Time Allowed: Three Hours
Maximum Marks: 250
Instructions:
Q1. Examine the role of the Standing Committees of Parliament in enhancing legislative oversight. What are the challenges in ensuring their effective functioning? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q2. Discuss the significance of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution in shaping constitutional values. How has it been interpreted in landmark judicial decisions? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q3. Why is India considered as a state with ‘Unity in Diversity’? Bring out the salient features of Indian society that buttress this concept. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q4. Evaluate the role of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in strengthening India’s disaster resilience. Suggest measures to improve its coordination with States. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q5. Comment on the challenges in implementing the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. How can it be made more effective in protecting child rights? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q6. Analyze the impact of devolution of powers under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act on rural governance. What are the barriers to its effective implementation? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q7. Discuss the role of the media as the fourth pillar of democracy in India. How can its independence be safeguarded amidst commercial and political pressures? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q8. Comment on the strategic importance of India’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in promoting regional connectivity. (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q9. Evaluate the role of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in addressing India’s skill deficit. What are the gaps in its implementation strategy? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q10. Discuss India’s contributions to global health diplomacy through initiatives like the Vaccine Maitri program. How does it enhance India’s soft power? (Answer in 150 words) (10 marks)
Q11. Critically analyze the role of the Rajya Sabha in India’s bicameral system. How does it ensure federal representation, and what reforms are needed to strengthen its role? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q12. Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q13. Evaluate the effectiveness of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in addressing housing shortages. Discuss the challenges in achieving its objectives in urban areas. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q14. Examine the constitutional provisions for protecting tribal rights in India. How effective are these measures in addressing land alienation and cultural preservation? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q15. Discuss the geopolitical significance of India’s strategic partnership with Australia in the Indo-Pacific region. How does it contribute to maritime security? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q16. Analyze the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) in promoting social justice. Suggest measures to enhance its constitutional mandate. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q17. Critically examine the impact of social media on electoral democracy in India. How can regulatory frameworks balance free speech with accountability? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q18. In the light of the recommendations of the Law Commission of India, discuss the need to regulate or not regulate betting in sports in India. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q19. Evaluate India’s role in promoting sustainable development through the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). How does it align with global climate goals? (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
Q20. Discuss the challenges in implementing the Forest Rights Act, 2006, in empowering tribal communities. Suggest measures to ensure its effective enforcement. (Answer in 250 words) (15 marks)
1. What is the significance of General Studies Paper 2 in the UPSC Mains exam? | ![]() |
2. What topics are typically covered in General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |
3. How should candidates prepare for General Studies Paper 2 effectively? | ![]() |
4. What are the key challenges faced by candidates while attempting General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |
5. How is the marking scheme structured for General Studies Paper 2? | ![]() |