Sign Up

Have an account?

Sign In

Don't have account,

Forgot Password

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link and will create a new password via email.


Have an account?

Sorry, you do not have permission to ask a question, You must login to ask a question.

Need An Account,

Sorry, you do not have permission to ask a question, You must login to ask a question.

Need An Account,

Please briefly explain why you feel this question should be reported.

Please briefly explain why you feel this answer should be reported.

Please briefly explain why you feel this user should be reported.

Search
Ask A Question

Aditi Sharma

Begginer
Ask Aditi Sharma
0 Visits
Followers
Home/ Aditi Sharma/Questions

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Aditi Sharma
  • 0
Aditi SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 31, 2024In:
  • 0

What is the UPSC Civil Services Examination syllabus?

upsc: exam guidance
  1. Ramesh Nair
    Ramesh Nair Begginer

    The UPSC Civil Services Examination Syllabus The UPSC Civil Services Examination is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The syllabus for each stage is as follows: UPSC Preliminary Examination Syllabus General Studies Paper I: This paper tests the candidate's knowledge on cuRead more

    The UPSC Civil Services Examination Syllabus

    The UPSC Civil Services Examination is conducted in three stages: Preliminary, Mains, and Interview. The syllabus for each stage is as follows:

    UPSC Preliminary Examination Syllabus

    • General Studies Paper I: This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge on current events, history, geography, Indian polity and economy, and general science.
    • General Studies Paper II (CSAT): This paper tests the candidate’s aptitude and skills in areas such as comprehension, interpersonal skills, logical reasoning, analytical ability, and decision-making.

    UPSC Mains Examination Syllabus

    • General Studies Paper I: This paper covers topics like Indian heritage and culture, world history, Indian society, and Indian polity and governance.
    • General Studies Paper II: This paper tests the candidate’s knowledge on topics like India’s economy, social justice, international relations, and environmental issues.
    • General Studies Paper III: This paper covers subjects like technology, internal security, disaster management, and environmental conservation.
    • General Studies Paper IV: This paper assesses the candidate’s ethical, moral, and behavioral competence through case studies and short essays.
    • Optional Subject Papers: Candidates can choose one optional subject from a list of 48 subjects, and appear for two papers in that subject.

    Recent Updates in the UPSC Syllabus

    • In 2022, the UPSC introduced a new paper on ‘Ethics, Integrity, and Aptitude’ in the Mains examination, which tests the candidate’s ethical and moral decision-making abilities.
    • The UPSC has also been emphasizing the importance of current affairs and has been asking questions related to recent events and developments in the country and the world.
    • For example, in the 2022 UPSC Mains examination, questions were asked about the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the COVID-19 pandemic, and India’s G20 presidency.

    Conclusion
    The UPSC Civil Services Examination syllabus is comprehensive and covers a wide range of subjects, testing the candidate’s knowledge, skills, and aptitude. UPSC Mains aspirants should stay updated on current affairs and continuously revise and strengthen their understanding of the core subjects covered in the syllabus.

    See less
Aditi Sharma
  • 0
Aditi SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 15, 2024In:
  • 0

Examine the arguments for and against the amendatory power’s incorporation into the Constitution’s basic framework critically. Which sides of this argument are making, and how have the courts addressed this matter?

upsc: amendments in indian constitution provisions
  1. Rajnish Singh
    Rajnish Singh Begginer

    The Debate around the Inclusion of the Amendatory Power within the Basic Structure of the Constitution The debate around the inclusion of the amendatory power under Article 368 within the basic structure of the Indian Constitution is a complex and long-standing one, with arguments on both sides. ArgRead more

    The Debate around the Inclusion of the Amendatory Power within the Basic Structure of the Constitution

    The debate around the inclusion of the amendatory power under Article 368 within the basic structure of the Indian Constitution is a complex and long-standing one, with arguments on both sides.

    Arguments in Favor of Including the Amendatory Power within the Basic Structure:

    Preserving the Fundamental Character of the Constitution: Proponents argue that the ability to amend the Constitution is a fundamental feature that shapes the character and identity of the Constitution. Excluding it from the basic structure could undermine the Constitution’s integrity and stability.
    Preventing Arbitrary Amendments: Incorporating the amendatory power within the basic structure could prevent arbitrary or unchecked amendments that could undermine the core principles and values enshrined in the Constitution.
    Ensuring Meaningful Deliberation: Treating the amendatory power as part of the basic structure would require a higher threshold for constitutional changes, ensuring more meaningful deliberation and consensus-building.
    Safeguarding the Constituent Power: The argument is that the constituent power, which is the ultimate source of the Constitution’s legitimacy, should not be restricted or diminished by excluding the amendatory power from the basic structure.
    Arguments Against Including the Amendatory Power within the Basic Structure:

    Flexibility and Adaptability: Opponents argue that excluding the amendatory power from the basic structure would allow for the Constitution to be more flexible and adaptable to changing societal and political needs.
    Preventing Constitutional Ossification: Limiting the amendatory power could lead to the Constitution becoming ossified and unable to respond to evolving circumstances, undermining its relevance and legitimacy.
    Respecting the Will of the People: There is an argument that the people, through their elected representatives, should have the power to amend the Constitution, and that this power should not be unduly restricted.
    Judicial Overreach: Concerns have been raised that including the amendatory power within the basic structure could be seen as judicial overreach, as it would place significant limitations on the Parliament’s constitutional amending power.
    The Courts’ Approach to the Issue:

    The Supreme Court of India has had a complex and evolving approach to the issue of the amendatory power and the basic structure doctrine.

    In the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), the Court held that the Parliament’s amending power under Article 368 was subject to the basic structure doctrine, meaning that certain core features of the Constitution could not be amended.
    However, the Court did not explicitly include the amendatory power itself within the basic structure.
    In subsequent cases, such as the Minerva Mills case (1980) and the Kihoto Hollohan case (1992), the Court has further elaborated on the relationship between the amendatory power and the basic structure.
    The Court has generally upheld the view that the basic structure doctrine applies to the exercise of the amendatory power, but it has not provided a definitive and comprehensive resolution to the debate.
    The debate continues, with legal scholars and constitutional experts offering different perspectives on the appropriate balance between the need for constitutional flexibility and the preservation of the Constitution’s fundamental character and values.

    See less
Aditi Sharma
  • 0
Aditi SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 15, 2024In:
  • 0

Compare and contrast the federal structures of the US, Canada, Australia, and other countries with the federal structure of the Indian Constitution. Assess the authority structure, the central government’s function, and the individuality of the component parts.

upsc: comparison of constitutions
  1. Manish Verma
    Manish Verma Begginer

    The federal structure of the Indian Constitution is unique in its combination of both federal and unitary features. Here’s an analysis of its federal structure, a comparison with the federal systems of the United States, Canada, Australia, and other nations, and an evaluation of the distribution ofRead more

    The federal structure of the Indian Constitution is unique in its combination of both federal and unitary features. Here’s an analysis of its federal structure, a comparison with the federal systems of the United States, Canada, Australia, and other nations, and an evaluation of the distribution of powers, the role of the center, and the autonomy of the constituent units.

    Federal Structure of the Indian Constitution
    Key Features
    Division of Powers:

    The Indian Constitution divides powers between the Union (central government) and the States.
    The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution contains three lists:
    Union List: Subjects on which only the central government can legislate.
    State List: Subjects on which only the state governments can legislate.
    Concurrent List: Subjects on which both the central and state governments can legislate, with central law prevailing in case of a conflict.
    Supremacy of the Constitution:

    The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the land, and any law passed by the central or state governments must conform to it.
    Rigid Constitution:

    The Constitution provides a rigid amendment process that requires a special majority in Parliament and, in certain cases, ratification by at least half of the state legislatures.
    Independent Judiciary:

    The Supreme Court of India acts as the guardian of the Constitution and has the power to adjudicate disputes between the center and the states.
    Single Citizenship:

    India follows the principle of single citizenship, unlike some federal systems where dual citizenship (national and state) is practiced.
    Integrated Judiciary:

    India has a single integrated judiciary, as opposed to a dual system where federal and state courts are distinct.
    Comparison with Other Federal Systems
    United States
    Division of Powers:

    The U.S. Constitution explicitly divides powers between the federal government and the states through enumerated powers and the Tenth Amendment.
    Powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the states are reserved for the states or the people.
    Role of the Center:

    The federal government has significant powers, particularly in areas like defense, currency, and interstate commerce.
    The states have substantial autonomy and their constitutions.
    Autonomy of Constituent Units:

    States have significant legislative, executive, and judicial autonomy.
    Each state has its judiciary, with the Supreme Court of the United States as the highest appellate court.
    Canada
    Division of Powers:

    The Canadian Constitution divides powers between the federal government and the provinces.
    The Constitution Act, of 1867 (formerly the British North America Act) outlines federal and provincial powers.
    Role of the Center:

    The federal government has powers in areas like defense, trade, and immigration.
    Provincial governments have jurisdiction over education, health, and local matters.
    Autonomy of Constituent Units:

    Provinces have significant autonomy but are subject to federal laws and the principle of “peace, order, and good government.”
    The Supreme Court of Canada serves as the highest appellate court, ensuring uniformity in the application of law.
    Australia
    Division of Powers:

    The Australian Constitution delineates powers between the Commonwealth (federal government) and the states.
    It lists specific powers for the Commonwealth, with residual powers left to the states.
    Role of the Center:

    The federal government has extensive powers, particularly in areas like defense, foreign affairs, and trade.
    States retain significant powers, especially in areas like health, education, and transportation.
    Autonomy of Constituent Units:

    States have considerable legislative, executive, and judicial autonomy.
    The High Court of Australia ensures constitutional balance and resolves disputes between the Commonwealth and the states.
    Evaluation of Distribution of Powers
    India:

    The central government holds significant power, particularly in emergencies, when it can assume greater control over state matters.
    The presence of the Concurrent List allows for overlap and potential central influence over state subjects.
    United States:

    Clear division of powers with significant state autonomy.
    The Tenth Amendment ensures that powers not explicitly given to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people.
    Canada:

    A blend of federal and provincial powers with strong federal authority.
    Provinces have substantial autonomy but are subject to federal oversight in certain areas.
    Australia:

    Similar to the U.S., with specific powers for the Commonwealth and residual powers for the states.
    States maintain significant autonomy but are subject to federal law in areas of national importance.
    Role of the Center
    India:

    A strong central government with the power to intervene in state matters under certain conditions (e.g., President’s Rule).
    Centralized planning and policy implementation in areas of national interest.
    United States:

    Balanced federal structure with strong state rights.
    The federal government plays a crucial role in national defense, foreign policy, and interstate commerce.
    Canada:

    Strong federal government with the power to override provincial laws under certain conditions (e.g., disallowance power).
    Federal-provincial relations are managed through mechanisms like the Council of the Federation.
    Australia:

    A balanced federal system with a clear division of powers.
    The Commonwealth has significant influence in areas of national importance, with states retaining control over local matters.
    Autonomy of Constituent Units
    India:

    States have considerable autonomy but are subject to central oversight and intervention in certain situations.
    The central government can override state laws in the Concurrent List through legislation.
    United States:

    States enjoy significant autonomy with their constitutions, laws, and courts.
    The Tenth Amendment protects state powers, ensuring a balance between federal and state authority.
    Canada:

    Provinces have substantial autonomy, particularly in social policy areas like health and education.
    The federal government has limited powers to intervene in provincial matters, ensuring a balance of authority.
    Australia:

    States have considerable autonomy with their legislatures and courts.
    The High Court of Australia ensures the balance of power between the Commonwealth and the states.

    See less
Aditi Sharma
  • 2
Aditi SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 15, 2024In:
  • 2

Talk about the India government’s Cabinet Secretariat’s organizational structure and duties. Compare it to the administrative hub of other significant democracies and examine its role in coordinating the operations of numerous ministries and departments.

upsc: ministries & departments
  1. Parmanad Singh
    Parmanad Singh Begginer

    The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament and plays a significant role in the country's parliamentary system. Let's evaluate its role and compare it with the upper houses in other major bicameral legislatures: Role of the Rajya Sabha in the Indian ParliamRead more

    The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament and plays a significant role in the country’s parliamentary system. Let’s evaluate its role and compare it with the upper houses in other major bicameral legislatures:

    Role of the Rajya Sabha in the Indian Parliamentary System:

    Representation of States and Union Territories: The Rajya Sabha provides representation to the states and union territories of India, with each state and UT having a specific number of seats allocated based on their population.
    Legislative Functions: The Rajya Sabha has the power to introduce, consider, and pass bills, except for money bills, which can only originate in the Lok Sabha (the lower house).
    Oversight and Accountability: The Rajya Sabha can hold the government accountable through mechanisms like question hour, short-duration discussions, and calling attention motions.
    Constitutional Amendments: The Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in the amendment of the Constitution, as any constitutional amendment requires the approval of both houses of Parliament.
    Impeachment of the President: The Rajya Sabha, along with the Lok Sabha, can initiate the process of impeachment of the President of India.
    Comparison with the U.S. Senate and the U.K. House of Lords:

    United States Senate:
    The U.S. Senate represents the states, with each state having two senators, regardless of population.
    The Senate has equal legislative powers to the House of Representatives, including the ability to introduce, debate, and pass bills.
    The Senate plays a crucial role in the confirmation of presidential appointments and in the ratification of treaties.
    The Senate also has the sole power to conduct impeachment trials of the President, Vice President, and other federal officials.
    United Kingdom House of Lords:
    The House of Lords is the upper house of the U.K. Parliament, but it has a more limited role compared to the Rajya Sabha and the U.S. Senate.
    The House of Lords is primarily a revising chamber, with the ability to delay and amend bills passed by the House of Commons (the lower house).
    The House of Lords has no power to initiate or veto money bills, and its role in legislative process is generally secondary to the House of Commons.
    The members of the House of Lords are mostly appointed, rather than elected, and include life peers, hereditary peers, and bishops of the Church of England.
    While the specific powers and structures of the upper houses vary across different countries, they all share the common goal of providing representation, oversight, and a check on the legislative power of the lower houses. The Rajya Sabha in India plays a significant role in the parliamentary system, with powers that are more comparable to the U.S. Senate than the U.K. House of Lords.

