CHAPTER-20 (MEDIA- THE MAINSTAY OF DEMOCRACY)

Question/Answers

D: Answer the following questions in brief.

Q.1 Define Media.

Ans. Media refers to various means of communication that help in communicating to a large number of people at the same time. Radio, Television, cinema, newspapers, magazines and internet are all means of communication.

Q.2 Why is media called a watchdog of democracy?

1.     Media is like a watchdog in a democracy that keeps the government active and the public involved.

2.     Media also bring out the defects in the governance and administration.

3.     They remind the politicians about their unfulfilled promises and their responsibilities towards their constituency and the nation.

Q.3 In what ways does the cinema affect our views?

1.     Indian has also played an important role in creating awareness about social evils, political malpractices, economic exploitation and the fast changing Indian society and its value system.

2.     Some films impart important messages and have great impact on us.

3.     For example, the film Lage Raho Munna Bhai was exempted from entertainment tax by the government as it taught the lesson of non- violent protest, even though in a ‘filmi’ style.

Q.4 What are the different means of print and electronic media?

Ans. A) The different means of print and electronic media are:-

1.     Newspapers

2.     Magazines

3.     Periodicals

B) The different means of electronic media are:-

1.     Television

2.     Radio

3.     Internet etc.

Q.5 What other basic rights are linked with the Right to Information.

Ans. Right to Information is closely linked with our basic rights, such as Freedom of Speech and Expression and Right to Education.

E: Answer the following questions.

Q.1 How are media and technology dependent on each other.

1.     On one hand, technology has improved the efficiency of media and, on the other, media updates on the advances and technology, weather it is a new form of internet connection or diet pills.

2.     Media uses digital technology to provide improved quality of sound and picture as well as influences our thinking.

3.     The latest technologies help media to reach out to the masses. The impact of technologies can be seen on the bill boards, newspapers, periodicals, CDs, DVDs, television programmes, films, etc.

Q.2 How does media influence our daily life?

1.     In present times, media is the prime source for the public to know about the current affairs, sports and games, progress of wars, political situation in a country, etc. Thus, it has a great impact on the public perception and opinion.

2.     The viewer is exposed to a number of advertisements each highlighting the wonders of its product which helps them to make a wise choice.

3.     Interviews, speeches and panel discussions make viewers aware of the opinions of different political parties, eminent personalities from various fields.

Q.3 Describe the role of media in democracy.

1.     In a democratic country like India, media plays an important role in creating aware and enlightened citizens.

2.     Indian media has been successful in creating public opinion about the bride burning issues, exposing scandals and building the confidence of the people.

3.     It also ensures that the political power, other parties and powerful group do not step beyond their limits.

4.     The information from media helps the citizens to form opinions, learn about the working plans and programmes that the government is undertaking, their successful implementation or failure.

5.     During the elections, they help the people, especially the illiterates, in electing the right persons to power.

Q.4 In what ways does the media bring the problems of the common man to the forefront?

1.     It draws the attention of the public and the government towards issues like scarcity of clean drinking water, lack of health facilities crime and violence illiteracy, female infanticide, etc.

2.     Stories and discussions about the wrong practices of village heads and money lenders have attracted the attention of the government as well as the public. 

Q.5 Do you think Indian media is free? Justify your answer.

Ans. Indian media is free. But sometimes, the government can ban the media from broadcasting and publishing certain items to protect the interest of our country or some religions /cultural group. This is known as censorship.