Home » UPSC Mains Topic-Wise Previous Year Questions – Indian Polity – Edukemy
UPSC Mains Topic-Wise Previous Year Questions

UPSC Mains Topic-Wise Previous Year Questions – Indian Polity – Edukemy

by Edukemy Team
by Edukemy Team


Explore questions from previous UPSC Mains exams about Indian Polity, helping you understand how to tackle important topics in a simple and effective way.

Basic Features of the Constitution

  1. Examine the need for the review of the Indian Constitution. (about 250 words) (2000, 30 Marks )
  2. What is a Constitution? What are the main sources of the Indian Constitution? (250 words) (2007, 30 Marks)
  3. Do you think there is a need for a review of the Indian Constitution? Justify your view. (250 words) (2008, 30 Marks)
  4. Write about the significance of 26th November in the country’s polity in about 20 words. (2009, 2 Marks )
  5. The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on the arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending the Constitution. Discuss critically. (2013, 10 Marks)
  6. Did the Government of India Act, of 1935 lay down a federal constitution? Discuss. (2016, 12.5 Marks)
  7. Do you think the Constitution of India does not accept the principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’? Explain. (2019, 10 Marks)
  8. What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism? (2019, 10 Marks)
  9. ‘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) (2021, 10 Marks)

Preamble

  1. What is the significance of a preamble to a constitution? Bring out the philosophy of the Indian polity as enshrined in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. (250 words) (2004, 30 Marks)
  2. Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances? (2016, 2 Marks)

Fundamental Rights

  1. Discuss the constitutional provisions regarding the rights of children. (150 words) (2001, 15Marks)
  2. Discuss how the Constitution of India provides equal rights. (250 words) (2004, 30 Marks)
  3. What is Habeas Corpus? (20 words) (2004, 2 Marks)
  4. What is the special facility provided to the linguistic minorities under Article 350 A? (2004, 10 Marks)
  5. Give your views on the right to freedom of religion as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Do they make India a secular State? (250 words) (2005, 30 Marks)
  6. What are the constitutional limitations on the free movements of Indians throughout the country? (150 words) (2005, 15Marks)
  7. What is meant by ‘double jeopardy’? (20 words) (2005, 2 Marks)
  8. What is the right to life and personal liberty? How have the courts expanded its meaning in recent years? (in 250 words) (2006, 30 Marks)
  9. Bring out the differences between the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy. Discuss some of the measures taken by the Union and State Governments for the implementation of the Directive Principles of State Policy. (250 words) (2007, 30 Marks)
  10. What is the importance of the Right to Constitutional Remedies? (2007, 2 Marks)
  11. What are the Rights within the ambit of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution? (2012, 5 Marks)
  12. What do you understand by the concept of freedom of speech and expression? Does it cover hate speech also? Why do films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (2014, 2 Marks)
  13. Does the right to clean environment entail legal regulations on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and judgment (s) of the Apex Court in this regard. (2015, 12 Marks)
  14. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (250 words) (2021, 15 Marks)
  15. “The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society.” Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty. (250 words)(2023, 15 Marks)

Directive Principles of State Policy

  1. What is the constitutional position of Directive Principles of State Policy? How has it been interpreted by the judiciary after the Emergency in 1975-77? (250 words) (2001, 30 Marks)
  2. Discuss the constitutional provisions relating to the non-justiciable directives binding upon the states. (150 words) (2002, 15 Marks)
  3. Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (2015, 12 Marks)
  4. Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on the Right to Privacy. (250 words) (2017, 15 Marks)

Fundamental Duties

  1. Identify the major Fundamental Duties. (150 words)m (2003, 15 Marks)
  2. Enumerate the Fundamental Duties incorporated in the Constitution after the 42nd Amendment. (2008, 15marks)
  3. ‘Essentially all that is contained in Part IV-A of the Constitution is just a codification of tasks integral to the Indian way of life! Critically examine this statement. (2011, 20 Marks)

