Q1 10M 150w Compulsory explain Constitutional Morality
'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. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
'संवैधानिक नैतिकता' की जड़ संविधान में ही निहित है और इसके तात्विक फलकों पर आधारित है। 'संवैधानिक नैतिकता' के सिद्धांत की प्रासंगिक न्यायिक निर्णयों की सहायता से विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Paper 2: Constitutional Morality. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise definition with 2+ landmark judgments (Kesavananda, Navtej) and clear link to constitutional facets.
- Define Constitutional Morality as rooted in the Constitution
- Cite Kesavananda Bharati judgment (1973)
- Cite Navtej Singh Johar judgment (2018)
- Link doctrine to essential facets of the Constitution
Q2 10M 150w Compulsory discuss Women in Higher Judiciary
Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
विविधता, समता और समावेशिता सुनिश्चित करने के लिए उच्चतर न्यायपालिका में महिलाओं के प्रतिनिधित्व को बढ़ाने की वांछनीयता पर चर्चा कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Paper 2: Judiciary & Constitutional Morality. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Analytical, cites specific judgment/committee, balanced close
- Link representation to constitutional morality (Art 14/15)
- Explain 'Diversity' as varied judicial perspective
- Explain 'Equity' as fair access to justice
- Conclude with a realistic reform or way forward
Q3 10M 150w Compulsory explain 14th Finance Commission
How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत के 14वें वित्त आयोग की संस्तुतियों ने राज्यों को अपनी राजकोषीय स्थिति सुधारने में कैसे सक्षम किया है? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2: Governance, Development, and Social Justice. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precisely identifies the 42% share and the three specific grants with their purpose.
- Mention the increase in states' share of divisible taxes to 42%.
- Explain the shift from conditional grants to unconditional grants.
- Identify the three specific grants: Fiscal, Revenue, and Devolution.
- Link the grants to the 73rd/74th Amendments (Panchayati Raj/Municipalities).
Q4 10M 150w Compulsory evaluate Parliamentary Accountability
To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
आपकी दृष्टि में, भारत में कार्यपालिका की जवाबदेही को निश्चित करने में संसद कहाँ तक समर्थ है? (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Paper 2: Governance & Constitutional Mechanisms. evaluate: criteria > evidence > balanced judgment Full marks: Analytical, cites specific mechanisms, identifies bottlenecks, offers realistic reform.
- Cite specific constitutional tools (Q.138, Art. 193, Art. 117)
- Identify structural bottlenecks (e.g., majority dominance, time limits)
- Provide a concrete example of oversight failure or success
- Conclude with a realistic reform or institutional strengthening
Q5 10M 150w Compulsory explain Pressure Groups and Business Associations
"Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India." Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"भारत में सार्वजनिक नीति बनाने में दबाव समूह महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका निभाते हैं।" समझाइए कि व्यवसाय संघ, सार्वजनिक नीतियों में किस प्रकार योगदान करते हैं। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2: Governance, Development, and Social Justice. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise mechanisms (lobbying, drafting) with specific policy examples and institutional context.
- Define business associations (e.g., CII, FICCI, NITI Aayog interface).
- Explain direct lobbying and policy advocacy mechanisms.
- Mention role in drafting or reviewing specific economic policies.
- Provide one concrete example of a policy influenced by industry.
Q6 10M 150w Compulsory analyse Primary Health and Sustainable Development
"Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is a necessary precondition for sustainable development." Analyze. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"एक कल्याणकारी राज्य की नैतिक अनिवार्यता के अलावा, प्राथमिक स्वास्थ्य संरचना धारणीय विकास की एक आवश्यक पूर्व शर्त है।" विश्लेषण कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2: Social Justice & Health. analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Clear link between health and development, cites Art 47/21, mentions SDG 3 or NHP 2017, balanced analysis.
