Mock Test Paper - 1 (PSIR Optional Paper- I): Answers | PSIR Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Q1.

(a) Post-Behavioural approach to Political Science
Ans: The post-behavioural approach in Political Science emerged in the late 1960s as a critique of the behavioural approach’s overemphasis on scientific methods and value-neutrality. It sought to make political science more relevant to societal issues by combining empirical analysis with normative concerns. Post-behaviouralists, like David Easton, emphasized addressing real-world problems such as inequality, conflict, and governance crises. For instance, the 2024 protests in Bangladesh against job quotas reflect the need for political science to analyze power dynamics and advocate for equitable policies. This approach prioritizes interdisciplinary methods, incorporating ethics and social justice, while retaining scientific rigor. It critiques the detachment of behaviouralism from pressing issues like climate change or democratic backsliding, as seen in global trends in 2025. By focusing on human welfare and policy impact, post-behaviouralism ensures political science remains a tool for societal transformation.

(b) Feminist critique of the State
Ans: The feminist critique of the State challenges its patriarchal foundations, arguing that it perpetuates gender inequalities through laws, policies, and institutions. Feminists like Carole Pateman view the State as a masculine construct, rooted in a social contract that excludes women from equal citizenship. For example, India’s 2024 debates on women’s reservation in legislatures highlight persistent structural barriers. The State’s public-private divide often relegates women to domestic roles, undermining their political agency. Feminist scholars also critique welfare policies that reinforce traditional gender roles, such as conditional cash transfers for women tied to motherhood. Moreover, State institutions like the police often fail to address gender-based violence effectively, as seen in global #MeToo movements. The critique demands a reimagined State that prioritizes gender justice, inclusive representation, and dismantling systemic biases, ensuring policies reflect women’s lived realities. 

(c) Rousseau’s views on General Will
Ans: Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s concept of the General Will, articulated in The Social Contract, represents the collective will of citizens aimed at the common good, distinct from individual desires. He argued that true sovereignty lies in the General Will, which emerges through participatory democracy where citizens deliberate as equals. For instance, Switzerland’s 2024 referendums on climate policies reflect Rousseau’s idea of collective decision-making for societal benefit. However, Rousseau warned that the General Will could be distorted by factions or misinformation, a concern relevant in today’s polarized media landscape. His emphasis on direct democracy critiques representative systems where elite interests dominate, as seen in global protests against governance failures in 2025. While inspiring democratic ideals, critics argue Rousseau’s concept risks majoritarianism, potentially sidelining minorities. Nonetheless, it remains a cornerstone for understanding collective sovereignty and civic participation.

(d) Rise of Neo-Liberalism in global politics
Ans: Neo-liberalism, emphasizing free markets, deregulation, and reduced State intervention, has reshaped global politics since the 1980s. Its rise, driven by leaders like Thatcher and Reagan, prioritizes economic efficiency and individual choice over welfare policies. In 2024, the World Bank’s push for market-driven reforms in developing nations, such as Kenya’s privatization of public services, exemplifies neo-liberalism’s influence. It promotes globalization, reducing trade barriers, but often widens inequality, as seen in India’s gig economy, where workers face precarious conditions. Critics argue neo-liberalism undermines democratic accountability by prioritizing corporate interests, evident in global tax havens exposed in 2025. While proponents credit it for economic growth, opponents highlight its role in environmental degradation and social unrest, such as protests against austerity in Europe. Neo-liberalism’s dominance continues to spark debates on balancing market freedom with social justice.

(e) Linkage between Authority and Responsibility
Ans: Authority, the legitimate power to make decisions, is intrinsically linked to responsibility, the obligation to act in the interest of those governed. Political authority, whether derived from democratic consent or tradition, demands accountability to maintain legitimacy. For example, India’s 2024 response to Cyclone Remal showcased the government’s responsibility to protect citizens, reinforcing its authority. Max Weber’s theory of legitimate authority—traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal—implies rulers must fulfill duties to retain trust. Failure to do so, as seen in global governance lapses during the 2025 climate talks, erodes authority. Responsibility ensures authority is exercised ethically, preventing authoritarianism. In democratic systems, mechanisms like judicial review or elections hold authorities accountable, ensuring they uphold public welfare. This linkage underscores the principle that power without responsibility risks tyranny, while responsible governance strengthens political stability. 

Q2.

(a) Elucidate the meanings inherent in the term 'political' with appropriate illustrations. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: The term ‘political’ encompasses a broad spectrum of meanings, reflecting power dynamics, governance, and societal interactions. It is central to understanding how individuals and groups navigate authority, resources, and values within a society.

Body:

1. Power and Authority: The political involves the exercise of power to allocate resources or enforce decisions. For instance, India’s 2024 budget allocation for renewable energy reflects political prioritization of sustainable development.

2. Governance and Institutions: Political refers to the functioning of institutions like parliaments or courts. The 2025 Supreme Court ruling on electoral bonds in India illustrates how judicial decisions shape political transparency.

3. Public Participation: It includes citizens’ engagement in decision-making, such as the 2024 farmers’ protests in Punjab, which influenced agricultural policy debates.

4. Ideological Contestation: The political embodies competing ideologies, like debates on secularism versus majoritarianism in India’s 2024 elections, shaping national identity.

Conclusion: The term ‘political’ is multifaceted, encapsulating power, governance, participation, and ideological struggles. Its dynamic nature ensures it remains central to societal organization and change, as evidenced by contemporary examples. 

(b) Critically examine the relevance of Aristotle’s classification of constitutions in contemporary governance. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Aristotle’s classification of constitutions—monarchy, aristocracy, polity (and their perversions: tyranny, oligarchy, democracy)—remains a foundational framework in political theory. Its relevance in contemporary governance lies in its focus on the number of rulers and their intent (common good or self-interest).

Body:

1. Analytical Framework: Aristotle’s typology helps analyze modern governance systems. For instance, constitutional monarchies like the UK (2024) resemble his ‘monarchy,’ balancing tradition with democracy.

2. Perversions in Practice: His concept of perversions is evident in authoritarian regimes, such as North Korea’s 2025 governance, akin to tyranny, where power serves the ruler’s interests.

3. Polity and Mixed Systems: Aristotle’s ‘polity,’ a blend of democracy and oligarchy, aligns with modern mixed systems like India’s parliamentary democracy, balancing representation and elite influence.

4. Limitations: Rapid globalization and digital governance, like Estonia’s e-governance model in 2024, challenge Aristotle’s state-centric framework, requiring broader interpretations.

Conclusion: Aristotle’s classification remains relevant for understanding governance structures and their ethical underpinnings, though it requires adaptation to address modern complexities like technology and global interdependence. 

(c) Gandhian concept of Satyagraha as a tool for political resistance. Comment. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha, rooted in non-violent resistance and truth, is a powerful tool for political resistance. It emphasizes moral force over physical coercion to challenge unjust systems.

Body:

1. Moral and Ethical Resistance: Satyagraha seeks to transform oppressors through non-violence. Gandhi’s 1930 Salt March exemplifies this, galvanizing India’s freedom struggle.

2. Contemporary Relevance: In 2024, climate activists in Germany used non-violent protests, inspired by Satyagraha, to demand stronger environmental policies, highlighting its global applicability.

3. Empowering the Marginalized: Satyagraha empowers oppressed groups to resist without violence. For instance, India’s 2025 protests by tribal communities against land acquisition reflect its enduring legacy.

4. Challenges: Satyagraha requires mass discipline and patience, which may falter in polarized societies, as seen in fragmented global movements.

Conclusion: Satyagraha remains a potent tool for political resistance, promoting justice through non-violence. Its adaptability ensures relevance in addressing contemporary issues, though its success depends on collective commitment. (204 words)

Q3.

(a) The debate on human rights is caught between the limitations of both universalism and cultural relativism. Comment. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: The human rights discourse oscillates between universalism, which advocates uniform standards, and cultural relativism, which emphasizes context-specific norms. Both approaches have inherent limitations, shaping global debates on rights.

