UPSC Mains 2015 GS2 Previous Year Questions

Question list

Open any question to see the examiner demand, demand-wise word budget, answer plan, common mark leaks and value addition in the same answer-sheet format.

1. N01 · Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy.
2. N02 · Does the right to clean environment entail legal regulations on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and judgement(s) of the Apex Court in this regard.
3. N03 · The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings.
4. N04 · Resorting to ordinances has always raised concern on violation of the spirit of separation of powers doctrine. While noting the rationales justifying the power to promulgate ordinances, analyze whether the decisions of the Supreme Court on the issue have further facilitated resorting to this power. Should the power to promulgate ordinances be repealed?
5. N05 · In absence of a well-educated and organized local level government system, Panchayats and Samitis have remained mainly political institutions and not effective instruments of governance. Critically discuss.
6. N06 · What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss.
7. N07 · Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights violations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and judiciary to set things right in this regard.
8. N08 · For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of experiences in the recent past.
9. N09 · Examine critically the recent changes in rules governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 1976.
10. N10 · How can the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the environment? Discuss, throwing light on the major constraints.
11. N11 · The Self-Help Group Bank Linkage Programme, which is India’s own innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programmes. Elucidate.
12. N12 · If the amendment bill to the Whistle Blowers Act, 2011 tabled in Parliament is passed, there may be no one left to protect. Critically evaluate.
13. N13 · In the light of the Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss changes brought in corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability.
14. N14 · The quality of higher education in India requires major improvements to make it internationally competitive. Do you think entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve quality of higher and technical education? Discuss.
15. N15 · Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do you think the private sector could help bridge the gap? What other viable alternatives would you suggest?
16. N16 · Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.
17. N17 · Project Mausam is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of the Indian Government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss.
18. N18 · Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To what extent could soft power like sports and cultural exchanges help generate goodwill? Discuss with suitable examples.
19. N19 · Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically examine.
20. N20 · Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UN Security Council.