GS2 · Topic
Comparative Constitutions
The Indian scheme set against other countries'.
40 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Comparative Constitutions that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
The principle of 'Separation of Powers' is a key feature of the American Constitution. In this context, compare how the Indian Constitution's functional separation of powers distinguishes itself from the US system. What are the advantages of a check and balance system over a rigid Separation of Powers?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 10 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsSeparation of Powers
Compare the powers of the head of state in India and the UK. How do their roles reflect the constitutional principles of their respective systems?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
Both India and the USA adhere to democratic principles but their electoral systems exhibit significant differences. What are the key differences in electoral practices between the two countries?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsElections and Representation
Executive accountability to the legislature through Parliamentary Committees has been the hallmark of the Indian political system. Comment.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
'Unique blend of flexibility and rigidity distinguish Indian constitution from that of the US constitution.' Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure
The doctrine of Parliamentary sovereignty and judicial supremacy has exerted considerable influence in shaping the constitutional frameworks of India and the USA. Citing relevant case laws discuss the role of the judiciary in influencing the constitutions in these countries. Is the scope of judicial review wider in India?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
Examine the structure and jurisdiction of courts in the United States and India. How do the contempt powers of courts differ in both countries?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
The semi-presidential system in France presents a distinct model of power-sharing between the President and Prime Minister. Compare this model with India's parliamentary system, with emphasis on the constitutional safeguards each offers to ensure executive stability.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
Analyse the distinguishing perspectives on equality as reflected in the constitutional frameworks of India and France.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure
Differentiate between the clemency powers of the Presidents of India and the USA. Also, critically examine the vesting of clemency power in the executive.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2025
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the judicial systems of India and USA.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2017–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
Provide a brief comparison of Constitutional scheme of South Africa with that of India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2022
Comparative Constitutions
While India has a structured but rarely used process for the removal of judges, the UK emphasizes ministerial responsibility and in house mechanisms . Compare and evaluate these approaches in maintaining judicial accountability.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2025
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
Bring out the similarities and differences in the Bill of Rights in the Constitution of the United States and Fundamental Rights in the Constitution of India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsFundamental Rights
How do the citizenship laws and policies of India and the United States differ within their constitutional frameworks? Comment on the ongoing debate on citizenship laws and policies in India and the US.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure
Present a comparative analysis of political system of India and Sri-Lanka. How far do you agree that the reason for the economic crisis in Sri-Lanka lies in its political structure?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2023
Comparative ConstitutionsBilateral Relations
Compare the Indian constitutional framework with that of Switzerland, emphasizing the nuances of direct democracy, federalism, and minority rights.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Comparative ConstitutionsFederalism
What do you understand by the cohabitation form of government? How does it differ from the Westminster system?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
The doctrine of Separation of Powers is followed in US with a spirit, never followed in UK purely, and India has followed it with large exceptions. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Comparative ConstitutionsSeparation of Powers
Despite having features borrowed from Constitution of various other countries, the Constitution of India remains unique. Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper
Constitution and Basic StructureComparative Constitutions
Elaborate on the fundamental aspects in which the Indian Constitution differed from its contemporaries despite being a post-colonial document.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure
'Changing to a presidential system is the best way of ensuring a democracy that works' Do you agree? Give suitable arguments in support of your answer.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure
How does the federal structure of India differ from that of the United States?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Comparative ConstitutionsFederalism
How is the President of the USA elected? How is this different from Indian President?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
American constitution provides for 'due process of law' against that of 'procedure established by law' contained in the Indian Constitution. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsFundamental Rights
American Constitution provides for ‘due process of law’ against that of ‘procedure established by law’ contained in the Indian Constitution. Discuss. (10M)
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
The question is not explicitly stated, but based on the content of the answer, the UPSC mains question asks about: 1) the role of the Supreme Court of India in interpreting international laws; 2) the convergence and divergence of Indian and US constitutional jurisprudence; 3) the impact of 44th Constitutional Amendment and challenges in legal enforcement of Fundamental Duties; 4) the administrative role and judicial tussle of Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT); 5) various facets of equality under the Indian Constitution; 6) the evolution of pressure groups towards political parties; 7) the advantages and challenges of establishing foreign higher educational institutions in India; 8) private sector contribution to achieving 'Right to Health'; 9) the impact of global cooperation on poverty and hunger; 10) the need for change in the World Trade Organization (WTO); 11) the dilemma of dual governance in Delhi and its impact on cooperative federalism; 12) issues of independence versus insulation of the judiciary and alternatives to the collegium system; 13) impediments in the functioning of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) and reforms; 14) the controversy regarding the Governor's power to reserve bills; 15) the paradox and relevance of the 9th Schedule; 16) the role of the Central Information Commission (CIC) as a guardian of democracy and limitations of its status; 17) the significance of the POCSO Act and changes required for effective implementation; 18) the role of technology in modernizing governance; 19) the transformation of India-US relations; 20) the evolution and challenges of India-ASEAN relations.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
Compare the application of the doctrine of Separation of Powers as followed in the US, in the UK, and in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsSeparation of Powers
How is Indian judicial system different from that of the USA? Should India move towards a more federal judicial system?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsJudiciary
1 Recently the word 'Laïcité' was in use. Explain what Laïcité is. Why was it in the news recently?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Comparative Constitutions