Indian Politics Quiz - 1, General Knowledge - Railways MCQ

The Parliament of India cannot be regarded as a sovereign body because:

1. Legislating only on subjects entrusted to the Centre: The Parliament of India can only legislate on subjects that are specifically entrusted to the Centre by the Constitution. It does not have the power to legislate on matters that fall under the purview of the State Governments. This limitation on its legislative authority indicates that it is not a sovereign body.


2. Operating within the limits prescribed by the Constitution: The Parliament of India has to operate within the limits and guidelines prescribed by the Constitution. It cannot exceed its authority or act beyond the scope granted to it by the Constitution. This indicates that it is not a sovereign body as it is bound by the constitutional framework.


3. Supreme Court's power to declare laws unconstitutional: The Supreme Court of India has the power to declare laws passed by the Parliament as unconstitutional if they contravene the provisions of the Constitution. This power of judicial review ensures that the Parliament's laws are subject to scrutiny and can be invalidated if found to be in violation of the Constitution. This further indicates that the Parliament is not a sovereign body as its actions can be overruled by the judiciary.


4. All of the above: Considering the above points, it can be concluded that the Parliament of India cannot be regarded as a sovereign body. It has limitations on its legislative authority, operates within the constitutional framework, and its laws can be declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D: All of the above.

The name change of Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi islands to Lakshadweep
The name of the islands Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi was officially changed to Lakshadweep by an Act of Parliament. Here's a detailed explanation:
Background:
- Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi islands are a group of islands located in the Arabian Sea off the southwestern coast of India.
- The islands were originally named Laccadive Islands by the British during their colonial rule.
- In 1956, the islands became a union territory of India and were renamed as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi islands.
Name change:
- The name change of the islands was initiated through an Act of Parliament.
- The Act was passed in the year 1973.
- The new name chosen for the islands was Lakshadweep, which means "a hundred thousand islands" in Sanskrit.
- The name change was aimed at reflecting the cultural and geographical significance of the islands.
Impact:
- The name change to Lakshadweep has been recognized and accepted by the government, authorities, and general public.
- The new name has been incorporated in official documents, maps, and other relevant records.
- The name change has helped in promoting the unique identity and heritage of the islands.
In conclusion, the name change of Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi islands to Lakshadweep was done by an Act of Parliament in 1973, with the aim of reflecting the cultural and geographical significance of the islands.

Members of Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the Assemblies of States and Union territories in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

Ref: http://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/faq/freaq1.asp

The Members of Gram Panchayats, Panch of Gram Kutchahry, Members of Panchayat Samiti and Zila Parishad are elected directly by the electorates of the respective territorial constituencies through universal adult franchise.

Parliament has enacted Section 80-A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 providing that the “High Court” shall be the authority for the presentment of election petitions under Article 329(b) of the Constitution.

The correct answer is:

- D: 18th Lok Sabha

Explanation:
- The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's Parliament.
- It is composed of representatives elected by the people.
- The 18th Lok Sabha refers to the current term of the lower house of the Indian Parliament as per the options provided.
- It is important to stay updated with such information to have a good understanding of the current political landscape in India.

Residuary Powers of the Parliament of India
The Parliament of India, as the supreme legislative body, possesses certain powers and responsibilities. One of these powers is the residuary power, which refers to the authority to make laws on subjects that are not specifically mentioned in the Constitution of India.
Explanation:
The residuary powers of the Parliament of India can be used in the following scenarios:
1. At all times: The residuary powers can be exercised by the Parliament of India at any time, irrespective of any emergency or constitutional situation. This means that the Parliament can legislate on matters that are not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
2. Only during national emergency: The residuary powers are not limited to national emergencies alone. The Parliament can exercise these powers even in normal times when there is no emergency situation.
3. During national emergency as well as constitutional emergency as well in a state: The residuary powers can be utilized by the Parliament of India during both national emergencies and constitutional emergencies in a state. This means that even during times of crisis or emergency, the Parliament can make laws on matters not covered by the Constitution.
4. None of the above: This option is incorrect as it contradicts the fact that the Parliament of India has the authority to exercise residuary powers.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option A: "At all times." The Parliament of India can make use of the residuary powers regardless of any emergency or constitutional situation.

