Time Allowed: Three Hours
Maximum Marks: 250
Instructions:
Q1. Examine the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in ensuring financial accountability of the executive. How do its limitations impact its oversight functions? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q2. Comment on the significance of the Doctrine of Separation of Powers in the Indian Constitution. How is it balanced with checks and balances in practice? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q3. India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka. Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri Lanka in the light of the preceding statement. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q4. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, in ensuring inclusive education. Suggest measures to bridge the gap in quality education. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q5. Evaluate the role of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in addressing child welfare issues. What reforms are needed to strengthen its mandate? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q6. Analyze the impact of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council on Centre-State financial relations. How has it shaped cooperative federalism? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q7. Comment on the role of social media in shaping public opinion in democratic governance. How can misinformation be regulated without curbing free speech? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q8. Discuss the strategic significance of India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy in fostering regional stability. Provide examples of its application in South Asia. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q9. Examine the role of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme in addressing gender disparities. What are its achievements and limitations? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q10. Comment on India’s role in promoting peace and stability in the Indian Ocean Region through initiatives like SAGAR. How does it counterbalance China’s influence? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q11. Critically analyze the Supreme Court’s role in protecting fundamental rights through public interest litigation (PIL). Discuss its impact on judicial activism with reference to landmark cases. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q12. Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further, also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) in addressing healthcare disparities at the grassroots level. Suggest reforms to enhance its outreach and impact. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for the appointment of the Governor. How do they impact Centre-State relations, and what reforms are needed to ensure impartiality? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q15. Discuss the role of India in the G20 forum in addressing global economic challenges. How can India leverage this platform to promote sustainable development? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q16. Analyze the challenges in implementing the Swachh Bharat Mission in urban areas. Suggest measures to achieve sustainable sanitation outcomes. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q17. Critically examine the role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in addressing human rights violations. How can its autonomy and effectiveness be enhanced? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q18. "Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach." Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q19. Evaluate India’s engagement with the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations. How does it contribute to India’s global image and influence? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the National Policy on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, 2015. Suggest measures to align it with India’s economic goals. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
1. What is the importance of General Studies Paper 2 in the UPSC Mains examination? | ![]() |
2. What topics are typically covered under the syllabus of General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |
3. How can candidates effectively prepare for General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |
4. What are the key skills evaluated in General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |
5. Why is understanding international relations important for General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |