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Is there a way to receive notifications for replies to doubts asked on various pages? Checking the pages time and again is sort of cumbersome. Ive noticed that in some blogs, the comment section has a ‘notify me’ option, while in others it doesnt.

Anyone else noticed this?

Prelims 2013

1. With reference to Indian History, the Members of the Constituent Assembly from the Provinces were

1. directly elected by the people of those Provinces
2. nominated by the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League
3. elected by the Provincial Legislative Assemblies
4. selected by the Government for their expertise in constitutional matters

Easy question, Read in modern history. They were elected by provincial assemblies, princes nominated them.

Learning – Evolution of constitutional scheme esp. Morley Minto, GOI act 1919, GOI act 1935, Cabinet mission plan, Constituent assembly, interim govt and interim parliament <cabinet mission has been asked infinite times>

2. ‘Economic Justice’ the objectives of Constitution has been as one of the Indian provided in

1. the Preamble and Fundamental Rights
2. the Preamble and the Directive Principles of State Policy
3. the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy
4. None of the above

Repeat question.

Preamble – justice -social, economic and political, DPSP is all about socio economic democracy, welfare state

Learning – Can’t repeat, learn DPSP, FRs, FDs, Preamble by heart

3. According to the Constitution of India, which of the following are fundamental for the governance of the country?

1. Fundamental Rights
2. Fundamental Duties
3. Directive Principles of State Policy
4. Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties

Repeat. DPSPs like instrument of instruction of GOI 1935. Not enforceable but fundamental to governance

Learning – can’t repeat enough but FRs v/s DPSP , Conflict b/w FRs and DPSPs

4. Consider the following statements

1. An amendment to the Constitution of India can be initiated by an introduction of a bill in the Lok Sabha only.
2. If such an amendment seeks to make changes in the federal character of the Constitution, the amendment also requires to be ratified by the legislature of all the States of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

• Indirect Repeat – Primacy of RS v/s LS, LS prevails only in cases of money bill and type 1 financial bill and in ordinary bill in joint sittings. CAB can be introduced in either house but not in states
• Statement 2, all gives it away, consent of half the states is required

Learning – Repeating again primacy of LS v/s RS, passage of different bills, Art 368, cases where assent of states required, amendments not considered under article 368, Parliamentary legislation on state list 

5. In the context of India, which of the following principles is/are implied institutionally in the parliamentary government?

1. Members of the Cabinet are Members of the Parliament.
2. Ministers hold the office till they enjoy confidence in the Parliament.
3. Cabinet is headed by the Head of the State.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 3 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

• Repeat. All 3 options repeated.
• Statement 3 is wrong. Cabinet headed by PM, remove it and answer. Actions taken in the name of President. Statement 1 repeat, Cabinet members of legislature , ministers responsible to LS (not parliament )

Learning – Presidential v/s parliamentary system, Cabinet v/s CoM, different categories of ministers

6. Consider the following statements:

1. The Council of Ministers in the Centre shall be collectively responsible to the Parliament.
2. The Union Ministers shall hold the office during the pleasure of the President of India.
3. The Prime Minister shall communicate to the President about the proposals for Legislation.

1. only 1
2. only 2 and 3
3. only 1 and 3
4. 1, 2 and 3

Internal repeat <same paper> right.

CoM responsible to LS not parliament. Eliminate it, you get the answer. Yes pleasure but PM recommends when to remove the pleasure. Statement 2 is too innocuous to be false.

Learning – Solve question papers, read titbits

7. Attorney General of India can

1. take part in the proceedings of the Lok Sabha
2. be a member of a committee of the Lok Sabha
3. speak in the Lok Sabha
4. vote in the Lok Sabha

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 4
3. 1, 2 and 3
4. 1 and 3 only

• Option 4 is obviously incorrect as only members can vote <even VP can’t vote as he is not a member >.
• Doubt rests on statement 2 as it’s obvious if he can sit in the house, he would not sit there to observe, he can observe on the TV. Obviously he would sit there to speak if required.
• Whoever can take part in proceeding can be a member but without again right to vote

Learning – AG qualification, appointment, removal, reference to AG

8. Which one of the following statements is correct?

1. In India, the same person cannot be appointed as Governor for two or more States at the same time
2. The Judges of the High Court of the States in India are appointed by the Governor of the State just as the Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President
3. No procedure has been laid down in the Constitution of India for the removal of a Governor from his/her post
4. In the case of a Union Territory having a legislative setup, the Chief Minister is appointed by the Lt. Governor on the basis of majority support

• Option 3 common knowledge – Governor till pleasure of president. But it’s a difficult question if you don’t directly reach this option.
• Can be appointed governor of 2 states, in fact even LG of UTs, High court judges appointed as well as removed by president, CM appointed by President not LG <in states governor appoint>

Learning – again Discretionary powers of governor appointment and removal, LG v/s governor, Qualification, Appointment and Removal of Judges

9. The Parliament can make any law for whole or any part of India for implementing international treaties

1. with the consent of all the States
2. with the consent of the majority of States
3. with the consent of the States concerned
4. without the consent of any State

