follows:

a. Fifty six members elected from an Electoral College comprising members of
provincial Assembly and Chairpersons and Vice-chairpersons of rural municipality
and Mayors and Deputy Mayors of municipality, with different weights of votes for
each, with eight members from each province, including at least three women, one
Dalit and one person with disability or from minority,

b. Three members including at least one woman, to be nominated by the president on
the recommendation of the Government of Nepal.

The chart below shows the composition of National assembly members.

Member category Number Calculation Total
Women 3 3x7 21
Dalit 1 1x7 7
Persons with disability or minority 1 1x7 7
Others 3 3x7 21
Total 8 8x7 56

Note: The president nominates 3 members including at least one woman under the
recommendation of the Government of Nepal. (56 + 3 = 59)

The National Assembly will have a Chairperson and a Vice-chairperson. While electing them,
either of them must be a woman and they must belong to different political parties.

Qualifications for members

Persons who meet the following requirements shall be considered eligible to be the member
of Federal Parliament.

"" must be the citizen of Nepal
"" must have attained at least 25 years of age for House of Representatives and 35 years

of age for National Assembly
"" must not have been punished for any criminal offence
"" must not be ineligible under any of the federal laws
"" must not be holding any office of profit

There is certain procedure to present bill and approve it in the federal legislature. The bill can
be presented in both houses of federal parliament but finance bill can only be presented in the
House of Representatives. After the approval of the bill from one of the houses, it must be sent
to the next house as soon as possible and president should certify within fifteen days. After
its approval from the second house, it is sent to the president for certification. The bill which
is presented to the President for certification shall have to be authenticated by the Speaker or
Chairperson of the house where it originated.

128 Social Studies Book 10

Provincial Legislature

The Constitution of Nepal has made the provision of Provincial Legislature too. There will be
a unicameral legislature in a province which is called the Provincial Assembly. Sixty percent of
the members of the Provincial Assembly will be elected through first-past-the-post election
system and forty percent will be elected through proportional representation election system.

Provincial legislature formulates needy laws for the province concerned.

Powers & Functions of Legislature

Parliament is the legislative body of the government. The legislative body is the law making
body of the country. To make law is the most important function of the state. The country
functions under the laws made by the legislature. It has other powers and functions as well. The
specific powers and functions of the legislature vary from country to country. These powers
and functions are provided in the constitution of the respective country. The important
powers and functions of legislature in Nepal are given below.

a. Legislative Function

The first and foremost function of a legislature is to legislate laws i.e. to make laws. In the present
democratic era, legislature is the chief source of law. It is the legislature which transforms
the demands of the people into authoritative laws. While formulating laws, legislature keeps
the needs of time and people’s aspiration into consideration. The members of the legislature
discuss over the bills presented by the executive. These bills get the status of new laws only
after they are passed by the majority in the legislature and certified by the President. Since the
legislative body makes laws for the country, it is also called a Law Factory.

b. Administrative Function

Though day to day administration in a country is conducted by executive, the legislature has
complete control over the administrative activities. In a parliamentary system of government,
the executive is collectively responsible before the legislature for all its actions, decisions, and
policies. The legislature elects the head of the executive and the council of minister remains
until it gets the support of the majority members in legislature. It can remove the executive by
passing a vote of no-confidence. The Prime Minister and all other ministers are essentially the
members of the legislature. They are bound by the rules and procedures of the legislature too.
The members of the legislature control the executive by asking questions, drawing attention,
putting forth proposals, making critics etc.

Social Studies Book 10 129

c. Financial Function

It is said that the legislature of the state is the custodian of national purse. It holds the purse
of the nation and controls the finances. No money can be raised or spent by the executive
without the approval of the legislature. Each year, the executive has to prepare the annual
budget that can be implemented in the country only after the legislature passes it. Not only
the legislature passes the budget but also it alone can approve the imposition, or repeal or
collection of any tax whatsoever. Further, the legislature maintains a control over all financial
transactions and expenditures incurred by the executive.

d. Constitution Amendment

The legislature has the power to amend the constitution. For this purpose, legislature has
to pass special laws, called amendments, in accordance with the procedure laid down in the

constitution. The constitution of Nepal has provided powers to the legislature of amending
the constitution by two-third majority.

Constituent Assembly S.N. Parliament
It is a law making body whose function
It is an assembly of people's I is to formulate laws and to amend the
representatives whose function is to constitution.
draft a new constitution. Parliament can be unicameral or bicameral.
Parliament cannot function as constituent
Constituent Assembly is unicameral. II Assembly.
Election of parliament is periodic. It is done
Constituent Assembly can function III to form a government.
as parliament.
The latest election of parliament was held
Election of Constituent Assembly is IV on 10th and 21st of Mangsir 2074.
rare. It is done for the formation of
Constituent Assembly.

Example: The latest 2 elections of V
Constituent Assembly were held
on 28th of Chaitra, 2064 and 4th of
Mangsir, 2074.

Result of Federal Parliament 2074

S.N. Political Parties House of Representative
1) Communist Party of Nepal(UML) FPTP Proportionate National
2) Nepali Congress Seat Percentage Seat Assembly
3) Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) 80 33.24 41 27
4) Rastriya Janata Party, Nepal 23 32.78 40 13
5) Sanghiya Samajbadi Forum, Nepal 36 13.66 17 12
6) Others 11 4.95 62
10 4.93 62
Total 5 10.43 0-
165 100 110 56

130 Social Studies Book 10

Results of Provincial Assembly 2074 House of Representative
FPTP Proportionate Total
S.N. Political Parties 168 75 243
41 72 113
1) Communist Party of Nepal (UML) 73 35 108
2) Nepali Congress 16 12 28
3) Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) 24 13 37
4) Rastriya Janata party, Nepal 8 13 21
5) Sanghiya Samaj badi forum, Nepal 330 220 550
6) Others
FPTP (seat)
Total 1
1
S.N. Other Party 1
1) Rastriya Prajatantra Party 1
2) Nepal Workers and Peasants Party 1
3) Rastriya Janamorcha 5
4) Naya Shakti Party Nepal
5) Independent

Total

S.N. Five National Parties in the National Assembly 27
1) CPN, UMl 13
2) Nepali congress 12
3) CPN, Maoist centre 2
4) RJP-Nepal 2
5) SSF - Nepal 3
6) Nomination 59

Total

Differences and Similarities of Federal and Provincial Legislature

Federal Legislature S.N. Provincial Legislature

Federal legislature is bicameral. I Provincial legislature is
unicameral.

There are 334 members (275 in Lower House II Number of members in each
and 59 in Upper House.) province is different.

There is only one legislative parliament in III There are several provincial
Nepal. assembly / parliament.

Social Studies Book 10 131

The president shall summon a meeting/ session IV The chief of state shall summon
of the federal parliament within 30 days of the a meeting of the state assembly
declaration of final result of parliamentary within 20 days of the declaration
election. of the final result of provincial
election.

Similarities:-

• 60% members are elected from FPTP (first past the post) and 40% to be elected from
proportional electoral system.

• The term of both federal legislative and provincial legislative must be 5 years.
• Both federal and provincial legislative are law making body.
• Candidates of both assembly's in election should have completed the age of 25 years.
• The members of both assembly shall not later than 15 day of the date of holiday of the first

meeting of both assembly elect a speaker and deputy speaker among themselves.

Word Meaning

• electoral : the process by which people are elected
• offence : a breach of a law or rule; an illegal act
• authenticated : proved or shown to be true, genuine, or valid.
• no-confidence : no support
• imposition : forced decision or ruling on someone
• repealed : declared null and void, abrogated

Points to Remember:

"" There are three organs of the government. They are Legislature, Executive and Judiciary.
"" The primary function of legislature is to make laws.
"" Under the federal legislature are the House of Representatives and National Assembly.
"" The House of Representatives will have 275 members. Its tenure will be of five years.
"" National Assembly shall be a permanent house.

132 Social Studies Book 10

Activities

1. Short answer questions

a. What are the requirements to be a candidate of the federal legislature?
b. What is a bill? How a bill is turned into a law?
c. What is the First Past The Post and Proportionate Representation?
d. Why is mixed election system thought to be good for Nepal? Discuss.
e. How are the House of Representatives and National Assembly formed?
f. Discuss the women participation in National Assembly.
g. Show the differences between federal legislature and provincial legislature.
h. The legislature of the state is the custodian of national purse. Discuss.

2. Long answer questions

a. Explain the powers and functions of Federal Legislature.
b. The legislature is one of the most important organs of the three organs of the

government. Explain.
c. The majority makes decisions in democracy, but the opinion of the minority

should also be respected. Why?

3. Community work

Take your class as the House of Representatives. Elect Speaker and Deputy Speaker
among you. Play the role of members, Deputy Speaker and the speaker and discuss any
local issues related to your community.

Social Studies Book 10 133

2 Executive

Lesson

Executive is another important organ of the
government. It is the administrative organ of the
government. The legislature makes the laws and the
executive implements them. Our constitution defines
executive as the council of ministers or cabinet. It
also prepares development plans and policies and
implements them according to the existing laws.

Prime Minister is the head of executive in Singh Durbar
parliamentary system of government like ours.
Similarly, in the UK, India and Bangladesh, the Prime Minister is the head of the Executive. In
those countries, King, Queen or the President is only the esteemed institution who works only
on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers. According to the Constitution of Nepal,
the Prime Minister is the head of Federal Executive. Moreover, our country will have Provincial
Executive in each province and Local Executive in the local bodies.

