Pressure Groups and Associations

9 UPSC Mains GS II questions on Pressure Groups and Associations, 2013 to 2026, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Pressure Groups and Associations toppers answered.

1. 2026 Q15To what extent do pressure groups, social movements and corporate lobbies deepen pluralistic democracy in India by representing excluded interests ? Analyse whether the growing convergence of corporate wealth and political power poses a threat to the autonomy of formal democratic institutions.15 marks · 250 words
2. 2025 Q8Civil Society Organizations are often perceived as being anti-State actors than non-State actors. Do you agree? Justify.10 marks · 150 words
3. 2025 Q15What are environmental pressure groups? Discuss their role in raising awareness, influencing policies and advocating for environmental protection in India.15 marks · 250 words
4. 2021 Q5“Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies.10 marks · 150 words
5. 2019 Q3What are the methods used by the farmers’ organisations to influence the policy-makers in India and how effective are these methods ?10 marks · 150 words
6. 2017 Q4How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years?10 marks · 150 words
7. 2016 Q10“In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement.12.5 marks · 200 words
8. 2015 Q4Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights violations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and the judiciary to set the things right in this regard.12.5 marks · 200 words
9. 2013 Q10Pressure group politics is sometimes seen as the informal face of politics. With regards to the above, assess the structure and functioning of pressure groups in India.10 marks · 200 words

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.