Common sense – India is not that federal to require state permission here

Learning – Instances where parliament can make laws on state list with or without their permission <discussed in titbits>. Has been asked multiple times i.e Parliamentary legislation on state list

10. Consider the following statements: The Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts (PAC)

1. consists of not more than 25 Members of the Lok Sabha
2. scrutinizes appropriation and finance accounts of Government
3. Examines the report of CAG.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct? `

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Repeat. Only Committee on estimates has members only of LS. All others have members both of LS and RS. Isn’t it clear from the name it would scrutinize accounts. Statement 2 correct, 1 incorrect

Learning – Again committees are imp. 3 committee , PAC, CoE, CoPU. Appointment, removal and independence of CAG. Types of audits conducted by CAG

11.  Consider the following statements:

1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House.
2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

• Chairman VP not a member, Vice Chairman from amongst the members
• Presidential election – Only elected members of both the houses plus legislative assemblies, VP election – all the members of both the houses

Learning – Powers, appointment and removal of chairperson and speaker, Appointment and removal of President and VP <discussed in titbits>

13.  What will follow if a Money Bill is substantially amended by the Rajya Sabha?

1. The Lok Sabha may still proceed with the Bill, accepting or not accepting the recommendations of the Rajya Sabha
2. The Lok Sabha cannot consider the Bill further
3. The Lok Sabha may send the Bill to the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration
4. The President may call a joint sitting for passing the Bill

Repeated n number of times. RS can’t amend the money bill.

Learning – Money bill v.s finance bill. Passage of different bills. Primacy of LS v/s RS

14.  Consider the following statements:

1. National Development Council is an organ of the Planning Commission.
2. The Economic and Social Planning is kept in the Concurrent List in the Constitution of India.
3. The Constitution of India prescribes that Panchayats should be assigned the task of preparation of plans for economic development and social justice.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1,2 and 3

• NDC and PC have been abolished now. NDC used to advise PC on planning and included all CMs and union ministers etc. Eliminate statement 1, only option left
• Statement 2 and 3 are common sense, planning has to be in the concurrent list

Learning – Niti Ayog

15. Who among the following constitute the National Development Council?

1. The Prime Minister
2. The Chairman, Finance Commission
3. Ministers of the Union Cabinet
4. Chief Ministers of the States

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

1. 1, 2 and 3 only
2. 1, 3 and 4 only
3. 2 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

What would chairperson FC would do? FC is not involved in planning. Repeated question next year.

Learning – FC, Niti Ayog

16. Which of the following bodies does not/do not find mention in the Constitution?

1. National Development Council
2. Planning Commission
3. Zonal Councils

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

NDC and PC easily incorrect. Even zonal councils aren’t in the constitution <they are statutory>

Learning – Inter state council, Zonal Council

17. The Government enacted the Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act in 1996. Which one of the following is not identified as its objective?

1. To provide self-governance
2. To recognize traditional rights
3. To create autonomous regions in tribal areas
4. To free tribal people from exploitation

• Common sense – Panchayat is for self governance so 1st has to be correct. 5th schedule and 6th schedule has been asked multiple times and 6th schedule is create autonomous region, so option 3 has to be incorrect.
• Also option 2 and 4 would have to be correct or incorrect simultaneously as recognize their traditional rights, you free them of exploitation

18. Under the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, who shall be the authority to initiate the process for determining the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights or both?

1. State Forest Department
2. District Collector/Deputy Commissioner
3. Tahsildar /Block Development Officer / Mandai Revenue Officer
4. Gram Sabha

FRA is addition to PESA. So obviously community i.e Gram Sabha would do it.

Learning – PESA v/s FRA

19.  With reference to National Legal Services Authority, consider the following statements :

1. Its objective is to provide free and competent legal services to the weaker sections of the society on the basis of equal opportunity.
2. It issues guidelines for the State Legal Services Authorities to implement the legal programs and schemes throughout the country.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

General knowledge. Appear true. NLSA act 1987. But if you didn’t know, you could mark it incorrect thinking may be not free but at low cost. But remember free legal aid is DPSP.

• Bottom line – 10/18 absolute joke
• 4/18 Tricky – AG being member of Committee, Election of president and VP, no procedure for removal of Governor, Zonal council not constitution
• NLSA, FRA, NDC require some limited knowledge

Learning – UPSC asks a lot of questions from a few topics every year which are doable

Pre 2012

1. In India, other than ensuring that public funds are used efficiently and for intended purpose, what is the importance of the office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)?

1. CAG exercises exchequer control on behalf of the Parliament when the President of India declares national emergency/financial emergency.
2. CAG reports on the execution of projects or programmes by the ministries are discussed by the Public Accounts Committee.
3. Information from CAG reports can be used by investigating agencies to press charges against those who have violated the law while managing public finances.
4. While dealing with the audit and accounting of government companies, CAG has certain judicial powers for prosecuting those who violate the law.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Solution – CAG is asked again and again.

