UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2023: PSIR Paper 1 (Section- B) | PSIR Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Section - B

Q5: Comment on the following in about 150 words each :      (10x5 = 50)
(a) Imprint of the British Constitution on the Indian Constitution
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, bears the imprint of the British Constitution due to India's colonial history. This influence is evident in several aspects of the Indian Constitution.

Influence on Indian Constitution:

• Parliamentary System: India adopted the parliamentary system of government from the British. The Indian President is analogous to the British monarch, while the Prime Minister is akin to the British Prime Minister. India's federal structure and the role of Governors in states also reflect British influences.

• Rule of Law: The principle of the rule of law, which ensures equality before the law and legal remedies, is a fundamental aspect shared by both constitutions. The Indian Constitution upholds this principle through fundamental rights.

• Bicameral Legislature: The presence of a Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and a Lok Sabha (House of the People) in India's Parliament mirrors the British House of Lords and House of Commons.

• Constitutional Conventions: India follows certain constitutional conventions inherited from the British, such as collective responsibility of the cabinet to the legislature and the Speaker's role in maintaining order.

Examples:

• The President of India performs ceremonial roles similar to the British monarch, including the State Opening of Parliament.
• The Indian Parliament's structure and functioning, with its bicameral legislature and parliamentary procedures, resemble the British system.
• Fundamental rights in the Indian Constitution, modeled on the British concept of individual liberties, protect citizens from arbitrary state actions.

Conclusion: 
The British Constitution has left a lasting imprint on the Indian Constitution, shaping its democratic structure, rule of law, and parliamentary governance. However, the Indian Constitution also incorporates indigenous elements, making it uniquely Indian.

(b) Environmentalism of the poor
Ans: 
Introduction: 
"Environmentalism of the poor" is a concept that highlights the critical role of marginalized communities in conservation efforts. It recognizes that the poor often rely on natural resources for their livelihoods and are disproportionately affected by environmental degradation.

Key Points:

• Dependency on Natural Resources: Many poor communities, especially in developing countries, depend directly on natural resources like forests, water bodies, and agricultural land for sustenance.

• Vulnerability: These communities are highly vulnerable to environmental degradation, as they lack the resources and technology to adapt to or recover from ecological changes.

• Conservation Efforts: The environmentalism of the poor underscores that involving these communities in conservation initiatives is essential. They often possess valuable traditional knowledge about sustainable resource management.

• Examples: In India, organizations like the Chipko Movement, led by rural women hugging trees to prevent deforestation, and the Narmada Bachao Andolan, which opposed large dam projects, exemplify how the marginalized have contributed to environmental preservation.

Conclusion: 
"Environmentalism of the poor" is a vital perspective that emphasizes the need to recognize and involve marginalized communities in environmental conservation efforts. Their inclusion is not only ethical but also practical for sustainable development.

(c) Functions of District Planning Committee
Ans: 
Introduction: 
District Planning Committees (DPCs) play a crucial role in decentralized governance in India. They were established to promote local-level planning and development.

Functions of DPCs:

• Formulating District Plans: DPCs are responsible for formulating development plans for the district. These plans address the specific needs and priorities of the district's population, encompassing areas like education, health, agriculture, and infrastructure.

• Resource Allocation: DPCs allocate resources, both financial and administrative, for implementing the district plans. This promotes a bottom-up approach, ensuring that local needs are met.

• Monitoring and Evaluation: DPCs monitor the progress of various development projects and evaluate their impact. This oversight helps in course correction and ensures accountability.

• Coordination: DPCs act as a link between the local government, district administration, and state government. They facilitate coordination among different stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of development schemes.

Example: The Kerala State Planning Board, in collaboration with DPCs, played a vital role in the successful decentralization of planning and implementation of various development programs in the state. It enabled targeted development and resource allocation, improving the overall quality of life in Kerala.

Conclusion: 
District Planning Committees are essential for decentralized governance in India. They empower local communities by involving them in the planning and development processes, resulting in more efficient resource allocation and improved socio-economic conditions at the grassroots level.

(d) Satyagraha and Indian Nationalism
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Satyagraha, a term coined by Mahatma Gandhi, is a unique form of nonviolent resistance that played a pivotal role in the Indian nationalist movement against British colonial rule.

Role of Satyagraha in Indian Nationalism:

• Nonviolent Resistance: Satyagraha advocated nonviolence and civil disobedience as a means to oppose British oppression. It was instrumental in mobilizing millions of Indians to participate in protests and movements, such as the Salt March and Quit India Movement.