Answer:
The members of Lok Sabha hold office for a term of 5 years.
Explanation:
The term of office for members of Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Parliament of India, is determined by the Constitution of India. Here is a detailed explanation of the term of office:
1. Length of the term:
Members of Lok Sabha hold office for a term of 5 years from the date of their election.
2. Dissolution of Lok Sabha:
The term of Lok Sabha can be cut short if the President of India decides to dissolve the house before the completion of the 5-year term. In such cases, fresh elections are held to constitute a new Lok Sabha.
3. Re-election:
Members of Lok Sabha can be re-elected for subsequent terms if they win in the elections held after the dissolution of the previous Lok Sabha.
4. Vacancy:
If a vacancy arises in the Lok Sabha due to resignation, disqualification, or death of a member, a by-election is conducted to fill the vacant seat.
5. Continuity of Lok Sabha:
The term of Lok Sabha ensures the continuity of the legislative body and allows the elected representatives to serve for a fixed period, representing the interests of their constituents.
In conclusion, members of Lok Sabha hold office for a term of 5 years, unless the house is dissolved earlier.

Method of Control over Executive:
There are several methods by which the Parliament exercises control over the executive, but one of the options listed in the question is wrongly identified. Let's examine each method of control:
A. Questions:
- Members of Parliament can ask questions to the council of ministers regarding their policies, decisions, and actions.
- This allows the Parliament to hold the executive accountable and seek clarifications on various issues.
- The ministers are obligated to provide satisfactory answers, failing which it may reflect poorly on the executive's performance.
B. Supplementary Questions:
- Supplementary questions are follow-up queries asked by Members of Parliament to seek further information or clarification on the initial question.
- This gives the Parliament an opportunity to delve deeper into specific matters and ensure transparency and accountability of the executive.
C. Adjournment Motions:
- Adjournment motions are used by Members of Parliament to draw the attention of the House towards a specific issue of urgent public importance.
- If accepted, it leads to the adjournment of the normal business of the House and allows for a detailed discussion on the matter.
- This method enables the Parliament to scrutinize the actions of the executive and demand explanations for any perceived shortcomings.
D. None of the above:
- This option is wrongly listed as a method of control over the executive.
- In reality, all the above-mentioned methods (questions, supplementary questions, and adjournment motions) are legitimate ways for the Parliament to exercise control over the executive.
In conclusion, the correct answer is D. None of the above as all the listed methods (A, B, and C) are valid ways for the Parliament to control the executive.

The number of writs that can be prayed for and issued by the Supreme Court and/or a High Court is 5.
There are five types of writs that can be prayed for and issued by the Supreme Court and/or a High Court. These writs are powerful legal remedies that can be sought to protect fundamental rights and ensure justice. The five types of writs are:
1. Habeas Corpus: This writ is used to protect personal liberty and ensure that a person under detention is produced before the court. It is issued to inquire into the legality of a person's detention.
2. Mandamus: This writ is used to compel a public official or authority to perform a specific duty that they are legally obligated to perform. It is issued when there is a clear right and a corresponding duty.
3. Certiorari: This writ is used to quash or set aside a decision or order of a lower court or tribunal that is found to be illegal, without jurisdiction, or in violation of the principles of natural justice.
4. Prohibition: This writ is used to prevent a lower court or tribunal from exceeding its jurisdiction or acting in excess of its authority. It is issued to stop proceedings in a case that is outside the jurisdiction of the lower court.
5. Quo Warranto: This writ is used to inquire into the legality of a person holding a public office and to determine whether they have the legal authority or right to hold that office.
These five writs provide an important mechanism for individuals and organizations to seek redressal and protection of their rights from the higher courts.

