All questions of Indian Polity for UPSC CSE Exam

Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Yojana is a campaign under the Government of India that was established for generating awareness and improving the efficiency of the welfare services intended for girls in India. This scheme was launched by PM Narendra Modi on 22 January 2015 which is run jointly by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Human Resource Development.

Rights against exploitation: Article 20-22

Explanation:

2 Only
- Statement 1 is incorrect because both Sri Lanka and India have faced challenges to their democratic systems since independence. Sri Lanka, in particular, has experienced periods of political instability and conflict.
- Statement 2 is correct. Nepal is indeed a constitutional monarchy, where the monarch's powers are limited by a constitution.
- Statement 3 is incorrect. Pakistan has had a tumultuous political history with periods of military rule interspersed with democratic governments. It was only after the early 2000s that Pakistan saw more consistent democratic governance.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C) 2 Only.

Effective Majority of the house means more than 50% of the effective strength of the house. This implies that out of the total strength, we deduct the vacant seats. When Indian Constitution mentions “all the then members”, that refers to the effective majority.

There is a provision for a joint sitting at the Parliamentary level between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, but there is NO provision for a joint sitting at the state level between assembly and council.

Judicial Powers and Functions -

Introduction:
The question asks which of the given systems is established on the basis of direct election. Let's analyze each option and determine the correct answer.

Explanation:
- Gram Panchayat: Gram Panchayat is the local self-government system in rural areas of India. It is the lowest level of Panchayati Raj system. Gram Panchayats are established on the basis of direct election, where the members are elected by the people of the village. They play a crucial role in the development and administration of the village. Therefore, option A is correct.

- Block Committee: Block Committee, also known as Panchayat Samiti, is the intermediate level of the Panchayati Raj system. It consists of elected representatives from various Gram Panchayats within a block. However, the members of the Block Committee are not directly elected by the people. They are elected by the members of the Gram Panchayats. Therefore, option B is incorrect.

- Zila Parishad: Zila Parishad is the highest level of the Panchayati Raj system. It is established at the district level and consists of elected representatives from various Block Committees within the district. Similar to the Block Committee, the members of Zila Parishad are not directly elected by the people. They are elected by the members of the Block Committees. Therefore, option C is incorrect.

Conclusion:
Based on the above explanation, it can be concluded that Gram Panchayat is the only system among the given options that is established on the basis of direct election. Therefore, the correct answer is option A.

Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra scheme promotes community participation through involvement of Students Volunteers for empowerment of rural women. These are the Indian Government Schemes that work for the empowerment of the women in different spheres.

The correct answer is option B, Demos, Kratos.

Explanation:
Democracy is a form of government in which power is vested in the people. It is derived from two Greek terms: Demos and Kratos. Let's understand the meaning of these terms:

1. Demos:
Demos means "the people" or "the citizens" in Greek. It refers to the collective body of individuals who constitute a society or a community. In the context of democracy, it represents the idea that the ultimate power and authority should rest with the people.

2. Kratos:
Kratos means "rule" or "power" in Greek. It signifies the exercise of authority or governance. In the context of democracy, it symbolizes the principle of self-rule or the power of the people to govern themselves.

Combining the two terms, "Demos" and "Kratos," we get the word "Democracy," which literally means "rule by the people" or "government by the people."

Democracy as a Concept:
Democracy is not just a word but a concept that embodies the principles of popular sovereignty, equality, and participation. It is a system of government where decisions are made collectively and reflect the will of the majority. In a democratic society, citizens have the right to express their opinions, elect their representatives, and participate in the decision-making process.

Democracy in Practice:
Democracy can take various forms, such as direct democracy, representative democracy, or constitutional democracy. It has been practiced in different ways throughout history and across different countries. However, the core idea remains the same - the power lies with the people.

Conclusion:
The word "democracy" is derived from the Greek terms "Demos" and "Kratos," which mean "the people" and "rule" respectively. It represents the concept of self-governance and the idea that power should ultimately rest with the citizens. Democracy is a fundamental principle of many modern societies and is based on the values of popular sovereignty, equality, and participation.

Answer is D

A

Explanation:

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a brief introductory statement that sets out the objectives and purposes of the Constitution. It was adopted on 26 November 1949 by the Constituent Assembly of India.

The language of the Preamble is inspired by the Constitution of Australia. However, the idea of including a Preamble in the Constitution was borrowed from the Constitution of the United States of America.

The Preamble is a non-justiciable part of the Constitution, meaning that it cannot be enforced by a court of law. However, it serves as a guiding principle for the interpretation of the Constitution.

