Question 1

Which of the following statements about the Supreme Court of the United States is correct, when considered together as a group?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Although this question appears in an Indian politics section, it refers to the Supreme Court of the United States by mentioning Congress and the President. The question tests your understanding of the broad powers of judicial review and constitutional interpretation exercised by the US Supreme Court. You must determine whether each individual statement is correct, and then identify which option correctly summarises their combined truth value. Given Data / Assumptions: Statement 1: A state law may be overturned by the Supreme Court. Statement 2: The Supreme Court can determine if the actions of the President are legal. Statement 3: The Supreme Court determines the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress. Option D claims that all the above statements are true. We assume the context of the US constitutional system, including judicial review. Concept / Approach: In the United States, the Supreme Court has the power of judicial review, established strongly by the landmark case Marbury v. Madison. This power allows the Court to interpret the Constitution and strike down laws or executive actions that it finds unconstitutional. Because of this, the Supreme Court can invalidate state laws, review the legality and constitutionality of presidential actions, and decide whether Acts of Congress conform to the Constitution. Therefore, each of the three statements reflects a genuine aspect of the Supreme Court's authority. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Consider Statement 1: A state law may be overturned by the Supreme Court. Judicial review extends to both federal and state laws, so the Supreme Court can strike down state statutes that conflict with the US Constitution.Step 2: Consider Statement 2: The Supreme Court can determine if the actions of the President are legal. The Court can review executive actions when they are challenged in court and decide if they violate the Constitution or federal law.Step 3: Consider Statement 3: The Supreme Court determines the constitutionality of laws passed by Congress. This is a central function of judicial review; if a law passed by Congress is found unconstitutional, the Court can declare it invalid.Step 4: Since all three statements accurately describe aspects of the Supreme Court's role, the combined correct option is that all of them are true.Step 5: Therefore, select 'All the above' as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify each statement using basic knowledge of US government. Many famous Supreme Court decisions involve overturning state laws, such as those relating to civil rights or voting rights. Decisions on executive actions, including those involving national security or administrative agencies, show that the Court can check presidential power. Landmark cases involving Acts of Congress, such as those reviewing parts of major federal statutes, confirm that the Court evaluates the constitutionality of federal legislation. Together, these confirm that all three statements are correct descriptions of the Supreme Court's powers. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Any option that implies only one or two statements are correct is wrong because each of the three listed powers is real and well documented in US constitutional practice. Choosing only one of the specific statements ignores the broad scope of judicial review that encompasses state laws, federal laws, and executive actions. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to think that the Supreme Court only reviews federal laws and does not touch state laws, or that it cannot review actions of the President. Another error is assuming that because Congress makes laws, the Court cannot overturn them. In reality, the system of checks and balances in the US requires that the Supreme Court have the authority to interpret the Constitution and invalidate laws or actions that violate it. Remember that judicial review applies across all branches and levels of government within the constitutional framework. Final Answer: All three statements describe genuine powers of the US Supreme Court, so the correct option is All the above.

Question 2

In the context of British constitutional history, the Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 was mainly enacted to safeguard which fundamental protection?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 is a landmark in the development of civil liberties in England and later influenced many other constitutional systems, including India. The Latin phrase "habeas corpus" essentially means "you shall have the body," referring to the production of a detained person before a court. This question asks you to identify the main protection secured by the Habeas Corpus Act, which is central to understanding the evolution of the rule of law and personal liberty in modern democratic states. Given Data / Assumptions: The Act referred to is the Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 passed by the English Parliament. The options mention religious freedom, trial by jury in civil cases, protection against arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention, and universal adult franchise. We assume basic familiarity with the concept of habeas corpus as a legal remedy. The question focuses on the main objective of the Act, not on every detail. Concept / Approach: Habeas corpus is a legal writ that requires authorities to bring a detained person before a court to justify the detention. The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 was enacted to make this remedy more effective and to prevent authorities from using tricks and delays to keep people in prison without lawful cause. It strengthened procedures to stop arbitrary imprisonment by the King or his officers. Thus, its core purpose was to protect personal liberty by safeguarding citizens against unlawful or arbitrary arrest and detention, rather than dealing directly with religious freedom, jury trials in civil cases, or voting rights. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the meaning of habeas corpus as a writ requiring that a detained person be brought before a court.Step 2: Understand that in seventeenth-century England, the monarchy and its officials sometimes imprisoned individuals without proper legal process.Step 3: The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 aimed to prevent such abuses by strengthening the legal procedures around the writ of habeas corpus.Step 4: The Act ensured that authorities could not move prisoners from one jail to another to avoid court orders and fixed time limits within which prisoners had to be produced before a judge.Step 5: From this, it is clear that the main protection offered by the Act is against arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention.Step 6: Compare this understanding with the options and select the one that explicitly mentions protection against arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by thinking of how habeas corpus is used in many modern legal systems, including India. When someone is detained, they or their representative can petition the court to ask whether the detention has legal authority. If it does not, the court orders the person to be released. This is exactly the spirit of the Habeas Corpus Act of 1679. It is not primarily about religion, jury trials in civil matters, or voting rights. Instead, it is about ensuring that no one is imprisoned without lawful cause, reinforcing the principle that liberty is the rule and detention is the exception which must be legally justified. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The right to freedom of religion: While religious freedom developed over time in England, the Habeas Corpus Act was not specifically about religious liberty; it was about general protection against unlawful imprisonment. The right to trial by jury in civil cases: Trial by jury in various matters has its own historical roots and statutes; the Habeas Corpus Act is focused on detention and production before a court, not the nature of the trial itself. The right to universal adult franchise: Universal adult franchise came much later in history. In 1679, the right to vote was still highly restricted; this Act did not concern voting rights. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse different "rights documents" or historical statutes, mixing up habeas corpus with broader developments like the Bill of Rights or later democratic reforms. Another common problem is remembering only that habeas corpus is important but not recalling exactly what it protects. A good mnemonic is to think of habeas corpus as a shield against "being locked up without reasons." Whenever you see 1679 and Habeas Corpus together, think of protection against detention without lawful justification. Final Answer: The Habeas Corpus Act of 1679 was mainly enacted to secure protection against arbitrary arrest and unlawful detention.