Constitutional Amendments/Bills

  1. What are the main differences between the passage of a Constitution Amendment Bill and other Legislative Bills? (250 words) (2001, 30 Marks
  2. How is the Constitution of India amended? Do you think that the procedure for amendment makes the Constitution a plaything in the hands of the Centre? (250 words) (2002, 30Marks)
  3. With what objectives were ‘Essential Commodities? Act 1955’ amended last year? (2002, 15 Marks)
  4. Highlight the significance of the Forty-Fourth Amendment to the Constitution of India. (150 words) (2003, 15 Marks)
  5. What are the distinctive features of the Lokpal Bill introduced in the Parliament this year? (2003, 10 Marks)
  6. What is the main objective of the Competition Act, of 2002? (2003, 2 Marks)
  7. Define Money-bill. Discuss how it is passed in the Parliament. (150 words) (2004, 15 Marks)
  8. Explain the objectives of Plant Varieties Right Act, 2002. (2004, 2Marks)
  9. How would you differentiate between the passage of a Constitution Amendment Bill and of an ordinary legislative bill. (2006, 15 Marks)
  10. Write notes on the Lokpal Bill. (125 words) (2007, 10 Marks)
  11. What are your views on the features and impact of the Domestic Violence Act, of 2005? (2009, 15 marks)
  12. With respect to Cooperative Societies, what are the salient features of the 106th and 111th constitutional Amendment Bills as at present? (150 words) (2010, 24 Marks)
  13. Bring out the salient features of the PCPNDT Act, 1994, brand the implications of its amendment in 2003. (2011, 20 Marks)
  14. Write about the Bihar Special Courts Act, 2009 and why it has been in the news recently. (2011, 15Marks)
  15. The Union Cabinet recently cleared the proposal to rename and amend the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, of 1986. What are the salient features of the proposed amendments? (2012, 15 marks)
  16. What are the salient features of the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2011 introduced in the Lok Sabha in December 2011? (2015, Marks)
  17. Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19 of the Constitution. (200 words) (2013, 10 Marks
  18. Explain the salient features of the Constitution (One Hundred and Fint Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think It is efficacious enough to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for a common national market for goods and services? (250 words) (2017, 15 marks)

Emergency Provisions

  1. Discuss the meaning of the breakdown of constitutional machinery. What are its effects? (250 words) (2004, 30 Marks)
  2. Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force? (18/11/3/10)

Civil Services in India

  1. How does the Indian Constitution seek to maintain the independence of the Public Service Commission? (250 words) (2004, 30 Marks)
  2. Has the Cadre-based Civil Services organization been the cause of slow change in India? Critically examine. (2014, 12.5 marks)
  3. Initially, Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services? Comment. (250 words) (2017, 15 Marks)
  4. “The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain. (19/11/2/10)

Inter-State Water Disputes

  1. Under what Article of the Constitution can the Union Government play its role in settling inter-state water disputes? (20 words) (2002, 2 Marks)
  2. The Inter-State river water dispute has once again assumed centre stage after the Punjab Assembly’s Bill terminating all previous accords on river waters. Discuss. (250 words) (2004, 30 Marks
  3. How does the Inter-State Council establish coordination between States? (150 words) (2006, 15 Marks)
  4. “Disputes between the riparian states on sharing of river waters in post-Independence India are becoming increasingly complex. Objectively analyse the major disputes in this connection, with special reference to the Southern States. (2010, 20 Marks)
  5. Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both? Discuss. 200 words (2013, 10 marks)

