Delving into the intricacies of Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) as an optional subject in the UPSC mains examination can be both intellectually stimulating and daunting. Among the diverse array of topics, the exploration of party system holds a pivotal place, acting as a microcosm of the larger political landscape. In this blog series, we embark on a comprehensive journey through the previous year questions from 2013 to 2023, dissecting the nuances of the PSIR optional topic on party systems. Analyzing these questions not only serves as a valuable exercise in understanding the evolving dynamics of party politics but also aids aspirants in honing their analytical skills to navigate the challenges posed by the UPSC mains.
As we navigate through a decade of UPSC mains examinations, we will unravel the thematic evolution and recurrent patterns in the questions posed on party systems. From the role of regional parties to the impact of coalition politics, each question provides a unique lens through which aspirants can deepen their understanding of political structures and their implications. Whether you are a seasoned aspirant aiming for a refined revision strategy or a newcomer curious about the intricacies of party systems in the context of the UPSC examination, this series aims to be your guide, offering insights and perspectives that go beyond the surface and into the heart of PSIR as an optional subject. Join us on this intellectual voyage as we navigate the labyrinth of party systems in the UPSC mains and decipher the code to success in the PSIR optional paper.
Party System – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
National and regional political parties, ideological and social bases of parties; patterns of coalition politics; Pressure groups, trends in electoral behaviour; changing socio-economic profile of Legislators.
1. Comment: Personality factor and party system in India. (1992)
2. ‘Tradition is not always incompatible with Modernity’. Comment on the statement with reference to the modernisation trends in Indian policy. (1992)
3. “Political reforms must precede and not follow social reforms.” (Tilak). Discuss. (1994)
4. Comment: Politics of terrorism. (1995)
5. Comment: Proportional representation. (1996)
6. Comment: Minority Governments in India. (1997)
7. Comment: Politics of terrorism in India. (1998)
8. Differentiate a political party from a pressure group. Explain the role of R.S.S. and Bajrang Dal-units of Sangh-Parivar as pressure-groups in the Indian political system. (1999)
9. Write: “Divisionism” in Indian political parties with special reference to Janta Dal, Congress, CPI and Akali Dal. (1999)
10. Indian democracy began with the unique advantages of an efficient civil service and a well- organized political party yet its record is dismal. What are the causes for such poor performance? (2001)
11. Identify the major pressure-groups in Indian Politics and examine their role in it. (2003)
12. Comment: Coalition Governments in India at the Centre since 1998. (2005)
13. “Political reform must precede and not follow social reforms”. (Tilak). Elucidate. (2007)
14. Comment: Revision in the Election Code of Conduct. (2008)
15. In what ways do pressure groups and movements exert influence in politics? In the Indian political context, discuss the implications of such influence being exerted. (2008)
16. Comment: Implications of the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) on electoral politics (2009)
17. Comment: Upsurge in political participation among the marginalised communities in the Indian General Elections during the last two decades. (2010)
18. Critically examine and comment: “The principle of collective responsibility, a la the Cabinet system of government, has eroded in the context of the emergence of coalition governments in India.” (2010)
19. Comment: Trade unions as pressure group in Indian politics. (2011)
20. Examine the changing pattern of electoral behaviour in India. (2011)
21. Examine the impact of coalition-politics on Indian political system. (2012)
22. Explain to what extent the concept of “oneparty dominance” (W.H. Morris-Jones) model is relevant in Indian politics today. (2013)
23. Comment in 150 words: Marginalization of the left ideology in India. (2014)
24. Discuss the nature of reforms of the electoral process in India and explain the further scope for reforms. (2014)
25. Explain how pressure groups have been influencing public policy-making with suitable illustrations. (2014)
26. Account for the changes in the socio-economic profile of legislators during last one decade in India. (2014)
27. “Identity politics has trumped development politics in India.” Comment. (2015)
28. Account for the rise of regional political parties and assess their role in contemporary India. (2015)
29. Discuss the pattern of Political Parties from one dominant party system to coalition politics in national politics. (2016)
30. State subvention/funding may be an effective instrument in strengthening electoral democracy in India. Comment. (2017)
31. India has moved from ‘one-party dominant system’ to ‘one-party led coalition’. Discuss. (2017)
32. Comment in150 words: Political personalities are more significant than political parties in India. (2018)
33. Explain the increasing role of regional political parties in the national politics. (2018)
34. The changing socio-economic profile of of legislators does not augur well for the health of Indian democracy. Comment. (2019)
35. To what extent has the inadequate intraparty democracy affected the functioning of Indian Democracy? (2020)
36. “The Indian party system is shaped by a complex interaction of the country’s federal structure, electoral system and social cleavages.” Explain. (2021)
37. How far is it correct that the regional parties have strengthened Indian democracy and federal system? Substantiate your answer with suitable examples.(2022)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a party system in the context of political science?
A party system refers to the arrangement and interaction of political parties within a particular country or political entity. It encompasses the number of major political parties, their relative strength, and the nature of competition and cooperation among them. Understanding the party system is crucial for analyzing the dynamics of political processes and governance within a given state.
Q: How does the party system influence the functioning of a democratic government?
The party system plays a pivotal role in shaping the functioning of a democratic government. It determines the stability of governance, the nature of policy-making, and the representation of diverse interests. The composition of the party system affects the dynamics of legislative bodies, the formation of coalitions, and the overall political climate within a democratic framework.
Q: What are the key characteristics of a multi-party system?
A multi-party system is characterized by the presence of multiple political parties that compete for power and representation. In such a system, no single party typically secures an absolute majority, leading to the necessity of coalition governments. Multi-party systems often foster a diverse political landscape, encouraging the representation of various ideologies and interests.
Q: How do regional parties contribute to the overall party system in a country?
Regional parties are political entities that primarily operate within a specific geographic region rather than on a national scale. They often focus on issues and concerns relevant to that region. Understanding the role of regional parties is essential in comprehending the complexities of a party system, as they can influence electoral outcomes, contribute to coalition politics, and play a crucial role in shaping policies at both regional and national levels.
Q: What challenges do political parties face in maintaining a stable party system?
Political parties face numerous challenges in maintaining a stable party system, including internal factionalism, ideological conflicts, and challenges posed by external factors such as changing socio-economic conditions and public sentiment. Additionally, the emergence of new parties and the decline of established ones can impact the equilibrium of the party system, requiring parties to adapt and evolve to sustain political stability.
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