AIR 14 · CSE 2025 · GS2 · 54 pages

Surabhi Yadav: GS2 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1"Extraordinary powers must be exercised with extraordinary care." Discuss in the context of Article 142 of the Indian Constitution.10 marks
  2. Q2Why are State Legislative Assemblies involved in the election of the President but excluded from the process of impeachment?10 marks
  3. Q3Private Member's Bills (PMBs) seldom become law in India, yet they are an important aspect of parliamentary democracy. Bring out their significance and suggest steps to strengthen the PMB process.10 marks
  4. Q4Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the judicial systems of India and USA.10 marks
  5. Q5The role of Election Commission of India has evolved beyond conducting elections to becoming a guardian of electoral democracy. Critically evaluate.10 marks
  6. Q6What is the rationale behind the 'three-language formula' in India's education policy? Also highlight the challenges associated with its adoption and implementation across the country.10 marks
  7. Q7'Emerging environmental concerns and evolving ecosystem perspectives demand a reimagined approach to rural water governance.' Discuss the key interventions needed to recalibrate rural water policies with special emphasis on the role of communities.10 marks
  8. Q8Identify and discuss the challenges hindering effective implementation of gender-sensitive policies and schemes in the country.10 marks
  9. Q9Effective transboundary water management can act as a catalyst for regional peace and cooperation.' In light of this statement, bring out the opportunities and challenges for India in leveraging 'water diplomacy' in its neighbourhood.10 marks
  10. Q10What are the key areas of reform if the World Trade Organization (WTO) has to remain relevant in the present context of rising protectionism and trade wars?10 marks
  11. Q11The basic structure doctrine acts as a constitutional compass in balancing Parliament's legislative authority and constitutional supremacy. Comment.15 marks
  12. Q12Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are pivotal to inclusive and efficient urban governance, yet they remain fiscally constrained and institutionally weak. Analyze.15 marks
  13. Q13"The judiciary has functioned as an institutional corrective, redefining and refining the contours of the Governor's office to prevent its misuse and uphold constitutional principles." Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.15 marks
  14. Q14How is the 'vertical' and 'horizontal' devolution of taxes to the states decided? Highlighting the concerns raised by some states regarding the devolution of taxes, suggest corrective measures.15 marks
  15. Q15What steps are required for the constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think granting constitutional status to the Central Information Commission (CIC) would strengthen the RTI regime in India? Give reasons.15 marks
  16. Q16Even as India experiences consistent economic growth and has achieved self-sufficiency in food production, hunger and food insecurity remain pressing concerns. Examine the factors responsible for this paradox and suggest steps to improve the situation.15 marks
  17. Q17The Union Government has recently announced that caste enumeration will be part of the upcoming census. Examine the opportunities and challenges associated with conducting a nationwide 'caste census'. Also, propose a framework for its seamless and effective conduct.15 marks
  18. Q18"AI integration in governance is no longer a choice but a necessity." In light of this statement, discuss how AI can enhance education and healthcare governance.15 marks
  19. Q19Providing a brief overview of the aims and objectives of BIMSTEC, explain its significance for India.15 marks
  20. Q20India's approach to its relationship with China has evolved into what can be best described as 'competitive coexistence'. Discuss in light of recent developments. What should be the broad contours of India's future China policy?15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 141 words written

"Extraordinary powers must be exercised with extraordinary care." Discuss in the context of Article 142 of the Indian Constitution.

Opening · a constitutional or legal provision

Article 142 of the constitution grants supreme Court the power to ensure [complete Justice]. Its the Extraordinary Power because

Body · points

the right <-- Provisions of Art 142 --> Can suo moto take up the case

Its the Extraordinary Power because

(1) Goes beyond [Rule of Law]

(2) It can also bypass the [Legislative Provisions] -> (eg) POSCO case in West Bengal court.

(3) It gives extraordinary power to the supreme court : [Judicial supremacy]

(4) Undermine constitutional mandate of [checks and Balances] and Separation of power.

It must be exercised with extraordinary care

(1-) To meet principle of complete Justice

(eg) Preamble mandates

(2) Slippery slope (eg) In 2024 SC took maximum suo-moto cases.

(3) SC cases acts as [Precedents] for the law.

(4) [Constitutional morality] and social morality needs to be firmly balanced.

Close · a way forward

Thus, supreme const must exercise its power with great care :- Seen also in AMU case recently. [Justice should not only be done but seen to be done].