Formation of Federal Executive

a. The President appoints the leader of a parliamentary party as Prime Minister that
commands majority in the House of Representatives, and the Council of Ministers
are appointed under the Prime Minister's chairpersonship.

b. If no party has a clear majority in the House of Representatives, the President shall
appoint a member of the House of Representative who can command majority with
the support of two or more parties representing in the House of Representatives as
the Prime Minister.

c. If no member can command majority with the support of two or more parties, the
President shall appoint the parliamentary party leader of the largest political party
in the House of Representatives as Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister appointed under clause (b) or (c) must obtain a vote of confidence from
the House of Representatives no later than thirty days after the date of appointment. The
President then forms the council of ministers comprising a maximum of twenty five ministers
including the Prime Minister, in accordance with the inclusive principle, from amongst the
members of the Federal Parliament. If non-member of the parliament is appointed as minister,
the minister must obtain membership of the either house within six months from the date of
taking oath.

134 Social Studies Book 10

Functions of Executive

According to the Constitution of Nepal, we have three levels of executive in Nepal. Federal
executive is responsible for the overall executive functions of the country. Some important
functions of Executive are given below.

a. Administrative Function

The main function of the executive is to implement the laws passed by the legislature. The
administrative function of the executive includes carrying out the day to day activities or
administration in the country. Moreover, it is responsible to provide services to the people,
maintain rule of law and order, and ensure peace and security in the country. It also formulates
plans, policies and programmes and directs controls and coordinates among the different
authorities of the government. Besides, it appoints the heads of corporations that are under
the ownership of the government.

b. Diplomatic Function

The works of the executive related to foreign affairs come under diplomatic function. This
function includes formulating foreign policy and establishing diplomatic relations with foreign
countries. Similarly, the executive appoints ambassadors and consuls to other countries
and receives ambassadors from other countries. Moreover, it signs treaties, agreements and
protocols with foreign countries.

c. Financial Function

Executive runs the financial administration of the country. It prepares annual budget and
presents to the parliament for approval. It implements the annual budget only after the
legislature approves it. Similarly, this organ determines the type and rate of tax, collects the
national revenue and spends it. Moreover it takes loans and grants from other countries.

d. Military Function

The Constitution of Nepal has given the executive body entire power of formulating policies
for national security and defense. The Prime minister is the chairman of the Security Council
that recommends the mobilization of the Nepal army. It is the prime duty of executive to save
the nation during external attacks. In many countries of the world, this organ has the power
to declare war and put forward the proposal of peace. Moreover, executive can mobilize
Nepal Army for development works and disaster management. The president can appoint
and dismiss the chief of Nepal Army on the recommendation of the council of ministers.
Similarly, the president can mobilize Nepal Army on the recommendation of constitutional
council in case of emergency.
So far, Nepal is divided into seven provinces. Each province will have their own provincial
executive. The provincial executive is responsible for issuing general directives, controlling
and regulating the administration of the province, implement provincial laws, etc. The Chief

Social Studies Book 10 135

Minister is the head of the provincial executive. The State Council of Ministers is formed
consisting of a maximum of twenty percent of the total number of members of the State
Assembly, including the Chief Minister, in accordance with the inclusive principle, from
amongst the members of the State Assembly.
Similarly, the executive power of the local level is vested on the Village Executive and Municipal
Executive. The local executive is responsible for issuing general directives, controlling and
regulating the governance in the local level.

Federal Executive S.N. State Executive
There is a president in Nepal. I There is a chief of state in each state (i.e.
there are several chiefs of state in Nepal) as a
All federal executive functions of II representation of the government of Nepal.
Nepal are performed in the name of All state executive functions are performed
government of Nepal. in the name of state government.
The president appoints the leader of III
parliamentary party that commands The chief of state appoints the leader
majority in the house of representative of partiamentary party commanding a
as the prime minister and the council majority in the state Assembly as the chief
of minister is constituted under his/ minister and the state council of minister is
her chairmanship. constituted under his/her chairmanship .
The cabinet comprises a maximum IV
of 25 ministers including 2 prime The state council of ministers consists of
ministers as per inclusive one maximum of 20% of the total number of
principle from amongst the members members of the state assembly including
of federal parliament. the chief minister as per the inclusive
principle from amongst the members of
All the state executive are under V state Assembly.
federal executive. Federal executive can dissolve state
executive.

Similarities of federal executive and state executive

• The term of both federal executive and state executive is 5 years.
• Both of them are law implementing and main administrative body.
• Ministers of both of them should be from their respective parliament.
• Both members of federal executive and state executive are responsible for their work to

their respective head of executive.