Question 3

In independent India, in which year was the song \"Jana Gana Mana\" formally adopted as the National Anthem by the Constituent Assembly?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: \"Jana Gana Mana\" is one of the most well-known national symbols of India. While Rabindranath Tagore composed it much earlier, it was only after independence that the Constituent Assembly of India formally adopted it as the National Anthem. This question tests whether you can recall the exact year in which that formal adoption took place, a detail that often appears in examinations on Indian polity, modern history, and general knowledge. Given Data / Assumptions: The song referred to is \"Jana Gana Mana,\" composed by Rabindranath Tagore. The options given are the years 1947, 1949, 1950, and 1951. The question is about the year of formal adoption as the National Anthem by the Constituent Assembly. We assume awareness that India became a Republic in 1950. Concept / Approach: Although \"Jana Gana Mana\" was first sung in 1911 at the Calcutta session of the Indian National Congress, it was only after independence that it received official status as the National Anthem. On 24 January 1950, just before the Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly came to a formal decision adopting \"Jana Gana Mana\" as the National Anthem. Therefore, the correct year of adoption is 1950, not 1947 or 1949. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that India gained independence on 15 August 1947 but continued to use the Government of India Act 1935 as an interim constitutional framework.Step 2: Know that the Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950, a date celebrated as Republic Day.Step 3: The Constituent Assembly formally adopted \"Jana Gana Mana\" as the National Anthem on 24 January 1950.Step 4: Since the question asks only for the year, we need to pick the year in which this adoption occurred.Step 5: From the options 1947, 1949, 1950, and 1951, only 1950 matches the correct year of formal adoption. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by remembering that the Constituent Assembly, on the same day (24 January 1950), also adopted \"Vande Mataram\" as the National Song. Many textbooks and exam guides clearly state that \"Jana Gana Mana\" was adopted as the National Anthem in 1950. Another way to check is to think of the symbolic coincidence that the National Anthem and the Republican Constitution are both associated with the landmark year 1950. This helps you quickly eliminate the other years. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1947: This year marks India's independence but not the formal adoption of the National Anthem by the Constituent Assembly. 1949: This year is associated with the adoption of the Constitution (26 November 1949), but the National Anthem was adopted slightly later in January 1950. 1951: By 1951, \"Jana Gana Mana\" was already the National Anthem; there was no new adoption in this year. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates confuse the different landmark dates of independence, constitutional adoption, and Republic Day. Some think that because independence was in 1947, the National Anthem must have been adopted in the same year. Others mistakenly link it to the November 1949 adoption of the Constitution. A simple memory aid is that the formal adoption of \"Jana Gana Mana\" as the National Anthem occurred in the same year that India became a Republic: 1950. Final Answer: \"Jana Gana Mana\" was formally adopted as the National Anthem of India in the year 1950.

Question 4

Administrators of Union Territories in India function as agents of the Union and are directly responsible to which constitutional authority?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Union Territories in India have a different administrative structure from that of the States. Rather than having elected Governors in the same sense as States, they often have Administrators or Lieutenant Governors appointed by the Union Government. This question examines your knowledge of the constitutional chain of responsibility: to whom are these Administrators answerable in the final analysis? Given Data / Assumptions: The question specifically refers to Administrators of Union Territories. The options include the Union Home Minister, Lok Sabha, President, and Union Parliament. We assume the constitutional framework laid down in Articles 239 and related provisions of the Constitution of India. The issue is the authority to whom these Administrators are responsible in their official capacity. Concept / Approach: Under Article 239, every Union Territory is to be administered by the President acting through an Administrator appointed by the President. This Administrator acts as an agent of the President. While in practice there may be consultation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, formally and constitutionally the Administrator is responsible to the President of India, not directly to the Lok Sabha or to Parliament as a whole. The Lok Sabha and Parliament may discuss Union Territory administration, but the official chain of responsibility is from Administrator to President. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Union Territories are administered by the President through Administrators or Lieutenant Governors.Step 2: Recognise that the Administrator is appointed by the President and functions as the President's agent.Step 3: Understand that while the Home Ministry handles day-to-day administrative matters, the ultimate constitutional responsibility is to the President.Step 4: Note that Lok Sabha and Parliament have oversight and can ask questions, but they are not the direct authority to whom the Administrator is formally responsible.Step 5: Therefore, pick 'President' as the authority to whom the Administrators of Union Territories are responsible. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this by referring to Article 239 of the Constitution or standard polity textbooks, which explain that Union Territories are administered by the President through an Administrator. The language clearly shows that the Administrator is an extension of the President's authority. Many exam questions repeat this fact: the Administrator of a Union Territory is an agent of the President, just as a Governor is an agent of the President in the States. This confirms that the correct answer is 'President'. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Union Home Minister: Though the Home Minister plays a major role in policy and oversight, the constitutional responsibility of the Administrator is to the President, not personally to the Home Minister. Lok Sabha: The Lok Sabha can debate and control the Union Government politically, but Administrators do not report directly to it in constitutional terms. Union Parliament: Parliament may legislate for Union Territories, yet the daily administration is carried out under the President's authority through the Administrator. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to conflate administrative practice with constitutional responsibility. Because the Ministry of Home Affairs handles many Union Territory issues, some candidates think the Administrator is primarily responsible to the Home Minister. Others assume that, since Parliament is supreme in legislation, every administrative head must report to Parliament. Remember that in constitutional law, the President is the formal head of the Union, and Union Territories are administered in the President's name through appointed Administrators. Final Answer: Administrators of Union Territories are directly responsible to the President of India.

Question 5

At which Assembly elections in 2003 was the new mandate first enforced that a candidate must file, along with nomination papers, an affidavit disclosing details about spouse and dependents?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Electoral reforms in India have increasingly focused on transparency about the background of candidates. One important reform required candidates to file an affidavit along with nomination papers, disclosing details such as the assets and liabilities of the candidate, spouse, and dependents. This question asks when this particular affidavit requirement, including the details of spouse and dependents, was first enforced at a General Election. Knowing this helps you understand the timeline of judicial and legislative interventions promoting transparency in Indian elections. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the first enforcement of an affidavit requirement covering spouse and dependents. All options refer to Assembly elections held in 2003 in different States. The options mention elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan with Delhi. We assume familiarity with Supreme Court judgments directing greater disclosure by candidates. Concept / Approach: The key concept is that of mandatory affidavits following landmark Supreme Court judgments on electoral transparency. After these judgments, the Election Commission began enforcing rules requiring candidates to disclose criminal cases, assets, liabilities, and related information in an affidavit. The specific enforcement of affidavits containing details about spouse and dependents first took effect at the Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh in 2003. This fact is documented in exam-oriented polity material and Election Commission records. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to make asset and background disclosure by candidates compulsory.Step 2: Understand that the Election Commission issued orders requiring candidates to file an affidavit with nomination papers, including details about spouse and dependents.Step 3: Among the 2003 Assembly elections, note that Himachal Pradesh is specifically associated with the first enforcement of this extended affidavit requirement.Step 4: Compare the options: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Mizoram, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan with Delhi.Step 5: Choose 'Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh in 2003' because that is widely cited as the first use of the new affidavit requirement. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can recall that many examination guides and reports on electoral reforms mention Himachal Pradesh as the first State where the affidavit requirement regarding candidates' personal and family details was implemented in practice. Later in 2003, the requirement was applied to other Assembly elections such as those in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Chhattisgarh. However, the earliest enforcement at a General Election level is linked to the Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections in 2003, making option C the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Assembly elections in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in December 2003: These elections did see the affidavit system in place, but they were not the first to implement the spouse and dependent disclosure requirement. Assembly election in Mizoram in November 2003: Although reforms were spreading, this was not the earliest case associated by exam standards with the new affidavit mandate. Assembly elections in Rajasthan and Delhi in December 2003: Again, the affidavit requirement applied, but well after the Himachal Pradesh elections in the same year. Common Pitfalls: Many students remember that 2003 was a major year for implementing the affidavit requirement, but they confuse which exact election came first. Because several States went to the polls that year, it is easy to mix them up. A robust way to avoid confusion is to memorise that Himachal Pradesh is specifically mentioned in exam literature as the first State where these comprehensive affidavits were enforced. Once you anchor the fact to Himachal Pradesh, the other options become easier to eliminate. Final Answer: The affidavit requirement including details of spouse and dependents was first enforced at the Assembly elections in Himachal Pradesh in 2003.

