GS2 · Topic
Federalism
The federal structure, its asymmetries and the balance the Constitution strikes.
186 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Federalism that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
The restrictions imposed under Article 293 of the Constitution on State borrowing powers, though constitutionally valid, may hinder fiscal autonomy of States and disrupt cooperative federalism. Discuss in the light of recent developments.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
The District Planning Committee (DPC) was envisioned as a key instrument to strengthen grassroots-level planning. How far has it succeeded in achieving this goal? Discuss the challenges faced by DPCs and suggest measures to make them more effective.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
Discuss the recent changes and initiatives related to cooperatives that aim to smoothen the tussle between the Centre and States in the cooperative sector.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
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 Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution is more than a legal provision that empowers tribal regions with self-rule. How does the sixth schedule foster development while respecting their traditional governance systems and cultural practices?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 10 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Constitution and Basic StructureSC, ST and OBC
In what ways are the terms of reference of the 16th Finance Commission different from that of the previous Finance Commissions? Despite increasingly progressive devolution by subsequent Finance Commissions, examine the factors that propel economic disparities across various States.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
'The Upper House was envisioned as a reviewing chamber and not a rival to the Lower House.' In light of this statement, do you think the Rajya Sabha continues to fulfil this vision in contemporary Indian polity?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentFederalism
While cooperative federalism is rooted in the design of the Constitution, political considerations have given rise to competitive and confrontational federalism. Examine the role of constitutional and extra-constitutional institutions in reconciling these trends within India's federal structure.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
FederalismCentre-State Relations
'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
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
Though Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) have become a platform for competitive politics, they have not emerged as an agency of planning and service delivery. Why?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Local GovernmentFederalism
While the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plays a crucial role in combating corruption, its functioning is often criticized for being partisan and acting against the federal spirit. Discuss with the help of suitable examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesFederalism
The Constitution envisages the "principle of federal supremacy" in the executive space of Indian federal polity. Discuss while referring to the relevant Constitutional provisions and case laws. How are contentious issues regarding the distribution of powers resolved?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Delimitation of seats is essential to ensure fair representation and uphold the principles of one vote, one value. Highlighting the challenges posed by misrepresentation in constituencies analyse the ramifications of population-based delimitation in creating federal tension.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismElections and Representation
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
The Supreme Court of India has upheld unique asymmetry in India's federalism by intricately balancing centralized authority and regional autonomy. Discuss with the help of relevant case laws.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Federal governance is characterised by institutionalized arrangements for solving problems generated by pluralism based on consultation and mutual consent. How have Zonal Councils evolved from merely advisory bodies to proactive platforms for action?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Examine the role of the Inter-state Council in promoting vertical (Centre-State) and horizontal (Inter-State) Intergovernmental cooperation and coordination.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Do you agree that the Aspirational District Programme has emerged as a template for good governance? Substantiate.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Policy Design and ImplementationTransparency and Accountability
'The delimitation process creates a wedge between representative democracy and federalism.' Examine. Also suggest measures to address the concerns of federal units.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
FederalismElections and Representation
Presence of multiple parastatals erodes the autonomy of Urban Local Bodies. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
'Financial resources of the centre are elastic and substantial while that of the states are inelastic and inadequate.' Examine.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Recognizing the pivotal role of urbanization as a driver of national economic growth, the Fifteenth Finance Commission has suggested major reforms for Urban Local Bodies. Evaluate the recommendations put forward by the Fifteenth Finance Commission in promoting and revitalizing ULBs in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Local GovernmentSeparation of Powers
Despite constitutional backing to the institutions of local governance, the idea of decentralisation has remained hostage to several structural bottlenecks. Elucidate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Local GovernmentFederalism
Assess the effectiveness of Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 in resolution of river-water disputes. Also describe the potential impact of delays in resolution of water disputes.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
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
"Interstate border disputes, if not promptly and impartially settled, can transform into persistent issues that impede development and generate friction." Highlighting the constitutional and legal framework to resolve interstate disputes, explain why Independent India has failed to resolve inter-state border disputes.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Finance Commission in India has the tough job of balancing inclusiveness for poorer states and incentives for states that perform. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Constitutional BodiesFederalism
Assess the role of NITI Aayog over the past decade in promoting cooperative and competitive federalism.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
FederalismConstitutional Bodies