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reads as follows:

"We, the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens:

Justice, social, economic and political;
Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
Equality of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all
Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
In our constituent assembly this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do hereby adopt, enact and give to ourselves this Constitution."

Conclusion:

Thus, it can be concluded that the language of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution is taken from the Constitution of Australia, but the idea of including a Preamble in the Constitution was borrowed from the Constitution of the United States of America.

The correct answer is option 'D': 1, 2 and 3.

Explanation:
Public facilities are essential services provided by the government to the general public for their welfare and well-being. These facilities are intended to benefit a large number of people and are typically funded by the government. Let's analyze each statement in detail:

1. Electricity, public transport, schools are known as public facilities:
- This statement is correct. Electricity, public transport, and schools are examples of public facilities. Electricity is a basic necessity that is provided to households, businesses, and institutions for various purposes. Public transport includes buses, trains, trams, and other modes of transportation accessible to the general public. Schools are educational institutions where students receive formal education.

2. The important characteristic of a public facility is that once it is provided, its benefits can be shared by many people:
- This statement is correct. One of the key features of public facilities is that they are accessible to a large number of people. For example, when electricity is provided to a neighborhood, all households in that area can benefit from it. Similarly, public transport services are available to anyone who wishes to use them, and schools cater to the educational needs of a wide range of students.

3. One of the most important functions of the government is to ensure that public facilities are made available to everyone:
- This statement is correct. It is a crucial responsibility of the government to ensure that public facilities are provided to all sections of society. Governments invest in infrastructure development, such as electricity grids, transportation networks, and educational institutions, to ensure that these facilities are accessible to everyone. By doing so, the government promotes equality and enhances the overall quality of life for its citizens.

In conclusion, all three statements are correct. Public facilities such as electricity, public transport, and schools are essential for the well-being of society. Once provided, these facilities can be shared by many people, and it is the government's responsibility to ensure their availability to everyone.

The correct answer is option 'A': 1, 2, and 3.

Explanation:
Democratic countries all over the world face several challenges in applying the basic principles of democratic government, extending the federal principle, and deepening democracy. Let's discuss each of these challenges in detail.

1. Applying the basic principle of democratic government across all regions, different social groups, and various institutions:
- In many democratic countries, there is a lack of equal representation and participation of all regions and social groups. Some regions and social groups may be marginalized or excluded from the political process.
- Ensuring equal representation and participation requires efforts to address historical and social inequalities, promote inclusivity, and provide opportunities for marginalized groups to have a voice in decision-making processes.
- Countries need to establish mechanisms to ensure fair representation and participation, such as proportional representation systems, reservation policies, and affirmative action measures.

2. Extension of federal principle to all the units of the federation:
- Federal countries face the challenge of ensuring that the federal principle is extended to all units of the federation, including regions or states with diverse socio-cultural, economic, and political characteristics.
- This requires balancing the autonomy of the units with the need for a strong central government to maintain unity and coordination.
- In some cases, there may be tensions between the central government and regional governments, leading to conflicts and demands for greater autonomy or even secession.
- Effective federalism requires mechanisms for intergovernmental cooperation, power-sharing, and conflict resolution.

3. Deepening of democracy:
- Deepening democracy involves strengthening democratic institutions, processes, and values to ensure greater accountability, transparency, and citizen participation.
- This requires efforts to promote a culture of democracy, civic education, and awareness among citizens.
- Democratic countries need to address challenges such as corruption, lack of political will, and the influence of money and vested interests on the democratic process.
- Deepening democracy also involves ensuring the rule of law, protecting human rights, and promoting social justice.

In conclusion, democratic countries face challenges in applying the basic principles of democratic government, extending the federal principle, and deepening democracy. These challenges require efforts to promote inclusivity, address regional and social inequalities, establish mechanisms for intergovernmental cooperation, and strengthen democratic institutions and values.

Location of the European Union Parliament:
- The European Union Parliament is located in Belgium.
Explanation:
- The European Union Parliament is the legislative body of the European Union (EU), which is a political and economic union of 27 member states.
- The EU Parliament is responsible for representing the interests of EU citizens and passing laws that affect all member states.
- The EU Parliament is located in the capital city of Belgium, which is Brussels.
- Brussels is chosen as the location for the EU Parliament because it is considered to be a neutral and central location within the EU.
- Brussels is also home to many other EU institutions and organizations, making it an important hub for European politics and decision-making.
Summary:
- The parliament of the European Union is located in Belgium, specifically in the city of Brussels. Brussels is chosen as the location due to its central and neutral position within the EU, as well as its status as a hub for European politics.