Union Executive
President

  1. Comment on the nature of the Ordinance-making power of the President of India. What safeguards are there against possible misuse? (150 words) (2001, 15 Marks)
  2. What is the composition of the Electoral College for the election of the President of the Indian Republic? How is the value of votes cast counted? (250 words) (2002, 30 marks)
  3. Discuss the question of the death sentence and Presidential clemency. (250 words) (2003, 30 Marks)
  4. In what ways can the President of India ascertain the views of the Supreme Court on a particular bill? (20 words) (2005, 2 Marks)
  5. To what extent can the President withhold his assent to a Bill already passed by the Parliament? (20 words) (2006, 2 Marks)
  6. What are the exceptions when the President of India is not bound by the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers? (150 words) (2007, 15 Marks)
    How 7 is the President of India elected? (2007, 2 Marks)
  7. Write on Pocket Veto in about 20 words. (2009, 2 Marks)
  8. ‘The exercise of executive clemency is not a privilege but is based on several principles, and discretion has to be exercised in public considerations. Analyse this statement in the context of the judicial powers of the President of India. (2011, 20 Marks)
  9. Determining the ‘value’ assigned to the vote of a Member of a State Legislative Assembly and of a Member of Parliament in the Indian Presidential elections (2012, 2 Marks)
  10. Instances of the President’s delay in commuting death sentences have come under public debate as a denial of justice. Should there be a time limit specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse. ( 2014, 12 Marks)
  11. What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, of 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss. (2015, 12.5 Marks)
  12. Resorting to ordinances has always raised concerns about violation of the spirit of the separation of powers doctrine. While noting the rationales justifying the power to promulgate ordinances, analyze whether the decisions of the Supreme Court on the issue have further facilitated resorting to this power. Should the power to promulgate ordinances be repealed? (2015, 12.5 Marks)
  13. Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected. (250 words) (2022, 15 Marks)

Vice-President

  1. How is the Vice President of India elected? (20 words) (2003, 2 Marks )
  2. Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (150 words) (22/110 Marks)

Prime Minister and Council of Ministers

  1. Do you justify the Prime Minister’s entry into Parliament through the Rajya Sabha? (20 words) (2000, 2 Marks)
  2. State the difference between the Council of Ministers and the Cabinet. (20 words) (2003, 2 Marks)
  3. What is the difference between the Council of Ministers and the Cabinet? ( US (2000, 2 Marks)
  4. The size of the cabinet should be as big as the government work justifies and as big as the Prime Minister can manage as a team. How far is the efficacy of a government then inversely related to the size of the cabinet? Discuss. (2014, 12½ Marks)

Parliament

  1. How does Parliament control the Union Executive? How effective is its control? (250 words) (2000, 30 Marks)
  2. What is Contempt of Parliament? (2000, 2 Marks)
  3. Bring out the aberrations of the parliamentary system of government in India, (about 250 words) (2001, 30 Marks)
  4. Explain the Local Area Development Scheme of the Members of Parliament. (2001, 2 Marks)
  5. When is the device of joint sitting of both the Houses of Parliament not available? (2001, 3 Marks)
  6. “The issue of a hung Parliament adversely affects the stability of the Indian Government.” Discuss the statement and point out how far changing over to the Presidential form of government will be a solution to this problem. (in about 250 words) (2002, 30 Marks)
  7. What is the role of the proterm speaker? (20 words) (2002, 2 Marks)
  8. What is meant by the ‘lame-duck session’ of the legislature? (20 words) (2002, 2 Marks)
  9. Discuss Parliamentary Control over the Executive, (in about 250 words) (2003, 30 Marks)
  10. Identify the major obstacles in the smooth functioning of Parliamentary democracy in India. (2003, 30 Marks)
  11. Who and what does the Indian Parliament consist of? (20 words) (2005, 2 Marks)
  12. On what grounds can a member be disqualified from either House of Parliament? (250 words) (2006, 30 Marks)
  13. What is pro term Speaker? (150 words) (2007, 15 Marks )
  14. Under what circumstances, Parliament may legislate on State subjects? (150 words) (2007, 15 Marks)
  15. The ‘Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and its Members’ as envisaged in Article 105 of the Constitution leave room for a large number of un-codified and un-enumerated privileges to continue. Assess the reasons for the absence of legal codification of the ‘parliamentary privileges’. How can this problem be addressed? (2014, 12 Marks
  16. Parliament’s power to amend the constitution is a limited power and t I cannot be enlarged into absolute In the light of this statement explain whether of the constitution under Article 368 (19/11/12/15) can destroy the Basic structure of the constitution by expanding its amending power ? ( 2019, 15 marks)
  17. To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? (150 words) ( 2021, 10 Marks)
  18. Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty. (250 words) (2023, 10 Marks)

Lok Sabha

  1. Bring out the powers and responsibilities attached to the office of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha (10/1/6b/12)
  2. “Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people.” Discuss. (150 words) (17/11/3/10)
  3. “Once a speaker, Always a Speaker’ I Do you think the practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (150 words) (20/11/5/10)

