haya.Learning made clear
National and regional parties and their policies sheet
3-mark answer frame

Distinguish between national and regional political parties, with one example of each.

How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.

  1. 1 · Open. The Election Commission classifies parties as national, State (regional) or registered (unrecognised).
  2. 2 · National party. Its influence covers the whole country, and it meets the Election Commission's test of wide support, such as recognition as a State party in four or more States; for example, the Indian National Congress or the BJP.
  3. 3 · Regional party. Its influence is limited to particular States and it grows from regional aspirations; for example, the DMK in Tamil Nadu or the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.
  4. 4 · Role at the Centre. Regional parties often support national parties to form coalition governments at the Centre.
  5. 5 · Close in one line. Together they make India's party system federal and competitive.

Scoring tip: Give one example of each type from your lesson's list. The examples earn the third mark.