GS2 · Practice questions
Polity, governance, IR, social justice
1,564 questions, with how toppers answered each. Years are the CSE year of the toppers who answered.
All 42 themesFewer themes
The Ashgabat agreement could be the beginning of constructive regional economic cooperation between Central and South Asia and could help bring stability to disturbed areas in the region. Critically examine.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Regional GroupingsTrade and Economic Diplomacy
"New imperative of GeoEconomics and Geo-Technology are appending the old premises and promises of globalisation" - Vikram Misri (Foreign Secy). Evaluate the role of WTO as the cornerstone of global trade architecture and discuss the challenges undermining it. Suggest measures for reform.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Global InstitutionsTrade and Economic Diplomacy
What do you mean by 'doctrine of essentiality'? How has judiciary used this doctrine to address conflict between various fundamental rights? Explain with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Constitution and Basic StructureFundamental Rights
Judicial activism is a necessary tool to guard against "legislative adventurism and executive excesses". Critically discuss in the context of the doctrine of separation of powers as provided in the Constitution of India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Separation of PowersJudiciary
Examine the major outcomes of soaring global debt crisis in emerging and developing economies on international relations.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Global InstitutionsTrade and Economic Diplomacy
Explain with suitable example what do you understand by Devpt Financial Institutions? What are the prime objectives of DFIs in India. (10m)
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Policy Design and Implementation
Highlight India's ambitions towards Arctic Ocean along with explaining India's Arctic Policy.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Global Commons and TreatiesBilateral Relations
Civil Society Organizations bridge the 'governance gap' between citizens and the government, however sometimes their activities restrict the promotion of government programmes as well. In this regard, do you think stricter limitations on CSOs are justified? Argue
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Pressure Groups and AssociationsTransparency and Accountability
What is the rationale behind having a mandatory 'cooling-off' period for retired civil servants? In light of numerous instances of violation of this provision, do you think there is a need to have a relook at Civil Services Conduct Rules?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Civil ServicesCorruption and Probity
"Look west is as important as Look East." In light of this statement, analyze the growing relevance of West Asia as India's strategic partner.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Bilateral RelationsTrade and Economic Diplomacy
Analyze the implications of the expansion of BRICS membership to include countries like Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt on the group's geopolitical relevance and economic power. Evaluate the impact of this development on India's position within BRICS and its ability to further its national interests.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations
Asymmetry is not only an important characteristic of federalism in India, it has also helped in the accommodation of diverse demands inherent in our democracy. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Critically analyse the impact of the Skill India Mission on enhancing employability and economic development. (15M)
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Policy Design and ImplementationEducation
'India's ability to secure its economic, political and security interest will depend critically on its active contribution to the shaping of the international agenda'. Discuss
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
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
Article 21 of the Indian Constitution broadly interprets the right to life and liberty. Elucidate with the help of relevant case laws.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Fundamental RightsJudiciary
How far do you agree that the FPTP (First Past the Post) system has run its course in India and it is time that the country adopted PR (Proportional Representation) system? Substantiate your answer giving suitable arguments.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Elections and Representation
Women bear a disproportionate burden of the gaps in our healthcare system. Do you think a constitutional right to health will help in bridging the gap? Also suggest suitable alternatives.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
HealthWomen and Gender
In recent years, the shift towards New Public Governance has led to both cooperation and conflict between the state and civil society organisations in India. Analyse. (15M)
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
NGOs, SHGs and Civil SocietyPolicy Design and Implementation
What do you understand by the "principle of subsidiarity"? Discuss its importance in the context of India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
State the significance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Also, discuss the need for a legally binding Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
Global InstitutionsGlobal Commons and Treaties
52nd Constitutional Amendment, 1985 introduced Xth schedule, thereby paving way for an Anti-defection Law in the backdrop of "Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram" politics.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Parliament
Identifying the designated role of Parliament, discuss the consequences of inefficiency in parliamentary functioning in India. Also, suggest some measures for improving the functioning of Parliament.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Parliament
Throw light on the achievements of Poshan Abhiyan in ensuring nutritional security in India. Also, highlight the salient aspects of recently restructured Saksham Anganwadi and POSHAN 2.0, in order to fight nutritional crisis in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Welfare SchemesVulnerable Sections