• 4th is clearly wrong as obviously only judiciary can prosecute people not CAG or other bodies not even Human rights commission
• Only options 2 and 3 left i.e statement 3, Cummon information from any imp report can be used to press charges. Judiciary will determine if charges stick or not <it was the time of 2g scam>
• CAG -PAC asked multiple times,
• CAG only audits, he is not comptroller in INdia <statement 1 is wrong>

Learning – Reading options carefully, applying brain , Again role of CAG, types of audits

2. The Prime Minister of India, at the time of his/her appointment: 

(a) need not necessarily be a member of one of the Houses of the Parliament but must become a member of one of the” Houses within six months

(b) need not necessarily be a member of one of the Houses of the Parliament but must become a member of the LokSabha within six months

(c) must be a member of one of the Houses of the Parliament

(d) must be a member of the LokSabha

Manmohan Singh was from RS. Ministers can be from either house so can the PM. Ministers can become members w/i 6 months so can PM.

Learning – Qualification. Disqualification to be elected to LS and RS including recent SC judgement (section 8 (4))

3. With reference to the Delimitation Commission, consider the following statements :

1. The orders of the Delimitation Commission cannot be challenged in a Court of Law.
2. When the orders of the Delimitation Commission are laid before the LokSabha or State Legislative Assembly, they cannot effect any modifications in the orders.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

You must know oudelimitation commission. Both are true

Learning – Delimitation commission, composition, powers, last delimitation, next delimitation 

4. According to the Constitution of India, it is the duty of the President of India to cause to be laid before the Parliament which of the following?

1. The Recommendations of the Union Finance Commission
2. The Report of the Public Accounts Committee
3. The Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General
4. The Report of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

3rd is obviously incorrect as committee’s report is tabled by the chairperson of the committee. Other 3 bodies would submit the report to president.

Learning – NCSC – role wrt to OBC and Anglo Indians, UPSC – appointment and removal of members ,  independence of UPSC

5. A deadlock between the LokSabha and the RajyaSabha calls for a joint sitting of the Parliament during the passage of

1. Ordinary Legislation
2. Money Bill
3. Constitution Amendment Bill

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Has been repeated infinite times. Money bill no role of RS. CAB has to be passed separately by both houses with special majority

6. Which of the following is/are among the Fundamental Duties of citizens laid down in the Indian Constitution?

1. To preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture
2. To protect the weaker sections from social injustice
3. To develop the scientific temper and spirit of inquiry
4. To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

• Repeated n number of times .
• Protecting weaker sections is DPSP not FD

7. What is the provision to safeguard the autonomy of the Supreme Court of India?

1. While appointing the Supreme Court Judges, the President of India has to consult the Chief Justice of India.
2. The Supreme Court Judges can be removed by the Chief Justice of India only.
3. The salaries of the Judges are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India to which the legislature does not have to vote.
4. All appointments of officers and staffs of the Supreme Court of India are made by the Government only after consulting the Chief Justice of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 3 and 4 only

(c) 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

• 2nd option is obviously incorrect as President removes judges. Repeated ad nauseum that both high court and supreme court judges are appointed and removed by president. 1 is definitely correct, even before 4 judges case <art 124> both in case of supreme court and high court
• Answer is clear from above. But what about statement 4 – very conveniently reversed, CJI appoints after consulting president not the other way around

Learning — Appointment, removal. Independence of judiciary

8. The distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is based on the scheme provided in the

(a) Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909

(b) Montagu-Chelmsford Act, 1919

(c) Government of India Act, 1935

(d) Indian Independence Act, 1947

Repeated many times. GOI act 1935, 3 lists, provincial autonomy

Learning – all 4 acts mentioned in the options, Cabinet mission plan

9. In the Parliament of India, the purpose of an adjournment motion is

(a) to allow a discussion on a definite matter of urgent public importance

(b) to let opposition members collect information from the ministers

(c) to allow a reduction of specific amount in demand for grant

(d) to postpone the proceedings to check the inappropriate or violent behaviour on the part of some members

• Didn’t i say if 3 motions are to be learned – No Confidence, adjournment and calling attention
• Definite matter of urgent public importance, only in LS, extraordinary device, direct or indirect failure on the part of govt 

Learning – Learn all 3 motions, Primacy of LS v/s RS

10. Consider the following provisions under the Directive Principles of State Policy as enshrined in the Constitution of India 

1. Securing for citizens of India a uniform civil code
2. Organizing village Panchayats
3. Promoting cottage industries in rural areas
4. Securing for all the workers reasonable leisure and cultural opportunities

Which of the above are the Gandhian Principles that are reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

How many times will they repeat DPSP. But here they asked Gandhian  2 and 3 are obvious. UCC clearly isn’t Gandhian but liberal.

