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
'When the right to freedom of speech and expression corrodes, the institutions of democracy crumble'. Analyze.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
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
There is an urgent need for effective whistle-blowing mechanisms and ensuring that necessary safeguards for the protection of whistle-blowers are established in both public and private spheres in India. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityCorruption and Probity
The presence of Vigilant Opposition is necessary not just for a vibrant democracy but for its very survival. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
The trajectory of India-China relations in the last 75 years reflects a balance between pragmatic cooperation and unresolved strategic tensions. Discuss the contours of this evolving policy and highlight the measures India should take to counterbalance asymmetries with China.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
NeighbourhoodSecurity and Strategic Affairs
The profound impact of the data revolution and widespread smartphone usage has necessitated the use of digital tools in welfare programmes. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
E-GovernanceWelfare Schemes
The critical reason for poor public health indicators in India goes beyond recognition of right to health as fundamental right. Do you think that a statutory framework alone can ameliorate the situation?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
HealthPolicy Design and Implementation
"An independent judiciary is essential for upholding constitutional values, but it must also remain accountable to preserve public trust." Discuss in the context of recent issues.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
JudiciarySeparation of Powers
"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
Is the growing demand for stricter regulation of online content justified, or does it pose a threat to the right to freedom of speech and expression? Examine in light of recent judicial pronouncements.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Fundamental RightsJudiciary
“The weakening commitment of major powers to international health frameworks poses serious challenges to equitable global cooperation.” Discuss in light of the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO and its implications for India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Global InstitutionsHealth
Despite considerable geographical contiguity. SAARC has remained in a condition of jammed traffic. Discuss what SAARC can learn from other regional groupings from around the world.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations
While rankings aim to benchmark the performance of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), concerns remain about whether current ranking frameworks reflect the broader goals of education. Suggest measures to make the ranking system more objective, inclusive, and aligned with educational and societal outcomes.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
EducationPolicy Design and Implementation
The evolution of e-governance from mere information to transformation is critically based on the pillar of technology. In this context, analyze how the usage of technology in governance has facilitated effective public service delivery?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
E-GovernanceTransparency and Accountability
“The quality of governance is critically linked to the extent and nature of citizen participation in democratic processes.” Discuss using examples in the Indian context.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityPolicy Design and Implementation
In what ways do industry and business associations contribute to socio-economic development in the country? Explain with suitable examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Pressure Groups and Associations
The world continues to operate in a 'my terrorist' versus 'your terrorist' paradigm. Explain. What strategies would you suggest to develop a unified, comprehensive, and rules-based global approach to tackle the menace of terrorism?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Global InstitutionsSecurity and Strategic Affairs
Though lifeblood of a representative democracy, political parties are beset with challenges of their own, limiting their larger role in democratization of the society.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Elections and RepresentationPressure Groups and Associations
"The complexity of modern governance demands adaptive and dynamic administrative reforms." Evaluate the role of administrative reforms in improving efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in Indian governance.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Transparency and AccountabilityCivil Services
'You can change our friends but not neighbors.' In the light of the statement, examine the relevance of Gujral doctrine in India's Foreign Policy.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
NeighbourhoodBilateral Relations
Hunger can be viewed as the most severe and critical manifestation of poverty. In this context, analyze the linkage between hunger and poverty. How has India fared in tackling the vicious cycle of hunger and poverty?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Poverty and HungerWelfare Schemes
The synergy of shared values and vibrant people-to-people connections between India and Australia creates a fertile ground for fostering long-lasting trade relations and strategic collaboration between the two nations. Analyse.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Bilateral RelationsTrade and Economic Diplomacy
Recent controversies over alleged malpractices in the electoral rolls have renewed demands for the mandatory linkage of Aadhaar with Voter ID. What is your opinion? Give reasons in support of your answer.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Elections and RepresentationTransparency and Accountability
What is I2U2 summit? How its interests align with India's interests? Discuss in context of India trying to expand its presence in global affairs.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Regional GroupingsBilateral Relations