Mains Practice Questions

Q. Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. (150 Words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty. (150 Words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. ‘‘The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.’’ Comment. (150 Words, UPSC Mains 2023)

Q. Parliamentary committees are an essential part of Indian democracy while they face several challenges and limitations in their functioning. Discuss the role and challenges of parliamentary committees in India. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the significance and contemporary relevance of the Representation of People Act, 1951 (RPA Act, 1951) in the Indian electoral system. Analyze its various amendments, and their impact on the conduct of free and fair elections. (250 Words)

Q. Critically examine the objectives, provisions and implications of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. (250 Words)

Q. Discuss the mechanisms through which the Indian Constitution establishes a system of separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Evaluate how this separation functions as a check on parliamentary sovereignty in the Indian context. (150 words)

Q. Recently, the conduct of many governors of states have been questioned, raising doubts about the constitutional propriety of their actions. In this regard, evaluate the need for the office of Governor in India. (150 words)

Q. “The Indian constitution was designed not for people how they are but how they ought to be “. Comment (150 words)

Q. What role does the Preamble play in guiding the interpretation and evolution of the Constitution, especially in the context of landmark judicial decisions? (150 words)

Q. ‘‘Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy.’’ Comment. (150 Words) (GS-II, Mains 2023)

Q. Critically examine how far the various judgments of the Supreme Court bring independence and accountability in the Central Bureau of Investigation. (250 Words)

Q. Evaluate the challenges of Panchayati raj institutions in India. What are the measures needed to strengthen the Panchayati raj system in India? (150 words)

Q. Discuss the implications of online free speech in the digital age, examining its role in fostering democratic values and the challenges it poses to regulation and governance. (250 Words)

Q: Critically examine the role and relevance of Rajya Sabha in the Indian parliamentary system. Suggest some reforms to enhance its effectiveness and accountability. (250 words)

Q. What are the main features and functions of the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in India? How effective has it been in ensuring probity and accountability in public life? (250 words)

Q. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been facing a crisis of credibility and confidence due to various factors. Analyse the causes and consequences of this crisis and suggest measures to restore the public trust and reputation of the CBI. (250 words)

Q. Inclusivity is a theme in India’s G20 presidency. Discuss the challenges and opportunities for making urban centres more disabled-friendly in India. (150 words)

Q. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) stand at a crossroads, calling for a comprehensive revamp. Examine the key challenges that impede the smooth functioning of ULBs and propose measures to overcome them. (250 words)

Q. How has the Supreme Court of India interpreted the law on sedition in various landmark judgments? Analyse the impact of these judgments on the freedom of speech and expression in India. Do you think sedition law is still relevant in a democratic country like India? Give reasons for your answer. (250 words)

Q. Socio-religious practices like Jallikattu are in conflict with animal rights. Critically analyze in light of recent judgement by supreme court. (250 words)

Q. Recently, the Kudumbshree Scheme of Kerala has completed its 25 years. In the light of this, discuss the role of Self-Help Groups in promoting women empowerment and poverty alleviation in rural areas of India. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the role and functions of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in India and evaluate its effectiveness in combating economic offenses. What are the major challenges faced by the ED in discharging its duties, and suggest measures to enhance its performance? (250 words)

Q. Analyze the impact of the pandemic on India's federal structure and the challenges faced by the Centre and the states in tackling the crisis. Discuss the measures taken by the government to strengthen inter-governmental coordination during the pandemic.

Q. Discuss the impact of social media on democracy and the challenges it poses to the regulation of online content in India. Analyze the steps taken by the government to regulate social media and suggest measures to balance free expression with the need to ensure accountability.

Q. What is the role of the judiciary in protecting the fundamental rights of citizens in India? Discuss with examples. (250 words)

Q. Discuss the role and importance of the Election Commission of India in ensuring free and fair elections in India. (150 words)

Q. Critically analyze the impact of judicial activism on the separation of powers in India. Do you think the trend of judicial activism has gone too far in recent years? Substantiate your arguments with suitable examples. (250 words)

Q. Parliamentary committees play an important role in exercising effective control over executive. How far do you agree with the argument that role of parliamentary committees has been declining in Indian Parliamentary functioning? (250 Words)

Q. Analyze the role and responsibilities of the Speaker of Lok Sabha in ensuring effective functioning of the House. What measures can be taken to strengthen the impartiality and autonomy of the Speaker in performing their duties? (250 words)