The General Studies Paper 2 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains 2021 plays a crucial role in assessing the candidates’ analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as their understanding of governance, constitution, and international relations. This paper, also known as the “Polity and Governance” paper, covers a diverse range of topics such as Indian Constitution, governance issues, social justice, and international relations. Candidates are expected to demonstrate a deep understanding of the constitutional framework, government policies, and the challenges faced by the nation. Additionally, the paper assesses candidates’ knowledge of international relations and the impact of global events on India. The ability to critically analyze issues, articulate well-reasoned arguments, and propose viable solutions is essential for success in this examination. Aspirants are required to stay updated with current affairs, government policies, and international developments to tackle the questions effectively and showcase their comprehensive knowledge in this critical component of the UPSC CSE Mains.
General Studies Paper I of UPSC CSE Mains 2021 was conducted on 8th January 2022. Below is the question paper. The time Allowed was 3 Hrs and the Paper was 250 Marks.
General Studies – Paper 2
- Constitutional Morality is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional Morality’ with the help of relevant judicial decisions. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- Discuss the desirability of greater representation for women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the states to improve their fiscal position? (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- To what extent in your view the parliament can ensure accountability of the executive in India? (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- “Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policymaking in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policy. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- “Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition of sustainable development.” Analyze. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- “ Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful.” Comment. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty, and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing the women’s SHGs? Explain with examples. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- “In the last few decades of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in Africa in recent Africa. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. (150 Words / 10 Marks)
- The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probes within a particular state is being questioned by various states. However, the power of the states to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- The Human Rights Commission have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert itself against the mighty. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Rights to Equality in the Constitution of the USA and India. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current state of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with a lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Explain with justification. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women’s education and empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Can civil society and non-governmental organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenge of the alternative model. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (250 Words / 15 Marks)
- The new tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (250 Words / 15 Marks)
FAQs on UPSC CSE Mains 2021
Q1: What is General Studies Paper 2 in UPSC CSE Mains 2021?
A1: General Studies Paper 2, also known as the “Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations” paper, is a part of the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Mains. It assesses candidates’ understanding of governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations.
Q2: What are the major topics covered in General Studies Paper 2?
A2: The paper broadly covers topics such as Indian Constitution, governance, social justice, international relations, and related issues. Specific areas include Parliament and State Legislatures, welfare schemes, bilateral relations, and global institutions.
Q3: How is the Indian Constitution tested in this paper?
A3: The Indian Constitution is a significant component of this paper. Questions may cover fundamental rights, directive principles, constitutional amendments, federalism, and other aspects related to the governance structure of India.
Q4: What is the weightage of current affairs in this paper?
A4: While the paper primarily focuses on core subjects like polity and constitution, it also incorporates current affairs. Questions related to recent developments, government policies, and international events may be included. Staying updated on current affairs is crucial for success in this paper.
Q5: Is this paper subjective or objective in nature?
A5: General Studies Paper 2 is a subjective paper. Candidates are required to write descriptive answers. It assesses the ability of candidates to articulate their thoughts, analyze information, and present their understanding of various topics.
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