• Unity and Mass Mobilization: Satyagraha united people across diverse backgrounds, including various castes, religions, and regions. It fostered a sense of collective identity and purpose in the fight for independence.

• International Attention: Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence and satyagraha garnered international support and attention, which exerted pressure on the British colonial administration.

• Legacy: Satyagraha continues to influence movements for civil rights, freedom, and justice worldwide, including Martin Luther King Jr.'s Civil Rights Movement and Nelson Mandela's struggle against apartheid.

Examples:

• The Salt March, where Gandhi and thousands of followers walked to the Arabian Sea to produce salt in defiance of the British salt monopoly, symbolized the power of nonviolent protest.

• The Quit India Movement of 1942, marked by widespread noncooperation and civil disobedience, displayed the potency of satyagraha in the final push for independence.

Conclusion: 
Satyagraha was a potent force in the Indian nationalist movement, showcasing the effectiveness of nonviolent resistance in achieving political goals. It left an indelible mark on the struggle for civil rights and justice worldwide.

(e) National Commission for Minorities
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) is a statutory body in India tasked with safeguarding the rights and interests of religious and linguistic minorities in the country.

Functions of NCM:

• Safeguarding Minority Rights: The primary role of NCM is to protect and promote the rights of religious and linguistic minorities. It investigates complaints and takes suo motu cognizance of issues affecting these communities.

• Recommendations and Advice: NCM advises the government on policies and programs related to minority welfare. It plays a critical role in influencing government decisions concerning minorities.

• Educational Empowerment: NCM works to ensure that minority communities have access to quality education. It monitors the implementation of scholarships and schemes aimed at the educational upliftment of minority students.

• Promotion of Communal Harmony: NCM plays a pivotal role in promoting communal harmony and resolving conflicts between different religious and linguistic groups.

Example: NCM's intervention in cases of discrimination or violence against minorities, such as communal riots or educational disparities, has led to improved security and opportunities for these communities. It has been influential in shaping policies for minority welfare, including scholarships and schemes for educational and economic empowerment.

Conclusion: 
The National Commission for Minorities is a vital institution in India's efforts to protect and uplift religious and linguistic minority communities. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring their rights and promoting communal harmony in a diverse and multicultural nation.

Q6:
(a) Discuss the major provisions of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. Do you think that the Act remains an ‘unfulfilled dream’? Argue your case.     (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 was a landmark legislation that aimed to empower urban local bodies and ensure effective local self-governance in India. While it introduced several significant provisions, the Act's fulfillment has been a matter of debate.

Major Provisions of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act:

• Three-Tier Structure: The Act mandated a three-tier structure of urban local bodies: Municipal Corporations for large cities, Municipalities for smaller cities and towns, and Nagar Panchayats for smaller urban areas.

• Reservation of Seats: It introduced provisions for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in urban local bodies, promoting social justice and inclusivity.

• Devolution of Powers: The Act specified the devolution of powers and responsibilities to urban local bodies in areas such as urban planning, development, and infrastructure, ensuring more local control.

• Constitution of State Finance Commissions: It required the constitution of State Finance Commissions to recommend financial resources for urban local bodies, ensuring fiscal autonomy.

Is the Act an 'Unfulfilled Dream'?

Arguments in Favor:

• Implementation Challenges: Many states have been slow in devolving powers and finances to urban local bodies. The actual transfer of powers has not been uniform, resulting in these bodies having limited autonomy.

• Inadequate Funds: Urban local bodies often lack adequate financial resources to effectively carry out their functions. The fiscal independence promised by the Act has not been fully realized in many cases.

• Limited Role in Planning: The Act envisioned a significant role for urban local bodies in urban planning and development. However, in practice, state governments often retain a dominant role in decision-making.

Arguments Against:

• Progress in Some States: While the Act's fulfillment has been uneven across states, some states like Kerala and Karnataka have made significant strides in empowering urban local bodies, ensuring better service delivery and local governance.

• Awareness and Advocacy: Civil society organizations and advocacy groups have been actively pushing for the Act's implementation, leading to improvements in some areas.

Conclusion: 
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act was a significant step in empowering urban local bodies, but its fulfillment has indeed been an 'unfulfilled dream' in many regions due to implementation challenges. Achieving the Act's objectives requires consistent efforts, political will, and financial support to empower these local institutions fully.