Rajya Sabha

  1. Explain the relevance of Rajya Sabha as a second chamber in the federal setup of the Indian Parliamentary System. (150 words) (2003, 15 Marks )
  2. Write brief but precise note on Legislative powers assigned to the Rajya Sabha under Art. 249 and Art. 312 of the Constitution. (2010, 5 Marks)
  3. Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless stepney tire’ to the most useful supporting organ in the past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible. (250 words) (2002, 15 Marks)

Parliamentary Committees

  1. Explain the role of the Public Accounts Committee (150 words) (2011, 5 Marks )
  2. Discuss the role of the Public Accounts Committee in establishing accountability of the government to the people. (150 words) (2017, 10 Marks )
  3. Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary works? Discuss, in this context, the role of the Estimates Committee. (2018, 10 Marks)
  4. 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)
    (2021, 15 Marks)
  5. Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of the Indian Parliament? (250 words) (2023, 15Marks)

Parliamentary Proceedings

  1. What is a vote on account? (20 words) (2000, 2 Marks)
  2. What is a Privilege Motion? (20 words) 2000, 2 Marks )
  3. What is Call Attention Motion? (1/1 / 9 * d / 3)
  4. What is a point of order? When can it be raised? (in about 20 words) (2003, 2 Marks)
    What is a Privilege Motion? (2003, 2 Marks)
  5. What is meant by ‘Sine-die’ adjournement? (20 words) (2003, 2 Marks)
  6. Explain the following terms:
    (i) Dissolution of the House
    (ii) Prorogation of the House
    (iii) Adjournment of the business of the House (20 words) (2006, 2 Marks)
  7. Distinguish between a starred question and an unstarred one asked in the Parliament. (2008, 2 Marks)
  8. What is contempt of Parliament? (2008, 2 Marks)
  9. What are the grounds of disqualification of a Member of Parliament from either House? Quote relevant provisions in your answer. (150 words) (2010, 24 Marks)
  10. How is disagreement between the Legislative Council and the Legislative Assembly of a State in passing of an ordinary Bill, resolved? (2010, 5 Marks)
  11. The Indian Constitution has provisions for holding joint sessions of the two Houses of the Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this would normally happen and also the occasions when it cannot, with reason thereof. (250 words) (2017, 15marks)
  12. Individual Parliamentarian’s role as national lawmakers is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss. (2019, 15 Marks)

Judiciary

  1. What constitutes the doctrine of ‘basic features’ as introduced into the Constitution of India by the Judiciary? (in about 250 words) (2000, 30 Marks)
  2. Explain Public Interest Litigation. Who can file it and on what basis can it be rejected by the Court of Law? (in about 125 words) (2000, 10 Marks)
  3. What is the position of the Supreme Court under the Constitution of India? How far does it play its role as the guardian of the Constitution? (250 (2002, 30 Marks)
  4. How can a judge of the Supreme Court be removed? (20 words) (2004, 2marks)
  5. Is it possible to distinguish between judicial review and judicial activism in India? Does the recent behavior of the Indian judiciary partake more of judicial activism? Argue with suitable examples. (250 words) (2005, 30 Marks)
  6. What is the common point between Articles 14 and 226 of the Indian Constitution? (2005, 2 Marks)
  7. Is the High Court’s power to issue ‘writs’ wider than that of the Supreme Court of India? (150 words) (2006, 15 Marks)
  8. What is meant by ‘Judicial Activism’? Evaluate its role in the context of the functioning of Indian polity. (250 words) (2008, 30 Marks)
  9. Do you think there is a need for a review of the Indian Constitution? Justify your view. (250 words) (2008, 30 Marks)
  10. Write about the Supreme Court on Ragging. (2008, 2 Marks)
  11. Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (2014, 12 Marks)
  12. What is the quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples. (2016, 12 marks)
  13. What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (2016, 12.5 marks)
  14. Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgment on the ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (150 words) (2017, 10 Marks)
  15. How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the tribunals in India. (2018, 15 Marks)
  16. From the resolution of contentious issues regarding the distribution of legislative powers by the courts, the ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged. Explain. (2019, 10 Marks)
  17. The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (150 words) (2020, 10 Marks)
  18. Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. (150 words) (2021, 10 Marks)
  19. “The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. (150 words) (2022, 10 Marks