Province Total provincial assembly members Ministers in provincial government

1. 93 19

2. 107 21

3. 110 22

4. 60 12

136 Social Studies Book 10

5. 87 17
6. 40 8
7. 53 11
110 members
550 members (330+220)

Nature of government 2. Minority government
1. Majority/Majoritatrian government 4. United government
6. Shadow government (opposition party)
3. Coalition government 8. Interim government
5. Consensual government 10. Care taker government.`
7. Permanent government
9. All party government

Word Meaning

• vote of confidence : vote of support, agreement or approval
• esteemed : admired, honoured
• oath : promise
• formulate : make
• protocols : agreements, treaty
• external attacks : attack from other countries
• mobilize : employ, implement
• directives : an official or authoritative instruction
• inclusive : including everything concerned

Points to Remember:

"" The main function of the executive is to implement the laws passed by the legislature.
"" It also formulates plans, policies and programmes and directs controls and coordinates

among the different authorities of the government.
"" Executive runs the financial administration of the country.
"" It also prepares annual budget and presents to the parliament for approval.
"" It formulates foreign policy and establishes diplomatic relations with foreign countries.
"" It is the prime duty of executive to save the nation during external attacks.
"" So far, Nepal is divided into seven provinces which have their own provincial executives.
"" The executive power of the local bodies is vested on the Village Executive and Municipal

Executive.
"" The local executive issues general directives, controls and regulates the governance in

the local level.

Social Studies Book 10 137

Activities

1. Short answer questions

a. Show the difference between Federal Executive and Provincial Executive.
b. Complete the following table supplying information about the Prime Ministers

of Nepal from the Second Mass Movement 2062/063 to till date.
S.N. Name of Prime Ministers Period they held the office

c. How are the Prime Minister and other ministers appointed in Nepal?
d. If you become the Prime Minister, what would you do for country’s economic

development and good governance? Present your plan in points.
e. How can you help the government personally? Describe in points.
f. If you become the minister of the government of Nepal, how will you accomplish

your duty? Describe.
g. The constitution of Nepal limits the members of Council of Ministers of Nepal to

25 including the Prime Minister. Give your opinion in a few points in this regard.

2. Long answer questions.

a. What are the powers and functions of the Federal Executive? Explain.
b. Explain the functions of Provincial Executive and Local Executive.
c. What do you mean by competitive democratic system? “Opposition for the sake

of opposition is not good.” Discuss this statement in regard to multi-party system.

3. Community based work.

Visit the Chairperson of your Village Executive or Mayor of your Municipal Executive
and discuss about the plans made for the development of the place concerned. Now
prepare a few questions you intend to ask him/her.

138 Social Studies Book 10

3 Judiciary

Lesson

Judiciary is the judicial organ of the state whose main function is to interpret the laws and
constitution of the country. There is very good check and balance of power among three
organs of the government. Legislature formulates laws, executive enforces it whereas judiciary
interprets it. Its role is to interpret laws and the constitution of the country and make needy
legal decisions. It examines civil and criminal cases and punishes wrong doers. It safeguards
the constitution and other laws of the land. Hence, independent judiciary is said to be the
custodian of people’s rights and freedom and the country’s laws and constitution.

Democracy believes in strong, impartial and independent judiciary. It is the backbone of
democracy because democratic system cannot foster without efficient, effective, impartial
and competent judiciary. This organ should be free from the interference of other organs of
the government. Moreover, it should be kept free from political influence. Good governance,
rule of law, social justice and equality will be possible only if judiciary is independent.

Judiciary in Nepal

Part 11 of the Constitution of Nepal is about judiciary. Article 126 of the constitution says
powers relating to justice in Nepal shall be exercised by courts and other judicial bodies in
accordance with the constitution, other laws and the recognized principles of justice. Hence,
judiciary in Nepal is the main organ that interprets the constitution and laws of the country.

In Nepal, judicial power is exercised by the Supreme Court, its subordinate courts and judicial
institutions. They are meant to provide justice interpreting the existing laws and constitution
of the country. Its chief functions are to punish those who violate the laws and constitution
of the country and ensure good human rights condition in the country. Our constitution has
made the provision of three levels of courts in Nepal. They are:

a. Supreme Court (at centre or the federal capital)
b. High Court (at province level)
c. District Court (at district level)

a. Supreme Court

Supreme Court is the apex of court in Nepal. It is
also called the court of records. All of its decisions
are recorded for perpetual memory and testimony.
They get the status of law. They are called precedents.
All courts and judicial bodies except provided in the
constitution are under the Supreme Court. It is the Supreme Court

final interpreter of the laws and constitution of the
country. This court functions as the guardian of people’s rights and freedom.