    See less
Aditi Sharma
  • 0
Aditi SharmaBegginer
Asked: July 15, 2024In:
  • 0

Talk about how the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution divides up the legislative authority between the Union and the States. Examine the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists’ justifications as well as the arguments about their overlap and extent.

upsc: functions & responsibilities of the union and the states
  1. Malti devi
    Malti devi Learner

    The distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States is a fundamental aspect of India's federal structure, as outlined in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Seventh Schedule comprises three distinct lists that delineate the legislative competence of the Union andRead more

    The distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States is a fundamental aspect of India’s federal structure, as outlined in the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The Seventh Schedule comprises three distinct lists that delineate the legislative competence of the Union and the States.

    The Three Lists:

    1.Union List (List I): This list enumerates the subjects on which the Parliament has the exclusive power to legislate. It includes matters of national importance, such as defense, foreign affairs, banking, and telecommunications.
    2.State List (List II): This list outlines the subjects on which the State Legislatures have the exclusive power to legislate. It encompasses matters of local and regional importance, such as public order, health, and agriculture.
    3.Concurrent List (List III): This list includes subjects on which both the Parliament and the State Legislatures have the power to legislate. It covers areas such as criminal law, civil procedure, education, and forests.

    Rationale and Debates:

    The division of legislative powers between the Union and the States is based on the principle of cooperative federalism, which seeks to balance the needs of national unity and regional autonomy.

    The rationale behind the Union List is to ensure the effective governance of the country as a whole, granting the Union the power to address matters of national importance. The State List, on the other hand, recognizes the diverse regional and local needs, allowing the States to have autonomy in managing their affairs.

    The Concurrent List reflects the areas of shared legislative competence, acknowledging the interdependence between the Union and the States. This list allows for a degree of uniformity in certain matters while still preserving the States’ ability to legislate based on their specific requirements.

    However, the scope and overlap between these lists have been the subject of ongoing debates and tensions. For instance, the expansive interpretation of the Union List by the judiciary has sometimes led to the encroachment of the States’ legislative domain. Similarly, the interpretation of the Concurrent List has been a source of friction, with the Union and the States often asserting their respective claims.

    These debates have also extended to the legislative process, with the States advocating for greater autonomy and the Union seeking to maintain national unity and coordination. The passage of laws under the Concurrent List, in particular, has been a contentious issue, with the States arguing for stronger safeguards against the Union’s overreach.

    Attempts to Address the Challenges:

    To address the challenges arising from the distribution of legislative powers, various mechanisms have been employed, such as:

    • The establishment of Inter-State Councils and other coordination forums to facilitate cooperation and dialogue between the Union and the States.
    • The use of the doctrine of “pith and substance” by the judiciary to determine the true nature of a law and its legislative competence.
    • The provision for the President’s assent in certain cases, ensuring a degree of oversight and coordination.

    The ongoing evolution of the Indian federalism and the continued efforts to strike a balance between national unity and regional autonomy will be crucial in addressing the challenges posed by the distribution of legislative powers.

    See less

Resources & Suggestions

Mains Answer Writing Latest Articles

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

Indo-US Relation: Areas of Cooperation & Conflicts

Key Areas: Defense, technology, trade, energy, and regional cooperation. Key Areas of Cooperation 1. Defense and Security Transition from buyer-seller to co-production and technology sharing. India as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) and inclusion in STA-1. Access to advanced technologies, ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

भारत-अमेरिका संबंध: सहयोग और संघर्ष के क्षेत्र

मुख्य विषय: भारत-अमेरिका संबंधों की मजबूती, विशेषकर रक्षा, प्रौद्योगिकी और क्षेत्रीय सहयोग में प्रगति। सहयोग के प्रमुख क्षेत्र 1. रक्षा एवं सुरक्षा सहयोग भारत और अमेरिका के बीच रक्षा संबंधों का विस्तार। प्रमुख रक्षा साझेदार (MDP) का दर्जा और STA-1 ...

On: February 22, 2025 Comments: 0

India’s Disaster Management

The article discusses the growing tensions between the Centre and states regarding disaster relief funding in India. It emphasizes the need for a transparent and equitable disaster management framework. Key Disaster Threats India Faces Increasing Frequency of Extreme Weather Events ...

Explore Our Blog