(b) How does NITI Aayog as a ‘policy think tank with shared vision’ visualize the reorganization of planning in India? Justify your answer.   (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
NITI Aayog, or the National Institution for Transforming India, replaced the Planning Commission in 2015. It envisions a reorganization of planning in India that departs from the centralized, top-down approach of the Planning Commission.

Key Elements of NITI Aayog's Vision:

• Cooperative Federalism: NITI Aayog promotes cooperative federalism by involving states in the planning process. It encourages states to formulate their own development agendas and offers guidance rather than imposing plans.

• Bottom-Up Planning: NITI Aayog encourages a bottom-up approach where local governments and communities have a more significant say in shaping policies and projects. It emphasizes the importance of district-level planning to address specific regional needs.

• Flexibility and Innovation: Unlike the rigid five-year plans of the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog adopts a flexible approach, allowing for innovation and adaptation to changing circumstances and priorities.

• Private Sector Engagement: NITI Aayog recognizes the role of the private sector in India's growth and development and aims to facilitate public-private partnerships for infrastructure and economic development.

Justification:

• Adaptability: NITI Aayog's approach acknowledges the dynamic nature of India's socio-economic landscape, allowing for quicker responses to emerging challenges and opportunities.

• State Ownership: By involving states in planning and development, NITI Aayog aligns with the principles of federalism, ensuring that regional disparities are addressed more effectively.

• Engagement with Local Governments: Bottom-up planning and engagement with local governments empower communities and improve the efficacy of development projects.

Conclusion: 
NITI Aayog's vision for reorganizing planning in India emphasizes cooperative federalism, bottom-up planning, flexibility, and private sector engagement. This approach aligns with the changing needs of India's diverse and rapidly evolving economy and society.

(c) The Constitution of India is the ‘cornerstone of a nation’. (Granville Austin). Analyze.   (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Granville Austin's assertion that the Constitution of India is the 'cornerstone of a nation' reflects the foundational and central role of the Indian Constitution in shaping the country's identity, governance, and values.

Analysis:

• Founding Document: The Indian Constitution is the founding document that laid the legal and moral framework for the newly independent nation in 1950. It provides the fundamental principles and rules that guide the nation's functioning.

• Democratic Governance: The Constitution establishes the democratic structure of government in India, including the separation of powers, fundamental rights, and the rule of law. It ensures that the government operates in accordance with the will of the people.

• Unity in Diversity: India's diversity in terms of languages, religions, cultures, and regions is reflected in the Constitution. It accommodates this diversity by recognizing multiple languages and protecting the rights of minority communities.

• Amendment and Adaptation: The Constitution's flexibility allows for amendments to adapt to changing times and needs. It has been amended several times to meet evolving challenges while preserving its core values.

• Judicial Supremacy: The Constitution upholds the supremacy of the judiciary, providing a check on government actions and ensuring the protection of citizens' rights.

Examples:

• The Indian Constitution has been instrumental in resolving complex issues, such as the linguistic reorganization of states, by accommodating diverse linguistic groups.

• Landmark judgments by the Indian Supreme Court, such as the Kesavananda Bharati case, have upheld the supremacy of the Constitution and clarified its essential principles.

Conclusion: 
The Constitution of India is the 'cornerstone of a nation' as it provides the foundational principles for governance, unity in diversity, and adaptability to changing circumstances. It serves as a beacon of democracy and justice, shaping the character and direction of the country.

Q7:
(a) Does the actual working of Indian federalism conform to the centralizing tendencies in Indian polity? Give reasons for your answer.     (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: Indian federalism is characterized by a division of powers between the central government and the state governments. However, there have been centralizing tendencies in the Indian polity that have impacted the actual working of federalism.

Centralizing Tendencies:

• Financial Centralization: The central government retains significant control over fiscal resources, often through mechanisms like the Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog), which allowed the center to dictate spending priorities.

• Article 356: The frequent use of President's Rule (Article 356) by the center to dismiss state governments has been seen as a centralizing move, undermining the autonomy of states.

• GST and Uniform Taxation: The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) centralized taxation, reducing states' fiscal autonomy. While it aimed to create a unified tax structure, it shifted financial powers to the center.

• One Nation, One Election: Proposals for simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies can be perceived as centralizing, as they might dilute the importance of state-level issues.

Reasons for Centralizing Tendencies:

• Historical Legacy: India's colonial legacy left a powerful center with a centralized bureaucracy. Post-independence, the continuity of this legacy has influenced centralizing tendencies.