Branding’ means stamping a product with a particular name or sign. This is done in order to differentiate it from other products in the market.Branding actually came from cattle grazing. Cattle of different owners grazed together in ranches and they often got mixed up.The owners thought of a solution. They started marking their cattle with the owner’s sign by using a heated iron. This was called ‘branding’.

The Panchayati Raj system is a decentralized form of governance in India, which aims to provide local self-government in rural areas. It was introduced by the 73rd Amendment Act of 1992, which added the Part IX to the Constitution of India. The system is based on the principles of democratic decentralization, empowering local communities and promoting grassroots democracy.

The Panchayati Raj system in India consists of three tiers, each with its own set of responsibilities and powers. These tiers are as follows:

1. Gram Panchayat:
The Gram Panchayat is the lowest tier of the Panchayati Raj system and represents the village level administration. It is responsible for the governance of a single village or a group of villages. The Gram Panchayat is headed by a Sarpanch, who is elected by the members of the Gram Sabha. The Gram Sabha consists of all the eligible voters in the village and is the basic unit of decision-making in the Panchayati Raj system.

2. Panchayat Samiti:
The Panchayat Samiti is the intermediate tier of the Panchayati Raj system and represents a block or a group of Gram Panchayats. It is responsible for coordinating and supervising the functioning of the Gram Panchayats within its jurisdiction. The Panchayat Samiti is headed by a Chairman, who is elected by the members of the Panchayat Samiti. The members of the Panchayat Samiti are elected by the members of the Gram Panchayats within its jurisdiction.

3. Zilla Parishad:
The Zilla Parishad is the highest tier of the Panchayati Raj system and represents a district. It is responsible for coordinating and supervising the functioning of the Panchayat Samitis within its jurisdiction. The Zilla Parishad is headed by a President, who is elected by the members of the Zilla Parishad. The members of the Zilla Parishad are elected by the members of the Panchayat Samitis within its jurisdiction.

In summary, the Panchayati Raj system in India consists of three tiers: Gram Panchayat at the village level, Panchayat Samiti at the block level, and Zilla Parishad at the district level. Each tier has its own set of responsibilities and powers, and together they aim to promote local self-government and grassroots democracy in rural areas.

Most of these economies, especially Russia, started reviving in 2000, ten years after their independence.

Legislative and Executive Powers and Functions of Parliament
1. Parliament can make laws on the subjects enumerated in the State List:
- This is a legislative power of Parliament where it can make laws on subjects specified in the State List as per the distribution of powers between the Union and State governments under the Constitution.
2. Parliament exercises control over the Executive through question-hour:
- Question hour is a significant tool through which Members of Parliament can seek information and hold the government accountable for its actions. This helps in ensuring transparency and oversight over the Executive.
3. Lok Sabha can express lack of confidence in the government by no confidence motion:
- This is a crucial legislative power where the Lok Sabha can express lack of confidence in the government by passing a no-confidence motion. If the motion is passed, the government is bound to resign.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A' as these are the legislative and executive powers and functions of Parliament.

The correct answer is option 'C' - Both 1 and 2.

Explanation:

1. The term Dalit, means ‘broken’ and is used by groups to highlight the centuries of discrimination.
The term "Dalit" originates from the Sanskrit word "dalita" which means "oppressed" or "broken". It is used by groups in India to refer to individuals who have been historically marginalized and discriminated against due to their caste. The term is used to highlight the social, economic, and educational disadvantages faced by this community for centuries.

The Dalit community in India has faced various forms of discrimination and oppression, including untouchability, social exclusion, and limited access to resources and opportunities. They have been subjected to social, economic, and political marginalization, and have often been denied basic human rights.

2. Dalits can ‘invoke’ or ‘draw on’ Fundamental Rights in situations where they feel that they have been treated badly by some individual or community.
The Constitution of India provides Fundamental Rights to all citizens, including Dalits. These rights include the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, protection from discrimination, and the right to life and personal liberty.

Dalits can invoke or draw on these Fundamental Rights when they feel that they have been treated unfairly or discriminated against by individuals or communities. For example, if a Dalit person is denied access to public spaces, educational institutions, or employment opportunities based on their caste, they can file a complaint or seek legal recourse invoking their right to equality.

The Constitution of India also provides for affirmative action measures, such as reservations in educational institutions and government jobs, to uplift and empower marginalized communities, including Dalits. These measures aim to address historical injustices and provide equal opportunities for social and economic advancement.

In conclusion, both statements are correct. The term "Dalit" is used to highlight the centuries of discrimination faced by marginalized communities in India, and Dalits can invoke Fundamental Rights to seek redressal in situations where they feel they have been treated badly.