Question 6

In 1965, the title of the Executive Head of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir was changed from \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" to \"Governor\" by which of the following actions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Before the constitutional changes that altered its special status, Jammu and Kashmir had certain unique institutions and titles, including the office of \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" as the Executive Head of the State. In 1965, this title was replaced by the more common term \"Governor\". This question tests whether you know the specific legal mechanism through which this important change was made, illustrating how State constitutions could be amended under the earlier constitutional arrangement. Given Data / Assumptions: The office originally called \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" was the Executive Head of Jammu and Kashmir. In 1965, this title was changed to \"Governor\". The options include a Lok Sabha resolution, an executive order of Parliament, the 6th Amendment to the State Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir, and a State Government order under Article 371. We assume knowledge of the special constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir prior to later constitutional changes. Concept / Approach: Under the earlier constitutional framework, Jammu and Kashmir had its own Constitution, adopted in 1957. Changes to the internal structure and nomenclature of key offices often required amendments to the State Constitution. In 1965, the 6th Amendment to the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir was passed, which among other things replaced the title \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" with \"Governor\" and aligned the State's executive structure more closely with that of other Indian States. Therefore, the correct answer is that the change was made by the 6th Amendment to the State Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Jammu and Kashmir once had its own Constitution in addition to the Constitution of India.Step 2: Recognise that the title \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" was used for the State's Executive Head under this State Constitution.Step 3: Note that in 1965, a significant constitutional change took place, bringing the nomenclature in line with the standard \"Governor\" used in other States.Step 4: Understand that such a structural and nomenclature change in the State's executive organization required a formal amendment to the State Constitution.Step 5: Identify that this was done through the 6th Amendment to the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir.Step 6: Compare with the options and select the one referring to the 6th Amendment in the State Constitution. Verification / Alternative check: Standard polity textbooks that cover the special status of Jammu and Kashmir mention that the change from \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" to \"Governor\" in 1965 occurred due to the 6th Amendment to the State Constitution. This amendment also made related changes to the office of the Head of State and its relationship to the President of India. Neither a simple Lok Sabha resolution nor a State Government order would have had the constitutional force necessary to change such a fundamental provision in the State Constitution, confirming that a formal constitutional amendment was involved. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A Lok Sabha resolution: Resolutions of the Lok Sabha can express the will of the House but do not directly amend a State Constitution. An executive order of the Parliament: Parliament cannot change the internal provisions of a State Constitution by executive order; constitutional amendments require a specific legal process. A State Government order under Article 371: Article 371 contains special provisions for certain States, but changing the title of the State Head of Jammu and Kashmir required amending the State's own Constitution, not merely an administrative order. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes underestimate the importance of State constitutional amendments in the earlier constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir. It is easy to assume that Parliament or the Lok Sabha could simply pass a resolution or issue an order. However, when dealing with entrenched provisions in a Constitution, proper amendment procedures must be followed. A reliable exam strategy is to remember that 1965 and the change from \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" to \"Governor\" are specifically associated with the 6th Amendment to the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir. Final Answer: The title of the Executive Head of Jammu and Kashmir was changed from \"Sadar-i-Riyasat\" to \"Governor\" in 1965 by the 6th Amendment to the State Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir.

Question 7

Who famously described the Right to Constitutional Remedies as the very \"heart and soul\" of the Constitution of India, highlighting its central importance for protecting fundamental rights?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Right to Constitutional Remedies, contained in Article 32 of the Constitution of India, allows individuals to approach the Supreme Court directly when their fundamental rights are violated. This right is so central that one of the principal architects of the Constitution described it as the \"heart and soul\" of the Constitution. This question asks you to identify the personality who used that powerful phrase, which is frequently quoted in discussions on Indian constitutional law. Given Data / Assumptions: The right under discussion is the Right to Constitutional Remedies, mainly Article 32. The options are M. K. Gandhi, J. L. Nehru, B. R. Ambedkar, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad. We assume awareness that the phrase \"heart and soul of the Constitution\" is a famous quote in Indian polity. The question is about attribution of this remark, not about the content of Article 32 itself. Concept / Approach: Dr B. R. Ambedkar, the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly, repeatedly emphasised the importance of Article 32. He stated that if he were asked to name one article of the Constitution that he could not renounce, it would be Article 32, because it gives life to the fundamental rights. He called the Right to Constitutional Remedies the \"heart and soul\" of the Constitution. This makes it clear that the correct answer is B. R. Ambedkar, not the other leaders listed in the options. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 32 allows individuals to directly approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights.Step 2: Remember the famous quote describing this right as the \"heart and soul\" of the Constitution.Step 3: Associate this quote with Dr B. R. Ambedkar, who, as Chairman of the Drafting Committee, spoke at length about the importance of Article 32.Step 4: Compare the names in the options and confirm that Ambedkar is the one linked with this specific expression.Step 5: Select 'B. R. Ambedkar' as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Polity textbooks and commentaries on the Constitution routinely refer to Ambedkar's speech in the Constituent Assembly where he called Article 32 the \"heart and soul of the Constitution\". This quote is one of the most frequently used in questions about fundamental rights. Neither Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, nor Dr Rajendra Prasad is associated with this particular phrase in the context of Article 32. Thus, cross-checking in multiple standard sources confirms that B. R. Ambedkar is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: M. K. Gandhi: Gandhi was not a member of the Constituent Assembly and did not participate in the formal drafting debates in the same way. J. L. Nehru: While Nehru played a key role in freedom struggle and constitutional development, this specific phrase about the \"heart and soul\" is not attributed to him. Dr. Rajendra Prasad: As the President of the Constituent Assembly and later the first President of India, he had important roles, but this famous remark about Article 32 came from Ambedkar. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates confuse different quotes attributed to various leaders during the making of the Constitution. Because Gandhi, Nehru, Ambedkar, and Rajendra Prasad are all key figures, it is easy to misattribute notable phrases among them. To avoid this, remember a simple association: Ambedkar and Article 32 go together, with the phrase \"heart and soul\" as a strong link in exam questions. Final Answer: The leader who called the Right to Constitutional Remedies the \"heart and soul\" of the Constitution of India was B. R. Ambedkar.

Question 8

The federal system of government in India has been most heavily influenced by the federal system of which of the following countries?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: India is described as a Union of States with a federal structure but a strong centre. While the Constitution of India borrowed ideas from many foreign constitutions, its model of federalism closely resembles that of a particular country. This question tests whether you can correctly identify the foreign federal system that exerted the most influence on India's own federal design. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the federal system of India, not about other features like fundamental rights or judicial review. The options are Canada, Australia, United States, and U.S.S.R. We assume basic awareness that the Indian Constitution borrowed features from multiple sources. We focus on centralised federalism, where the centre has relatively more powers than the units. Concept / Approach: In federal systems, power is divided between a central authority and constituent units, but the degree of centralisation varies. The United States is often described as a classical federal system with a strong emphasis on State autonomy. Canada, by contrast, has a more centralised federation where the federal government enjoys significant powers, including the residuary power of legislation. The Indian Constitution adopted a similar pattern by granting residuary powers to the Union, allowing strong control over certain subjects, and giving the Union a decisive role during emergencies. Therefore, the Indian federal system is said to be greatly influenced by Canadian federalism. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that India has a federal structure with a strong centre, often described as quasi-federal.Step 2: Recall that the United States has a more balanced federal system, with many powers reserved for the States and residuary powers often seen as belonging to the States.Step 3: Note that in Canada, the federal government holds residuary powers and has stronger authority over provinces.Step 4: Compare this with India, where the Union also has residuary powers and strong control in times of emergency.Step 5: Conclude that Canada is the federal model that most influenced the design of Indian federalism. Verification / Alternative check: Standard references on the Constitution of India, including well-known polity textbooks, explicitly state that the Indian federal system has been greatly influenced by the Canadian model, particularly with regard to the division of powers and the presence of a strong centre. While the United States influenced features like judicial review and the written Constitution, and other countries contributed different elements, the federal structure itself, especially the balance tilted towards the centre, is most closely associated with Canada. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Australia: The Australian Constitution influenced aspects like the Concurrent List and certain federal features, but the overall pattern of centralised federalism in India more closely resembles Canada. United States: The United States contributed many ideas, such as a written Constitution and judicial review, but its federalism is less centralised than India's, making it a less direct model for India's federal structure. U.S.S.R.: The Soviet Union was a union of socialist republics with a different ideological and constitutional framework; it was not a primary model for India's federal system. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often assume that because the United States is the best-known federation, it must be the model for all federal systems. This leads to mistakenly choosing the US whenever a question mentions federalism. To avoid this error, you should remember that Canada is the classic example of a federation with a strong centre and that India drew heavily from this model. Linking the idea of residuary powers and strong central authority to Canada will help you answer similar questions correctly. Final Answer: The Indian federal system is most strongly influenced by the federal system of Canada.

Question 9

Immediately after the death of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964, who served as the acting Prime Minister of India until a new leader was chosen?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When a sitting Prime Minister dies in office, there is often a brief transition period before a new leader is formally elected by the ruling party and appointed by the President. In India, such a situation arose after the death of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964. This question asks you to recall the name of the person who acted as Prime Minister during that interim period, which is an important detail in modern Indian political history. Given Data / Assumptions: The event is the death of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964. The options are Lal Bahadur Shastri, Gulzari Lal Nanda, T. T. Krishnamachari, and Indira Gandhi. The question refers to an acting Prime Minister, not to the next full-term Prime Minister. We assume knowledge of the political sequence immediately after Nehru's death. Concept / Approach: When Nehru died in May 1964, there needed to be an interim arrangement until the Congress Party chose his successor. Gulzari Lal Nanda, who was then the senior Cabinet minister and had served as Home Minister, was appointed as acting Prime Minister. He held this position until Lal Bahadur Shastri was chosen as the next Prime Minister. Nanda later served as acting Prime Minister again in 1966 after the death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, which reinforces his association with this temporary role. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Jawaharlal Nehru died in office on 27 May 1964.Step 2: Recognise that an acting Prime Minister had to be appointed immediately to ensure continuity of government.Step 3: Remember that Gulzari Lal Nanda was chosen as acting Prime Minister in 1964 and later again in 1966.Step 4: Lal Bahadur Shastri became the next full-term Prime Minister after Nehru, but he did not serve as the interim acting Prime Minister immediately upon Nehru's death.Step 5: Compare the options and identify Gulzari Lal Nanda as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Standard modern history and polity texts mention that Gulzari Lal Nanda served twice as acting Prime Minister, once after Nehru and once after Shastri. This makes him unique in Indian political history. Lal Bahadur Shastri is remembered as Nehru's successor but not as the acting Prime Minister; he was appointed Prime Minister after the party's formal decision. Indira Gandhi became Prime Minister later, after Shastri's death. T. T. Krishnamachari was a senior leader but never Prime Minister. These cross-checks confirm that Nanda is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Lal Bahadur Shastri: He became Prime Minister after Nehru but did not serve as the initial acting Prime Minister immediately upon Nehru's death. T. T. Krishnamachari: A prominent minister, but he never served as Prime Minister or acting Prime Minister. Indira Gandhi: She became Prime Minister after the death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, not immediately after Nehru's death. Common Pitfalls: Because Lal Bahadur Shastri is widely known as Nehru's successor, many candidates jump straight to his name and overlook the brief interim period. It is important to distinguish between the acting Prime Minister, who holds the position temporarily, and the substantive Prime Minister chosen by the party. A helpful memory aid is that Gulzari Lal Nanda is the only person to have been acting Prime Minister of India twice, making his name a frequent feature in exam questions. Final Answer: Immediately after Nehru's death, the acting Prime Minister of India was Gulzari Lal Nanda.

Question 10

As per the current allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha, how many parliamentary constituencies belong to the State of Rajasthan?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Lok Sabha is the lower house of India's Parliament, and its members are elected from different States and Union Territories in proportion to their population, subject to certain constitutional limits. This question asks you to remember how many Lok Sabha seats are allocated to the State of Rajasthan. Such questions test your factual knowledge of India's political geography and parliamentary structure, which is often useful in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The question concerns the number of Lok Sabha seats for Rajasthan. The options are 25, 17, 48, and 2. We assume the current seat distribution that has been frozen based on earlier census data until a future reallocation. We focus only on Lok Sabha seats, not Rajya Sabha seats. Concept / Approach: India's Lok Sabha has a fixed maximum strength, and each State is allotted a certain number of seats. Rajasthan, a large State in terms of area and with a significant population, has 25 Lok Sabha constituencies. This number has been used in several general elections and is widely cited in electoral statistics. Knowing the approximate distribution of seats among large States like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Rajasthan helps in remembering such data points. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Rajasthan is one of the larger States in north-western India.Step 2: Remember that Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of Lok Sabha seats (80), followed by other large States with various allocations.Step 3: In this allocation, Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats.Step 4: Compare this figure with the options: 25, 17, 48, and 2.Step 5: Select 25 as the correct number of Lok Sabha constituencies for Rajasthan. Verification / Alternative check: Electoral maps and Election Commission data consistently list 25 parliamentary constituencies in Rajasthan. For example, the State is divided into seats such as Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Kota, and others, collectively numbering 25. None of the other numbers given in the options match standard references for Rajasthan. This repeated mention across official and exam-oriented sources confirms that 25 is the correct allocation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 17: This number does not correspond to Rajasthan; it matches the allocation for a smaller State, not for Rajasthan. 48: This is too high for Rajasthan and is associated with other States in different contexts, such as a large western State. 2: This is far too small a number for a large State like Rajasthan. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates mix up allocations between different States or confuse Lok Sabha seats with Rajya Sabha seats. Others rely on vague impressions of State size rather than memorising exact numbers. A useful exam strategy is to remember the seat counts for a few key States and build comparative memory around them, with Rajasthan clearly associated with the figure 25. Final Answer: Rajasthan has 25 Lok Sabha seats.