- Define primary health structure (PHC/ASHA/ANM)
- Explain health as a precondition for development
- Link health to human capital and productivity
- Mention constitutional mandate (Art 47/21)
Q7 10M 150w Compulsory comment Earn While You Learn Scheme
'Earn while you learn' scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational education and skill training meaningful." Comment. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"व्यावसायिक शिक्षा और कौशल प्रशिक्षण को सार्थक बनाने के लिए 'सीखते हुए कमाना (अर्न व्हाइल यू लर्न)' की योजना को सशक्त करने की आवश्यकता है।" टिप्पणी कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Governance & Social Justice (Vocational Education). comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close Full marks: Sharp analysis of the scheme's mechanics, specific examples of failure, and actionable, realistic reforms.
- Define 'Earn while you learn' (e.g., apprenticeship/NSDC model)
- Identify specific weaknesses (e.g., industry disconnect, low wages)
- Provide a clear judgment on the need for strengthening
- Suggest 2-3 concrete measures for meaningful skill training
Q8 10M 150w Compulsory explain Microfinance and Women SHGs
Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
क्या लैंगिक असमानता, गरीबी और कुपोषण के दुष्चक्र को महिलाओं के स्वयं सहायता समूहों को सूक्ष्म वित्त (माइक्रोफाइनेंस) प्रदान करके तोड़ा जा सकता है? सोदाहरण स्पष्ट कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Social Justice / Economic Development. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Clearly articulates the cycle and provides a logical, example-backed argument for how SHGs break it.
- Define the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty, and malnutrition
- Explain the mechanism of SHG microfinancing (credit, savings, collective action)
- Link financial empowerment to specific improvements in nutrition and health
- Provide at least one concrete example of an SHG intervention or outcome
Q9 10M 150w Compulsory examine India's Influence in Africa
"If the last few decades were of Asia's growth story, the next few are expected to be of Africa's." In the light of this statement, examine India's influence in Africa in recent years. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"यदि विगत कुछ दशक एशिया के विकास की कहानी के रहे, तो परवर्ती कुछ दशक अफ्रीका के हो सकते हैं।" इस कथन के आलोक में, हाल के वर्षों में अफ्रीका में भारत के प्रभाव का परीक्षण कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 International Relations. examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Comprehensive analysis of India's multi-dimensional engagement with specific examples and strategic context.
- Contextualize Africa's emerging economic potential
- Detail India's soft power initiatives (e.g., ICIPE, ICAI)
- Analyze trade and investment linkages (e.g., IT, Pharma)
- Address security or strategic dimensions (e.g., maritime security)
Q10 10M 150w Compulsory explain USA-China Relations
"The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union." Explain. (Answer in 150 words) 10
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका, चीन के रूप में एक ऐसे अस्तित्व के खतरे का सामना कर रहा है जो तत्कालीन सोवियत संघ की तुलना में कहीं अधिक चुनौतीपूर्ण है।" विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 150 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 International Relations. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Nuanced comparison of economic/tech vs military threats with specific examples.
- Contrast China's economic interdependence with USSR's isolation
- Highlight China's technological and military modernization
- Mention China's global footprint (BRI, trade)
- Explain the 'existential' nature of the threat
Q11 15M 250w Compulsory explain CBI Jurisdiction and Federalism
The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe 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. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
एक राज्य-विशेष के अंदर प्रथम सूचना रिपोर्ट दायर करने तथा जांच करने के केंद्रीय अन्वेषण ब्यूरो (सी० बी० आई०) के क्षेत्राधिकार पर कई राज्य प्रश्न उठा रहे हैं। हालांकि, सी० बी० आई० जांच के लिए राज्यों द्वारा दी गई सहमति को रोके रखने की शक्ति आत्यंतिक नहीं है। भारत के संघीय ढांचे के विशेष संदर्भ में विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Principle > Institution or Article > Problem with example > Realistic reform. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise legal basis (35A CrPC/Art 351) with deep analysis of federalism and consent limits.
