AIR 280 · CSE 2023 · GS2 · 56 pages

Ananya Rana: GS2 answer copy

18 answers by Ananya Rana, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Socialistic ideals and secularism are core features of the Basic Structure doctrine in India. In this context, discuss how judicial decisions have cemented these principles as the cornerstone of constitutional identity.10 marks
  2. Q2“There is a need to expand the scope of ‘corrupt practices’ under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to address emerging forms of electoral malpractices.” Comment.10 marks
  3. Q3The recently released Devolution Index reveals wide variation in the performance of States in empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions. While explaining the reasons behind this variation, discuss the role of capacity-building initiatives in enabling PRIs to fulfil their constitutional mandate.15 marks
  4. Q6Q6.
  5. Q7“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
  6. Q8Q8.
  7. Q9“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
  8. Q10The ongoing conflict in West Asia has exposed the vulnerabilities of regional diplomacy. In this light, discuss the implications of the West Asian conflict for India's strategic autonomy and regional engagement.10 marks
  9. Q11"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
  10. Q12"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
  11. Q13Q13.
  12. Q14"In the evolving constitutional and political landscape, the effectiveness of statutory commissions depends on their structural autonomy and independence." Discuss in the context of the growing demand for constitutional status for statutory commissions like the National Commission for Women (NCW) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).15 marks
  13. Q15"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
  14. Q16Institutional autonomy of sectoral regulators is critical for ensuring credibility, transparency, and fair competition. In light of recent incidents, examine the issues pertaining to the independence and autonomy of regulatory bodies in India.15 marks
  15. Q17How far do you think a caste census is a necessary step toward realising the goals of social justice and equitable development, despite the administrative challenges it poses?15 marks
  16. Q18"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
  17. Q19The 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
  18. Q20The evolution of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) from a maritime security grouping to a multidimensional partnership reflects changing strategic realities in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, examine the opportunities and challenges that QUAD presents for India's regional aspirations and strategic autonomy.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 226 words written

Socialistic ideals and secularism are core features of the Basic Structure doctrine in India. In this context, discuss how judicial decisions have cemented these principles as the cornerstone of constitutional identity.

Opening · a date or context

Recent debates over inclusion of words like 'socialist' and 'secular' in Indian Constitutions preamble via 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 have re-ignited the basic structure doctrine.

Body · points and prose

Basic structure doctrine in India

→ first stipulated by SC in Kesavananda Bharati Case 1973 → judicial innovation as a part of judicial interpretation of constitution. → socialist ideals which establish a welfare state were included in constitution even before amendment @ Article 38, 39 (DPSP) → secularism - has been part and parcel of India's 'principled distance' between state and religion. Article 25-28 (Right to Freedom of religion justifies it)

Judicial decisions that cemented these principles as cornerstone of constitutional identity

(1) S.R. Bommai Case, 1994 - SC affirmed secularism to be part of basic structure doctrine.

(2) LIC v/s Union of India Case, 1995 - SC further re-iterated 'secularism' as basic feature of Indian state.

(3) Abhiram v/s C.D. Commachen Case - State's domain is not to be mixed with religious activities. A candidate can't appeal for votes on the basis of religion.

(4) Shirur Mutt Case, 1954 - SC gave judgement about Essential Practices Doctrine.

(5) Balram Singh v/s UOI, 2024 - socialism and secularism are integral to Indian state.

Close

Socialism refers to welfare state that promotes equality of opportunity without harming private sector while secular state means neither having affinity nor disgust for religion.