Supreme Court Review of Judgments:
- Yes, the Supreme Court can review its own judgments through a process known as a review petition. This allows parties to request a review of a judgment if they believe there has been a judicial error or an oversight in the decision. However, the grounds for review are limited and the court will not reconsider the merits of the case.

Scope of Judicial Review in the USA and India:
- The scope of judicial review in the USA is broader than that in India. In the USA, the Supreme Court has the power to review the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislature and actions taken by the executive branch. This allows the court to strike down laws that are found to be unconstitutional.
- In India, judicial review is also a part of the legal system, but it is more limited compared to the USA. The Indian Supreme Court can review laws and government actions to ensure they are in line with the Constitution, but the scope is narrower than in the USA. The court cannot strike down laws as easily as the US Supreme Court.
Therefore, both statements are true. The Supreme Court can review its own judgments, and the scope of judicial review in the USA is indeed broader than that in India.

Explanation:

1. 21 years to be the minimum age for contesting elections to Panchayats:
This statement is correct as per the 73rd Amendment Act of the Constitution, which states that a person must be at least 21 years old to contest elections to Panchayats.

2. Reservation of one-fourth seats for women in Panchayats at all the three levels:
This statement is also correct as per the 73rd Amendment Act, which mandates the reservation of one-third of seats for women in Panchayats at all levels - village, intermediate, and district.

3. Panchayati-Raj election is conducted by the State Election Commission:
This statement is incorrect. Panchayati Raj elections are conducted by the State Election Commission in some states, while in other states, they are conducted by the State Election Commission concerned.

4. Direct elections to the post of Chairperson of Panchayats at the intermediate and district level:
This statement is incorrect. The Chairperson of Panchayats at the intermediate and district levels is elected indirectly by the elected members.

Therefore, the correct statements are 1 and 3.

Gram Nyayalaya Act: Incorrect Statements

Introduction: The Gram Nyayalaya Act, 2008 was enacted to provide for the establishment of Gram Nyayalayas at the grass-roots level for the purposes of providing access to justice to the citizens of India residing in rural areas. The Act seeks to provide inexpensive, speedy, and decentralized justice to the rural population.

Incorrect Statements:
1. The presiding officer, Nyayadhikari shall be appointed by the Gram Panchayat with the consultation of the State Government.
This statement is incorrect. As per the Gram Nyayalaya Act, the presiding officer or Nyayadhikari shall be appointed by the State Government in consultation with the High Court of the State. The Nyayadhikari is a judicial officer who exercises the powers and functions of a Civil Judge.

2. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas can hear only civil cases and not criminal cases.
This statement is incorrect. Gram Nyayalayas can hear both civil and criminal cases. The Act provides that Gram Nyayalayas shall have jurisdiction to try all suits of a civil nature, except those specified in the Act, and all criminal cases, except those punishable with death, imprisonment for life, or imprisonment for a term exceeding seven years.

3. The Act allows local social activists as mediators/re-conciliators.
This statement is correct. The Gram Nyayalaya Act provides for the appointment of Nyay Sahayaks or social activists to assist the Nyayadhikari in the discharge of his functions. The Nyay Sahayaks are responsible for assisting the parties in the settlement of disputes through mediation, conciliation, and arbitration.

Conclusion: The Gram Nyayalaya Act, 2008 is a significant legislation that aims to provide access to justice to the rural population of India. The Act provides for the establishment of Gram Nyayalayas at the grass-roots level, which are empowered to hear both civil and criminal cases. The Act also allows for the appointment of social activists as Nyay Sahayaks to assist the Nyayadhikari in the settlement of disputes.

It withdraws from many of its earlier welfare functions directed at economic and social well-being. In place of the welfare state, it is the market that becomes the prime determinant of economic and social priorities. The entry and then increased role of multinational companies all over the world leads to a reduction in the capacity of governments to take decisions on their own.

Kittiko-Hachchiko movement took place in the state of Karnataka in India during the 1980s.

Explanation:
The Kittiko-Hachchiko movement was a social movement that emerged in the state of Karnataka in the 1980s. It was led by the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha (KRRS), a farmers' organization that aimed to address the issues faced by farmers in the region.

Under the leadership of M.D. Nanjundaswamy, the KRRS launched the Kittiko-Hachchiko movement to protest against the exploitation of farmers by moneylenders and middlemen. The movement aimed to create awareness about the plight of farmers and press for their rights and welfare.

