AIR 34 · CSE 2025 · GS2 · 58 pages

Nancy Singh: GS2 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1"Parliament is a creature of the constitution, not its master". Highlighting relevant case laws discuss how judicial intervention has shaped the balance between the Constitution and parliamentary sovereignty.10 marks
  2. Q2How do the citizenship laws and policies of India and the United States differ within their constitutional frameworks? Comment on the ongoing debate on citizenship laws and policies in India and the US.10 marks
  3. Q3"The right to internet access is integral to the realization and exercise of other fundamental rights in India." In this context examine how the recognition of internet access as a fundamental right in India reconciles with the state's authority to impose restrictions.10 marks
  4. Q4How did the 44th Constitutional Amendment impact the emergency provisions in the Indian Constitution?10 marks
  5. Q5What are the powers and immunities of the Governor in relation to bills passed by the state legislature? Are these powers unlimited in nature? Discuss in light of relevant judgements.10 marks
  6. Q6Do you think that lateral entry can significantly enhance the effectiveness of the Indian bureaucracy?10 marks
  7. Q7The demand for a caste census and the sub-categorization of castes reflects the failure of neoliberalism to address India's caste problem. Discuss.10 marks
  8. Q8Despite significant advancements, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields. What are the barriers to women's participation in STEM, and what policy interventions can address these challenges to promote gender equity?10 marks
  9. Q9'The expansion of BRICS signals a shift towards a more multipolar world order.' Discuss how this expanded grouping presents India with opportunities to enhance its global leadership while introducing certain challenges.10 marks
  10. Q10Strategically located ports are vital assets in regional and economic integration. In this context discuss the significance of ports like Chabahar and Sittwe in India's strategy to enhance connectivity and their contribution to India's geopolitical objectives.10 marks
  11. Q11How does mediation differ from arbitration? In light of the recent enactment of the Mediation Act, 2023, assess its potential to address the backlog of litigations in Indian courts and foster a culture of voluntary mediation, especially among private players and public-sector undertakings.15 marks
  12. Q12The federal character of a nation comprising elective bodies at different levels is best secured through a bicameral legislature. In this context, discuss how a bicameral legislature supports federalism in India. What additional measures can be taken to strengthen the federal structure and ensure effective representation of states in national governance?15 marks
  13. Q13An Independent Parliamentary Secretariat is the backbone of a robust democracy, ensuring non-partisan support to Parliament in carrying out its core functions. Discuss.15 marks
  14. Q14Given the significant role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in local governance, assess the challenges and opportunities in strengthening their financial autonomy. How can reforms in PRI financing contribute to more effective grassroots governance in India?15 marks
  15. Q15Despite the absence of a constitutional mandate, the National Commission for Women(NCW) has had a significant impact in influencing legal reforms and securing gender justice in India. Do you agree?15 marks
  16. Q16In post-liberalized India, independent regulators were established to ensure fair competition and transparency. To what extent have independent regulators been effective in their mandates and discuss the impact of government influence on their autonomy.15 marks
  17. Q17How does the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023 aim to reshape the patriarchal dynamics of Indian politics? Do you think it might encounter similar limitations as those seen in local self-government institutions?15 marks
  18. Q18Hunger is both a cause and a consequence of poverty, and addressing it requires a multidimensional approach. Analyze the effectiveness of a multidimensional approach with examples from key government initiatives.15 marks
  19. Q19The African Union's inclusion in the G-20 marks a significant step towards strengthening South-South cooperation.' Discuss the importance of this development for India and its implications for India's relations with Africa.15 marks
  20. Q20What are the key challenges associated with the IMF and World Bank in addressing the needs of developing countries? Also, assess the need for reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to address the evolving global challenges.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 171 words written

"Parliament is a creature of the constitution, not its master". Highlighting relevant case laws discuss how judicial intervention has shaped the balance between the Constitution and parliamentary sovereignty.

Opening

Judicial intervention has ensured that the balance between Constitution and Parliamentary sovereignty is maintained via judicial review (Article 13, 226, 32).

Body · points

Judicial intervention case laws

  1. Indira Gandhi Case (1975): SC struck down 39th AA which kept elections of President, Vice-President out of judicial review.

  2. Keshvanand Bharti Case (1973) → Supreme Court established the doctrine basic structure and upheld that Parliament can make laws provided it does not violate the basic structure.

  3. Kehar Singh Case → The power of President to grant pardon is not out of judicial review.

  4. Minerva Mills Case (1980) → Supreme Court struck down 42nd AA, 1976 which aimed to violate Fundamental rights to implement any DPSP.

  5. I.R. Coelho Case (2007) : SC established that there is no blanket bar on ninth schedule and is subject to judicial review.

  6. Supreme Court struck down 99th CA on account of independence of judiciary being violated.

  7. Waman Rao Case, 1981 → Adherence to basic structure.

Close · a summary

Thus Supreme Court time to time checks Parliament's tyranny.