In a democratic form of government who are the key actors?

The correct answer is Option (2) → Political parties

Option (1) Industrialists — Incorrect. Industrialists form associations such as FICCI and ASSOCHAM. These are interest groups that lobby the government; they do not seek to run it.

Option (2) Political parties — Correct. In a democratic form of government political parties are key actors. A political party is an organisation oriented towards achieving legitimate control of government through an electoral process, and the interests of different groups are represented by the parties that take up their case.

Option (3) People — Incorrect. The people vote, but they do not act in politics one by one. Their interests reach the government through political parties, which contest elections and form the government.

Option (4) NGO’s — Incorrect. Non-governmental organisations take up issues and put pressure on the state from outside, as part of civil society. They do not contest elections to control the government.

Note: The chapter ‘The Story of Indian Democracy’ of the pre-rationalised NCERT, which NTA followed in 2023, has been renamed ‘The Constitution and Social Change’ in the NCERT book (2025-26). Its section on political parties, pressure and interest groups is still there.