Minimum Age to Qualify for Election to the Lok Sabha

The minimum age requirement to qualify for election to the Lok Sabha, which is the lower house of the Parliament of India, is 25 years.

Explanation:

Here is a detailed explanation of the minimum age requirement for election to the Lok Sabha:

• Background: The Lok Sabha is composed of representatives who are elected by the people of India. It is one of the two houses of the Parliament, with the other being the Rajya Sabha.


• Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible to contest elections for the Lok Sabha, a person must fulfill certain criteria, including the minimum age requirement.


• Minimum Age: The minimum age to qualify for election to the Lok Sabha is 25 years. This means that a person must have attained the age of 25 years on the date of filing the nomination for the election.


• Other Requirements: In addition to the minimum age requirement, candidates for the Lok Sabha must also be citizens of India and not hold any office of profit under the government.


• Significance: The minimum age requirement ensures that candidates have reached a certain level of maturity and experience before they can contest elections to represent the people in the Lok Sabha.

Therefore, the correct answer is option A: 25 years.

The pension of a high court judge is charged to the Consolidated Fund of India.
The Consolidated Fund of India is the principal account of the central government, where all revenues received and expenses incurred by the government are accounted for. Here's why the pension of a high court judge is charged to the Consolidated Fund of India:
1. Legal provisions: The payment of pension to high court judges is governed by the High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954. According to this act, the pension of a high court judge is charged to the Consolidated Fund of India.
2. Central government responsibility: High court judges are appointed by the President of India, and they serve in different states across the country. As the appointment and service of high court judges are under the jurisdiction of the central government, it is the responsibility of the central government to provide for their pensions.
3. Uniformity in pension: Charging the pension of high court judges to the Consolidated Fund of India ensures uniformity in the payment of pensions across all states. It eliminates the need for individual state governments to bear the financial burden of the pensions and ensures that retired judges receive their pensions without any delay or disparity.
4. Centralized funding: Charging the pension to the Consolidated Fund of India allows for centralized funding and management of the pension scheme. This enables the central government to have better control and oversight over the pension disbursements and ensures that the pensions are paid in a timely and efficient manner.
In conclusion, the pension of a high court judge is charged to the Consolidated Fund of India to ensure uniformity, centralized funding, and efficient management of the pension scheme.

Minimum Age of Voter in India
The minimum age of the voter in India is 18 years. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
- In India, the right to vote is granted to all citizens who are 18 years old or above.
- This right is enshrined in the Constitution of India, which guarantees universal adult suffrage.
Explanation:
- The minimum age requirement for voting in India is 18 years.
- This means that any individual who has attained the age of 18 or above is eligible to vote in elections.
- The rationale behind this age requirement is to ensure that citizens have reached a certain level of maturity and understanding of the political process before participating in elections.
Implications:
- By setting the minimum voting age at 18, India aims to encourage young citizens to actively engage in the democratic process.
- It allows the younger generation to have a say in shaping the future of the country through their votes.
- It also signifies the recognition of young people as important stakeholders in nation-building.
Conclusion:
- The minimum age of the voter in India is 18 years.
- This provision ensures that citizens who have reached a certain level of maturity and understanding of the political process can exercise their right to vote and contribute to the democratic functioning of the country.

The members of a State Commission can be removed by the President on a report by the Supreme Court.
In India, State Commissions are established to protect and promote the human rights of individuals within a particular state. The procedure for the removal of members of a State Commission is outlined in the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. According to the Act:

 

• The President has the authority to remove the members of a State Commission.
• The removal process is initiated based on a report submitted by the Supreme Court of India.
• The Supreme Court investigates the allegations against the members and prepares a report on their conduct.
• If the Supreme Court finds the members guilty of misbehaviour or incapacity, it submits a report to the President.
• Upon receiving the report, the President can take appropriate action, which may include the removal of the members from their positions.