Body:

1. Universalism’s Strengths and Limits: Universalism, embodied in the UN’s 1948 Declaration, promotes equal rights globally. However, its Western-centric framework often ignores cultural nuances, as seen in 2024 debates on women’s rights in Afghanistan, where universal standards clashed with local traditions.

2. Cultural Relativism’s Merits and Flaws: Relativism respects cultural diversity, but risks justifying violations, such as child marriage in certain societies, under the guise of tradition.

3. Balancing Approaches: A balanced approach, like India’s 2025 judicial reforms protecting LGBTQ+ rights while respecting cultural sensitivities, shows a way forward.

4. Global Implications: The 2024 UN Human Rights Council’s failure to address Myanmar’s crisis highlights the paralysis caused by this debate, underscoring the need for dialogue.

Conclusion: The human rights debate must navigate universalism’s rigidity and relativism’s permissiveness. A contextual yet principled approach can ensure rights are upheld while respecting cultural diversity. 

(b) Discuss the significance of Hannah Arendt’s concept of ‘Banality of Evil’ in understanding modern political violence. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Hannah Arendt’s ‘Banality of Evil,’ introduced in her analysis of Adolf Eichmann’s trial, suggests that heinous acts can stem from ordinary individuals following orders without critical reflection. This concept is crucial for understanding modern political violence.

Body:

1. Mundane Origins of Violence: Arendt argued that evil often arises from bureaucratic obedience, not malevolent intent. The 2024 ethnic clashes in Manipur, driven by local officials’ unreflective enforcement of policies, reflect this.

2. Relevance to Modern Conflicts: The concept applies to state-sponsored violence, like Syria’s 2025 crackdowns, where soldiers act mechanically, normalizing atrocities.

3. Implications for Accountability: Arendt’s idea emphasizes individual responsibility, urging mechanisms like the International Criminal Court to hold perpetrators accountable, as seen in 2024 trials.

4. Limitations: Critics argue it underestimates ideological motivations, such as in extremist violence, requiring a broader lens.

Conclusion: Arendt’s ‘Banality of Evil’ illuminates how unthinking compliance fuels political violence, urging critical awareness and accountability to prevent atrocities in contemporary conflicts. 

(c) Relevance of Kautilya’s Arthashastra in modern statecraft. Comment. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Kautilya’s Arthashastra, a treatise on statecraft, offers timeless insights into governance, diplomacy, and strategy. Its pragmatic approach remains relevant in modern statecraft.

Body:

1. Realpolitik in Diplomacy: Kautilya’s emphasis on strategic alliances and power balancing is evident in India’s 2024 Quad engagements to counter China’s influence.

2. Economic Governance: His focus on wealth creation and resource management aligns with India’s 2025 policies promoting digital economies for inclusive growth.

3. Security and Espionage: Kautilya’s strategies for internal security resonate with modern counter-terrorism efforts, like India’s intelligence operations against cross-border threats in 2024.

4. Ethical Concerns: Critics note Kautilya’s amoral tactics may clash with democratic values, necessitating adaptation to ensure ethical governance.

Conclusion: The Arthashastra provides a strategic framework for modern statecraft, guiding diplomacy, economics, and security. Its pragmatic wisdom, when balanced with ethical considerations, remains a valuable tool for contemporary governance. 

Q4.

(a) Legitimacy adds positive value to political authority and obligation. Discuss. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: Legitimacy, the acceptance of political authority as rightful, enhances its effectiveness and fosters citizens’ obligation to comply. It transforms coercive power into moral authority, ensuring stable governance.

Body:

1. Sources of Legitimacy: Max Weber’s typology—traditional, charismatic, and rational-legal—explains legitimacy’s roots. India’s 2024 elections, upholding rational-legal legitimacy, reinforced democratic trust.

2. Strengthening Authority: Legitimate authority encourages voluntary compliance, reducing reliance on force. For example, New Zealand’s 2025 climate policies gained public support due to transparent governance.

3. Fostering Obligation: Legitimacy binds citizens to civic duties, like tax compliance in Scandinavian nations, driven by trust in welfare systems.