Question 11

In constitutional terminology, what is a formal change or addition made to the Constitution of a country called?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Constitutions are designed to be stable, yet flexible enough to adapt to changing circumstances. When a country needs to modify its Constitution, it follows a special, often more rigorous, procedure. The technical term for such a formal change is important for students of polity and law. This question checks whether you know the correct term used when the text of the Constitution is formally changed or added to. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about a formal change or addition to the Constitution itself. The options provided are a Bill, an Act, an Amendment, and an Interpret. We assume awareness that the Constitution is a higher law requiring a special process for change. We focus on the terminology, not the procedural details. Concept / Approach: A Bill is a proposed law introduced in the legislature. An Act is a Bill that has been passed by the legislature and received the necessary assent, thereby becoming law. When such a law is specifically intended to change the text of the Constitution, it is called a Constitutional Amendment. In common usage, the formal change itself is referred to as an amendment. Therefore, when the Constitution is altered or new provisions are inserted, those changes are called amendments to the Constitution. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the question asks about the name of the change, not the instrument used to propose it.Step 2: Recall that Bills are proposals; once they are passed and assented to, they become Acts.Step 3: Understand that a Constitutional Amendment Bill, once passed and assented to, results in an amendment to the Constitution.Step 4: Among the options, the term that correctly describes the formal change itself is 'Amendment'.Step 5: Select 'An Amendment' as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Look at how famous changes to the Constitution are referred to, such as the Forty-Second Amendment or the Forty-Fourth Amendment in the Indian context. They are not called the Forty-Second Bill or Forty-Second Act in common parlance; rather, they are recognised as amendments. Similarly, in other countries like the United States, changes are known as constitutional amendments, such as the First Amendment or the Fourteenth Amendment. This widespread terminology confirms that the correct word is amendment. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A Bill: This is only a proposal; it becomes law only after passage and assent. It is not the name of the final constitutional change. An Act: Although an Act is a law, including laws that amend the Constitution, the specific change to the Constitution is termed an amendment. An Interpret: This is not standard constitutional terminology. Interpretation of the Constitution is done by courts, but interpretations are not the same as formal textual changes. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes confuse the process (Constitutional Amendment Bill, Constitutional Amendment Act) with the result (amendment). To avoid this, remember that the Constitution is said to be amended by a constitutional amendment, which is brought about through a Constitutional Amendment Act. The key word that directly answers the question, however, is amendment. Final Answer: A formal change made to the Constitution is called an Amendment.

Question 12

Subhash Chandra Garg, an Indian Administrative Service officer, was appointed as Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Union Finance Ministry; in this context, who was named as the new economic affairs secretary in the Union Governm…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The post of Economic Affairs Secretary in the Union Finance Ministry is a key position in India's economic administration, responsible for areas such as budget preparation, macroeconomic policy, and coordination with international financial institutions. This question asks you to identify the individual who was appointed as the new economic affairs secretary, a fact that was widely reported at the time and often appears in current affairs based general knowledge questions. Given Data / Assumptions: The question mentions the appointment of a new economic affairs secretary in the Union Finance Ministry. The options are N. K. Sinha, Tapan Ray, Subhash C. Garg, and Kirti Singh. We assume the context of the appointment of Subhash Chandra Garg as Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs. The focus is on identifying the correct name among the options. Concept / Approach: Subhash Chandra Garg is a senior Indian Administrative Service officer who has held several important positions in the Government of India and in international institutions. In 2017, he was appointed as the Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, in the Union Finance Ministry, succeeding a previous office holder. When this kind of appointment is asked about in an exam, the expected answer is usually the name of the newly appointed official, which in this case is Subhash C. Garg. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the media reports and government press releases announcing the appointment of Subhash Chandra Garg as Economic Affairs Secretary.Step 2: Recognise that this question is directly referencing that event by talking about the new economic affairs secretary in the Union Finance Ministry.Step 3: Compare the names in the options: N. K. Sinha, Tapan Ray, Subhash C. Garg, and Kirti Singh.Step 4: Identify Subhash C. Garg as the IAS officer associated with the Economic Affairs Secretary post in that period.Step 5: Select 'Subhash C. Garg' as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Press releases from the Government of India and reliable news sources reported that Subhash Chandra Garg assumed office as Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, in July 2017. Other names in the options either correspond to different offices or are not associated with this particular appointment. Cross-checking in current affairs compilations or official notifications confirms that Subhash C. Garg is the correct person referenced in this question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: N. K. Sinha: An official associated with other roles, not with the specific appointment as Economic Affairs Secretary in this context. Tapan Ray: A senior bureaucrat, but not the one referred to in the question as the new economic affairs secretary at that time. Kirti Singh: This name does not correspond to the well-known appointment for the Economic Affairs Secretary post in the Union Finance Ministry. Common Pitfalls: The key challenge in such questions is remembering names correctly and not confusing them with other bureaucrats or ministers. Candidates often mix up individuals who serve in related economic or financial positions. To avoid this, it helps to connect specific names with specific offices and significant events, such as major budget announcements or policy changes, thereby reinforcing memory through context. Final Answer: The official who was appointed as the new economic affairs secretary in the Union Finance Ministry was Subhash C. Garg.

Question 13

In the Constitution of India, the granting of fundamental rights to citizens primarily aims at ensuring which core aspect of individual liberty and democratic governance?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Fundamental rights are a central feature of the Constitution of India. They are placed in Part III of the Constitution and are enforceable through constitutional remedies. These rights are meant to protect citizens from arbitrary state action and to secure a minimum sphere of freedom in which individuals can live with dignity. The core objective behind granting fundamental rights is not merely to list attractive promises on paper, but to ensure real individual liberty in day to day life. Examinations often test whether learners understand that the primary aim of fundamental rights is to safeguard individual freedom, not to directly implement socialism or other policy goals. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to the Constitution of India and its fundamental rights in Part III. - Fundamental rights are justiciable and enforceable in a court of law. - The options mention different possible aims such as socialism, judiciary, individual liberty and Directive Principles of State Policy. - We assume normal contemporary understanding of Indian constitutional law as developed through case law and textbooks. Concept / Approach: The correct approach is to recall the basic philosophy behind Part III. Fundamental rights are designed to maintain a balance between state authority and individual freedom. They protect civil liberties such as equality, freedom of speech, freedom of movement and freedom of religion. While they indirectly support democratic institutions and welfare policies, their direct and primary focus is on individual liberty and the protection of human dignity from state interference. Therefore we must select the option that most clearly reflects this core purpose. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the question carefully and note that it asks for the primary aim of granting fundamental rights.Step 2: Recall that Part III of the Constitution lists rights such as equality, freedom, protection against exploitation, freedom of religion and cultural and educational rights.Step 3: Understand that these rights safeguard the individual against arbitrary state action and guarantee personal freedom and dignity.Step 4: Evaluate each option in light of this core purpose and eliminate those which focus on other objectives like socialism or administrative structure.Step 5: Conclude that protection and promotion of individual liberty and dignity most accurately captures the aim. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to check the answer is to recall important Supreme Court judgments. Courts repeatedly describe fundamental rights as the soul of the Constitution and as guarantees of individual liberty. They are also described as limitations on state power. These descriptions confirm that the primary purpose of fundamental rights is to secure liberty and dignity for individuals, not to directly enforce policy goals like socialism or Directive Principles. This cross check supports our selected option. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Establishment of a fully socialistic government in India is related more to Directive Principles and economic policies rather than the immediate purpose of Part III, so option A is not correct. Effective functioning of an independent judiciary is a structural feature, ensured through separate provisions and not the core aim of granting rights, so option B is not correct. Implementation of Directive Principles of State Policy is guided mainly by Part IV, and while rights and principles are complementary, the specific purpose of Part III is not to implement Directive Principles, so option D is incorrect. Creation of a powerful unitary executive is contrary to the idea of limiting state power, hence option E is clearly wrong. Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse the broad goals of the Constitution, such as establishing a socialistic pattern of society or securing justice and equality, with the narrower legal purpose of fundamental rights. Another common mistake is to think that because courts enforce rights, the aim of rights is to create an independent judiciary, which is actually achieved by other constitutional provisions. Some students also mix up Directive Principles and fundamental rights, forgetting that rights are primarily defensive shields for individuals, while principles are guiding directions to the state. Final Answer: Protection and promotion of individual liberty and dignity is the primary aim of granting fundamental rights to citizens in the Constitution of India.

