HPAS/ N.T. Allied Mains 2022-23 Answer Writing Challenge: Model Answer

Question: What do you mean by Pressure groups? ( 4 MARKS, 60 WORDS)

Answer:

Pressure groups are forms of organisations, which exert pressure on the political or administrative system of a country to extract benefits out of it and to advance Emerging Issues their own interests.

In the present contest these forms of organisations are broadly referred to as Civil Society Organisations (CSO).

The term ‘pressure group’ refers to any interest group whose members because of their shared common attributes make claims on the other groups and on the political process. They pursue their interests by organising themselves and by influencing the governmental policies. Their aim is to see that laws or government’s actions are favourable to their interests.

The dominant sections of the society needed the help of the State in promotion of the economic activities and the weak and the deprived needed its help for meeting their basic requirements. To articulate their interests and exert pressure on the State apparatus these groups gained prominence.

There are number of Pressure groups which work in different sectors in Himachal Pradesh:

• The Business Groups – Himachal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Himachal Pradesh Laghu Udyog Sangh
• Trade Unions – Lal jhanda union, Contract worker union
• Professional Associations – HP Govt teacher’s association, H.P. Library Association, H.P. Medical Officer Association.
• Agrarian Groups in Himachal Pradesh – Apple Growers Association.
• Important NGOs – Abhividbha, Ashiyana, Awaaz Social Working Society, etc.

Pressure groups in mobilising and organising masses have widened the base of political participation as well as creating a responsive political and administrative system. They help in social integration, political articulation, and act as catalysts for change.