The movement derived its name from the two slogans used by the KRRS. "Kittiko" means "reclaim what is rightfully yours" and "Hachchiko" means "become aware and fight for your rights". These slogans encapsulated the core objectives of the movement - to empower farmers and fight against exploitation.

During the movement, the KRRS organized rallies, protests, and demonstrations across various parts of Karnataka. They highlighted issues such as land reforms, fair prices for agricultural produce, access to credit, and the abolition of the moneylender system. The movement gained significant support from farmers and agricultural laborers who were struggling with poverty and debt.

The Kittiko-Hachchiko movement played a crucial role in bringing the issues faced by farmers to the forefront of public discourse. It also led to the formation of the Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha Party, a political party dedicated to championing the cause of farmers.

In conclusion, the Kittiko-Hachchiko movement took place in the state of Karnataka in India during the 1980s. It was a significant movement that aimed to address the issues faced by farmers and empower them in their fight against exploitation.

The correct answer is option 'D' - All of the above. Let's analyze each statement to understand why it is incorrect:

1. A significant component of his industrialization plans was the nuclear program initiated in the late 1940s under the guidance of Homi J. Bhabha.
This statement is correct. Homi J. Bhabha played a crucial role in the establishment of India's nuclear program. His vision and efforts laid the foundation for India's nuclear energy and atomic research.

2. India wanted to generate atomic energy for peaceful purposes.
This statement is correct. India's nuclear program was primarily aimed at generating atomic energy for peaceful purposes such as electricity generation, agriculture, and medicine. India has consistently advocated for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and has not shown any intentions of using it for military purposes.

3. So, he pleaded with the superpowers for comprehensive nuclear disarmament.
This statement is incorrect. While India has always been a proponent of nuclear disarmament and has called for global efforts towards it, there is no specific mention of Homi J. Bhabha pleading with superpowers for comprehensive nuclear disarmament. His focus was more on developing India's own nuclear program rather than disarmament negotiations.

In conclusion, statement 1 and 2 are correct, but statement 3 is incorrect. Hence, the correct answer is option 'D' - All of the above.

Statement 1: The judge of the Supreme Court can resign his office by writing to the Chief Justice of India.
This statement is correct. According to Article 124(2) of the Constitution of India, a judge of the Supreme Court can resign his office by writing to the President. However, it is customary for the judge to write to the Chief Justice of India, who then forwards the resignation to the President.

Statement 2: The judge of the Supreme Court can be removed from his office by the President on the recommendation of the Chief Justice of India.
This statement is incorrect. According to Article 124(4) of the Constitution of India, a judge of the Supreme Court can be removed from his office only by an order of the President, passed after an address by each House of Parliament supported by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting, has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity. The recommendation of the Chief Justice of India is not required for the removal of a Supreme Court judge.

Statement 3: The removal of a Supreme Court judge is based on two grounds - proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
This statement is correct. Article 124(4) of the Constitution of India states that a judge of the Supreme Court can be removed on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity. However, it is important to note that the process for removal is elaborate and requires the support of both Houses of Parliament as mentioned in the previous statement.

In conclusion, statement 1 is correct as a judge of the Supreme Court can resign his office by writing to the Chief Justice of India. Statement 2 is incorrect as the removal of a Supreme Court judge requires an address by each House of Parliament and does not solely depend on the recommendation of the Chief Justice of India. Statement 3 is correct as the removal of a Supreme Court judge is based on proved misbehaviour or incapacity. Therefore, the correct answer is option C - 3 only.

1. During normal times the President has power to give directions to the states on all the matters.
   • Incorrect. During normal times, the President does not have the authority to give directions to the states on all matters. The Centre can only give directions to the states under certain specific conditions provided by the Constitution.
2. During an emergency, the legislative power of the state legislature is suspended.
   • Incorrect. The legislative power of the state legislature is not suspended during a National Emergency. However, the Parliament can legislate on subjects in the State List during a National Emergency.
3. During an emergency, the President can issue ordinances on state subjects.
   • Correct. During a National Emergency, the President can issue ordinances on state subjects if the Parliament is not in session.
4. During an emergency, the President may modify the distribution of financial resources between the centre and the state.
   • Correct. During a National Emergency, the President can modify the distribution of financial resources between the Centre and the states.

• The executive power of the Centre extends to giving directions to the states regarding the manner in which their executive power is to be exercised.
• The Parliament becomes empowered to make laws on any subject mentioned in the State List.
• The President can issue ordinances on state subjects if Parliament is not in session.
• The President can modify the distribution of financial resources between the Centre and the states.

1. During an emergency, the President can issue ordinances on state subjects.
2. During an emergency, the President may modify the distribution of financial resources between the centre and the state.