Question 14

Which one of the following Constitutional Amendment Acts first introduced the anti defection provisions into the Constitution of India to curb political defections?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In parliamentary democracies, frequent defections of elected representatives from one political party to another can destabilise governments and weaken public faith in the electoral process. In India, this problem became serious in the decades after independence and earned the nickname Aya Ram Gaya Ram politics. To address this, anti defection provisions were inserted into the Constitution. The question tests whether you remember which specific Constitutional Amendment Act first introduced these anti defection provisions into the Constitution of India. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question clearly refers to anti defection provisions in the Constitution of India. - It asks which Constitutional Amendment Act introduced these provisions for the first time. - The options list different numbered Amendment Acts with their likely years. - We assume the standard understanding that the anti defection law is contained in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. Concept / Approach: The anti defection law was introduced by adding the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution. This schedule lays down when a member is considered to have defected and what consequences follow. It also deals with disqualification on grounds of defection. The Tenth Schedule was inserted by a specific amendment, and remembering that number is a frequent examination point. The correct approach is to recall that this was the Fifty second Amendment Act of 1985, which came into force in the mid nineteen eighties to combat large scale floor crossing in legislatures. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the anti defection provisions are contained in the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India.Step 2: Remember that the Tenth Schedule was inserted by a Constitutional Amendment Act passed in 1985.Step 3: Note that among the options, the only amendment matching this is the Fifty second Amendment Act, 1985.Step 4: Confirm that other amendments listed are related to different subjects, such as service conditions, salaries or other constitutional adjustments.Step 5: Select Fifty second Amendment Act, 1985 as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can cross check with standard polity textbooks that discuss the Tenth Schedule. They usually state that the Tenth Schedule, containing the anti defection law, was added by the Fifty second Amendment Act, 1985. Many exam questions directly state this connection, reinforcing the memory cue that ten plus five plus two equals the Tenth Schedule and Fifty second Amendment, although this is only a mnemonic. This independent confirmation supports our choice of option B. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The Fifty first Amendment Act, 1984 dealt with reservation of seats for Scheduled Tribes in Meghalaya, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, not with defection. The Fifty third and Fifty fourth Amendment Acts relate to statehood issues and salary matters of constitutional authorities, and do not introduce the Tenth Schedule. The Forty fourth Amendment Act, 1978 focused mainly on restoring democratic safeguards after the Emergency, modifying emergency provisions and fundamental rights, but it did not bring in the anti defection law. Therefore all these options are factually incorrect for this question. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse the Forty fourth and Fifty second Amendments because both are important in political history. Another mistake is to associate any amendment from the nineteen seventies and eighties with anti defection simply because that was the period of coalition politics. Some also mix up the Tenth Schedule with other schedules such as the Seventh Schedule on Union, State and Concurrent Lists. Careful reading and targeted revision of major amendments can prevent this confusion. Final Answer: Fifty second Amendment Act, 1985 is the Constitutional Amendment that first introduced the anti defection provisions into the Constitution of India.

Question 15

Although the Union List, State List and Concurrent List together cover almost the entire field of legislation, which authority has the power to make laws on a subject not mentioned in any of these lists under the Constitution of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India distributes legislative powers between the Union and the States through the Union List, State List and Concurrent List in the Seventh Schedule. However, it is practically impossible to foresee every new subject or activity that may arise in the future. For this reason, the Constitution also provides for residuary powers, that is, authority to legislate on matters not mentioned in any of the three lists. This question examines your understanding of which body in India holds this residuary legislative power. Given Data / Assumptions: - India follows a federal system with a clear division of legislative subjects. - Union List, State List and Concurrent List specify most topics of legislation. - The question focuses on subjects not mentioned anywhere in these lists, called residuary subjects. - The options mention Parliament, State Legislatures, both, neither and the Supreme Court as possible holders of this residuary power. Concept / Approach: Article 248 of the Constitution of India and Entry 97 of the Union List are crucial. They clearly state that Parliament has exclusive power to make laws with respect to any matter not enumerated in the Concurrent List or State List. These are called residuary subjects. Unlike some other federations where residuary powers lie with the states, in India they were consciously given to the Union to maintain unity and respond quickly to new national level issues such as information technology, cyber laws and space research. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 248 and Entry 97 of the Union List deal with residuary powers of legislation.Step 2: Note that these provisions confer exclusive power on Parliament to make laws on any subject not mentioned in the State List or Concurrent List.Step 3: Understand that State Legislatures can only legislate on State List subjects and Concurrent List subjects shared with Parliament.Step 4: Recognise that courts, including the Supreme Court, interpret the Constitution but do not hold general legislative power over new subjects.Step 5: Conclude that Parliament of India alone holds the residuary legislative power, making option A correct. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to verify is to recall examples of new topics which were not originally foreseen, such as cyber crime, aspects of telecommunications or biotechnology. Parliament has enacted national laws on these subjects because they fall under residuary powers. Standard polity resources also state that unlike federations like the United States, where residuary powers usually rest with the states, in India they deliberately lie with the Union Parliament. This comparative perspective confirms the choice of option A. Why Other Options Are Wrong: State Legislatures do not have residuary powers and cannot legislate on subjects absent from the lists, so option B is incorrect. Option C is wrong because there is no joint residuary power for both Parliament and State Legislatures. Option D is incorrect since the Constitution clearly assigns residuary powers to Parliament rather than leaving a vacuum. Option E is wrong because the Supreme Court interprets laws and reviews their constitutional validity but does not legislate on unspecified subjects in a general sense. Common Pitfalls: Many learners wrongly assume that residuary powers must belong to the states because India is described as a federal country. Others confuse judicial review, which is a power of the Supreme Court, with legislative power. Another frequent mistake is forgetting the specific language of Article 248 and Entry 97, leading to wrong guesses in multi option questions. Careful revision of how legislative powers are distributed can help avoid these errors. Final Answer: Parliament of India only enjoys the residuary power to legislate on subjects not mentioned in any of the three lists under the Constitution of India.