It is important to note that the removal of members of a State Commission is a serious matter and requires a thorough investigation and due process. The involvement of the Supreme Court ensures a fair and unbiased evaluation of the allegations against the members before any action is taken.

 

 

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution guarantees the assurance of dignity of the individual. This is achieved through:
Equal Fundamental Rights:
- The Constitution guarantees equal fundamental rights to each citizen of India.
- These rights include the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, freedom of religion, and protection against discrimination.
- These rights ensure that each individual is treated with dignity and respect, irrespective of their caste, creed, gender, or religion.
The Right to Adequate Means of Livelihood:
- The Constitution recognizes the right to livelihood as an essential aspect of human dignity.
- It ensures that each individual has access to adequate means for their sustenance and well-being.
- This includes access to employment opportunities, fair wages, and social security measures.
Just and Humane Conditions of Work:
- The Constitution seeks to provide just and humane conditions of work to each individual.
- It prohibits forced labor and ensures that workers are protected from exploitation.
- It promotes fair wages, reasonable working hours, and safe working conditions.
Equal Wages for Equal Work:
- The Constitution aims to eliminate gender-based discrimination in the workplace.
- It guarantees equal wages for equal work, irrespective of the individual's sex.
- This ensures that each individual is treated fairly and is not discriminated against based on gender.
Overall, the Constitution of India aims to uphold the dignity of the individual by guaranteeing equal fundamental rights, providing adequate means of livelihood, ensuring just and humane conditions of work, and promoting equal wages for equal work.

Members of Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the Assemblies of States and Union territories in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.

The President addresses both the Houses of Parliament assembled together

Explanation:
The question asks when the President addresses both Houses of Parliament assembled together. The correct answer is option C, which states that the President addresses both Houses during the first session after each general election and the first session of each year.
Here's a detailed explanation:
First Session after each General Election:
- After a general election, the President addresses both Houses of Parliament assembled together.
- This is an important occasion for the President to outline the government's policy agenda and priorities for the upcoming term.
- It allows the President to set the tone for the legislative agenda and provide guidance to the Members of Parliament.
First Session of each Year:
- The President also addresses both Houses of Parliament assembled together at the beginning of each year.
- This address serves as an opportunity for the President to review the achievements and challenges of the previous year.
- It also allows the President to highlight the government's plans and priorities for the upcoming year.
- This address sets the stage for the legislative agenda and provides a roadmap for the functioning of Parliament in the coming year.
Significance of the President's Address:
- The President's address to both Houses of Parliament is significant as it represents the executive's vision and agenda.
- It allows the President to communicate directly with the Members of Parliament and the people of the country.
- The address provides a comprehensive overview of the government's plans, policies, and initiatives.
- It is an important event in the functioning of Parliament and sets the tone for the legislative activities for the session or year.
In conclusion, the President addresses both Houses of Parliament assembled together during the first session after each general election and the first session of each year. These addresses are significant as they provide an opportunity for the President to outline the government's agenda and priorities.

The president can dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of the prime minister. This power is derived from Article 85(2)(b) of the Indian Constitution. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
- The Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Indian Parliament and consists of members elected by the people.
- The president is the head of state and exercises certain executive powers.
Explanation:
- The president is empowered to dissolve the Lok Sabha before the completion of its term.
- This power is exercised under certain circumstances, such as when the government loses majority support or is unable to form a stable coalition.
- The prime minister, as the leader of the government, advises the president on matters related to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
- The president acts on this advice and issues an order for the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
Significance:
- The power to dissolve the Lok Sabha allows the president to ensure the smooth functioning of the government.
- It provides a mechanism to address political crises and allows for the holding of fresh elections.
- The dissolution of the Lok Sabha is a crucial step in the democratic process, as it allows for the representation of the people's will through new elections.
Conclusion:
- The president can dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of the prime minister.
- This power is essential in maintaining the democratic functioning of the government and addressing political crises.

The president can expend out of the Contingency Fund of India without the approval of the Parliament.

Explanation:

• The Contingency Fund of India is a fund established by the Government of India to meet unforeseen expenditure.


