AIR 25 · CSE 2020 · GS2 · 53 pages

Vaibhav Rawat: GS2 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1Basic structure doctrine has prevented the Parliament, a creature of the constitution, from becoming the master of the constitution. Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.10 marks
  2. Q2To what extent, in your opinion, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in India have enabled women led development at the grassroot level?10 marks
  3. Q3The power of pressure groups lies not in their size or elaborate organization, but in their ability to mobilize public opinion and create lasting change. With help of relevant examples, discuss how informal pressure groups shape public policy.10 marks
  4. Q4"Bail not Jail" is the cardinal principle that upholds the sacrosanct ideas of individual's liberty and dignity. Explain the statement with the help of various judicial pronouncements.10 marks
  5. Q6Anti-defection law has failed to address and resolve the evil of political defection satisfactorily. Discuss various issues surrounding the Anti-defection law and recommend some corrective measures.10 marks
  6. Q8Asses the relevance of lateral entry in civil services in making the governance structure more effective, efficient, and people oriented.10 marks
  7. Q9Built upon common democratic values and shared vision of strategic autonomy, India-France bilateral ties exude a promise of stability, growth, and security in a time of geo-political flux and uncertainty. Do you agree? Substantiate your answer.10 marks
  8. Q10As an important attribute of soft power, "Knowledge diplomacy" has the potential to further various objectives of foreign policy. Explain.10 marks
  9. Q11Referring to the case laws through which the collegium system in India evolved, critically assess its functioning.15 marks
  10. Q12Considering the non-enforceable nature of fundamental duties and directive principles of state policy, critically examine their impact in socio-political norms.15 marks
  11. Q13Despite its vital role for the smooth functioning of the body politic, constitutional punctuality remains conspicuous by its absence. Discuss.15 marks
  12. Q14Frequent reliance on the ordinance making power by the government, not only dilutes the basic tenets of executive accountability in a parliamentary democracy, but also overlooks the democratic traditions of building consensus. Discuss with relevant examples.15 marks
  13. Q15The critical reason for poor public health indicators in India goes beyond recognition of right to health as fundamental right. Do you think that a statutory framework alone can ameliorate the situation?15 marks
  14. Q16Reforming the education infrastructure through digital interventions is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment.15 marks
  15. Q17Electoral bond was brought in as a reform that was high on intent but has proved to be low on substance. Do you agree? Justify.15 marks
  16. Q18The profound impact of the data revolution and widespread smartphone usage has necessitated the use of digital tools in welfare programmes. Discuss.15 marks
  17. Q19Presidency of G20 is but a reflection of India's quest for a more just and polycentric world order, where the voice of the global south is mainstreamed not muzzled. Elucidate.15 marks
  18. Q20The new cold war between the USA and China may have the effect of casting a long shadow on India's strategic interests from Pacific to Atlantic. Evaluate.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 185 words written

Basic structure doctrine has prevented the Parliament, a creature of the constitution, from becoming the master of the constitution. Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.

Opening

Supreme court / SC has evolved the Basic structure doctrine in Kesavananda Bharati case of 1973. It says that Parliament can amend the constitution but not basic structure. It prevented parliament to become master of constitution:-

Body

  1. Addition of more & more things into basic structure eg Minerva mill case → Balance b/w fundamental right & DPSP.

  2. Golaknath case : - SC taking away power of parliament to amend fundamental rights.

  3. Minerva mill case : - SC said that 42th constitutional amendment is not valid as it takes away judicial review which is part of basic structure.

  4. Waman Rao case : - Basic structure doctrine will apply for laws after April 24 1973.

  5. M. Nagraj case → Adding principle of equality to Basic structure.

  6. Bommai case : - Include presidential rule in judicial review.

  7. Addition of emergency provisions under basic structure.

Close

Although there are issues raised regarding subjectivity of Basic structure & it being a tool of judicial activism, Basic structure has served its purpose to uphold core value, nobel ideals & vision of founding fathers of our Constitution.