NCERT Class 10 Social Science Democratic Politics: Chapter 3 — Gender, Religion and Caste
This chapter, 'Gender, Religion and Caste,' from NCERT's Democratic Politics for Class 10, explores how social diversity, specifically divisions based on gender, religion, and caste, manifests in Indian politics. It begins by examining the gender division, highlighting the 'sexual division of labour' where women primarily handle domestic responsibilities while men engage in public life. The chapter argues that this division, though often seen as natural, is socially constructed and limits women's participation in politics. It traces the historical struggle for women's equal rights and voting rights, emphasizing that household power dynamics are also political. The text aims to apply these concepts to India's democratic practices, analyzing the nature of these divisions and their political expression, and assessing their impact on democracy.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 10 |
| Subject | Social Science |
| Book | Democratic Politics |
| Chapter | Chapter 3 — Gender, Religion and Caste |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 526 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of social divisions based on gender, religion, and caste.
- Analyze the 'sexual division of labour' and its impact on women's public participation.
- Recognize that gender divisions are socially constructed, not natural.
- Appreciate the historical struggles for gender equality and voting rights.
- Connect household power dynamics to the broader concept of politics.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sexual division of labour | A system where all work inside the home is done by women or organized by them, while men typically perform work outside the home. |
| Social diversity | The existence of varied social differences within a society. |
| Social divisions | Differences within a society that can lead to group distinctions and potential conflict. |
| Stereotypes | Oversimplified and fixed ideas or beliefs about a particular group of people. |
| Public life | Activities and participation in the affairs of the community or nation. |
| Domestic labour | Work performed within the home, typically related to household chores and childcare. |
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Practice questions
- What is meant by the 'sexual division of labour'? Answer: It is a system where women primarily handle all work inside the home (cooking, cleaning, childcare), while men typically do work outside the home.
- Are gender divisions based on biology or social expectations? Answer: Gender divisions are based on social expectations and stereotypes, not biology.
- What historical struggle is mentioned regarding women's rights? Answer: The historical struggle for women's equal rights, including the extension of voting rights to women.
- Why is household work considered political in the context of the chapter? Answer: Because politics is about power, and male dominance in the household reflects a power dynamic that should be considered political.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of Chapter 3 of Democratic Politics Class 10?
The chapter discusses how social diversity based on gender, religion, and caste can manifest as social divisions and impact politics in India.
What is the 'sexual division of labour' as explained in the chapter?
It refers to the societal assignment of domestic work (inside the home) primarily to women and outside work to men.
Are gender divisions natural?
No, the chapter states that gender divisions are based on social expectations and stereotypes, not biology.
How does the chapter relate household work to politics?
It argues that power dynamics within the household, like male dominance, are political and should be considered in the study of politics.
What historical progress is mentioned regarding women and politics?
The chapter mentions historical agitations by women worldwide for equal rights, particularly voting rights.
What is the significance of social differences in democracy?
The chapter suggests that social diversity does not threaten democracy, and the political expression of social differences can be desirable.
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 10 Social Science — Democratic Politics — Chapter 3 — Gender, Religion and Caste. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.