State Executive

  1. What were the two major considerations to have the governor appointed and not elected? (2008, 2 Marks)
  2. Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and the elected government of Delhi? Examine (2018, 15 Marks)
  3. Discuss the essential conditions for the exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of the re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (250 words) (2022, 15 Marks)

State Legislature

  1. Why is it said that the centre has absolute veto over State Legislature ? (20 words) (2001, 20 Marks)
  2. Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. (250 words) (2021, 15 Marks )
  3. Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. (250 words) (2023, 10 Marks)
  4. Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since the mid-1990s. (250 words) (2023, 15 Marks)

Local Self-Government/Panchayati Raj

  1. What is meant by the ‘fringe areas in the sphere of local government in India? (20 words) (2002, 2 Marks)
  2. Discuss how state governments can exercise control over panchayats. (150 words) (2004, 15 Marks)
  3. Would you say that the implementation of the Panchayati System in the last ten years has led to a real restructuring of the Indian polity? (250 words) (2005, 30 Marks)
  4. Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that more number of smaller States would bring in effective governance at the State level? Discuss. [200 words) (2013, 10 Marks)
  5. The exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether an audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction. (2016, 12 Marks)
  6. “The local self-government system in India has not proved to be an effective instrument of governance.” Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation. (150 words) (2017, 12½ Marks)
  7. Assess the importance of the Panchayat system in India as a part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out for financing developmental Projects? (2018, 15 Marks)
  8. “The reservation of seats for women in the institution of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian political process”. Comment. (2019, 15 Marks)
  9. The strength sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funds’ to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. (250 words) (2020, 15 Marks)

Election/Election Commission of India Anti-Defection

  1. Identify the major electoral reforms that are necessary in the Indian Political System. (150 words) (2000, 15 Marks)
  2. Describe the methods of delimiting constituencies for parliamentary elections in India. (2002,15 marks)
  3. How is the Election Commission of India constituted? (20 words) (2004, 2 Marks)
  4. What are the steps that the Election Commission may take if a recalcitrant State Government wants to put off Assembly Elections? (150 words) (2005, 15 Marks)
  5. What are the main determinants of voting behavior in India? (250 words). (2007, 30 Marks)
  6. What is the criminalization of politics? (2007, 2 Marks)
  7. What is value-based politics? (125 words) (2007, 10 Marks)
  8. Are the traditional determinants of voting behavior in India changing? Examine in the context of the last General Elections. (2009, 15 marks)
  9. The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result, healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usually witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law which was legislated but with a different intention? 200 words (2013, 10 marks)
  10. To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (250 words) (2017, 15 Marks)
  11. In light of the recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (2018, 10 Marks )
  12. what grounds a people’s representative can be disqualified under the Representation of People Act, 1951? Also, mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification. (2019, 15 Marks)
  13. Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws. (250 words) (2022, 10 Marks)
  14. Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (250 words) (2022, 15 Marks)

Attorney General/CAG

  1. Distinguish between the auditing and accounting functions of the CAG of India (08/11/76/2)
  2. “The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play”. Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise. (2018,10 Marks)
  3. “The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India.” Discuss (2019, 15 Marks)

Different Institutions/Committees/Commissions

  1. Write a note on Universal Postal Union. (2000, 10 Marks)
  2. Write a note on the Economic and Social Council. (2000, 10 Marks)
  3. Write about CRY in 20 words. (2000, 2 Marks)
  4. Write note on the Law Commission of India. (2001, 10 Marks)
  5. Write about ICCR in 20 words. (2001, 2 Marks)
  6. Write about Sports Authority of India. (2001, 2 Marks)
  7. Write about NCERT in 20 words. (2001, 2 Marks
  8. What is a Finance Commission? Discuss the main functions of the State Finance Commission. (15 words) (2004, 15 Marks
  9. Discuss the composition and functions of the Union Public Service Commission. (150 words) (08/1/5c/15)
  10. Write about the M. M. Punchi Commission. (2008, 2Marks)
  11. In the changing context of governance in the country, what should be the role of the UPSC ? (2009, 15 Marks)
  12. To implement one key recommendation of the Mohini Giri Committee, the Government has recently announced the constitution of a National Council. Highlight the composition and the mandate of this national Council. (2012, 5 Marks)
  13. The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash-strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidies for the obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators. (2014, 12.5 Marks)
  14. Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) enforces the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine (2018, 10 Marks)
  15. How is the Finance Commission of India constructed? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss. (2018, 15 Marks)
  16. “Institutional quality is a crucial driver of economic performance”. In this context suggest reforms in Civil Service to strengthen democracy. (150 words) (2020, 10 Marks)
  17. Which steps are required for the constitutionalization of a commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons. (250 words) (2020, 15 Marks)
  18. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (250 words) (2021, 15 Marks)
  19. Discuss the role of the National Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation Norma a statutory body to a constitutional body. (150 words) (2022, 10 Marks)