• It is at the disposal of the President of India and can be utilized for any purpose that is in the interest of the nation.


• The President has the authority to make advances out of this fund for the purpose of meeting urgent expenses, which may arise before the authorization of the Parliament.


• This provision allows the President to act quickly in emergency situations without waiting for the approval of the Parliament.


• However, it is important to note that any expenditure made from the Contingency Fund of India must be reported to the Parliament for approval and regularization.

Therefore, the correct answer is option B: without the approval of the Parliament.

Pre-requisite for the enforcement of directive principles of state policy

The pre-requisite for the enforcement of directive principles of state policy is adequate resources. Here's a detailed explanation:

• Directive principles of state policy: Directive principles of state policy are guidelines or principles laid down in the Constitution of a country that the government should keep in mind while framing laws and policies. These principles are not enforceable by the courts but are considered fundamental in the governance of the country.


• Enforcement: Enforcement of directive principles of state policy refers to the implementation and practical application of these principles in governance.


• Adequate resources: Adequate resources are necessary for the government to effectively implement and enforce the directive principles of state policy. These resources include financial, human, and material resources.

Without adequate resources, it becomes challenging for the government to fulfill the objectives and goals set forth in the directive principles. Here's why:

• Financial resources: Adequate funding is required to invest in various sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare, as outlined in the directive principles. Without sufficient financial resources, it is difficult to allocate funds for these sectors and implement policies that promote social and economic justice.


• Human resources: Skilled and qualified personnel are essential for the effective implementation of policies and programs related to the directive principles. Without an adequate number of trained professionals, it becomes challenging to execute and monitor the progress of these initiatives.


• Material resources: Infrastructure, equipment, and other material resources are necessary to support the implementation of policies and programs. For example, the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other public facilities require physical infrastructure and resources.

Therefore, the availability of adequate resources is a pre-requisite for the enforcement of directive principles of state policy. Without these resources, the government's ability to effectively implement and achieve the objectives of these principles may be hindered.

Answer:

The Objectives Resolution:

• The Objectives Resolution was a resolution adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India on 22nd January 1947.


• It laid down the main objectives to guide the deliberations of the Assembly in drafting the Constitution of India.


• The resolution was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru, who was the then Prime Minister of India.

Other Options:

• A: Sardar Patel: Sardar Patel, also known as Vallabhbhai Patel, was one of the key leaders of the Indian independence movement. However, he did not move the Objectives Resolution.


• C: K.M. Munshi: Kanaiyalal Maneklal Munshi, commonly known as K.M. Munshi, was a jurist, writer, and politician. He was a member of the Constituent Assembly, but he did not move the Objectives Resolution.


• D: B.R. Ambedkar: Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, popularly known as B.R. Ambedkar, was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. While he played a crucial role in drafting the Constitution, he did not move the Objectives Resolution.

In conclusion, the Objectives Resolution was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru.

Explanation:
The correct answer is option B: the Contingency Fund.
Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Background:
- The President of India has certain financial powers to meet unforeseen expenses.
- These powers are subject to authorization by Parliament.
2. Unforeseen Expenses:
- Unforeseen expenses refer to sudden and unexpected expenditures that were not accounted for in the budget.
- These expenses may arise due to emergencies, natural disasters, or any other urgent requirements.
3. Consolidated Fund of India:
- The Consolidated Fund of India is the primary fund that holds all revenues received by the government.
- It is used for regular government expenditures and cannot be utilized for unforeseen expenses without prior authorization by Parliament.
4. Contingency Fund:
- The Contingency Fund is a separate fund created by the government to meet unforeseen expenses.
- It is established under Article 267 of the Indian Constitution.
- The President can advance money from this fund to meet such expenses, pending authorization by Parliament.
- The amount advanced from the Contingency Fund is later reimbursed through the Consolidated Fund of India.
5. Authorization by Parliament:
- As per the Constitution, any expenditure from the Contingency Fund must be authorized by Parliament within a specified time.
- The President can advance money from the Contingency Fund for immediate requirements, but it needs to be regularized by Parliament through appropriate legislation.
6. Conclusion:
- In summary, the President can advance money to meet unforeseen expenses, pending authorization by Parliament, from the Contingency Fund.
- This fund provides flexibility to the government in handling urgent and unexpected financial requirements.