Question 16

Which of the following is not generally regarded as a political right in the context of the rights guaranteed to citizens in India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rights enjoyed by citizens are often grouped into different categories such as civil rights, political rights and socio economic rights. Political rights are those which enable citizens to participate directly or indirectly in the political process and in the running of the state. This question tests your ability to distinguish between political rights and general civil or human rights by asking which option is not normally classified as a political right in India. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question focuses on the distinction between political rights and other categories of rights. - Options mention voting, life and personal security, contesting elections, petitioning the government and forming political parties. - We assume commonly accepted definitions in political science and constitutional law. - Political rights are linked to participation in the governance process rather than merely ensuring physical security. Concept / Approach: Political rights typically include the right to vote, the right to stand for election, the right to hold public office, the right to form political parties and the right to participate in public affairs. Civil rights, on the other hand, include rights such as right to life, right to equality before law and protection from arbitrary arrest. While all fundamental rights are important, only some of them are specifically categorised as political rights. Therefore, the correct approach is to pick the right which is primarily about basic human existence rather than political participation. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify which options relate directly to participation in politics and government.Step 2: Notice that the right to vote, the right to contest elections, the right to petition the government and the right to form political parties are all closely tied to the democratic process.Step 3: Observe that the right to life and personal security is a fundamental civil and human right, protecting the physical existence and safety of the individual.Step 4: Understand that this right is basic to all human beings irrespective of political activity and is not confined to the political sphere.Step 5: Conclude that the right to life and personal security is not primarily a political right, making option B the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to verify is to consult standard political science texts. They usually list political rights as voting, contesting elections, participating in public affairs, petitioning government and membership in political organisations. The right to life is placed under civil or personal rights. Reading Article 21 of the Constitution of India, which deals with protection of life and personal liberty, also confirms that it is framed as a general protection for individuals, not as a specific political participation right. This reinforces our selection of option B. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The right to vote in elections is the classic example of a political right because it allows citizens to choose representatives, so option A is clearly a political right. The right to contest elections and hold public office is also a direct political right enabling individuals to be part of government, so option C is wrong for this question. The right to petition the government is a recognised means of influencing public policy and is closely related to democratic participation, making option D a political right. The right to form and join political parties allows citizens to organise for political action and is therefore a key political right, so option E is also not the answer. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes assume that any fundamental right listed in the Constitution is automatically a political right, which is not correct. Another pitfall is to treat the right to life as political just because it is fundamental and widely discussed. In exams, questions often test this classification, so it is important to separate rights concerned with survival and personal security from those specifically designed to facilitate participation in government. Final Answer: Right to life and personal security is not generally regarded as a political right, but rather as a basic civil and human right in the Indian context.

Question 17

Point out which of the following is not explicitly enumerated as a Fundamental Right in the Constitution of India but has been articulated by the Supreme Court to be treated as a Fundamental Right through its interpretations.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India lists Fundamental Rights in clear Articles, but the Supreme Court has often expanded their scope through creative interpretation. Over time, the Court has read several new dimensions into existing rights, especially into Article 21 dealing with life and personal liberty. This question asks you to identify which right is not explicitly mentioned in the constitutional text but has been recognised by the Supreme Court as part of the bundle of Fundamental Rights, especially by linking it to the idea of a dignified life. Given Data / Assumptions: - Options include several clearly enumerated rights such as right to life, equality of opportunity in public employment, protection of personal liberty and freedom of speech. - One option refers to a right to permanent housing or shelter as part of a dignified life. - The question specifically contrasts explicit enumeration in the Constitution with later judicial articulation. - We assume awareness of landmark judgments where the Supreme Court expanded Article 21 to include various derivative rights. Concept / Approach: Fundamental Rights in Part III are explicitly worded, for example Article 14 on equality before law, Article 19 on freedoms and Article 21 on protection of life and personal liberty. However, the Supreme Court has interpreted the phrase life in Article 21 to mean a life with dignity, not mere animal existence. Through this approach, it has recognised rights such as right to shelter, right to livelihood and right to a clean environment as being implicit in Article 21. These derivative rights are not separately enumerated in the constitutional text, but they are treated as Fundamental Rights because they are essential for a dignified life. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify which of the listed rights are explicitly written in the Constitution of India.Step 2: Right to life, equality of opportunity in public employment, protection of personal liberty and freedom of speech and expression are all specifically mentioned in Articles 21, 16, 22 and 19 respectively.Step 3: Note that the Constitution does not contain a separate Article that uses the phrase right to permanent housing or shelter.Step 4: Recall that Supreme Court judgments have interpreted Article 21 to include a broader right to shelter as part of living with dignity.Step 5: Conclude that the right to permanent housing or shelter is the right that is not explicitly enumerated but has been judicially articulated as fundamental. Verification / Alternative check: As a check, you can recall landmark cases where the Supreme Court discussed the right to shelter, employment and other socio economic entitlements as part of Article 21. Standard commentaries explain that these rights are not directly written into the Constitution but are implied. In contrast, the other options are clearly titled and numbered fundamental rights found within Part III. This difference confirms that option D is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The right to life under Article 21 is explicitly written and is one of the most important Fundamental Rights, so option A is not the answer. Equality of opportunity in public employment is clearly stated in Article 16 and is therefore also explicitly enumerated, making option B incorrect. Protection of personal liberty against arbitrary arrest and detention flows from Articles 21 and 22, both of which are clearly drafted, so option C is not correct. Freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed by Article 19 and is again an enumerated right, so option E is wrong for this question. Common Pitfalls: Many students know that the Supreme Court has expanded Article 21, but they sometimes forget which of the specific derivative rights are textually enumerated and which are not. Another confusion arises because textbooks frequently discuss rights such as right to shelter and right to livelihood alongside enumerated rights, giving the impression that they are expressly written in the Constitution. Careful reading of actual Article numbers and wording is necessary to avoid this mistake. Final Answer: Right to permanent housing or shelter as part of a dignified life is not explicitly enumerated as a Fundamental Right in the Constitution but has been articulated by the Supreme Court as part of the guarantee of life and personal liberty under Article 21.

Question 18

An Expenditure Reforms Commission was set up by the Government of India in the year 2000 under the chairmanship of which of the following persons to review and rationalise public expenditure?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Public expenditure management is a key aspect of economic governance. To control rising non developmental expenditure and improve efficiency, governments sometimes set up expert commissions. In the year 2000, the Government of India constituted an Expenditure Reforms Commission with a specific mandate to examine patterns of expenditure and suggest reforms. This question tests whether you know who chaired that particular commission, which is an often asked fact in Indian polity and economy examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to an Expenditure Reforms Commission set up in 2000 by the Government of India. - It asks for the name of the chairperson of this commission. - Options include several well known public figures such as A M Khusro, G T Nanavati, M N Venkatachaliah, K P Geethakrishnan and Y V Reddy. - We assume familiarity with major commissions related to finance and governance in India. Concept / Approach: To answer this, you must recall the specific association between the Expenditure Reforms Commission and its chairperson. This commission was primarily concerned with suggesting measures to contain non developmental expenditure, rationalise government staffing and improve fiscal discipline. The Ministry of Finance set it up and appointed an experienced civil servant, K P Geethakrishnan, as its chairperson. Other names in the options are associated with different bodies such as judicial commissions, finance related roles or expert committees, but not with this particular commission. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the question carefully and focus on the year 2000 and the name Expenditure Reforms Commission.Step 2: Recall that this commission was linked to the Ministry of Finance and dealt with reducing non productive government expenditure.Step 3: Remember that K P Geethakrishnan, a senior civil servant, was appointed as the chairperson of this commission.Step 4: Compare this memory with the options and identify option D, K P Geethakrishnan, as matching the known fact.Step 5: Eliminate the other options, which relate to different commissions or offices, thereby confirming option D as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: As a verification method, you can cross check standard economics and polity reference books which discuss fiscal reforms in the early two thousand period. They typically mention that the Government of India constituted the Expenditure Reforms Commission under the chairmanship of K P Geethakrishnan. This is also supported by official releases of the Ministry of Finance at that time, which confirms the association firmly. Such cross checks solidify the memory and reduce the chance of confusion with other notable personalities. Why Other Options Are Wrong: A M Khusro was an economist connected with other financial and planning related roles, but he did not chair the Expenditure Reforms Commission of 2000. G T Nanavati is better known in connection with judicial commissions, such as inquiries into communal disturbances, and therefore option B is incorrect. M N Venkatachaliah, a former Chief Justice of India, headed other commissions such as the National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution, not this one, so option C is wrong. Y V Reddy served as Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and held various economic posts but was not the chairperson of this particular commission, making option E incorrect. Common Pitfalls: The main pitfall lies in confusing different commissions and committees because many of them are contemporaneous and deal with economic or constitutional matters. Another common mistake is to assume that very famous names like former Chief Justices or RBI Governors headed all major commissions, while sometimes a senior but less publicly known civil servant leads a specialised body. Careful revision of commission names along with their chairs can help in avoiding such errors in objective examinations. Final Answer: K P Geethakrishnan was the chairperson of the Expenditure Reforms Commission set up by the Government of India in the year 2000.