4. Challenges to Legitimacy: Erosion, as seen in Sri Lanka’s 2024 protests against economic mismanagement, weakens authority and destabilizes governance.

5. Global Context: Legitimacy is critical in international relations, where institutions like the UN rely on member states’ consent, evident in 2025 peacekeeping missions.

Conclusion: Legitimacy is the cornerstone of effective political authority and citizen obligation. By fostering trust and cooperation, it ensures governance aligns with societal values, though maintaining it demands accountability and responsiveness.

(b) Examine the role of social contract theory in shaping modern democratic institutions. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Social contract theory, articulated by Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, posits that individuals consent to surrender certain freedoms to a government for mutual benefit. It profoundly influences modern democratic institutions.

Body:

1. Foundation of Consent: Locke’s emphasis on consent underpins democratic elections, as seen in Canada’s 2024 parliamentary elections, ensuring governance reflects public will.

2. Protection of Rights: The theory inspired constitutional protections, like India’s Fundamental Rights, safeguarding individual liberties against state overreach.

3. Balancing Power: Rousseau’s idea of collective sovereignty shapes checks and balances, evident in the US’s 2025 judicial oversight of executive actions.

4. Limitations: Critics argue the theory assumes equal bargaining power, ignoring marginalized groups, as seen in indigenous rights struggles in Australia.

Conclusion: Social contract theory provides the philosophical basis for democratic institutions, emphasizing consent, rights, and accountability. While foundational, it requires adaptation to address inequalities and ensure inclusive governance in modern democracies. 

(c) Comment on the influence of Ambedkar’s ideas on social justice in shaping India’s constitutional framework. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of India’s Constitution, championed social justice to uplift marginalized communities, profoundly shaping the constitutional framework.

Body:

1. Equality and Non-Discrimination: Ambedkar’s advocacy for equality led to Articles 14–17, abolishing untouchability and ensuring equal protection, as reinforced by 2024 Supreme Court rulings on caste-based discrimination.

2. Affirmative Action: His push for reservations (Articles 15, 16) empowered Scheduled Castes and Tribes, evident in India’s 2025 education quota expansions.

3. Social Reform: Ambedkar’s vision of social justice influenced provisions like Article 23, banning forced labor, addressing systemic exploitation.

4. Challenges: Resistance to reservations and persistent caste inequalities highlight limitations in fully realizing his vision.

Conclusion: Ambedkar’s ideas on social justice embedded equality and affirmative action in India’s Constitution, fostering inclusivity. His legacy continues to guide policies, though achieving his vision demands sustained efforts to eradicate social hierarchies. 

Q5.

(a) Role of Fundamental Duties in strengthening constitutional morality
Ans: Fundamental Duties, enshrined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, play a crucial role in strengthening constitutional morality by fostering civic responsibility and adherence to democratic values. Added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, these duties urge citizens to uphold unity, promote harmony, and respect constitutional institutions. For instance, the 2024 Swachh Bharat campaign’s success relied on citizens’ duty to maintain cleanliness, reflecting collective responsibility. Constitutional morality, as articulated by Dr. Ambedkar, emphasizes fidelity to constitutional principles like justice and equality. Duties like protecting the environment align with 2025 judicial mandates on sustainable development, reinforcing ethical governance. By encouraging active citizenship, Fundamental Duties bridge individual actions and constitutional ideals, countering divisive tendencies. However, their non-justiciable nature limits enforcement, necessitating awareness campaigns. Thus, Fundamental Duties are vital for nurturing a morally robust democratic framework. 

(b) Significance of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment in rural governance
Ans: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1992) revolutionized rural governance in India by institutionalizing Panchayati Raj, empowering local self-governance. It mandated three-tier panchayats, ensuring democratic decentralization and grassroots participation. The amendment’s significance lies in empowering marginalized groups, with 33% reservation for women, as seen in women-led panchayats in Kerala in 2024. It strengthened local planning, enabling panchayats to address issues like water management, evident in Rajasthan’s 2025 watershed projects. Article 243G empowered panchayats to implement welfare schemes, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals. However, challenges like inadequate funds and bureaucratic interference persist. By fostering accountability and inclusivity, the amendment transformed rural governance, making it more responsive to local needs. Its legacy continues to shape participatory democracy, though effective implementation remains key to realizing its full potential. 

