Embarking on the challenging journey of preparing for the UPSC Mains examination requires a meticulous understanding of the PSIR (Political Science and International Relations) optional syllabus. One crucial aspect that aspirants often grapple with is navigating through the vast ocean of previous year questions. In this blog series, we delve into the PSIR optional topic of “Salient Features of the Indian Constitution” and meticulously analyze the questions asked in the UPSC Mains from 2013 to 2023. By scrutinizing the trends and patterns, we aim to provide invaluable insights into the examiner’s mindset, helping aspirants tailor their preparation strategies effectively. Understanding the intricacies of the Indian Constitution is not only a prerequisite for PSIR but also forms the bedrock of a candidate’s overall comprehension of India’s political landscape.
As we navigate through the years, the salient features of the Indian Constitution have been a recurrent theme in UPSC Mains, underscoring its significance in the examination. This blog series aims to unravel the nuances of each question, shedding light on the core concepts that candidates must master. From federalism to fundamental rights, the Indian Constitution serves as a dynamic tapestry of governance, and a comprehensive grasp of its salient features is non-negotiable for UPSC success. Join us on this insightful journey as we unravel the evolution of questions pertaining to the Indian Constitution in the PSIR optional section, offering aspirants a roadmap to navigate this intricate terrain and enhance their chances of success in one of the country’s most prestigious examinations.
Salient Features of the Indian Constitution – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
The Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles
1. Comment: Reverse discrimination. (1994)
2. Comment: Kesavananda Bharathi Case. (1996)
3. Comment: Right to Constitutional Remedies under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution and application of the principle of Res Judicata. (1999)
4. Comment: ‘Right against exploitation’ under the Indian Constitution. (2003)
5. “The Directive Principles of State Policy are not mere pious declarations but clear directions for the guidance of State Policy.” Comment and show how far they have been applied in practice. (2003)
6. Comment: Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution. (2004)
7. Explain the main principles embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India. What is their significance? Do you think that they are the political horoscope of the country? Discuss. (2004)
8. Comment: Fundamental Duties under Article 51A of the Constitution of India. (2005)
9. Do you agree with the view that Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Polity constitute the ‘Core and Conscience’ of the Indian Constitution? Comment on the emerging trends in their interrelationship. (2005)
10. Comment: The Directive Principles of State Policy are not mere pious declarations but clear directions for the guidance of state policy. (2007)
11. Comment: The type of Government enshrined in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. (2008)
12. “Minorities are the natural custodians of the secular state [ D.E. Smith] Discuss. (2010)
Parliamentary System
1. Majority in legislatures does not necessarily contribute to the stability of the state Government in India. Discuss. (1992)
2. Examine the case for formation of small states in India. (1993)
3. Discuss the patterns of legislative-executive relationship prevalent in the world today What factors and forces have enabled the executive to overpower the legislature, in most countries? (1997)
4. Differentiate parliamentary supremacy from parliamentary sovereignty. Would you consider the Indian Parliament as a Sovereign Parliament, Examine. (2017)
Amendment Procedures; Judicial Review and Basic Structure doctrine
1. Comment: The 42nd amendment to the Constitution of India. (1992)
2. Comment on Doctrine of Basic Structure of the Indian Constitution. (150 words) (2012)
3. Comment in 150 words: 99th Amendment of the Indian Constitution. (2015)
4. Discuss the efficacy of judicial review in India. (2015)
5. Comment: ‘Article 368 does not enable Parliament to alter the basic structure or framework of the Constitution’. (2016)
6. Comment: The purpose ·of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment was to make the economic and social democracy explicitly visible. (2016)
7. “The basic structure doctrine is implicit in the Indian Constitution; the Supreme Court has only given it an explicit for.” Comment. (2019)
8. Underline the significance of the first constitutional amendment. (150 words) (2021)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, and how do they contribute to the democratic fabric of the nation?
Understanding the fundamental rights enshrined in the Indian Constitution is crucial for any UPSC aspirant. This FAQ delves into the core principles that form the bedrock of individual liberties and their significance in shaping the democratic ethos of the country.
2. How does federalism operate in the Indian context, and what role does it play in the distribution of powers between the Centre and the States?
Federalism is a key feature of the Indian Constitution, outlining the distribution of powers between the central government and the states. This FAQ explores the intricacies of federalism, shedding light on its practical implications for governance and cooperative federalism in India.
3. What are the directive principles of state policy, and how do they guide the government in policy formulation and implementation?
The directive principles of state policy serve as guiding principles for the government in the formulation and implementation of policies. This FAQ unravels the significance of these principles, providing insights into their role in shaping the socio-economic development trajectory of the nation.
4. How has the concept of secularism been interpreted and implemented in the Indian constitutional framework?
Secularism is a pivotal aspect of the Indian Constitution, ensuring the state remains equidistant from all religions. This FAQ explores the constitutional interpretation of secularism and its practical implications in fostering religious harmony and upholding the principles of a diverse society.
5. What role does the Constitution play in protecting the rights of marginalized communities, and how has this evolved over the years?
The Indian Constitution places a strong emphasis on protecting the rights of marginalized communities. This FAQ delves into the constitutional provisions and legal mechanisms aimed at ensuring social justice, shedding light on the evolution of these safeguards over the years.
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