Three Salient Features of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act

The 73rd Amendment strengthened local self-government in India. Here are three important features:

1. Panchayati Raj System

• Definition: Establishes a three-tier system of local governance.
• Illustration: Includes village, block, and district levels for better administration.

2. Reservation for Women

• Definition: Ensures at least 33% of seats are reserved for women.
• Illustration: Women can actively participate in decision-making at the local level.

3. Regular Elections

• Definition: Mandates timely elections for all Panchayati Raj institutions.
• Illustration: Ensures local bodies are elected every five years, promoting accountability.

These features enhance grassroots democracy in India.

Four Determining Factors of Voting Behavior

Voting behavior is influenced by various factors. Here are four key determinants:

1. Socioeconomic Status

• Definition: Income and education levels impact voting choices.
• Illustration: Wealthier individuals may prioritize economic policies.

2. Political Ideology

• Definition: Beliefs and values shape preferences for political parties.
• Illustration: A person who values social justice may support progressive parties.

3. Party Loyalty

• Definition: Long-standing allegiance to a political party influences decisions.
• Illustration: Many voters stick with the same party across elections.

4. Influence of Family and Friends

• Definition: Social circles can sway individual voting decisions.
• Illustration: Discussions with family members can determine how someone votes.

These factors collectively shape how individuals approach elections.

Two Major Categories of Activities of NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog plays a crucial role in India’s development. Here are the two major categories of its activities:

1. Policy Formulation

• Definition: Creating strategies for economic and social growth.
• Illustration: Developing plans for sustainable development and poverty alleviation.

2. Coordination and Implementation

• Definition: Ensuring effective execution of policies by different states and ministries.
• Illustration: Collaborating with state governments to improve health and education systems.

These activities help promote balanced growth across the country.

Two Methods of Recruitment by the Union Public Service Commission

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) uses various methods to recruit candidates for government positions. Here are two key methods:

1. Competitive Examinations

• Definition: Conducts tests to assess candidates’ knowledge and skills.
• Illustration: The Civil Services Examination selects candidates for prestigious posts like IAS and IPS.

2. Interviews

• Definition: Personal assessments to evaluate candidates’ suitability.
• Illustration: After passing exams, candidates face interviews to determine their capabilities and personality fit for roles.

These methods ensure that the best candidates are chosen for public service.

Basic Rationale Behind the Directive Principles of State Policy

The Directive Principles guide the government in creating social and economic justice. Here’s a simple explanation:

1. Social Welfare

• Definition: Aims to improve the well-being of all citizens.
• Illustration: Programs for education and health care ensure everyone has access.

2. Economic Equality

• Definition: Promotes fair distribution of wealth.
• Illustration: Policies that support farmers and workers to reduce poverty.

3. Justice

• Definition: Ensures fairness in society.
• Illustration: Laws protecting the rights of marginalized communities.

4. National Development

• Definition: Encourages growth and progress of the nation.
• Illustration: Infrastructure projects that improve transportation and connectivity.

These principles aim to create a just and equitable society for all.