(c) Judicial activism in protecting environmental rights in India
Ans: Judicial activism has been pivotal in protecting environmental rights in India, with the judiciary interpreting constitutional provisions to ensure ecological sustainability. Through public interest litigations (PILs), courts have expanded the right to a clean environment under Article 21. The 2024 Supreme Court order halting illegal mining in Aravalli reflects proactive judicial intervention. Landmark cases like the 2025 Ganga pollution verdict mandated stricter industrial regulations, reinforcing environmental accountability. The judiciary’s invocation of the ‘polluter pays’ principle, as seen in Delhi’s air pollution rulings, ensures corporate responsibility. However, overreach risks undermining executive functions, and enforcement remains uneven. By prioritizing sustainable development, judicial activism has strengthened environmental governance, compelling policy reforms. Its role in balancing development and ecology remains crucial for India’s environmental future. 

(d) Role of National Human Rights Commission in India
Ans: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), established under the 1993 Protection of Human Rights Act, safeguards human rights in India by addressing violations and promoting awareness. It investigates complaints, such as custodial deaths, as seen in its 2024 probe into police excesses in Uttar Pradesh. The NHRC recommends compensation and policy reforms, influencing accountability, like its 2025 guidelines on prison reforms. It conducts awareness campaigns, aligning with India’s international human rights commitments. However, its advisory nature and limited enforcement powers hinder impact, as seen in unresolved cases of ethnic violence. Despite constraints, the NHRC’s interventions strengthen democratic values by amplifying marginalized voices and fostering a rights-based culture, making it a vital institution in India’s governance framework. 

(e) Impact of digital governance on Indian democracy
Ans: Digital governance has transformed Indian democracy by enhancing transparency, accessibility, and citizen participation. Initiatives like Digital India and e-governance platforms, such as the 2024 Unified Payments Interface (UPI) expansion, streamline public services, reducing bureaucratic delays. Online portals like MyGov foster participatory democracy, enabling citizens to contribute to policy discussions, as seen in 2025 consultations on education reforms. Digital voter awareness campaigns during the 2024 elections boosted turnout. However, the digital divide, particularly in rural areas, and cybersecurity threats, like 2025 data breaches, pose challenges. By promoting accountability and inclusivity, digital governance strengthens democratic processes, but equitable access and robust safeguards are essential to maximize its potential. Its continued evolution will shape India’s democratic future, balancing technology with inclusivity. 

Q6.

(a) Discuss the contribution of the Dalit struggle to establish egalitarianism in Indian society during freedom movement. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: The Dalit struggle during India’s freedom movement was pivotal in challenging caste hierarchies and fostering egalitarianism, reshaping societal values and influencing constitutional principles.

Body:

1. Ambedkar’s Leadership: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Mahad Satyagraha (1927) and temple entry movements demanded equal access, laying the groundwork for social equality, influencing the 2024 anti-discrimination laws.

2. Political Mobilization: Dalit organizations like the All India Depressed Classes League advocated for representation, securing reserved seats in the 1932 Poona Pact, a precursor to modern affirmative action.

3. Social Reforms: Leaders like Jyotiba Phule promoted education and social upliftment, inspiring Dalit participation in the freedom struggle, as seen in their 2025 education campaigns.

4. Challenges: Resistance from upper castes and limited Congress support hindered progress, yet Dalit efforts reshaped national discourse on equality.

5. Constitutional Impact: The struggle influenced Articles 15 and 17, abolishing untouchability and ensuring equality, reflecting egalitarian ideals.

Conclusion: The Dalit struggle was instrumental in embedding egalitarianism in India’s social and constitutional fabric. Its legacy continues to drive policies for social justice, though challenges like caste discrimination persist, requiring sustained efforts.

(b) Explain the structure and functions of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), established under Article 338, safeguards the rights and welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India, ensuring their socio-economic upliftment.