Reading – Learn DPSPs. FDs, FRs, Preamble by heart plus broad classification of DPSP <covered in titbits>

11. Consider the following statements:

1. Union Territories are not represented in the RajyaSabha.
2. It is within the purview of the Chief Election Commissioner to adjudicate the election disputes.
3. According to the Constitution of India, the Parliament consists of the LokSabha and the RajyaSabha only.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 3

(d) None

We know Delhi is represented in RS. 3rd statement, only gives it away, president is also part of parliament, has to sign bills for them to become act. You can mark even if you don’t know about statement 2. What bout election dispute? Answer in comments please

Learning – Election Commission appointment, removal and independence, Election disputes

12. Regarding the office of the LokSabha Speaker, consider the following statements: 

1. He/She holds the office during the pleasure of the President.
2. He/She need not be a member of the House at the time of his/her election but has to become a member of the House within six months from the date of his/her election.
3. If he/she intends to resign, the letter of his/her resignation has to be addressed to the Deputy Speaker.

Which of the statements given above is /are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) None

• 3rd is so innocuous has to be correct, deputy writes to speaker, speaker writes to deputy. We know the removal procedure, has been asked multiple times (effective majority). Even if you don’t know about option 2, you can mark it correct.
• Has to be a member as he has to conduct the proceedings unlike minister who can function without being present in the house.

13. Which of the following are included in the original jurisdiction of the Supreme Court?

1. A dispute between the Government of India and one or more States
2. A dispute regarding elections to either House of the Parliament or that of Legislature of a State
3. A dispute between the Government of India and a Union Territory
4. A dispute between two or more States

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 and 2

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 4

(d) 3 and 4

Repeat – Original jurisdiction. Original meaning originating in the supreme court, not on appeal. So obviously federal provisions i.e 1 and 4 <UT is not under federal relationship>

Learning – Writ of SC v/s high court, Original and advisory jurisdiction of SC

14. Which of the following is/are the principal feature(s) of the Government of India Act, 1919?

1. Introduction of dyarchy in the executive government of the provinces
2. Introduction of separate communal electorates for Muslims
3. Devolution of legislative authority by the centre to the provinces

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Repeat. 2 is definitely incorrect, Morley Minto introduced it. Statement 3 would be the clincher. If there was dyarchy meaning some powers to elected ministers so definitely some legislative authority also <autonomy in 1935 only>

Learning – Repeating nth time, 3 acts plus cabinet mission

15. Which of the following special powers have been conferred on the RajyaSabha by the Constitution of India? 

(a) To change the existing territory of a State and to change the name of a State

(b) To pass a resolution empowering the Parliament to make laws in the State List and to create one or more All India Services

(c) To amend the election procedure of the President and to determine the pension of the President after his/her retirement

(d) To determine the functions of the Election Commission and to determine the number of Election Commissioners

Simple

Learning – Repeating nth time Primacy of LS v.s RS

16. Which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India have a bearing on Education?

1. Directive Principles of State Policy
2. Rural and Urban Local Bodies
3. Fifth Schedule
4. Sixth Schedule
5. Seventh Schedule

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3, 4 and 5 only

(c) 1, 2 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

• DPSP – Early Childhood care and education, Rural and Urban – Primary education,  7th schedule- 3 lists, education in concurrent
• 5th and 6th schedule deals with schedule and tribal areas. No direct relationship to education

Learning – Learn all schedules, DPSPs

17. Which of the following are the methods of Parliamentary control over public finance in India? 

1. Placing Annual Financial Statement before the Parliament
2. Withdrawal of moneys from Consolidated Fund of India only after passing the Appropriation Bill
3. Provisions of supplementary grants and vote-on-account
4. A periodic or at least a mid-year review of programme of the Government against macroeconomic forecasts and expenditure by a Parliamentary Budget Office
5. Introducing Finance Bill in the Parliament

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 3, 4 and 5 only

(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

There is no Parliamentary Budget Office in INdia

Learning – Passage of Budget, 3 Statements consequent to FRBM act

18. In the areas covered under the Panchayat (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996, what is the role/power of Gram Sabha?

1. Gram Sabha has the power to prevent alienation of land in the Scheduled Areas.
2. Gram Sabha has the ownership of minor forest produce.
3. Recommendation of Gram Sabha is required for granting prospecting licence or mining lease for any mineral in the Scheduled Areas.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

• PESA and FRA repeated again next year. Look at the statement 3, any gives it away. If under statement 2, Gram sabha has ownership over Minor forest produce, how is it possible for gram sabha to have ownership over any mineral. It should also be minor mineral, right.  Any is too sweeping. Pause and Think.
• Statement 1 is obviously correct

Learning – PESA and FRA

19. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in consonance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India?

1. Right to healthy environment, construed as a part of Right to life under Article 21
2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in the Scheduled Areas for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1)
3. Powers and functions of Gram Sabha as mentioned under Article 243(A)

Select the correct answer using the codes given below :

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

1 is obviously correct, seems correct.  What has NGT to do with scheduled areas, gram sabha etc. It’s for all India.

20. With reference to consumers’ rights/ privileges under the provisions of law in India, which of the following statements is/are correct? 

