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All questions of Working of the Constitution for UPSC CSE Exam

The Central Electricity Authority (CEA)
1. is a Statutory Body.
2. has the generating stations need not compulsorily follow the CEA's technical standards specified for the construction of electrical plants and electric lines.
3. is headed by the Union Home Minister.
Which of the above statements are true?
  • a)
    Only 1
  • b)
     Only 1 and 2
  • c)
    Only 1 and 3
  • d)
    All
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Sanjay Rana answered
The Central Electricity Authority of India (CEA) is a statutory organization constituted under section 3(1) of the Electricity Supply Act 1948, which has been superseded by section 70( 1) of the Electricity Act 2003.
  • The CEA advises the government on matters relating to the National Electricity Policy and formulates short-term and perspective plans for the development of electrical systems. Under the Electricity Act 2003, CEA prescribes the standards on matters such as the construction of electrical plants, electric lines and connectivity to the grid, installation and operation of meters and safety and grid standards.
  • The CEA is also responsible for concurrence of hydropower development schemes of central, state and private sectors taking into consideration the factors which will result in the efficient development of the river and its tributaries for power generation, consistent with the requirement of drinking water, irrigation, navigation and flood control.
  • Preparation of technical standards for construction of electrical plants, electric lines and connectivity to the grid is the responsibility of CEA as per section 73 (b) of the Electricity Act, 2003.
  • However, as per section 7 of this Act, a generating company may establish, operate and maintain a generating station if it complies with the technical standards only relating to connectivity to the grid as given in clause (b) of section 73. This implies that generating stations need not follow compulsory the CEA technical standards specified for the construction of electrical plants and electric lines.
  • The CEA plays a lead role in promoting the integrated operations of the regional power grids and the evolution of a national grid. The eastern, western, and north-eastern grids have been integrated and are operating in asynchronous mode. The eastern grid is connected to the northern as well as southern grid through High- Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) back-to-back links. The western grid is also connected to the northern and southern grid through similar arrangements. The CEA facilitates the exchange of power within the country from surplus to deficit regions and with neighboring countries for mutual benefits.
  • The CEA advises central government, state governments and regulatory commissions on all technical matters relating to generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. It also advises state governments, licensees or generating companies on matters which enable them to operate and maintain the electricity system under their ownership or control in an improved manner.

Consider the following about the Law Commission of India (LCI).
1. It is a non-statutory and non-constitutional body.
2. It is headed by the incumbent Union Law Secretary.
3. It is constituted by the Parliament from time to time.
Select the correct answer using the codes below,
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    1, 2, and 3 only
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
Statement 2: It is usually headed by a retired Supreme Court judge or former Chief Justice of a High Court.
Statement 3: It is constituted by the Union Government from time to time. The first commission was constituted in 1955, and since then, various commissions were re-constituted every three years.

Consider the following about the National Authority, Chemical Weapons Convention (NACWC).
1. It was set up by a resolution of Cabinet Secretariat,
2. It is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
3. It is housed under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
Select the correct answer using the codes below.
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
     1 only
  • c)
     2 only
  • d)
    2 and 3 only
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
It was set up in 1997 to fulfil the obligations enunciated in the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
  • It prohibits the development, production, execution, transfer, use and stockpiling o f all chemical weapons by member-states in a non- discriminatory manner.
  • The Parliament in 2000 unacted (lit CWG Act which came into force m 2015 to give effect to the provisions of the Chemical Weapons Convention in India
  • In accordance with the provisions of this Act, a high-level steering committee under the Chairmanship of the Cabinet Secretary with Secretary (Chemical and Petrochemicals), Foreign Secretary, Secretary, Defence Research and Development, Defence Secretary and Chairman, National Authority as its other members, oversees the functioning of the National Authority.
  • The National Authority is responsible for implementation of the CWC Act, liaison with Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and Other State parties, fulfilling of declaration obligation, negotiating facility agreements etc.