Body:

1. Structure: The NCSC comprises a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three members, appointed by the President. It operates through state offices, ensuring grassroots reach, as seen in its 2024 Tamil Nadu interventions.

2. Functions:

   • Monitoring and Investigation: The NCSC probes violations of SC rights, like 2025 caste atrocity cases in Rajasthan, recommending legal action.

   • Policy Recommendations: It advises on welfare schemes, influencing 2024 scholarship expansions for SC students.

   • Awareness and Reporting: The commission conducts campaigns and submits annual reports to Parliament, enhancing accountability.

3. Challenges: Limited enforcement powers and bureaucratic delays hinder impact, requiring structural reforms.

Conclusion: The NCSC is vital for protecting SC rights and promoting inclusivity. Strengthening its authority and resources can enhance its role in achieving social justice and equality.

(c) Relevance of the Finance Commission in India’s federal structure. Comment. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: The Finance Commission, constituted under Article 280, is a cornerstone of India’s federal structure, ensuring equitable resource distribution between the Centre and states.

Body:

1. Fiscal Federalism: The Commission recommends tax devolution and grants, as seen in the 16th Finance Commission’s 2025 deliberations, balancing regional disparities.

2. Strengthening States: It empowers states to address local needs, like Kerala’s 2024 disaster management funding, fostering cooperative federalism.

3. Addressing Inequities: By prioritizing underdeveloped states, it reduces economic inequalities, evident in enhanced allocations to Bihar in 2025.

4. Challenges: Political influences and inadequate data sometimes skew recommendations, requiring transparency.

Conclusion: The Finance Commission is pivotal in sustaining India’s federal framework by ensuring fiscal equity and state autonomy. Its role in adapting to dynamic economic needs, like post-2024 recovery plans, underscores its enduring relevance, though reforms can enhance its efficacy. 

Q7.

(a) Discuss the role of environmental movements in shaping environmental governance in India. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: Environmental movements in India have significantly influenced environmental governance by advocating for sustainable policies, protecting ecosystems, and amplifying marginalized voices.

Body:

1. Policy Advocacy: Movements like the Chipko Andolan (1970s) inspired the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. The 2024 Silent Valley protests in Kerala led to stricter biodiversity regulations.

2. Judicial Engagement: Movements have leveraged PILs, prompting landmark judgments. The 2025 Supreme Court order on Aravalli mining bans reflects activism’s impact on legal frameworks.

3. Community Empowerment: Tribal movements, like the 2024 Niyamgiri agitation against bauxite mining, ensured community rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

4. Global Influence: India’s 2025 climate commitments at COP30 were shaped by youth-led movements demanding accountability, aligning with global sustainability goals.

5. Challenges: Resistance from industrial lobbies and uneven policy enforcement, as seen in Delhi’s 2024 air pollution crisis, limit impact.

Conclusion: Environmental movements have been catalysts for robust environmental governance in India, driving legal, policy, and community-centric changes. Sustained activism and stronger enforcement are essential to address ongoing ecological challenges effectively. 

(b) Critically assess the role of civil society organizations in influencing policy-making in India. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Civil society organizations (CSOs) in India play a vital role in shaping policy-making by amplifying public concerns, advocating reforms, and ensuring accountability.

Body:

1. Advocacy and Awareness: CSOs like PRS Legislative Research influence policies through data-driven inputs, as seen in 2024 education reforms.

2. Mobilizing Communities: Organizations like Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan led to the Right to Information Act, 2005, empowering citizens, with continued impact in 2025 transparency campaigns.

3. Holding Government Accountable: CSOs monitor implementation, such as 2024 health policy audits by Oxfam India, highlighting gaps in rural healthcare.

4. Challenges: Funding constraints and government restrictions, like FCRA amendments, limit CSO autonomy, weakening their influence.

Conclusion: CSOs are crucial in democratizing policy-making, fostering inclusivity, and accountability. Strengthening their operational freedom and collaboration with governments can enhance their role in shaping India’s policy landscape effectively.

(c) Comment on the significance of the Preamble in guiding India’s constitutional ethos. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: The Preamble to India’s Constitution encapsulates the nation’s core values, serving as a guiding light for its constitutional ethos and governance framework.