1. Consumers are empowered to take samples for food testing.
2. When a consumer files a complaint in any consumer forum, no fee is required to be paid.
3. In case of death of a consumer, his/her legal heir can file a complaint in the consumer forum on his/her behalf.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

You must know about this. Earlier we learnt free legal aid under NLSA but here it’s not free. 3 can not be wrong so answer 1 and 3 <in the next blog you would know that question related to consumer protection act had been asked earlier, importance of solving question papers>

Learning – Consumer protection act, amendment proposed, Food safety laws, FSSAI

Bottom Line – Most of the questions absolute joke

Does Censor Board in India also certify ad films, serials and theatre plays? Thanks in advance.

1. Most imp. Articles of Constitution

1. Art 2 – admission or establishment of new states <earlier not states, Sikkim for instance>
2. Art 3 – formation or changes in the  existing states <Telangana for instance>
3. Art 51 A – 11 fundamental duties
4. Art 72 – Pardoning power of president
5. Art 108 – Definition of money bill
6. Art 112 – annual Financial statement (BUdget)
7. Art 123 – Ordinance by President, 213 – By governor
8. Art 143 – Advisory Jurisdiction
9. Art 226 High court writ, 32 supreme court writes
10. Art 335 – Claims of SC & ST to services
11. Article 350 A -instruction in the mother tongue at local level
12. Art 351 – Duty of Union to promote spread of Hindi Language

Note – Articles of FRs should be learned by heart.

• Discuss – Pardoning powers of president v/s governor
• Discuss – Federal safeguards under article 3
• Discuss – Berubari Union case and article 2 and 3

2. Article 355, 356 and 365

1. Art 355 – Duty of the Union to protect States against any external aggression and the internal disturbance and ensure that the Government of every State is carried on in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution

2. Art 356 : President’s rule in the event of failure of constitutional machinery

3. Art 365 : Failure of state to comply with the directives of the Union

So because it is Union’s responsibility under article 355 to see to it that Government of every State is carried on in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution, President imposes President’s rule on two grounds – art 356 and art 365

Issues related to emergency have been discussed in detail in this blog and in this tit- bit

3. Most imp. Constitutional Amendments

1. 1st amendment – 9th schedule
2. 7th amendment -Abolished 4 fold classification of states, extended jurisdiction of high courts to UTs, Common high courts for >1 states
3. 24th – Compulsory for president to give assent to CABs
4. 42nd – Mini constitution, added FDs <Swaran Singh Committee>, 3 new words -socialist, secular and integrity to the preamble , Tribunals
5. 44th – Abolished right to property, Internal disturbance replaced by armed rebellion under article 352, National emergency only on written recommendation of president <only use of the word cabinet in the constitution>
6. 52 – 10th schedule, anti defection law
7. 91st – anti defection law amended, not >15% of LSin CoM
8. 80th – Alternate scheme of devolution, all taxes except cess and surcharges to be shared b/w union and states
9. 97th Cooperative societies
10. 100th Land boundary agreement b/w India and B’desh

• Discuss – Amendment of anti defection law by 91st amendment
• Discuss – Kihoto Hollohan judgement
• Discuss -Whether or not cooperative societies under RTI

4. Bills with prior recommendation of President

1. 1. Bill that seek to alter the boundaries of the states and names of the states. (Article 3)
2. 2. Money Bill (Article 110) & Finance Bill type 1
3. 3. Any bill which affects the taxation in which the states are interested (Article 274)
4. 4. State Bills which impose restriction upon freedom of trade (Article 304).
5. 5. Any matter relating to a law for acquisition by the state of any ‘estate’ or other intermediate interest in land means matters relating to article 31(A)

Bill involving expenditure from consolidated fund of India but not a money bill i.e Finance bill type 2 do not require recommendation while introducing but recommendation s necessary before bill is taken up for passage

• Discuss – Parliament can not propose increase in taxes but can propose reduction
• Discuss – Appropriation bill can not be amended but Finance bill can be

5. Random Trivia

• NHRC is the only body whose chairperson has to be retired CJI and in state HRC, retired Chief Justice of high Court <any exception?>
• In every appointment, where a committee appoints members of constitutional and statutory bodies, PM and LoP (LS) always are the members

1. 1. NHRC – 6 member committee (2 + Speaker LS, Deputy CP RS , LoP, RS, Home Minister)
2. 2. CVC – 3 member committee (2 + home minister)
3. 3. CIC – 3 member committee (2 + any cabinet minister nominated by PM)
4. 4. Director CBI – (2+ CJI)

• Discuss – Qualification of Lokpal chairperson, appointment committee
• Discuss – Process of removal of above authorities (NHRC, CVC, CIC) and CAG, EC, UPSC members

UW has been conducting prelims mini mocks for a while now. Users have been posting their answers (some their thought process also) and every Sunday UW comes out with solutions and explanation. User response has been great and we hope, you learned a lot not only about the topics and your weak areas but the art of answering questions.

I had explained in an earlier blog – how to approach prelims 2016- that keeping an open mind, reading all options and using logic is very important in this examination. We have now started a series starting with polity in which we are proving solutions of last 7 years in a way one would approach the questions in exam and also the learning objectives.