• Security Concerns: Issues of national security, such as defense and internal security, often necessitate central control.

• Economic Planning: For effective economic planning and resource allocation, the center has historically maintained a strong role.

Conclusion: 
While India's federal structure is enshrined in the Constitution, centralizing tendencies have influenced the actual working of federalism. Striking a balance between a strong center and empowered states remains a challenge in India's federal system.

(b) The main goal of the Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution is to generate civic responsibility among the citizens. Explain.     (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Fundamental Duties, incorporated in the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976, are a set of moral and civic obligations for citizens. The main goal of these duties is to generate civic responsibility among the citizens.

Explanation:

• Inculcating Civic Values: The Fundamental Duties aim to inculcate a sense of responsibility, integrity, and commitment to the nation and its values among citizens. For example, one duty is to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, promoting a sense of belonging and national pride.

• Promoting a Just Society: These duties encourage citizens to work towards a just and equitable society by respecting the ideals of social justice, equality, and the dignity of individuals. This includes showing empathy and compassion towards fellow citizens.

• Strengthening Democracy: By promoting democratic values, citizens are encouraged to follow ethical standards in the political sphere, which, in turn, strengthens the democratic fabric of the nation.

• Environmental Responsibility: The duties also include protecting and improving the natural environment. This encourages citizens to engage in environmentally responsible behavior, contributing to sustainability and ecological well-being.

Example: 
Fundamental Duties have been used in legal cases to protect public property, prevent pollution, and ensure compliance with ethical and constitutional principles. For instance, the duties have been cited in cases related to environmental protection and public welfare.

Conclusion: 
The Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution serve as a reminder to citizens of their responsibilities towards the nation, society, and the environment. They play a vital role in generating civic responsibility and promoting a just and responsible citizenry.

(c) Dr. Ambedkar’s clarion call, “Educate, Agitate and Organize”, strategies the Dalit movement towards achieving civil liberty. Discuss.   (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's clarion call, "Educate, Agitate, and Organize," represents a strategic approach to the Dalit movement aimed at achieving civil liberty and social justice in India.

Educate:

• Access to Education: Dr. Ambedkar emphasized education as the first step in the upliftment of Dalits. He advocated for equal educational opportunities, which were crucial for empowerment.

• Annihilation of Caste: Ambedkar's famous essay, "Annihilation of Caste," underscores the importance of knowledge and education in challenging social hierarchies. Education allowed Dalits to question oppressive traditions and norms.

Agitate:

• Nonviolent Resistance: Ambedkar promoted nonviolent agitation as a means to raise awareness of the injustices faced by Dalits. The Mahad Satyagraha and Kalaram Temple Satyagraha were key movements where he and his followers agitated for equal rights.

• Legislative Action: Through agitation, Ambedkar compelled the British colonial government to introduce legal safeguards for Dalits, such as the Communal Award and the Poona Pact.

Organize:

• Political Mobilization: Ambedkar's call for organizing Dalits led to the formation of the Scheduled Castes Federation, later becoming the Republican Party of India. Organized political representation became a tool for asserting Dalit rights.

• Social Reforms: Organizing Dalits helped challenge social norms and practices that perpetuated discrimination. Initiatives like the temple entry movements and inter-caste marriages were part of this strategy.

Example: The Dalit Panthers, formed in the 1970s in Maharashtra, actively followed Ambedkar's principles of educating, agitating, and organizing. They challenged caste-based discrimination, advocated for political rights, and sought social justice.

Conclusion: 
Dr. Ambedkar's strategy of "Educate, Agitate, and Organize" was a pivotal approach in the Dalit movement, leading to legislative reforms, social change, and political empowerment. It remains relevant in contemporary efforts to address discrimination and achieve civil liberty for Dalits in India.

Q8:
(a) The rise of caste politics is to be attributed to both regional aspirations and electoral manifestations. Comment.   (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Caste politics in India has witnessed a significant rise, driven by a complex interplay of regional aspirations and its manifestation in electoral politics. This phenomenon has transformed the Indian political landscape.

Regional Aspirations:

• Sub-national Identity: Many regions in India have strong sub-national identities linked to language, culture, and history. Caste-based political movements often arise as a response to these identities, reflecting regional aspirations for greater autonomy and representation.

• Identity Politics: Regional leaders may adopt caste-based politics to mobilize support, using caste as a marker of cultural and regional identity. This form of politics empowers marginalized communities and helps address historical injustices.