Body:

1. Defining National Values: The Preamble’s emphasis on justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity shapes India’s democratic identity, guiding policies like 2024 social welfare schemes.

2. Judicial Interpretation: Courts invoke the Preamble to uphold constitutional morality, as seen in the 2025 LGBTQ+ rights verdict affirming equality.

3. Policy Framework: It inspires inclusive development, evident in 2024 schemes targeting marginalized communities, aligning with social justice.

4. Limitations: Implementation gaps, like persistent inequalities, challenge the Preamble’s ideals, requiring robust action.

Conclusion: The Preamble is the moral compass of India’s Constitution, guiding governance and judicial decisions toward inclusivity and justice. Its vision continues to shape India’s democratic ethos, though achieving its ideals demands sustained commitment. 

Q8.

(a) “Relative deprivation is a major source of ethnic conflict.” Elaborate the statement with relevant examples. (20) [PYQ]
Ans:
Introduction: Relative deprivation, the perceived disparity between expected and actual socio-economic conditions, fuels ethnic conflicts by fostering resentment among marginalized groups. This theory explains tensions arising from unequal access to resources and opportunities.

Body:

1. Economic Disparities: In India, the 2024 Manipur ethnic clashes between Meiteis and Kukis were driven by perceived economic marginalization, with Kukis alleging land and job disparities.

2. Political Exclusion: Relative deprivation in political representation sparks conflicts, as seen in Nigeria’s 2025 clashes between Fulani and Hausa communities over governance access.

3. Social Inequities: Perceived cultural marginalization fuels unrest, like the 2024 Tamil-Sinhala tensions in Sri Lanka over language rights, rooted in historical deprivations.

4. Global Context: The 2025 Rohingya protests in Myanmar reflect deprivation-driven demands for citizenship and rights, escalating ethnic strife.

5. Mitigation Efforts: Policies addressing deprivation, like India’s 2024 Northeast development schemes, aim to reduce conflict by ensuring equitable growth.

Conclusion: Relative deprivation is a potent driver of ethnic conflict, as disparities ignite grievances. Addressing economic, political, and social inequities through inclusive policies is crucial for conflict resolution and social harmony. (325 words)

(b) Discuss the role of women’s movements in shaping gender policies in India. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Women’s movements in India have been instrumental in advocating gender equality, influencing policies to address systemic discrimination and empower women.

Body:

1. Legislative Reforms: Movements like the 1970s women’s liberation campaigns led to laws like the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, while 2024 protests shaped the Women’s Reservation Bill implementation.

2. Policy Advocacy: Organizations like SEWA empowered women economically, influencing 2025 gig economy protections for female workers.

3. Addressing Violence: The 2012 Nirbhaya movement prompted stricter anti-rape laws and 2024 fast-track courts for gender-based violence cases.

4. Challenges: Patriarchal resistance and uneven implementation, as seen in rural areas, limit policy impact.

Conclusion: Women’s movements have transformed India’s gender policy landscape, driving legal and social change. Sustained activism and inclusive implementation are essential to achieve comprehensive gender justice and equality. (204 words)

(c) Comment on the role of cooperative federalism in strengthening India’s governance framework. (15)
Ans:
Introduction: Cooperative federalism, emphasizing collaboration between the Centre and states, is vital for strengthening India’s governance by ensuring equitable development and policy coherence.

Body:

1. Policy Coordination: Initiatives like GST, implemented in 2017, exemplify cooperative federalism, with 2024 reforms enhancing revenue sharing for states.

2. Addressing Regional Needs: Joint efforts in 2025 disaster management, like Odisha’s cyclone response, showcase effective Centre-state collaboration.

3. Empowering States: Devolution through the Finance Commission, as seen in 2024 allocations, enables states to address local priorities.

4. Challenges: Political differences and central overreach, like 2025 farm law debates, strain cooperation.

Conclusion: Cooperative federalism strengthens India’s governance by fostering unity and localized solutions. Balancing central authority with state autonomy is key to sustaining its effectiveness in addressing diverse national challenges.