Social Studies Book 10 139

It protects the fundamental rights of the people. If the people feel that their fundamental
rights are violated, the case is first registered in the Supreme Court. In other cases, a personal
case is first introduced in district court. But the cases of national issues are directly registered
in the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court consists of a maximum of twenty Judges including Chief Justice. There is
also the provision of appointing maximum of ten judges for temporary period if there is high
number of cases in the court.
Appointment
The President appoints the Chief Justice on the recommendation of Constitutional Council
are appointed of the Judicial Council. They can hold their post for the period of 6 years from
the date of their appointment and they retire at the age of 65 years.

Qualification of Chief Justice:

A Nepali citizen who has worked as a judge of the Supreme Court at least for three years
Judges:

"" A Nepali citizen who holds a bachelor degree in law and has worked as the Chief
Judge or a Judge of a High Court for at least seven years or

"" Must be a Nepali citizen who has practised law for at least fifteen years as a law
graduate senior advocate or Nepali citizen who has worked as a first class gazette
officer in judicial service for at least twelve years

b. High Court

There will be High Court in each province. A person who is not satisfied with the verdict of
district court can appeal to the high court. The High Court can initiate contempt of the court
case and punish according to the law against
anyone obstructing its or its sub-ordinate courts act of judicial execution or not abiding by its
order or verdict. Each High Court shall consist of such number of Judges, in addition to the
Chief Judge, as provided for in the Federal law.
Appointment
The Chief Justice appoints the Chief Judge and other Judges of the High Court on the
recommendation of the Judicial Council.
Qualification

"" Should be Nepali citizen
"" A graduate in law with at least 5 years of experience as a District Judge or in a First

Class Gazetted post in the judicial service or a graduate in law with at least 10 years
practice as a senior advocate or advocate or a graduate with 10 years teaching and
research experiences in the legal or judicial sector

c. District Court

There will be a District Court in each district. The Local level judicial bodies established in
accordance with the state law shall be subordinate to the District Court. The District Court
may inspect as well as supervise and give necessary direction to its subordinate judicial bodies.

140 Social Studies Book 10

Appointment

The Chief Justice appoints Judges of the District Courts on recommendation of the Judicial
Council.

Qualification and Appointment Process
Twenty percent of the vacant posts: on the basis of evaluation of seniority, qualification
and competency, from amongst the officers who have obtained bachelor's degree in law and
served for at least three years in the post of Gazetted Second Class of the Judicial Service,

Forty percent of the vacant posts: on the basis of open competitive examination, from
amongst the officers who have obtained bachelor's degree in law and served for at least three
years in the post of Gazetted Second Class of the Judicial Service,

Forty percent of the vacant posts: on the basis of open competitive examination, from
amongst the citizens of Nepal who, have obtained bachelor's degree in law, have constantly
practiced law for at least eight years as an advocate or have obtained bachelor's degree in law,
have served in a Gazetted post of the Judicial Service for at least eight years or have constantly
been engaged in the teaching or research of law or served in any other field of law or justice
for at least eight years.

Power and Functions of Supreme Court

a. Advisory power b. Original jurisdiction

c. Appellate jurisdiction d. Power of reconsideration

e. Extra ordinary power(habeas corpus, mandamus, certiorari, prohibition and quo warranto)

Functions of Judiciary
a. Interpretation of Law
Judiciary is the main organ that supervises the law of the country. It explains the laws
formulated by the legislature and enforced by the state. While giving decision on any
case, it makes the meaning or the spirit of the law clear. Such explanation will be useful
for future. They are recorded for perpetual memory and testimony. They are precedent.

b. Protection of rights and freedom

Judiciary is the custodian of people’s rights and freedom. Our constitution has given various
rights to ensure our freedom. If our rights are violated, the courts restore them. It is the only
organ of the state that protects our rights and freedom given to us by the constitution.

c. Judicial Function

This function of judiciary is related to providing justice or verdict to the people on the basis of
law granted by the constitution. It gives decision on civil, criminal and the national issues on the
basis of the existing law of the state. It punishes the law breakers and saves the innocent people.

d. Advisory Function

Judiciary is the main organ that gives advice and suggestions to the legislature, executive and
other constitutional bodies on national issues and critical condition. It generally supports the
head of the government and the head of the state with needy advice in regard to complicated
legal matters. It tries to find out the right solution on different complicated, legal and
constitutional questions.

Social Studies Book 10 141

Difference between Criminal Case and Civil Case

Criminal case is related to one’s prestige, crime, violence and social and moral norms and
values. Some examples of this case are rape, murder, drug, trafficking, etc. The writ in this
case is registered by the government lawyer. The person who has been declared to be culprit
in this case is sent to jail. In such case, one should not pay fee to register the case. There is no
provision of withdrawal of such case. On the other hand, Civil case is related to the disputes
between or among people for or against property, borrowing, division of land or property,
divorce, land encroachment, etc. An individual can register the writ hiring advocate, against
the person who is believed to have done wrong. There is no any provision of imprisonment
but the victim will get justice by regaining the encroached violated rights. Court fees are to be
paid while registering the case. In this case, the case can be withdrawn if both the opposition
parties agree.