Position of a Chief Minister:
The position of a Chief Minister is similar to that of the Prime Minister. Here's a detailed explanation:
1. Similarities with the Prime Minister:
- Role: The Chief Minister is the head of the state government, just like the Prime Minister is the head of the central government.
- Executive Authority: Both the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister hold executive authority and are responsible for the administration of their respective governments.
- Council of Ministers: Both the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister have a council of ministers who assist them in governing and making decisions.
- Legislative Responsibility: Both the Chief Minister and the Prime Minister are accountable to the legislative assembly/parliament and are responsible for the implementation of policies and laws.
2. Differences from the President:
- Head of State vs. Head of Government: The President is the head of state, representing the country as a whole, while the Chief Minister is the head of government, representing the state.
- Constitutional Powers: The President has certain constitutional powers, such as the power to grant pardons and appoint judges, which the Chief Minister does not possess.
- Election: The President is elected by an electoral college, whereas the Chief Minister is elected by the members of the legislative assembly.
3. Combination of PM and President:
The position of the Chief Minister is not a combination of the position of the Prime Minister and President. While there may be some similarities with the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister does not possess the constitutional powers and status of the President.
4. Constitutional Position:
Contrary to option D, the position of the Chief Minister is constitutional. The Chief Minister holds office as per the provisions of the state constitution and is responsible for the governance of the state.
In conclusion, the position of a Chief Minister is similar to that of the Prime Minister but differs from the President. It is a constitutional position that holds executive authority and governs the state.

Members of Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Parliament of India. It consists of members who are elected or nominated to represent the states and union territories of India. Here's a detailed explanation of the term of Rajya Sabha members:
1. Term of Office:
- The members of the Rajya Sabha are elected for a fixed term of six years.
- This term is stipulated by the Constitution of India.
2. Retirement:
- Unlike the Lok Sabha (lower house), the Rajya Sabha does not have a dissolution period.
- Members of the Rajya Sabha retire in a staggered manner, with one-third of the members retiring every two years.
- This ensures continuity in the functioning of the house.
3. Re-election and Re-appointment:
- Members can be re-elected or re-appointed to the Rajya Sabha for multiple terms.
- However, they need to go through the election or nomination process again to continue serving as members.
4. Determination of Term:
- The term of Rajya Sabha members is not determined by the state legislative assembly of a state, as mentioned in option B.
- The term is fixed and equal for all members, regardless of their state or union territory of representation.
5. Duration:
- The term of six years allows members of the Rajya Sabha to have a longer tenure compared to the five-year term of Lok Sabha members.
- This longer term enables members to gain expertise in parliamentary proceedings and contribute effectively to legislative debates.
In conclusion, the members of the Rajya Sabha are elected for a fixed term of six years, as specified by the Constitution of India. This term is not determined by the state legislative assembly of a state, as mentioned in option B.

The correct answer is option D: in consultation with the government of the state.
Explanation:
The Indian Constitution provides for a division of powers between the union government and the state governments. While the union government has certain exclusive functions, there are also concurrent functions that are shared by both levels of government.
When it comes to assigning functions of the union government to the state government, the president has the power to do so. However, this power is not absolute and there are certain conditions that need to be met.
According to the Constitution, the president can assign any of the functions of the union government to the state government in consultation with the government of the state. This means that the president needs to consult and seek the opinion of the state government before making such an assignment.
This provision ensures that the state government is involved in the decision-making process and that the assignment of functions takes into account the views and interests of the state government. It promotes cooperation and coordination between the union and state governments, which is essential for effective governance.