Now that UW has already framed for you such wonderful 99 questions (1 question bahut waahiyat tham sorry UR), I thought of solving a few with our approach.

Let’s look at them

Mock 4

1. Consider the following statements:

1. Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) is a not-for-profit Public Sector Enterprise.
2. It has been set up by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research as an interface agency to empower emerging biotech enterprises.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

• Most of us wouldn’t know if statement 2 is right or not but we would tend to think it’s correct as it seems correct but the art of intelligent informed guessing is that you think of alternative plausible explanations and if that’s rules out, you mark seemingly correct statement as right.
• So if not by deptt of Scientific and Industrial research by whom? It’s biotech so what about deptt of biotech? Seems plausible. Does this deptt exist? Yess. Under the same ministry.  

And with this you get +2 instead of -0.67

2. Consider the following statements on Global Positioning System (GPS):

1. GPS allows accurate time-stamping on ATM transactions.
2. GPS relies on a set of satellites for transferring signals worldwide.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d)  Neither 1 nor 2

So people were confused if statement 1 was correct. GPS tells about time and position. everyone knows it. So it can tell about time in atm transactions. It has to be correct.

3. Which of the following is/are among the ‘micro-elements’ required for plant growth?

1. Copper
2. Zinc
3. Potassium
4. Sulphur
5. Manganese

Choose the correct alternative using the codes given below.

(a) 1, 2 and 5

(b) 2, 3, 4 and 5

(c) 1, 3 and 4

(d) 1, 2, 3,  4 and 5

I don’t like such questions. MIcro/Macro/trace as different books mention different things. But still, you can easily understand examiner’s mind. You know N, P, K are major elements i.e micro. Remove Potassium, you reach the answer

4. Consider the following statements?

1. Vitamins assist the body in utilizing the nutrients.
2. Vitamins help in transporting the minerals to required places.
3. No vitamin can be synthesized in the body.

Choose the correct alternative using the codes given below.

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Statement 3, too sweeping. Pause and think. Are you sure it’s correct. Vitamin D synthesized in the body in the presence of sunlight. Vit K, B12 by bacteria.

5. Consider the following statements:

1. Neutrinos are massless particles filling up most of the empty space.
2. They are easy to detect as they can be deflected even by weak forces like gravity.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

If it was so easy to detect them, why would anyone get nobel prize for discovering it.

Mock 3

6. Which of the region/grouping of countries has the highest share in overall remittances to India?

(a) EU

(b) North America

(c) GCC

(d) East Asia

You would have to make a guess. Gulf right. GCC. The whole economy of Kerala is dependent on GCC.

7. Consider the following statements with respect to the Indian political system:

1. The Cabinet is responsible to the Lok Sabha only.
2. The President is the Head of the State.
3. Every state has equal representation in the Rajya Sabha.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Only too sweeping. Pause and think. It’s true. Cabinet/CoM is responsible to LS only not parliament. So don’t mark without thinking.

8. Which one of the following statements is/are not correct?

1. Index of Industrial Production (IIP) is released on a monthly basis only.
2. IIP is released by the Central Statistics Office.
3. Electricity has highest weightage among the indicators used to calculate IIP.

Choose the correct alternative using the codes given below.

(a) 3 only

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

1st statement only. Too sweeping. Pause and think. Obviously statistics would be released monthly/ weekly/ fortnightly/quarterly/ annually. Monthly it’s true.

9. Which of the following departments is/are engaged in the protection of intellectual property rights in India?

1.  Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion
2. Department of Higher Education
3. Department of Information Technology
4. Department of Agriculture and Cooperation

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1, 2 and 4 only

(c) 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

IPRs are too broad. Associated with education, industry, agriculture, It, space etc. So all these ministries, deptt would be included.

Mock 2

10. Assertion (A) : The Rig Veda does not mention any officer for administering justice.

Reason (R) : The Rig Vedic society was free of any unsocial activity.

R is too sweeping. Free of any anti social activities. Pause and think, this can not be true. Cummon every society would have evil.

11. Which one of the following temple was built in a different architectural design compared to the other three?

(a) Kandarya Mahadeo Temple, Khajuraho

(b) Kailasanatha Temple, Kanchipuram

(c) Sun Temple, Konark

(d) Jagannatha Temple, Puri

Kanchipuram in south, other three in East – central India

12. Consider the following statements:

1. Arches and domes, which were Turkish inventions, were used by them on a wide scale in their buildings in India.
2. The arches were decorated with human or animal figures and scrolls of flowers.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c)  Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Human, animal figures haram in Islam. Remember ISIS destroying idols, ancient mausoleums.

13. Which of the following statements about the Charter Act of 1833 is/are correct?

1. The trading activities of East India Company were to be abolished.
2. A law member was to be appointed to the Governor-General’s Council.
3. All law-making power was vested in the law member appointed to the Council.

