The CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus for 2026-27 outlines the key topics and themes that students need to study for the academic year. It is divided into two parts: Contemporary World Politics and Politics in India Since Independence. In the first part, students will explore global political events such as the end of the Cold War, the rise of new power centers like China and the European Union, and the role of international organizations like the United Nations. This section also covers pressing global issues like environmental concerns, security, and globalization.
The second part focuses on India’s political journey since gaining independence. Topics include the challenges of nation-building, the dominance of the Congress party, India’s foreign relations, and regional aspirations within the country. The syllabus also highlights recent developments in Indian politics, such as coalition governments and socio-economic welfare programs. This well-structured syllabus helps students understand both international and Indian political landscapes, preparing them for examinations and developing a deeper understanding of the subject.
The syllabus is divided into two parts:
| Chapter No. | Chapter Name | No. of Periods | Marks Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The End of Bipolarity | 15 | 6 |
| 2 | Contemporary Centres of Power | 18 | 6 |
| 3 | Contemporary South Asia | 18 | 6 |
| 4 | International Organizations | 10 | 6 |
| 5 | Security in the Contemporary World | 10 | 6 |
| 6 | Environment and Natural Resources | 12 | 6 |
| 7 | Globalisation | 12 | 4 |
| Total | 95 | 40 |
| Chapter No. | Chapter Name | No. of Periods | Marks Allotted |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Challenges of Nation-Building | 16 | 6 |
| 2 | Era of One-Party Dominance | 8 | 4 |
| 3 | Politics of Planned Development | 12 | 2 |
| 4 | India’s External Relations | 20 | 6 |
| 5 | Challenges to and Restoration of the Congress System | 12 | 4 |
| 6 | The Crisis of Democratic Order | 15 | 4 |
| 7 | Regional Aspirations | 15 | 6 |
| 8 | Recent Developments in Indian Politics | 20 | 8 |
| Total | 118 | 40 |
Sub-Topic: Arab Spring
The Arab Spring, which began in 2009, marked a significant moment for democratization in West Asia. It originated in Tunisia, where the people rose against corruption, unemployment, and poverty under autocratic rule. The movement quickly spread to other Arab nations, including Egypt, where long-serving president Hosni Mubarak was ousted after massive protests. The effects of the Arab Spring also reached Yemen, Bahrain, Libya, and Syria, where the public demanded democratic changes.
Sub-Topic: BRICS
BRICS is an association of five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Initially formed as BRIC in 2006, it expanded to BRICS with the inclusion of South Africa in 2009. BRICS aims to promote economic cooperation and mutual benefits among member nations. The 11th BRICS summit, chaired by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, concluded in 2019.
Sub-Topic: Russia
Russia emerged as a strong successor to the Soviet Union after its dissolution in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Russia currently holds the 11th largest GDP globally and possesses significant natural resources, including minerals and gas. As a nuclear power and a permanent member of the UN Security Council (P-5), Russia holds considerable influence in global politics.
Sub-Topic: India
India is recognized as an emerging global power in the 21st century, with its growing economy and large population. India aims to achieve a $5 trillion economy and plays a significant role in global markets. The “Make in India” initiative and its indigenous nuclear technology further strengthen its global standing. India’s military and strategic capabilities position it as an important power in the current geopolitical landscape.
Sub-Topic: Israel
Israel has become one of the most powerful nations globally, excelling in science, technology, defense, and intelligence. Despite its geographic challenges and conflicts with Arab countries, Israel has made significant advancements in technology and agriculture. Its defense strength and resilience make it a key player in West Asian politics.
Sub-Topic: UNESCO
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) was founded on November 4, 1946, with its headquarters in Paris, France. Its mission is to promote education, science, culture, and communication globally. UNESCO has been instrumental in advancing literacy, technical education, and independent media in its member states.
Sub-Topic: UNICEF
UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund) was established in 1946 to support the development and health of children worldwide. With its headquarters in New York, UNICEF works in 193 countries to promote children’s rights and well-being.
Sub-Topic: ILO
The International Labour Organization (ILO) was founded in 1919, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Its mission is to promote social justice and set global labor standards, ensuring safe and fair working conditions for both men and women.