Consider the following statements regarding the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In):
1. It is the Government organization under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
2. It is a nodal agency that deals with cyber security threats like hacking and phishing.
Which of the above statements are true?
  • a)
    Only 1
  • b)
    Only 2
  • c)
    Both
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
Indian Computer Emergency Response Team under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, is a nodal agency that deals with cyber security threats like hacking and phishing. It strengthens the security-related defense of the Indian Internet domain, In March 2014, CERT reported a critical flaw in Android Jelly Bean's Virtual Private Network (VPN) implementation.

Consider the following statements about the post of National Security Advisor, India.
1. He is appointed by the Parliament.
2. He reports directly to the intelligence agencies of India.
3. He heads the National Security Council.
Select the correct answer using the codes below,
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    3 only
  • d)
    None of the above
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
He is appointed by the Prime Minister, not the Parliament. So, 1 is wrong.
  • The National Security Adviser(NSA) is tasked with regularly advising the Prime Minister on all matters relating to internal and external threats to the country, and overseas strategic issues,
  • The NSA of India also serves as the Prime Minister's Special Interlocutor on border issues with China and frequently accompanies the Prime Minister on Foreign State visits.
  • Brajesh Mishra was appointed the first National Security Adviser of India. The post was created in 1998 by the Government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Which of the following authorities have a bearing on the decision of Nuclear retaliation to a first strike on India?
1. Nuclear Command Authority
2. Indian Armed Forces
3. Parliament
Choose the correct answer from the codes given below.
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
     1 only
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Mahi Khanna answered
Understanding Nuclear Retaliation Decision in India
In the context of nuclear retaliation to a first strike on India, the authorities involved play distinct roles. Let’s break down the responsibilities of each authority mentioned:
Nuclear Command Authority (NCA)
- The NCA is the apex body responsible for the command, control, and operational decisions regarding India's nuclear arsenal.
- It is comprised of the Prime Minister, the National Security Advisor, and the Chief of Defence Staff.
- The NCA is the primary authority that would make the critical decision on nuclear retaliation, ensuring a cohesive and swift response to any nuclear threat.
Indian Armed Forces
- The Indian Armed Forces are responsible for executing military operations, including nuclear operations.
- However, they do not have the authority to independently decide on nuclear retaliation. Their role is more about implementation rather than making the decision.
Parliament
- While Parliament plays a crucial role in formulating national security policy and overseeing the military, it is not involved in real-time decision-making regarding nuclear responses.
- Decisions related to nuclear retaliation are made by the executive branch, specifically the NCA, not by legislative processes.
Conclusion
Given the distinct roles of these authorities, the correct answer is option 'D' - only the Nuclear Command Authority has the direct authority to decide on nuclear retaliation. Other entities, while important, do not have a bearing on this specific decision-making process.

The Union Cabinet has recently approved the process, formation, and functioning of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council. Consider the following about it.
1. It will be a constitutional body.
2. It will be a joint forum of the Centre and the States chaired by the Prime Minister.
3. The Council will make recommendations to the Union and the States on GST rates.
Select the correct answer using the codes below,
  • a)
    1 and 2 only
  • b)
    2 and 3 only
  • c)
    1 and 3 only
  • d)
    3 only
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Explanation:

Constitutional Body:
- The GST Council is not a constitutional body. It is a statutory body created under Article 279A of the Constitution.

Joint Forum:
- The GST Council is indeed a joint forum of the Centre and the States, with the Prime Minister as the Chairperson.

Recommendations on GST Rates:
- One of the key functions of the GST Council is to make recommendations to both the Union and the States on the rates of Goods and Services Tax.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'C' as stated earlier, which includes points 1 and 3 only.

Consider the following about the National Water Resources Council (NWRC).
1. The council is chaired by the Prime Minister with the Chief Minister of State as its members.
2. The council has the authority to approve National Water Policy (NWP) which is later considered by Cabinet.
Which of the above is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Amit Kumar answered
Statement 1: The National Water Resources Council (NWRC) was set up by the Government of India in 1983. The Prime Minister is the Chairman and Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation is the Vice Chairman of the Council.
  • The Union Minister of State for Water Resources, concerned Union Ministers/Ministers of State, and Chief Ministers of all States and Lieutenant Governors/Administrators of the Union Territories are the Members.
Statement 2: The draft National Water Policy (2012) was first considered by the National Water Resources Council (NWRC) for adoption. Thereafter, the National Water Policy was recommended to all States for implementation.