Difference between supreme court and high courts.

Supreme Court S.N. High court

There is only one supreme court in I. There is a high court in each province of
judicial system of Nepal. Nepal.
The chief justice on recommendation of
The president appoints the Chief Justice II. the judicial council appoints the chief
on recommendation of constitutional Judge and other judges of high court.
council and other judges of supreme
court. It consists of each number of judges as
provided for in federal law.
It consists of maximum of 20 judges. III Chief justice gets retirement at the age
of 63 years.
Chief Justice gets retirement at the age of IV High courts are under supreme court.
65 years.
Supreme court is the highest court or V
Nepal.

Interrelationship among Legislature, Executive and Judiciary

"" There is check and balance among these three organs of the government. This provision
prohibits any organ of the state to work according to its free will.

"" Legislature is an officially elected or selected body of people with the responsibility and
power to make laws for a country. But it cannot interpret and enforce it.

"" Executive is the administrative organ of the government. But it is formed from legislature.
Legislature can dismiss the prime minister through the vote of no confidence.

"" Legislature can accept or reject the actions carried out by the executive.
"" Legislature can raise questions on the activities of the executive if activities are not

carried out as per people’s will and aspirations.
"" Executive prepares annual budget for the country but it can only be implemented in the

country only after it is approved by the legislature.

142 Social Studies Book 10

"" The executive signs treaties and agreements with other countries but that must be
approved from the legislature.

"" Judiciary is an independent organ. However, legislature has right and power to appoint
judges through the parliamentary discussion and hearing.

"" Legislature has right to remove judges through impeachment motion for their
misconduct.

Three Organs Of Government

Legislature/Legislative Executive -sfok{ flnsf_ Judiciary -Gofokflnsf_

(Joj:yflksf_ Council of Minister Guardian of Law
Cabinet Law protecting body
Parliament
House of Representative Law implementing body Law defining body
and National Assembly Main Administrative Justice administrative body
Law making body body.
Highest national Simply government Court of record
representatives body. Prime minister is head Chief justice is head.
Bicameral body.
Speaker and chairman are
head

Three tiers namely: Three tiers namely: Three tiers namely:
• Federal legislature • Federal executive • Supreme court
• Provincial legislature • Provincial executive • High court
• Local legislature • Local executive • District court

Part 8, Article 83-108 in Part 7, Article 74-82 in Part 11 Article 126-156 in
constitution. constitution. constitution.

Word Meaning

• withdrawal : the action of taking back something
• contempt : the offence of being disobedient to or disrespectful of a court of law 
• precedents : a previous case or legal decision that may be or must be followed in
• proceedings
• subordinate subsequent similar cases
• verdict : action taken in a court to settle a dispute
• impeachment : lesser, supplementary, dependent
: law judgment, decision
: to charge (a public official) with a crime done while in office

Social Studies Book 10 143

Points to Remember:

"" Judiciary, which interprets laws and constitution and makes legal decisions, is one
of the important organs of the state.

"" It ensures that the country is run according to the laws, and protects fundamental
rights of the people.

"" There are three levels of courts: Supreme Court, High Court and District Court
in Nepal.

"" High Courts, which are 7 in number between District and Supreme Court, are
Courts of Appeal.

Activities

1. Short answer questions

a. Which is the apex court of Nepal? How does the Supreme Court make laws?
Describe.

b. Why is Judiciary called the ‘guardian of constitution’ and ‘custodian of people’s
rights and freedom’? Explain.

c. How are the judges of Supreme Court appointed? Explain the qualifications to be
a judge of High Court.

d. What are the powers and functions of the Judiciary? List them out.
e. Why is the role of judiciary important in the modern state?
f. Judiciary should be kept free from political interference. Justify this statement in

points.
g. Write the difference between civil case and criminal case.

2. Long answer questions

a. What are the various functions of Supreme Court? Describe them.
b. Explain the powers and functions of the Judiciary.
c. How do the different organs of the state check and balance each other. Explain.

3. Community based work.

Meet a person from your community who has just got justice from the judiciary. How
is the person feeling? Now prepare a monologue about the free and fair justice we get
from our judiciary.

144 Social Studies Book 10

Lesson 4 Constitutional Bodies

Besides legislature, executive and judiciary the bodies which have been mentioned in
constitution with formation, powers and functions are called constitutional bodies. The
government is responsible to maintain law and order in the country. It has to ensure good
governance through fair, speedy and cheap service. Similarly, fairness, transparency and
accountability are the basic requirements of a democratic system. The state should work
for the safety, welfare and wellbeing of the citizens. These bodies play a supportive role to
legislative, executive and judiciary for this purpose.

