AIR 446 · CSE 2024 · GS2 · 56 pages

Madhavi R: GS2 answer copy

20 answers by Madhavi R, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Indian Constitution acquires its secular character not just from the words in the Preamble but from a collective reading of many of its provisions. Illustrate with examples.10 marks
  2. Q2"In India, we follow a separation of functions and not of powers". Examine the statement with help of examples.10 marks
  3. Q3Is the President bound to accept the advice of the Council of Ministers? Discuss in context of the relationship between President, Prime Minister and Council of Ministers10 marks
  4. Q4Examine the significance of 'Neutrality Doctrine' in the case of Constitutional Bodies.10 marks
  5. Q5ICTs represent a technology watershed to transform governance and empower citizens. Analyze.10 marks
  6. Q6It is widely agreed that there is a governance deficit in India when compared with other countries at similar levels of development. In this context, discuss the key governance challenges and what can be done to address them.10 marks
  7. Q7'Door-step delivery of services aims to remedy the issues with traditional bureaucracy and create a leaner, incentive-driven local administration'. Discuss10 marks
  8. Q8"Digitization of healthcare must be complemented by a simultaneous thrust to modernize physical health infrastructure." Why and how can the health sector be effectively digitalised?10 marks
  9. Q9SCO serves India's quest for geopolitical balance and regional engagement; however, any benefits from it are cancelled out by the presence of China and Pakistan. In this context discuss various concerns faced by India regarding SCO?10 marks
  10. Q10“Contradictions in the India-Russia relationship will be difficult to overcome in the long term”. Critically comment.10 marks
  11. Q11“Free and fair election is the ‘basic structure’ of our constitution and it is the ‘heartbeat’ of democracy.” Critically examine the role of the Election commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections in India.15 marks
  12. Q12The Indian model of federalism strengthens the Union government more than the states, but at the same time, state-level government structures have been able to assert their independence in different political contexts. Clarify.15 marks
  13. Q13Trace and evaluate the role of the Finance Commission in ensuring just and equitable resource sharing among the local bodies, states, and the union.15 marks
  14. Q14Discuss the need to formulate migration-centric policies, strategies, and institutional mechanisms to promote sustainable migration in India.15 marks
  15. Q15No development strategy can succeed unless it is complemented by the effective implementation of Panchayat Raj Institutions and Urban local bodies. Examine.15 marks
  16. Q16Digital age is raising new questions on sovereignty, governance, law, rights, and security. Discuss15 marks
  17. Q17Citizens' Charters initiative is a response to the quest for solving the problems which a citizen encounters. In light of the statement, evaluate the problems faced in implementing Citizen Charters in India15 marks
  18. Q18World Bank data-rigging crisis highlights the 'deeper structural issues' in the governance of both the Bank and the IMF. In this context, elaborate on the roles, functions, and issues in the working of two Bretton Woods Institutions.15 marks
  19. Q19In view of the emerging problems and opportunities associated with the Indus Basin, explain the need for a new Indus water treaty.15 marks
  20. Q20'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'. Discuss15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 193 words written

Indian Constitution acquires its secular character not just from the words in the Preamble but from a collective reading of many of its provisions. Illustrate with examples.

Opening · a definition

The secular character i.e Respecting all the religions with equal importance has deep rooted in the Indian culture and history. The same has been highlighted in the constitution of India.

Body · points

Secular provisions in the constitution:

(1) Through the 42nd amendment act of 1976, the word 'secular' has been inserted in the preamble of the constitution.

'Secular' character can be seen not only in the preamble but also in

(2) Part III Fundamental Rights.

  • Articles 25, 26, 27 providing provision of freedom to practice one's own religion, practices.
  • No paying of taxes related to religious institutions.
  • Articles 14, 15 providing right to equality and prohibition of discrimination on the basis of religion.
  • Articles 29, 30 to minorities to run their educational institutions. ③ Part IVA 51A. Fundamental Duties to promote brotherhood by harmoniously living with each other. ④ India follows 'positive secularism' in which state can intervene to support and develop the secular institutions. ⑤ Reservation to minorities in education, jobs renders to bring back from oppression.

Close · a summary

India, has the cultural, Religious, traditional diversity. It has to maintain the unity inspite of all the disturbances which occur now & then.