Consider the following about the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).
1. It was founded before India's independence.
2. It aims to promote cultural exchange with other countries and peoples.
3. It funds research in premier cultural institutions of India.
Select the correct answer using the codes below,
  • a)
    2 only
  • b)
    1 and 3 only
  • c)
     1 and 2 only
  • d)
    None of the above
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
Statement 1: It was founded In 1950 by MaulanaAbulKalam Azad, independent India’s first Education Minister.
Statement 2: Its objectives are to actively participate in die formulation and implementation of policies and programs pertaining to India's external cultural relations; to foster and strengthen cultural relations and mutual understanding between India and other countries; to promote cultural exchanges with other countries and people, and to develop relations with nations.

Which of the following statements is INCORRECT about the National Council of Senior Citizens which is chaired by the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment?
  • a)
    The council was originally known as National Council for Older Persons (NCOP)
  • b)
    The Council is a permanent body that meets on a daily basis.
  • c)
    It is an advisory body to both Central and State governments.
  • d)
    None of the above
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
  • If the body is chaired by a person like the Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment, it is NOT possible for the body to meet on a daily basis given the busy schedule of the Ministers. The body meets twice a year. So, option b is incorrect.
  • Not so important facts like this are often asked by UPSC, You should also pay attention to these details.
Learning: The mandate of the National Council of Senior Citizens is to advise the Central and State Governments on the entire gamut of issues related to the welfare of senior citizens and enhancement of their quality of life, with special reference to the following:
  • Policies, programs, and legislative measures.
  • Promotion of physical and financial security, health, and independent and productive living.
  • Awareness generation and community mobilization.

Which of the following statements is INCORRECT with reference to the Strategic Forces Command (SFC)?
  • a)
    It is a unit Of the Indian Army.
  • b)
    It was created by the executive order of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).
  • c)
    It forms part of India’s Nuclear Command Authority (NCA).
  • d)
    It is headed by the Prime Minister of India.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Prerna Ahuja answered
Understanding the Strategic Forces Command (SFC)
The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) is an integral part of India's defense structure, specifically dealing with nuclear capabilities. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the statements regarding SFC:
Statement Analysis
- a) It is a unit of the Indian Army.
- This statement is correct. The SFC operates under the Indian Armed Forces and is primarily responsible for the management of India's nuclear arsenal.
- b) It was created by the executive order of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).
- This statement is also correct. The SFC was established through an executive order by the CCS, emphasizing its strategic importance in India's national security framework.
- c) It forms part of India’s Nuclear Command Authority (NCA).
- This statement is correct as well. The SFC plays a crucial role in the NCA, which oversees the operational command of India’s nuclear forces.
- d) It is headed by the Prime Minister of India.
- This statement is incorrect. The SFC is headed by a three-star officer, typically from the Indian Army, not the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister is the key decision-maker regarding nuclear policy but does not directly command the SFC.
Conclusion
The incorrect nature of statement 'd' highlights a common misconception regarding the hierarchy and command structure of India's nuclear forces. The SFC's leadership is distinct from the political leadership represented by the Prime Minister, ensuring a clear delineation between military command and civilian oversight.

Consider the following about the National Population Commission (NPC) of India.
1. It is chaired by the Prime Minister of India.
2. It conducts the decennial demographic Census in India.
Which of the above is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
Statement 1: It is chaired by the prime minister with the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission as vice-chairman.
Chief Ministers of all states, ministers of the related central ministries, secretaries of the concerned departments, eminent physicians, demographers and the representatives of the civil society are members of the commission.
Statement 2: It is conducted by the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India.
Learning: The commission has the mandate
  • to review, monitor and give direction for the implementation of the National Population Policy with the view to achieving the goals set in the Population Policy.
  • promote synergy between health, educational environmental and developmental programmes so as to hasten population stabilization.
  • promote inter-sectoral coordination in planning and implementation of the programmes through different sectors and agencies in Centre and the Slates,
  • develop a vigorous peoples programme to support this national effort.  