Which of the above statements is/are correct

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

• All law making power vested in law member. Isn’t it too sweeping? Pause and think. Who would vest all law making power in Law member? Obviously Governor general would keep at least some power. Right. So statement wrong.
• Infact, 1833 was culmination of centralizing tendency where all law making power was vested in governor general. Governor general of Bengal became, Governor General of India.

14. Narmada River does not have many tributaries primarily because

1. It flows through the region of scanty rainfall.
2. The hard rock surface and non-alluvial nature of the peninsular plateau permits little scope for the development of tributaries.
3. It flows through a narrow valley confined by precipitous hills.

Choose the correct alternative using the codes given below.

(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

• Statement 2 is BS. Aise to there won’t be any tributaries below great plains of India i,e in south.
• Statement 1 is also BS. If Narmada is flowing through a region of scanty rainfall, why can’t other rivers. And if they can. There can also be tributary.
• You know Narmaad and Tapi flow through rift valley. That’s why drain into Arabian ocean despite slope.

15. Which of the following regions is conspicuous for the absence of many active volcanoes in comparison to other regions?

(a) Indonesian Archipelagos

(b) Western Coast of North America

(c) Brazilian Coast

(d) Chilean Coast

Brazilian coast in on Atlantic. Other 3 on pacific. Easy Peasy. Need not know anything else. Cummn it was the easiest question.

16. “Trees are adapted to withstand the dry summer without shedding of leaves.  Plants have spiny, waxy or small leaves to reduce transpiration. Trees have deep roots to tap water from depths. Thick bark also prevent loss of moisture.”

Which of the following types of forests have been described above?

(a) Tropical Deciduous forests

(b) Mediterranean forests

(c) Tropical Evergreen forests

(d) Mid-latitude Evergreen forests

Deciduous forest shed leaves. No dry summer in tropical evergreen. What about mid latitude evergreen? I have forgotten whether coniferous or broad leaf. But did i not mention in titbits only Mediterranean has Dry summer and warm winter!

17. Consider the following statements about the Census 2011:

1. The density of population increased in all states and union territories except Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Male-Female gap in literacy rate has been lowest in the last five decades.

Which of the above statements is/are correct.

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Statement 1. Think why would population density decline in Arunachal. I can’t think of any reason. Already so lowly populated. It should only increase.

18. Consider the following statements:

1. Winter rainfall over the plain areas of north-west India is caused by western disturbances.
2. The rainfall caused by western disturbances increases from north and north-west to the east.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2  only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Western disturbances means coming from west. Will lose moisture as they move east so obviously rainfall would decline.

19. The winter rainfall over the plain areas of the north western region of India is largely due to

(a) South-west monsoon

(b) North-east monsoon

(c) Western disturbances

(d) Convection currents

Internal repeat. See last question

20. Consider the following statements:

1. Isotherms are more regular and widely spaced in Northern hemisphere compared to the Southern Hemisphere.
2. Isotherms bend slightly while crossing from land masses to oceans.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2  only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

If landmass is more regular everything would be regular. In north, land ocean land ocean. In south vast expanse of ocean so more regular distribution

21. Waves in the open seas are largely caused by

(a) gravitational pull of the sun

(b) gravitational pull of the moon

(c) undulating surface of the oceans

(d) wind blowing over the sea surface

If it’s due to sun, it would also be due to the moon. But both can’t be correct simultaneously. Only plausible explanation left is wind

22. The large difference in rainfall received at Mahabaleshwar and Pune, which are only a few kilometres away, is largely because

(a) Pune has dry air conditions all the year round

(b) Mahabaleshwar is situated at a higher altitude than Pune

(c) Pune is situated in a rain shadow region

(d) None of the options (a), (b) or (c) sufficiently explains the phenomenon

• Statement 2 is BS. rainfall does not depend on altitude directly.
• No rainfall hence dry condition, dry condition hence no rainfall??

Now the one Wahiyaat question

1. Consider the following statements:

1. Rural Employment Generation Programme was launched during 1985-86 to provide self-employment  opportunities in rural areas.

2. Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana was launched during 1995-96 to bring assisted poor families above the poverty line.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Don’t worry if you get it wrong even if it’s asked in exam. Nobody can and even if one can should remember launch years of 20 years old schemes.

• But let’s consider statement 2 – Swarnjayanti i.e golden jubilee i.e 50 years so it should be either 1997 or 2000 but it was actually 1st April 1999
• 1st statement, 86-87 was the time of Rajiv Gandhi. He was a tech guy, why would he launch such schemes?

Not a convincing explanation I know. But hey, Question hi wahiyaat tha

Disclaimer – As I have said umpteen times, there’s no substitute for hard work and smart work. This is just to supplement your hard work so that you reap maximum reward out of your sweat and blood.

Let us know, how many of you would have been able to increase your score by at least +5. And you know the importance of +5, there would be at least 5000 candidates b/w 102.34 and 107.34 last year.