- Cite Section 35A CrPC and Article 351 for CBI powers
- Explain the 'consent' requirement for State jurisdiction
- Analyze the 'federal character' of India (Union-State balance)
- Justify why State power to withhold consent is not absolute
Q12 15M 250w Compulsory analyse Human Rights Commissions
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. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
यद्यपि मानवाधिकार आयोगों ने भारत में मानव अधिकारों के संरक्षण में काफी हद तक योगदान दिया है, फिर भी वे ताकतवर और प्रभावशालियों के विरुद्ध अधिकार जताने में असफल रहे हैं। इनकी संरचनात्मक और व्यावहारिक सीमाओं का विश्लेषण करते हुए सुधारात्मक उपायों के सुझाव दीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Governance: Institutions, Mandate, Powers, Challenges, Reforms. suggest: the problem in one line > implementable measures > who acts > conclusion Full marks: Identifies specific structural/practical limitations and suggests concrete, implementable reforms.
- Identify structural limitations (e.g., composition, lack of enforcement power)
- Identify practical limitations (e.g., delays, lack of resources, political pressure)
- Suggest specific remedial measures for structural issues
- Suggest specific remedial measures for practical issues
Q13 15M 250w Compulsory analyse Right to Equality USA vs India
Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
संयुक्त राज्य अमेरिका और भारत के संविधानों में, समता के अधिकार की धारणा की विशिष्ट विशेषताओं का विश्लेषण कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Paper 2 (Polity & Governance). analyse: intro > causes > effects > stakeholders/linkages > way forward Full marks: Sharp contrast of formal vs substantive equality with specific case law.
- Identify USA's 14th Amendment Equal Protection Clause
- Identify India's Articles 14-18 (Part III)
- Contrast 'formal' (USA) vs 'substantive' (India) equality
- Explain India's 'reasonable classification' vs USA's 'strict scrutiny'
Q14 15M 250w Compulsory review Legislative Councils
Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
उन संवैधानिक प्रावधानों को समझाइए जिनके अंतर्गत विधान-परिषदें स्थापित होती हैं। उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ विधान-परिषदों के कार्य और वर्तमान स्थिति का मूल्यांकन कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Paper 2: Constitutional Provisions & Institutional Analysis. explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Precise Articles, clear composition logic, and a critical review of current status with examples.
- Cite Articles 171-172 for establishment and composition
- Explain the 1/3rd elected and 1/3rd nominated composition
- Review working: role in legislation and review of bills
- Current status: list of states with LCs (e.g., UP, Bihar)
Q15 15M 250w Compulsory evaluate Parliamentary Standing Committees
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. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
क्या विभागों से संबंधित संसदीय स्थायी समितियाँ प्रशासन को अपने पैर की उंगलियों पर रखती हैं और संसदीय नियंत्रण के लिए सम्मान-प्रदर्शन हेतु प्रेरित करती हैं? उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ ऐसी समितियों के कार्यों का मूल्यांकन कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Principle > Institution > Problem with example > Realistic reform. evaluate: criteria > evidence > balanced judgment Full marks: Balanced evaluation with specific examples and a clear reform suggestion.
- Define DRPSCs and their constitutional/statutory basis
- Explain mechanisms of control (e.g., summoning officers, document review)
- Provide specific examples of committee actions (e.g., 2G spectrum, coal allocation)
- Critically assess limitations (e.g., lack of enforcement power, executive dominance)
Q16 15M 250w Compulsory examine Digital Illiteracy and ICT
Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
क्या ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों में विशेष रूप से, डिजिटल निरक्षरता ने सूचना एवं संचार प्रौद्योगिकी (आई० सी० टी०) की अल्प-उपलब्धता के साथ मिलकर सामाजिक-आर्थिक विकास में बाधा उत्पन्न किया है? औचित्य सहित परीक्षण कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Governance & Development. examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion Full marks: Deep analysis of structural barriers with specific rural examples and policy references.
