AIR 8 · CSE 2025 · GS2 · 26 pages

Pakshal Secretry: GS2 answer copy

10 answers by Pakshal Secretry, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1"One of the mandates of NITI Aayog is to promote competitive and cooperative federalism among States and UTs." In this context, evaluate the role of NITI Aayog in strengthening cooperative federalism and encouraging innovation in policy making since 2015.10 marks
  2. Q2Examine the structure and jurisdiction of courts in the United States and India. How do the contempt powers of courts differ in both countries?10 marks
  3. Q3"Universal basic services and targeted welfare are fiscally sound, but competitive populism may hinder productive investment." In this context, highlight the constitutional and legal perspectives on welfare provisioning and discuss the impacts of the rising freebie culture.10 marks
  4. Q4The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India. Discuss.10 marks
  5. Q5"Lokpal is not a panacea, but a vital step towards ensuring accountability in public life." In this context, discuss the significance of the institution of Lokpal, along with the limitations it faces.10 marks
  6. Q6"Municipal corporations are key to urban governance, yet states often show reluctance to empower them functionally and financially". In this context, examine the key challenges faced by municipal corporations and suggest measures for a paradigm shift in urban local governance.15 marks
  7. Q7Discuss the constitutional provisions governing the imposition of President's Rule in India and its significance within the federal framework. Examine the challenges and criticisms related to its misuse. Mention key Supreme Court observations that have shaped the constitutional understanding of President's Rule.15 marks
  8. Q8"Delay in disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law weakens governance and undermines democratic stability." Discuss the provisions of the Anti-Defection Law and the role of the Speaker in its implementation. How does the delay in disqualification affect governance? Suggest reforms needed to strengthen the law.15 marks
  9. Q9Examine the key mechanisms available to the Indian Parliament to scrutinise the executive. What are the major gaps in these mechanisms, and how can they be strengthened to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability?15 marks
  10. Q10"The powers of the Governor, particularly with respect to state bills, have sparked recurring tensions between the Centre and the States." Discuss the constitutional powers of the Governor in this regard. Highlight the key concerns arising out of the Governor's role in the legislative process. What reforms can help address the Governor-State disputes? Refer to the case laws.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 160 words written

"One of the mandates of NITI Aayog is to promote competitive and cooperative federalism among States and UTs." In this context, evaluate the role of NITI Aayog in strengthening cooperative federalism and encouraging innovation in policy making since 2015.

Opening · a date or context

NITI Aayog has successfully completed 10 years of existence, promoting competitive & cooperative federalism by making a "Team India" face holistic progress.

Mandate of NITI

Body · points and prose

→ Cooperative federalism → Forming a Team India → Competitive federalism → 'Race to Top' among states

Role in cooperative federalism (1) Platform for deliberation among states (2) Equal representation to all state irrespective of size (3) Allows for collective thinking and recommendation to solve disputes (4) Monitoring collaborative implementation of projects → SDG Index

Encouraging innovation in policy making (1) Serving as a think tank for innovative solutions (2) Incentivising innovation in children & school → Atal Tinkering Labs (3) Bottom up planning → Region Specific innovative solution → Aspirational District (4) Promoting competitive race among state → drives further innovation → NITI Innovation Index.

Issues →

  • Politisation of Body
  • Non-statutory Status
  • Only recommendary role

Close · a way forward

¤ Bringing states and developing trust is key to fulfill mandate of NITI Aayog