The functions of the Atomic Energy Commission is/are
1. To undertake prospecting and extraction of atomic minerals in India
2. To organize research in atomic energy and train scientists in die country
Which of the above is/are correct?
  • a)
    1 only
  • b)
    2 only
  • c)
    Both 1 and 2
  • d)
    None
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) was set up in 1948 to look after atomic energy activities In the country. The functions of the Atomic Energy Commission are:
  • to organise research in atomic scientists In the country;
  • to train atomic scientists in the country;
  • to promote nuclear research in commission’s own laboratories as well as in India; and
  • to undertake prospecting of atomic minerals in India and to extract such minerals for use on industrial scale.
The Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Atomic Energy is ex officio Chairman of the Commission. The other Members of the AEC are appointed for each calendar year on the recommendation o f the Chairman, ABC and after approval by the Prime Minster,

Which of the following will be the main agency handling the establishment of the National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC)?
  • a)
    The Cyber Society of India (CySI)
  • b)
    Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
  • c)
    Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
  • d)
    National Informatics Centre (NIC)
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Charvi Sen answered
The National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC)
The establishment of the National Cyber Coordination Centre (NCCC) is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing India's cybersecurity framework.
Main Agency: CERT-In
The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has been designated as the main agency to handle the establishment of the NCCC. This decision is rooted in several key factors:
1. Expertise in Cybersecurity
- CERT-In is the national agency responsible for monitoring, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity incidents in India.
- With a robust framework in place, it has the technical expertise required to manage and coordinate cyber threats effectively.
2. Incident Management
- CERT-In plays a pivotal role in incident management, providing timely information related to vulnerabilities and threats.
- This capability is crucial for the NCCC, which aims to enhance situational awareness regarding cyber threats at a national level.
3. Coordination with Other Agencies
- CERT-In is already engaged in collaboration with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to mitigate cyber risks.
- The NCCC will leverage this existing network for a more cohesive response to cyber incidents.
4. Policy Implementation
- As a part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), CERT-In is involved in formulating and implementing national cybersecurity policies.
- This aligns perfectly with the objectives of the NCCC, which aims to create a centralized coordination mechanism.
In conclusion, CERT-In's established role in cybersecurity incident management, expertise, and inter-agency coordination makes it the ideal agency to handle the establishment and operationalization of the National Cyber Coordination Centre.

Which of the following statements with reference to the Office of the National Security Advisor is INCORRECT?
  • a)
    The office can be held only by officers of the Indian Police Service (IPS) cadre.
  • b)
    NSA is the chief executive of the National Security Council.
  • c)
    Brajesh Mishra was the first National Security Advisor.
  • d)
    None of the above.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
Option a: All the NSAs appointed since the inception of the post belong to the Indian Foreign Service except M K Narayanan and the incumbent, Ajit Doval, who belong to the Indian Police Service, So, option a is incorrect.
  • The National Security Advisor (NSA) is the chief executive of the National Security Council (NSC) and the primary advisor to the Prime Minister of India on national and international security.
  • It is the National Security Advisor to whom intelligence agencies such as the Research and Analysis Wing and Intelligence Bureau report, rather than directly to (he Prime Minister.
  • Due to such vested powers, NSA is a prominent and powerful oilice in tire bureaucracy.

Which of the following describes the ' Mission’ of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) most appropriately?
  • a)
    Safeguarding public health and the environment from hazards of nuclear energy
  • b)
    Addressing energy security of the nations by establishing high-end nuclear power stations
  • c)
    Supervising quality research in matters of fundamental nuclear energy to serve the national interest
  • d)
    Oversee the technical operations of nuclear power centers in India
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Ravi Sharma answered
  • The Mission of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) is to ensure the use of ionizing radiation and nuclear energy in India does not cause undue risk to the health of people and the environment.
  • it was established m 1983 by (lie President of India, The AERB is supported in its functions by a number of committees. Members of all the A ERB committees are recognized experts with long experience in the relevant fields. The regulator)' authority of AERB is derived from the rules and notifications promulgated under the Atomic Energy Act 1962 and the Environmental (Protection) Act 1986.

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