• Reservation and Affirmative Action: Regional aspirations often demand increased reservation and affirmative action for specific caste groups, aligning with local socio-economic realities.

Electoral Manifestations:

• Caste-Based Parties: The rise of parties that explicitly represent particular caste groups is a manifestation of caste politics. Examples include the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Samajwadi Party in Uttar Pradesh.

• Caste Alliances: Political parties form alliances with caste-based groups to consolidate votes and secure electoral success. For instance, the BJP's electoral strategy often includes building coalitions with regional parties representing specific castes.

• Vote Bank Politics: Political parties engage in competitive caste-based politics to secure vote banks. This often results in the articulation of caste-based demands in party manifestos and governance decisions.

Example: The rise of caste-based political movements like the Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu, which championed the cause of the oppressed castes, reflects regional aspirations for social justice and political representation.

Conclusion: 
The rise of caste politics in India is a multifaceted phenomenon rooted in both regional aspirations for identity and representation and its manifestation in electoral politics. It has significantly impacted the Indian political landscape, leading to the emergence of caste-based parties and shaping electoral dynamics.

(b) The decade 1989-1999 has created an epochal shift in the Indian party system at the national level. Identify the major national trends in the party system during this era.    (15 Marks)
Ans:   
Introduction: 
The decade from 1989 to 1999 witnessed significant changes in the Indian party system, marking an epochal shift. Several national trends emerged during this period, reshaping the country's political landscape.

Fragmentation of the National Party System:

• The decline of the dominant Congress Party, which had ruled India for decades, created space for the emergence of a multi-party system.
• Coalition politics gained prominence at the national level, as no single party could secure a clear majority.
• This led to the rise of coalition governments and the need for parties to form alliances to gain power.

Regionalization of Politics:

• Regional parties grew in influence as they championed state-specific issues and captured significant seats in their respective regions.
• Parties like the Janata Dal (JD) and the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) became key players in national politics.

OBC Reservations and Caste-based Politics:

• The implementation of OBC reservations, following the Mandal Commission recommendations, led to the mobilization of OBC voters and the emergence of OBC-based parties.
• The Samajwadi Party, Rashtriya Janata Dal, and Bahujan Samaj Party were born out of this movement.

Coalition Politics and Policy Making:

• Coalition governments necessitated consensus-based decision-making and policy formulation, often resulting in more inclusive policies.
• Economic reforms, such as liberalization and globalization, were initiated during this period under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao's government.

Conclusion: 
The decade from 1989 to 1999 transformed India's party system. It marked a shift from single-party dominance to a multi-party, coalition-based system, highlighting the growing influence of regional and caste-based politics in shaping the country's political landscape.

(c) Do you agree that over the years the Supreme Court has become a forum for policy evolution? Justify your answer.    (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Over the years, the Supreme Court of India has played a pivotal role in shaping and evolving public policy, often stepping beyond its traditional role as an interpreter of the constitution. This transformation is a result of various factors.

Expanding Judicial Activism:

• The Supreme Court has increasingly embraced judicial activism, particularly in response to public interest litigation (PIL).
• This activism has allowed the Court to address a wide range of policy issues, including environmental protection, public health, and education.

Example:

• The Supreme Court's involvement in the regulation of vehicular pollution in the Delhi-NCR region showcases its role in shaping environmental policy. It mandated the implementation of measures to reduce air pollution, including the introduction of cleaner fuels and the promotion of public transportation.

Interpreting Fundamental Rights:

• The Court has expanded the scope of fundamental rights to include new rights, like the right to privacy.
• This broad interpretation has led to the formulation of policies that protect and enhance individual freedoms.

Example:

• The Supreme Court's landmark judgment on the right to privacy has had significant implications for data protection and surveillance policies.

Addressing Socio-economic Injustices:

• The Court has often intervened in cases related to socio-economic inequalities and discrimination.
• It has directed the government to implement policies that promote social justice and welfare.

Example:

• The Court's directives regarding the implementation of the Right to Education Act and reservations in education and employment for socially disadvantaged groups have had far-reaching policy implications.

Conclusion: 
The Supreme Court of India has evolved into a forum for policy evolution through judicial activism, expansive interpretations of fundamental rights, and addressing socio-economic injustices. While it has played a vital role in shaping public policy, it has also raised questions about the balance of power between the judiciary and the executive in a democratic system.