GS2 · Polity & Governance

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

In the backdrop of increasing contractual employment and outsourcing in public services, examine how state capacity and accountability are being redefined in governance.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

In the context of prolonged judicial delays, examine how pendency of cases affects governance certainty, federal balance, and the protection of citizens’ rights. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

With growing centralisation of fiscal and administrative powers alongside demands for cooperative federalism, analyse how India’s federal structure is evolving in practice beyond its constitutional framework. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“The idea of ‘One Nation, One Election’ promises administrative efficiency but raises concerns about federalism and democratic accountability. Discuss.”

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Amid concerns over declining parliamentary deliberation, reduced sittings and limited scrutiny of legislation, critically examine how legislative processes influence democratic accountability, transparency and the overall quality of governance in India. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“Passive euthanasia raises complex intersections between law, ethics, and medical decision-making.” Analyse how Indian courts have attempted to balance these dimensions through evolving jurisprudence.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

In the Indian constitutional framework, judicial activism often fills executive vacuum but risks policy overreach. Discuss with suitable examples. ( 250 words )

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Digital governance has redistributed power within the State rather than simply decentralising it. Analyse how technology reshapes accountability and discretion. ( 250 words)

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“Indian federalism is undergoing a transition marked by the rise of competitive federalism.” Discuss the nature and implications of this shift. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Parliamentary oversight is central to democratic accountability, yet its effectiveness has weakened over time. Discuss the causes and suggest measures to strengthen legislative scrutiny. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Outcome-based governance has emerged as a central theme in public administration reforms. Discuss its significance, limitations, and the institutional prerequisites required to translate budgetary allocations into measurable social outcomes. (250 words).

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

Examine the challenges faced by Urban Local Bodies in India in delivering basic services in the context of rapid urbanisation. How can institutional and financial reforms enhance urban governance?

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

How has competitive federalism complemented or conflicted with co-operative federalism in India? Illustrate your answer with recent policy initiatives and inter-state dynamics.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“India’s governance challenge lies not in the absence of reforms but in persistent gaps in implementation.” Critically examine.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

“Constitutional provisions by themselves are insufficient to sustain democratic governance unless they are animated by constitutional morality.” Discuss.

GS2 · Polity & Governance · 15 marks

While civil society organisations act as watchdogs of democracy, concerns regarding their transparency and accountability have also emerged. Critically analyse this paradox in the Indian context.

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.