Sub-Topic: Terrorism
Terrorism involves the use of extreme violence to instill fear in society, often for political or religious reasons. It can be understood in three ways:
There is no country that has escaped the impact of terrorism. India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized that terrorism should not be categorized as good or bad but should be addressed globally and collectively.
Sub-Topic: Patel and National Integration
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, known as the “Iron Man of India,” played a pivotal role in the integration of 565 princely states into the Indian Union after independence. Patel’s diplomatic approach and strong leadership helped merge key states like Hyderabad and Junagarh into India. Though Patel faced challenges in integrating Kashmir fully, he remains a monumental figure in India’s nation-building process.
Sub-Topic: NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission in 2015, following the abolition of the latter by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his 2014 Independence Day speech. NITI Aayog, functioning as a think tank, advises the Indian government on policy making and emphasizes cooperative federalism, allowing states to participate in the national policy framework.
Sub-Topic: National Development Council (NDC)
Established in 1952, the NDC is the highest authority for decision-making on national development issues. Chaired by the Prime Minister, it includes members of the Union Cabinet, Chief Ministers, and NITI Aayog representatives. The NDC’s primary goal is to ensure balanced, rapid development across all parts of India.
Sub-Topic: India-Israel Relations
India and Israel established diplomatic relations in 1992, although their ties date back centuries. Since then, the nations have strengthened cooperation in various fields, including security, counterterrorism, agriculture, and science. Key visits by leaders from both countries in 2017 and 2018 further solidified their partnership.
Sub-Topic: India’s Nuclear Program
India follows a “No First Use” nuclear policy, reflecting its commitment to peace. However, this policy can be reassessed based on regional security concerns. India continues to advocate for inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) while opposing discriminatory nuclear treaties like the CTBT and NPT.
Sub-Topic: Jaya Prakash Narayan
Jaya Prakash Narayan led campaigns against corruption and advocated for “Total Revolution,” a movement for social, political, and economic change. He believed in empowering the youth and focused on transforming both individuals and society.
Sub-Topic: Ram Manohar Lohia and Socialism
Ram Manohar Lohia advocated for “Democratic Socialism” in India. His ideology emphasized both economic (food, housing) and non-economic (freedom, democracy) aspects of development. He promoted political action at multiple levels—center, region, district, and village—and believed in affirmative action for marginalized groups.
Sub-Topic: Deendayal Upadhyaya and Integral Humanism
Deendayal Upadhyaya’s philosophy of Integral Humanism places the human being at the center of development. His ideas focus on balancing individual and societal needs while promoting sustainable use of resources. He opposed both capitalist and socialist ideologies and advocated for Indianization of democracy.
Sub-Topic: Democratic Upsurges
India has seen three major “Democratic Upsurges”:
Sub-Topic: The Kashmir Issue
Since its integration with India, Kashmir has faced ongoing political challenges, exacerbated by Article 370 and Article 35A, which granted it special status. These articles were abrogated in 2019, leading to the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.
Sub-Topic: NDA III & IV
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a landslide victory in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This marks a significant shift towards one-party dominance in Indian politics, resembling the earlier “Congress System.”
Sub-Topic: Issues of Development and Governance
Several government schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Jan-Dhan Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat Yojana have been launched to improve governance and ensure that development reaches the rural and marginalized sections of society.
The CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus 2026-27 PDF is available for download and provides a detailed chapter-wise breakdown, marks distribution, and key learning objectives. It covers topics in two parts: Contemporary World Politics and Politics in India Since Independence. The PDF helps students plan their studies effectively and is accessible for offline use.
CBSE Class 12 Political Science Syllabus-Click Here To Download PDF
Related Articles:
The syllabus is divided into two parts:
These sections cover global political developments and India’s political journey after independence.
There are approximately 15 chapters in total across both parts of the syllabus.
Key topics include:
Important topics include:
Students should study the NCERT textbooks:
The syllabus is periodically updated by CBSE. Some chapters/topics may be reduced or modified, so students should always check the latest official syllabus PDF.
Yes, it is considered scoring if you:
The paper includes:
Yes, project work (20 marks) is mandatory and contributes significantly to your final score.
Political Science helps students develop:
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