UPSC Prelims 2004 · General Studies
Question 59: Polity and Governance
Which one of the following Articles of the Constitution of India says that the executive power of every State shall be so exercised as not to impede or prejudice the exercise of the executive power of the Union?
AnswerThe answer is (a).
Article 257 says the executive power of every State shall be exercised so as not to impede or prejudice the executive power of the Union, and the Union may give directions to ensure this. Article 258 lets the Union confer functions on States, Article 355 makes it the Union's duty to protect States, and Article 356 deals with President's rule.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Correct: Article 257 is the one described.
- (b) Article 258 deals with conferring powers on States by the Union.
- (c) Article 355 makes protecting States from external aggression and internal disturbance a Union duty.
- (d) Article 356 deals with failure of constitutional machinery in a State.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2004, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.