‘Public Facilities’ is a chapter given in Class 8 NCERT Political Science textbook. Here are given short notes based on the chapter “Public Facilities”.
Main Headings
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Class 8 Civics Chapter 7: Public Facilities – Notes
1. Introduction
- Public facilities are essential services provided for the welfare of all citizens.
- These include water, sanitation, electricity, healthcare, public transport, and education.
- The government plays a key role in ensuring equitable access to these facilities.
2. Water as a Public Facility
- Water is necessary for daily life and health.
- In Chennai, different localities have varying levels of water supply:
- Wealthy areas have better access.
- Middle-class areas rely on borewells and water tankers.
- Slum dwellers face severe shortages and long waits.
- The Constitution of India recognizes the right to water as part of the Right to Life (Article 21).
- The government is responsible for ensuring safe and sufficient water for all.
3. Other Public Facilities
- Public transport, sanitation, and education are also critical facilities.
- Electricity enables economic growth and improves quality of life.
- Healthcare facilities help prevent diseases and ensure a healthy population.
4. Government’s Role in Providing Public Facilities
- Public facilities require large investments and are not always profitable.
- The government ensures these facilities reach everyone, including the poor.
- In some cases, private companies assist in delivering services, but the government must regulate them.
5. Challenges in Public Facility Distribution
- Inequality in access: Wealthier areas receive better services than poorer ones.
- Shortages: In many parts of India, demand exceeds supply.
- Privatization concerns: Private companies charge high prices, making facilities unaffordable for many.
6. Case Study: Water Supply in Chennai
- Water supply is unequal, with privileged groups receiving more water.
- Private companies extract water from rural areas, leading to groundwater depletion.
- Example: Porto Alegre (Brazil) successfully implemented a public water system that benefits all citizens.
7. Need for Sustainable Solutions
- Rainwater harvesting can help conserve water.
- Efficient use of electricity and public transport can reduce resource strain.
- Community participation in managing resources can improve access and quality.
8. Conclusion
- Public facilities are a fundamental right and must be accessible to all.
- The government must ensure fair distribution and prevent privatization from exploiting citizens.
- Conservation and responsible usage of resources are necessary for long-term sustainability.