- Define digital illiteracy and ICT accessibility gaps
- Link ICT access to specific economic sectors (agri, MSME)
- Explain the 'digital divide' as a structural barrier
- Provide justification with specific rural examples
Q17 15M 250w Compulsory suggest Patriarchal Attitudes and Interventions
"Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal." Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
"यद्यपि स्वातंत्र्योत्तर भारत में महिलाओं ने विभिन्न क्षेत्रों में उत्कृष्टता हासिल की है, इसके बावजूद महिलाओं और नारीवादी आंदोलन के प्रति सामाजिक दृष्टिकोण पितृसत्तात्मक रहा है।" महिला शिक्षा और महिला सशक्तिकरण की योजनाओं के अतिरिक्त कौन-से हस्तक्षेप इस परिवेश के परिवर्तन में सहायक हो सकते हैं? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Social Justice / Gender. suggest: the problem in one line > implementable measures > who acts > conclusion Full marks: Comprehensive, specific interventions with examples and legal references.
- Interventions targeting social norms and cultural practices
- Role of media, literature, and public discourse
- Involvement of men and boys in gender equality
- Legal and institutional mechanisms for social change
Q18 15M 250w Compulsory discuss Civil Society and Public Service Delivery
Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the challenges of this alternative model. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
क्या नागरिक समाज और गैर-सरकारी संगठन, आम नागरिक को लाभ प्रदान करने के लिए लोक सेवा प्रदायगी का वैकल्पिक प्रतिमान प्रस्तुत कर सकते हैं? इस वैकल्पिक प्रतिमान की चुनौतियों की विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 Governance & Public Policy. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Balanced analysis of the 'partnership' model with specific examples and structural challenges (accountability/scale).
- Define the 'alternative model' (e.g., last-mile delivery, social audit, advocacy).
- Provide specific examples of successful NGO-led service delivery (e.g., education, health, sanitation).
- Identify 3-4 distinct challenges (e.g., accountability, funding, lack of scale, political capture).
- Conclude with a balanced judgment on the state-NGO partnership (collaborative model).
Q19 15M 250w Compulsory critically examine SCO Aims and India's Importance
Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
एस० सी० ओ० के लक्ष्यों और उद्देश्यों का विश्लेषणात्मक परीक्षण कीजिए। भारत के लिए इसका क्या महत्व है? (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 International Relations. critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment Full marks: Sharp critical analysis of SCO aims with specific India-centric strategic evaluation
- Define SCO's core aims (security, connectivity, non-alignment)
- Critically examine limitations (China dominance, institutional weakness)
- Link SCO to India's 'Act East' or 'Neighbourhood First' policy
- Conclude with a balanced judgment on India's strategic utility
Q20 15M 250w Compulsory discuss AUKUS and Indo-Pacific
The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China's ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. (Answer in 250 words) 15
हिंदी में पढ़ें
भारत-प्रशांत महासागर क्षेत्र में चीन की महत्वाकांक्षाओं का मुकाबला करना नई त्रि-राष्ट्र साझेदारी AUKUS का उद्देश्य है। क्या यह इस क्षेत्र में मौजूदा साझेदारी का स्थान लेने जा रहा है? वर्तमान परिदृश्य में, AUKUS की शक्ति और प्रभाव की विवेचना कीजिए। (उत्तर 250 शब्दों में दीजिए)
Answer approach & key points
Framework: GS2 International Relations. discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Balanced analysis of AUKUS's strategic depth and its relationship with existing alliances.
- Define AUKUS as a trilateral security partnership (US, UK, Australia).
- Analyze the specific aim of countering China's Indo-Pacific ambitions.
- Evaluate whether AUKUS supersedes or complements existing partnerships (e.g., Quad, bilateral ties).
- Discuss the strengths (e.g., nuclear tech, cyber) and geopolitical impact.