The Constitution of Nepal has made the provision of the following constitutional bodies.

a. Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA)

b. Auditor General (AG)

c. Public Service Commission (PSC)

d. Election Commission (EC)

e. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)

f. National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC)

a. Commission for Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA)
Part 21 of the Constitution of Nepal has the
provision of Commission for Investigation of CIAA Building
Abuse of Authority (CIAA). There are one chief
commissioner and four other commissioners in the
commission.

Appointment
The chief commissioner and other commissioners
are appointed by the president on the recommendation of constitutional council. Their
term of office is six years from the date of appointment or up to the age of 65 years.

Qualifications to be eligible for appointment

a. must be a Nepali citizen,

b. must hold bachelor's degree from a recognized university,

c. must not be a member of any political party at the time of appointment,
d. musthavegainedatleasttwentyyearsofexperiencesinthefieldofeitheraccounting,

revenue, engineering, law, development or research and is a distinguished person,

e. must have attained the age of forty five years, and

f. must be of high moral character.



Social Studies Book 10 145

Functions

a. It works to prevent corruption and abuse of authority.

b. It does inquiry and investigations of any abuse of authority by any person holding
public office.

c. It registers the case against the person in the court or recommends for departmental
sanction who is found to involve in corruption or any illegal work according to the
law of the country.

d. It prepares its annual report and submits to the president.

b. Auditor General (AG)
Part 22 of the Constitution of Nepal has made the provision of Auditor General.
Appointment

Auditor General is appointed by the president on the recommendation of constitutional
council. His/her term of office is six years from the date of appointment or up to the age
of 65 years.

Qualifications to be eligible for appointment

a. must be a Nepali citizen,

b. must have served in the Special Class of the Government of Nepal or has at least
twenty years of experiences in audit related work, after having obtained a bachelor's
degree in management, commerce or accounting from a recognized university or
has passed a chartered accountancy examination,

c. is not a member of any political party at the time of appointment,

d. must have attained the age of forty five years, and

e. must be of high moral character.

Functions

a. S/he audits the annual income and expenditures of the office of the president and
vice president, supreme court, federal parliament, provincial assemblies, provincial
government ministries, departments, constitutional bodies, the Nepalese Army,
the Nepal Police, the Armed Police and all semi-government and pro-public
offices, corporations and institutions where public investment is more than 50%.

b. S/he prepares and submits its annual report to the President.
c. Public Service Commission (PSC)
Part 23 of the Constitution of Nepal has made the provision of Public Service
Commission. This commission has a chairperson and four other members.

Appointment

The chief commissioner and other members are
appointed by the president on the recommendation
of constitutional council. Their term of office is six
years from the date of appointment or up to the age
of 65 years.
Public Service Commission Building



146 Social Studies Book 10

Qualifications to be eligible for appointment

a. must be Nepali citizen

b. must be at least 45 years of age

c. must have attained minimum of master’s degree

d. must not be a member of any political party

e. must be of high moral character

Functions

a. It conducts examinations for the selection of suitable candidates to be appointed
for the various posts of civil service. Civil service includes all services and positions
in the Government of Nepal except Nepal Army, Armed Police Force or Nepal
Police and those that are termed as non-civil.

b. It prepares syllabuses and questions for written and oral examinations for civil
servants.

c. It recommends government for appointments, rewards and punishment of the
civil servants.

d. It submits annual report of its works to the President.
d. Election Commission (EC)
There is the provision of Election Commission in the
Part 24 of the Constitution of Nepal. There are one
chief commissioner and four other commissioners in
this commission.
Appointment Election Commission Building

The chief commissioner and other commissioners are appointed by the president on
the recommendation of constitutional council. Their tenure is six years from the date
of appointment or up to the age of 65 years.
Qualifications to be eligible for appointment
a. must be a Nepali citizen
b. must be a graduate from a recognized university
c. must have attained 45 years of age
d. must not be a member of any political party.
e. must be of high moral character.
Functions
a. It conducts, supervises, directs and controls the election of the President, Vice-
President, members of the Federal Parliament, members of State Assemblies and
members of Local level.

b. It updates electoral roll, prepares ballot papers, etc.

c. It holds a referendum on a matter of national importance pursuant to the
Constitution and the Federal law.

d. It provides an annual report to the President who in turn presents it to the Federal
Legislature through the Prime Minister.

