2023 GS Paper I, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2023 · GS Paper I

Question 33: Polity and Governance

Which one of the following statements best reflects the Chief purpose of the 'Constitution' of a country?

aIt determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.
bIt enables the creation of political offices and a government.
cIt defines and limits the powers of government.
dIt secures social justice, social equality and social security.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

The chief purpose of a constitution is to define and limit the powers of government: it distributes power among the organs of the State and sets boundaries, usually through fundamental rights, so that power is not arbitrary. Creating offices is a means to that end, and social justice aims appear in directive principles but are not the chief purpose of every constitution. This is the idea of constitutionalism: limited government.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Constitutions do not mainly set objectives for making laws.
  • (b) Creating offices and a government is a means, not the chief purpose.
  • (c) Correct: it defines and limits governmental power.
  • (d) Social justice aims are specific to some constitutions, not the chief purpose of all.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2023, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.