Question 19

Which country has signed an agreement with India for the transfer of sentenced prisoners, allowing convicted persons to serve the remainder of their sentence in their home country?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern international law encourages humanitarian treatment of prisoners, including allowing them to serve their sentences closer to their families and social environment whenever possible. To achieve this, many countries sign bilateral agreements on the transfer of sentenced persons. India too has entered into such agreements with several countries so that convicted persons can be transferred to their home country to serve the remaining part of their sentence. This question asks you to identify one specific country that has signed an agreement with India for the transfer of sentenced prisoners. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to an agreement on transfer of sentenced prisoners between India and another country. - Options provided are Japan, Ghana, Somalia, Italy and Brazil. - We assume general awareness that India has signed such agreements with multiple countries, but this question wants one correct match from the given list. - The focus is on remembering a factual treaty relationship rather than on the content of the treaty itself. Concept / Approach: Transfer of sentenced persons is a humanitarian arrangement. It does not change the conviction but allows prisoners to be closer to their families and home culture. India has signed such agreements with many countries, one of which is Italy. The relevant agreement provides a legal mechanism for Indian prisoners in Italy and Italian prisoners in India to be transferred, once conditions laid down in the treaty are met. Examination questions often test knowledge of at least one such country, and Italy frequently appears as the correct answer in earlier objective tests. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Carefully read the question and note the exact phrase transfer of sentenced prisoners.Step 2: Recall that India has bilateral treaties on transfer of sentenced persons with several countries, among them Italy.Step 3: Look at the options and identify Italy as one of the listed choices.Step 4: Recognise that the other options such as Japan, Ghana, Somalia and Brazil either were not commonly highlighted in earlier exam oriented materials in this context or were associated with different agreements.Step 5: Select Italy as the correct answer, matching known information about India's prisoner transfer treaties. Verification / Alternative check: If you consult standard general knowledge compilations or exam oriented guides dealing with international treaties signed by India, you will usually find Italy listed in connection with the agreement on transfer of sentenced persons. Some question banks repeat this fact as a direct multiple choice question, confirming the association between India and Italy for prisoner transfer. This external confirmation reinforces the selection of option D as correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: While India may have various diplomatic and legal agreements with Japan, Ghana, Somalia and Brazil, they are not the ones that are typically highlighted in earlier exam questions on transfer of sentenced prisoners. The specific treaty that is being tested here is with Italy, not with the other countries listed. Therefore options A, B, C and E do not match the required pair for this general knowledge question and are treated as incorrect in this context. Common Pitfalls: Students can be confused because India has prisoner transfer agreements with more than one country and has also joined certain multilateral conventions. Another source of error is guessing based on geography or economic ties rather than recalling the specific fact. Some learners also overthink the question, assuming that a less obvious option must be correct, when in fact Italy is a well known answer from earlier exam patterns. Relying on factual recall rather than random guessing is the safest strategy here. Final Answer: Italy is the country that has signed an agreement with India for the transfer of sentenced prisoners so that convicts can serve the remainder of their sentence in their home country.

Question 20

Under the Constitution of India, what is the maximum age limit prescribed for a person to be elected as the President of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The office of the President of India is the highest constitutional office in the country. The Constitution lays down certain eligibility conditions that a person must meet to be elected as President, including citizenship, age and qualification to be a member of the Lok Sabha. Many students casually remember the minimum age requirement but are unsure whether there is any upper or maximum age limit. This question directly checks your clarity on whether the Constitution fixes such a maximum age for the President. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question refers to age requirements for the President of India. - Options suggest specific ages such as 30, 35 and 45 years, as well as an option stating that no maximum age limit is prescribed and another of 65 years. - We assume familiarity with basic provisions in Articles related to the President, especially eligibility conditions. - Knowledge of minimum age (35 years) is common, and we must distinguish it from any maximum age limit. Concept / Approach: Article 58 of the Constitution of India lays down the qualifications for election as President. It states that the person must be a citizen of India, must have completed thirty five years of age and must be qualified for election as a member of the Lok Sabha. It does not mention any upper age limit. Therefore, once a person is at least thirty five years old, there is no constitutional bar based on age from contesting the Presidential election, as long as other conditions are satisfied. This absence of a maximum age limit is the key to answering the question correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the text of Article 58 which mentions the age condition for being President.Step 2: Note that the Article states a minimum age of thirty five years but remains silent on any maximum age.Step 3: Understand that in constitutional interpretation, if no maximum age is prescribed, one should not assume it.Step 4: Look at the options and recognise that specific ages like 30, 35, 45 or 65 are not described as maximum limits in the Constitution.Step 5: Select the option that correctly states that no maximum age limit is prescribed for being elected President. Verification / Alternative check: As an alternative check, think of past Presidents of India who have been elected at advanced ages, well beyond sixty five. This practical example supports the idea that there is no upper age bar. Furthermore, standard polity textbooks always describe only the minimum age of thirty five years for the President, unlike some other offices where both minimum and maximum ages are specified by statute. These two sources together verify that the Constitution does not impose a maximum age limit. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, thirty years, is incorrect because even the minimum age is thirty five, not thirty. Option B, thirty five years, correctly reflects the minimum age requirement but the question clearly asks about the maximum age limit, so this is not the right answer. Option C, forty five years, and option E, sixty five years, are simply not mentioned anywhere in the Constitution as age limits for the President. They may resemble retirement ages in other contexts but they do not apply here, so they are incorrect choices. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to confuse the minimum age for the President with a supposed maximum age, assuming that there is a formal retirement age similar to that of judges or civil servants. Some students also overgeneralise from rules for other posts such as governors or members of certain commissions. Remember that constitutional posts can have very specific and sometimes unique eligibility rules, and one should always rely on exact wording rather than guesswork. Final Answer: No maximum age limit is prescribed for a person to be elected as the President of India under the Constitution; only a minimum age of thirty five years is required.

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