Federalism/Union-State Relations

  1. Discuss the major extra-constitutional factors influencing the working of federal polity in India. (150 words) (2000, 15 Marks)
  2. Discuss the administrative relations between the centre and the states in the light of recent controversies. (in about 250 words) (2001, 30 Marks )
  3. What are the constitutional restrictions imposed upon the power of borrowing of the state governments? (20 words) (2004, 2Marks)
  4. Comment on the financial relations between the Union and the States in India. Has post-1991 liberalization in any way affected it? (250 words) (2005, 30 marks)
  5. Discuss the major extra-constitutional factors influencing the federal polity in India. (250 words)
    (2008, 30 Marks)
  6. Examine the demand for greater state autonomy and its impact on the smooth functioning of Indian polity. (150 words) (2008, 15 Marks)
  7. Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against the concept of strong federalism. Discuss. (2014, 12.5 marks)
  8. The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. (2015, 12 Marks)
  9. Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of Indian federal politics? (2016, 12 Marks

Schedule

  1. Why does the Constitution of India provide different forms of Oaths for the President, the Ministers, the legislators and the members of the judiciary? Discuss their significance. (250 words) (2002, 30Marks
  2. What are the protections afforded to Scheduled Tribes in the Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution? (20 words) (2005, 2Marks)
  3. Why are the tribals in India referred to as ‘the Scheduled Tribes’? Indicate the major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. (2016, 12.5 Marks)

Indian Governance

  1. What are the preconditions for the growth of Civil Society? Is Indian democracy conducive to it? (2003,10 Marks)
  2. Write brief note on Your views on the recent ‘Gilgit- Baltistan Empowerment and Self-Governance Order 2009. (2009, 5 marks)
  3. Examine corruption as a serious development challenge in Indian Polity. (2009,15 Marks)
  4. E-governance initiatives by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) (2011, 5 Marks)
  5. What is the ‘Parivarik Mahila Lok Adalat ? (2012, 5 marks)
  6. Comment on the significance of the Preamble contained in the Right to Information Act.
    (2012, 5Marks)
  7. In the context of Assisted Reproductive Technologies, India has emerged as a hub of commercial surrogacy. What key biological, legal, and ethical issues merit consideration while framing the regulation to govern surrogacy in India? (2012, 10 Marks)
  8. The product diversification on financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in the overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify. 200 words (2013, 10 Marks)
  9. The concept of Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India with early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades. Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates and success. 200 words (2013, 10 Marks )
  10. Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health. Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the same. [200 words] (2013, 10Marks

Miscellaneous

  1. What is Caretaker Government? (2000, 2 Marks)
  2. Distinguish between Cabinet Secretariat and Prime Minister’s Secretariat. Which of these is more important? (150 words) (2001, 15 Marks)
  3. Recent directives from the Ministry of Petroleum and natural Gas are perceived by the ‘Nagas’ as a threat to override the exceptional status enjoyed by the State. Discuss in light of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. (200 words] (2013, 10 Marks)
  4. Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. (2015, 12 Marks)
  5. “If amendment bill to the Whistleblowers Act, 2011 tabled in the Parliament is passed, there may be no one left to protect.” Critically evaluate. (2015, 12 Marks)
  6. To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing the marginal note”temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. (2016, 12 Marks)
  7. “Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the India citizens, but these rights are not absolute Comment. (150 words) (2022, 20 Marks

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