UPSC Mains question bank

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Judicial activism is both a safeguard and a challenge to democratic governance. Critically examine.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“Executive dominance often undermines institutional checks and balances in governance.” Discuss

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

While digital governance initiatives aim to create more accountable and transparent governance,they often risk exacerbating existing socio-economic inequalities.Analyze this paradox in the light of India’s push of ‘ Digital Public Infrastructure’(DPI).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“The Indian model of secularism is not about the separation of religion and State, but the principled engagement of the State with all religions.”Discuss this statement in light of recent policy debates.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Compare and contrast the doctrine of Parliamentary supremacy in the UK with the concept of Constitutional supremacy in India.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

The inadequate devolution of the 3Fs—Funds, Functions, and Functionaries—remains the biggest bottleneck in empowering PRIs. Analyse the challenges and recommend practical reforms for effective decentralisation.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“Constitutionalism is not merely about limiting power, but about enabling good governance.” Examine how the Indian Constitution balances restraint and empowerment of the State.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Evaluate the potential of Mission Karmayogi in transforming India’s bureaucracy from a rule-based to a role-based system. What institutional challenges could hinder its success?

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“Despite being the ‘pharmacy of the world’, India lacks a robust paediatric drug regulatory framework.”Critically analyse the challenges in ensuring safety, quality, and ethical standards in medicines intended for children in India.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Do you think the recurrent resort to ordinances by the Executive undermines the principles of separation of powers and parliamentary accountability in India? Discuss.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Transparency is the cornerstone of democracy, but without accountability, it risks becoming ornamental. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of the Right to Information Act, 2005, in promoting transparency, accountability, and participatory governance in India.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Criminal defamation in India often conflicts with the right to freedom of speech. Critically examine the need to decriminalize defamation and suggest reforms to balance free speech and protection of reputation.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Ladakh’s demand for Sixth Schedule inclusion tests the balance between national integration and regional autonomy. Critically examine the need and challenges in granting Sixth Schedule protections to this strategically sensitive Union Territory.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“Environmental pressure groups are often seen as catalysts of participatory democracy.” To what extent have they succeeded in reconciling development imperatives with ecological sustainability in India?

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“Administrative tribunals are an essential adjunct to the justice delivery system in India.”Examine the rationale of the recent tribunal reforms and their impact on speedy justice.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“Federalism in India is not a fixed arrangement but a continuous negotiation between Union and States.” Examine this statement with reference to recent fiscal and political developments.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“As the chief legal advisor to the Union, the Attorney General of India safeguards the government’s adherence to law.” Critically examine the constitutional status, powers, and limitations of this office.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

"Judicial independence and judicial accountability are two sides of the same coin." Analyse the challenges in maintaining this balance in India.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Examine the constitutional role of the Vice President of India. Assess how effectively this office contributes to upholding and promoting federalism in the Indian political system.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

Critically assess the constitutional validity and contemporary relevance of inserting 'Socialist' and 'Secular' into the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 10 marks

“Declining legislative productivity reflects a deeper crisis in parliamentary democracy and national consensus.” Examine with reference to recent parliamentary sessions in India.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

"The Vice President’s role as Rajya Sabha Chairperson is central to the spirit of bicameralism." Discuss the constitutional and practical significance of this role in ensuring federal balance.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

"The promise of democratic decentralization, envisioned through the constitutional amendments, remains far from fully realized due to various constraints." Discuss.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Discuss the challenges in maintaining judicial independence while ensuring judicial accountability in India. To what extent do the existing mechanisms address this tension?

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

The advent of Artificial Intelligence and automation in public administration is reshaping governance structures in India. Assess the institutional and procedural challenges of integrating AI into public services.