GS2 · Topic
Executive
President, Governors, the council of ministers, ministries and departments.
81 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Executive that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
The Supreme Court, in a recent verdict, prescribed a time period for the Governor's assent to state legislative bills. What are the implications of this judgment for cooperative federalism and legislative accountability in India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
How does the power and authority of Delhi's lieutenant governor compare to that of the governors of other states, particularly in terms of acting on the aid and advice of the council of ministers?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 10 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
ExecutiveFederalism
'The Governor's office is neither decorative nor inconsequential, it assumes a constitutional role of profound essence'. To what extent does the Governor, actively contribute to the governance of a state and reinforce the principles of federalism in the country?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
ExecutiveFederalism
“A democracy is only as strong as its Opposition.” In this light, examine the role of the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and suggest measures to enhance the effectiveness of this institution in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
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
The role of Governors in opposition-ruled States has been a flashpoint in Centre-State relations. Critically discuss how gubernatorial overreach challenges the position of state governments and suggest safeguards to mitigate such conflicts.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
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
Governors in India often overstep their constitutional role and fail to act effectively when needed. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ExecutiveCentre-State Relations
Expression of dissent is central to the functioning of the Parliament. In light of this, discuss the role of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in India's parliamentary system.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Despite its vital role for the smooth functioning of the body politic, constitutional punctuality remains conspicuous by its absence. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
Constitution and Basic StructureJudiciary
Independent judiciary, as envisaged by the constitution, provides the bedrock for a thriving polity; however, executive encroachment may erode its credibility and affect its efficacy. Evaluate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
JudiciarySeparation of Powers
Frequent reliance on the ordinance making power by the government, not only dilutes the basic tenets of executive accountability in a parliamentary democracy, but also overlooks the democratic traditions of building consensus. Discuss with relevant examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
ParliamentExecutive
The provisions under Article 360 remain a dead letter even during the worst economic crisis. Analyse.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Constitution and Basic StructureFederalism
"Department-related Standing Committees serve as the institutional backbone of legislative scrutiny, yet their potential remains underutilised." Critically analyse the challenges faced by Parliamentary Committees in ensuring executive accountability in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Do you agree with the view that adopting a framework for lobbying will strengthen participative governance and ease of doing business in India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Pressure Groups and AssociationsTransparency and Accountability
India does not follow a watertight model of separation of powers; rather a system of salutary checks and balances. Discuss. Also, explain the rationale behind the same.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Separation of PowersConstitution and Basic Structure
"President's Rule is a constitutional mechanism to deal with governance failure, not political convenience." Under what circumstances can President's Rule be imposed in a State? Discuss the constitutional safeguards and judicial verdicts associated with it.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsConstitution and Basic Structure
'The declining role of Parliament undermines the fundamental principle of separation of powers, as it diminishes the legislature's ability to serve as a check on the executive branch and ensure a balanced exercise of power.' Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Separation of PowersParliament
Examine the key mechanisms available to the Indian Parliament to scrutinise the executive. What are the major gaps in these mechanisms, and how can they be strengthened to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Article 143 of the Constitution confers advisory jurisdiction upon the Supreme Court through a presidential reference mechanism. Examine the significance and scope of the Supreme Court's advisory jurisdiction under this provision.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
JudiciaryConstitution and Basic Structure
"The powers of the Governor, particularly with respect to state bills, have sparked recurring tensions between the Centre and the States." Discuss the constitutional powers of the Governor in this regard. Highlight the key concerns arising out of the Governor's role in the legislative process. What reforms can help address the Governor-State disputes? Refer to the case laws.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsExecutive
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
As per the recently released report of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), there is an urgent need to limit the size of the government in India. Do you agree?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ExecutivePolicy Design and Implementation
What are the powers and immunities of the Governor in relation to bills passed by the state legislature? Are these powers unlimited in nature? Discuss in light of relevant judgements.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2024–2025
ExecutiveFederalism
On what grounds can President's Rule be imposed in a state? Also, mention the procedure of its imposition and its effects.
12.5 marks · 200 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Why are State Legislative Assemblies involved in the election of the President but excluded from the process of impeachment?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2017–2025
Constitution and Basic StructureParliament
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
Discuss the veto powers of the President of India.
15 marks · 200 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2025
Executive
Ordinance making by the executive is violative of the Principle of Separation of Power. Do you agree that the constitutional and Judicial safeguards have been successful in preventing the misuse of such powers?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2022
Separation of PowersExecutive
"Repromulgation of Ordinance is a fraud on the constitution and a subversion of democratic legislative process". Substantiate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 2 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
ExecutiveParliament