Social Studies Book 10 147

e. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
Part 25 of the Constitution of Nepal has made the provision of National Human Rights
Commission. There are a chairman and four other members.
Appointment
The chief commissioner and other commissioners are
appointed by the president on the recommendation of
the constitutional council. They are appointed from
among a retired Chief Justice or a retired Supreme
Court judge, who has made important contribution in
protection and promotion of human rights or a noted
human right activist or a social worker. Their term of
office is six years from the date of appointment or up Symbol of NHRC

to the age of 65 years.
Qualifications to be eligible for appointment
a. must be a Nepali citizen
b. must be at least 45 years of age.
c. must have completed at least Bachelor Degrees
d. must not be a member of any political party during the time of appointment
e. must be of high moral character.
Functions
a. It works to protect and promote human rights condition in the country.
b. It carries out necessary investigations of the cases of human rights violations as per
the information and reports it gets.
c. It recommends the government to provide compensation to the victims of human
rights violation.
d. It prepares its annual report and submits to the president. Prepares and publishes
annual human rights report.
f. National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission (NNRFC)
Part 26 of the Constitution of Nepal has the provision of National Natural Resource
and Fiscal Commission. This Commission has a Chairman and maximum other four
members.
Appointment
The chief commissioner and other commissioners are appointed by the president on
the recommendation of the constitutional council. Their term of office is six years from
the date of appointment or up to the age of 65 years.
Qualifications to be eligible for appointment
a. must be a Nepali citizen
b. must have attained at least 45 years age.
c. must have at least Bachelor's Degree in the subject concerned.
d. must not be a member of political parties during the time of appointment.
e. must have at least 20 years of experience in natural resources or fiscal management

148 Social Studies Book 10

f. must be of high moral character.
Functions

a. It determines detailed basis and modality for the distribution of revenues between
the Federal, State and Local Governments out of the Federal Consolidated Fund
in accordance with the Constitution and law.

b. It makes recommendation about equalization of grants to be provided to the State
and Local Governments out of the Federal Consolidated Fund.

c. It analyses the disputes regarding utilization of natural resources between
provincial and local government.

d. It conducts study and research work and prepares parameters to provide conditional
grants to the State and Local Governments in accordance with national policies
and programs, norms/standards and situation of infrastructures.

Word Meaning

• autonomous : independent, self-governing
• graduate : a person who has finished diploma or bachelor level
• referendum : an event in which the people of a county, state, etc., vote for or

against a law that deals with a specific issue

Points to Remember:

"" Constitutional bodies are autonomous bodies with specific composition, powers and
responsibilities provided by the constitution.

"" Auditor General, Election Commission, Public Service Commission, CIAA, Human Rights
Commission and National Natural Resources and Fiscal Commission are Constitutional
bodies of Nepal.

"" Officials of the Constitutional bodies are appointed by the President on the recommendation
of the Constitutional Council.

"" All the officials of the Constitutional bodies serve for 6 years or till the age of 65 and have to
submit annual report of their work to the President.

"" The CIAA works to prevent corruptions and abuse of authority, and carries out investigations
of any abuse of authority by any person holding public office.

"" The Auditor General audits the annual income and expenditures of the highest offices and
submits its annual report to the President.

"" The PSC selects all civil servants, recommends for their appointments, rewards and punishment,
except Nepal Army, Armed Police Force or Nepal Police.

"" Election Commission conducts, supervises, directs and controls the election, updates electoral
roll, prepares ballot papers, holds a national referendum.

"" The NHRC works on promoting human rights condition, human rights violations, recommends
the government for compensation to the victims.

"" The NNRFC works on providing equal distribution of revenues and grants, and studies any
possible disputes that arises on using natural resources.

Social Studies Book 10 149

Activities

1. Short answer questions

a. Prepare a chart showing the constitutional organs of Nepal.
b. Compare the constitutional organs of Nepal according to the Interim Constitution

of Nepal 2063 and the Constitution of Nepal.
c. Describe the main works of Public Service Commission.
d. Write about the formation of the Commission for the Investigation of

Abuse of Authority along with the qualification of Chief Commissioner and
Commissioners.
e. Write a letter to your brother telling him about the functions of National Human
Rights Commission.
f. What are the functions of Election Commission?
g. Complete the following table.

S.N Name of Constitutional Bodies Head of Constitutional Bodies
1
2
3
4
5
6

h. How can you help the CIAA to make it more active and effective in preventing
corruptions and abuse of authority?

2. Long answer questions

a. Prepare an article including information about our constitutional organs, their
formation, qualification to be eligible for appointment and functions.

b. List the functions of National Natural Resources and fiscal commissions. Why is
this very important constitutional organ in the present context of Nepal? Explain.

3. Community work

Meet a retired commissioner of the CIAA and discuss with him about the corruption
in Nepal. Then prepare a report under these topics.

"" Causes of Corruption
"" Roles played by CIAA to control it
"" Obstacles in its works if any
"" His suggestions to make CIAA more effective
"" Conclusion

150 Social Studies Book 10