For Prelims mocks login here 

IAS Prelims 2014

Q1. Consider the following statements:

1. The President shall make rules for the more convenient transaction of the business of the Government of India, and for the allocation among Ministers of the said business.
2. All executive actions of the Government of India shall be expressed to be taken in the name of the Prime Minister.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

• Ain’t statement 2, executive action in the name of PM / president same as power vesting in president/ pm <question prelims 2015>
• Statement 1 is obviously correct as all actions are taken in the name of president and he would obviously do it on the recommendations of PM.

Learning – Powers of president esp discretionary powers, Veto

2. Which of the following are the discretionary powers given to the Governor of a State?

1. Sending a report to the President of India for imposing the President’s rule
2. Appointing the Ministers
3. Reserving certain bills passed by the State Legislature for consideration of the President of India
4. Making the rules to conduct the business of the State Government

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 1 and 3 only.
3. 2, 3 and 4 only.
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Statement 2 is obviously incorrect as appointment of ministers has to be on the advice of CM. Eliminate statement 2, it’s the only option left

Learning – Discretionary powers of governor vis a vis president, Appointment and removal of governor

3. Consider the following statements regarding a No-Confidence Motion in India:

1. There is no mention of a No-Confidence Motion in the Constitution of India.
2. A Motion of No-Confidence can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only.

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

• Statement 2 is obviously correct as we discussed above CoM is collectively responsible to LS only.
• Statement is factual, must know this <even zero hour has no mention in the constitution > <we discussed all such things in prelims titbits>

Learning – If you have to remember 3 motions they would be – No confidence motion, Adjournment motion, calling attention motion

4. Which one of the following is the largest Committee of the Parliament?

1. The Committee on Public Accounts
2. The Committee on Estimates
3. The Committee on Public Undertakings
4. The Committee on Petitions

Has been asked n number of times, 30 members in CoE, all from LS

Learning – Classification of committee, election v/s nomination is imp. 3 must remember  committees are CoE, PAC, CoPU

5. Which one of the following Schedules of the Constitution of India contains provisions regarding anti-defection?

1. Second Schedule
2. Fifth Schedule
3. Eighth Schedule
4. Tenth Schedule

Again schedules (repeat), 10th schedule anti defection law, 52nd and 91st amendment

Learning – All the schedules esp. 5th v/s 6th, 9th and 10th, 11th and 12th, amendment of schedules, Read up provisions of anti – defection law

6. The power of the Supreme Court of India to decide disputes between the Centre and the States falls under its

1. advisory jurisdiction
2. appellate jurisdiction.
3. original jurisdiction  
4. writ jurisdiction

Common sense – No advice is sought, can’t be advisory, Federal disputes can’t be filed in other courts so can’t be appellate, has to be original, writ is for enforcement of writs

Learning – Advisory jurisdiction (Art 143), Writ of high court v/s supreme court

7. The power to increase the number of judges in the Supreme Court of India is vested in

1. the President of India
2. the Parliament
3. the Chief Justice of India
4. The Law Commission

• Slightly difficult question. Option 4 the law commission and option 3 the chief justice can be easily eliminated. It has to be the role of legislature or executive.
• Number of judges in supreme court is written in the constitution and only parliament can increase it and this is not considered amendment to the constitution.

Learning – Appointment of judges (process), Qualification of judges of supreme court and high court, Measures to secure independence of judiciary

8. Which of the following are associated with ‘Planning’ in India?

1. The Finance Commission
2. The National Development Council
3. The Union Ministry of Rural Development
4. The Union Ministry of Urban Development
5. The Parliament

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1, 2 and 5 only
2. 1, 3 and 4 only
3. 2 and 5 only
4. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Finance commission is concerned with distribution of taxes not planning. Eliminate it, only option left

Learning – Niti Ayog, Governance structure, FC role, qualification of members

9. Which of the following is / are the function/functions of the Cabinet Secretariat?

1. Preparation of agenda for Cabinet Meetings
2. Secretarial assistance to Cabinet Committees
3. Allocation of financial resources to the Ministries

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Statement 3 is clearly incorrect. It’s the function of finance ministry. Other 2 options seem correct, are logically correct, in fact correct

Learning – Functions of Cabinet secretariat, Role of Cabinet secretary (question asked in 2015, chairman of civil services board), Functions and evolution of Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)

10.  In the Constitution of India, promotion of international peace and security is included in the

1. Preamble to the Constitution
2. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
3. Fundamental Duties
4. Ninth Schedule

Repeat questions, has to be directive to the state. Can’t be duty of citizens

Learning – Memorize by Heart FDs, DPSPs, FRs and Preamble

11.Consider the following statements : A Constitutional Government is one which

1. Places effective restrictions on individual liberty in the interest of State Authority
2. Places effective restrictions on the Authority of the State in the interest of individual liberty

Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Constitution places restriction on the authority of state so that it does not become autocratic <that’s why FRs n all>. Rights are actually given to citizens.

Learning – Meaning of terms mentioned in the preamble, Republic, Democratic, Secularism, Social Justice, Fraternity etc.

• Bottom line – Many repeats, no surprises
• 9/11 absolute joke
• 1 question parliament to increase number of judges moderate, 1 no confidence motion not mentioned in the constitution moderately difficult