Question 1

In the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India, "relief of the disabled and unemployable" is included in which list?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India distributes legislative subjects between the Union and the States through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Social welfare topics, such as relief of the disabled and unemployable, have to be assigned to one of these lists. Understanding where such subjects are placed helps in knowing which level of government has primary responsibility for laws and schemes related to vulnerable groups. This question specifically asks about the list in which relief of the disabled and unemployable is included. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is relief of the disabled and unemployable. We must determine in which list of the Seventh Schedule this subject appears. Options include Union, State, Global, Concurrent, and Residuary list. We assume the standard constitutional scheme of division of powers. Concept / Approach: The State List contains subjects related to public order, public health, and local welfare, as these are best handled by state governments who are closer to local needs. Relief of the disabled and unemployable is typically a welfare function that involves local level implementation and variation according to regional requirements. Therefore, it is listed in the State List. The Union List is reserved for national importance issues like defence and foreign affairs, while the Concurrent List involves shared subjects like criminal law or marriage. Thus, logic and constitutional design both point to the State List as the correct answer. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the nature of the subject: relief of the disabled and unemployable is a welfare and social security oriented topic. Step 2: Recall that many welfare functions related to public health, hospitals, and social assistance are placed in the State List. Step 3: Understand that state governments are better placed to design and implement schemes tailored to local needs for disabled and unemployed persons. Step 4: Note that the Union List usually covers broader national matters such as defence, foreign affairs, railways, and currency. Step 5: Recognise that the Concurrent List is used mainly for shared domains like criminal law, education, and forests, not specific welfare categories like this one. Step 6: Eliminate the Global option, which is not a constitutional category at all, and the vague idea of a residuary list when the subject is explicitly listed. Step 7: Conclude that relief of the disabled and unemployable appears in the State List. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification method is to recall that entries related to public health, sanitation, hospitals, and social assistance for the disabled and unemployed are often grouped in the State List to allow tailored policy. Certain broader aspects of labour and social security may also appear in the Concurrent List, but specific relief measures for disabled and unemployable persons are clearly situated in the State List. This pattern of welfare subjects being largely under state jurisdiction confirms your choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The Union List focuses on subjects of national and international significance and does not include this highly localised welfare subject. Global is not a category recognised in the Constitution and is only a distractor. The Concurrent List is used for subjects that require uniformity and joint responsibility, such as criminal law and marriage, whereas relief of the disabled and unemployable is not a typical concurrent area. The residuary list is not a separate schedule but refers to unspecified subjects; however, in this case the subject is specifically enumerated, so it cannot be residuary. Common Pitfalls: A common error is to assume that anything related to welfare or disability might be in the Concurrent List, because social security sometimes involves both Union and State governments. However, the Constitution carefully distinguishes between broad labour and social security matters and specific welfare functions like relief of the disabled and unemployable. Reading the entries of the State List in a good polity text helps prevent such confusion. Another pitfall is to be misled by the term residuary without checking whether the subject is actually named in any list. Final Answer: The subject relief of the disabled and unemployable is included in the State List of the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India.

Question 2

Which authority has the power to amend the Constitution of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India is a living document that can be amended to respond to changing needs and circumstances. However, this power to amend is given to a specific authority and is subject to particular procedures laid down in the Constitution. For Indian polity examinations, it is fundamental to know who can initiate and pass constitutional amendments. This question asks you to identify the authority empowered to amend the Constitution of India. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is the power to amend the Constitution of India. Options include the Ministry of Defence, Prime Minister's Office, Parliament, SEBI, and the Supreme Court. We assume the standard interpretation of Article 368 of the Constitution. Concept / Approach: Article 368 of the Constitution of India clearly provides that Parliament may in exercise of its constituent power amend by way of addition, variation, or repeal any provision of the Constitution in accordance with the procedure laid down. This means that the power to amend is vested in Parliament, which acts in its constituent capacity, not as an ordinary legislature. The executive organs such as ministries, the Prime Minister's Office, regulatory bodies like SEBI, or the judiciary do not have the power to enact constitutional amendments, though the Supreme Court can review them for conformity with the basic structure doctrine. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 368 details the procedure for amending the Constitution of India. Step 2: Note that the text of Article 368 mentions Parliament as the body that may amend the Constitution, acting in its constituent power. Step 3: Understand that ministries such as the Ministry of Defence are part of the executive branch and implement laws, not amend the Constitution. Step 4: Recognise that the Prime Minister's Office supports the Prime Minister and coordinates executive functions, but does not have independent legislative or constituent power. Step 5: Securities and Exchange Board of India is a regulatory authority for securities markets and has no constitutional amendment role. Step 6: The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and can strike down unconstitutional amendments but cannot itself amend the text. Step 7: Therefore, Parliament is the only correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, remember that constitutional amendments are passed as Constitutional Amendment Bills in both Houses of Parliament and must be approved by a special majority, and in some cases also ratified by at least half of the state legislatures. This clearly shows that the amending authority is Parliament, not the executive, the judiciary, or any regulatory body. Court judgments like those in Kesavananda Bharati clarify that while Parliament can amend, it cannot alter the basic structure, but this judicial check does not transfer the amendment power to the judiciary; it only limits Parliament's exercise of that power. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The Ministry of Defence is part of the Union executive and implements defence policy; it does not pass constitutional amendments. The Prime Minister's Office supports the Prime Minister in his or her executive role and has no independent legislative authority. The Securities and Exchange Board of India is a statutory regulatory body concerned with securities markets. The Supreme Court of India interprets the Constitution and can review amendments, but cannot rewrite or formally amend the text. None of these institutions are granted the power to amend the Constitution under Article 368. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may mistakenly think that the Supreme Court amends the Constitution because of its role in reading new rights into existing provisions or striking down parts of amendments that violate the basic structure. However, this is interpretation and judicial review, not formal amendment. Others might confuse the strong political role of the Prime Minister with constitutional amendment power. To avoid such confusion, always connect amendment power with Article 368 and remember that it belongs to Parliament acting with a special majority and, where necessary, ratification by state legislatures. Final Answer: The authority that has the power to amend the Constitution of India is the Parliament, acting under Article 368.

Question 3

According to the Constitution of India, what is the maximum possible number of members in the Lok Sabha (House of the People)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Lok Sabha, or House of the People, is the lower house of the Parliament of India. While the current actual strength of the Lok Sabha is 543 elected members, the Constitution specifies a maximum possible strength, including elected members from states and union territories and nominated members if any. Exam questions often test whether you know this maximum constitutional limit, not just the present actual strength. This question asks for that maximum number as laid down in the Constitution. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is the maximum possible number of Lok Sabha members under the Constitution. Options include 512, 542, 552, 532, and 550. We assume the framework before subsequent amendments removed certain nominated seats but retained the original maximum structure in many textbooks. Concept / Approach: Article 81 of the Constitution originally provided that the Lok Sabha shall not have more than 552 members, with up to 530 representatives of the states, up to 20 from the union territories, and up to 2 nominated members from the Anglo Indian community. Although the 104th Constitutional Amendment removed the provision for nominating Anglo Indian members, traditional examination questions often refer to the classic maximum figure of 552 specified in the constitutional scheme. Therefore, you should know that 552 has been the standard maximum number associated with the Lok Sabha in constitutional discussions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 81 sets the maximum number of members in the Lok Sabha. Step 2: Break down this maximum as 530 from states and 20 from union territories, which totals 550 elected members. Step 3: Add up to 2 nominated members from the Anglo Indian community, which brings the maximum to 552. Step 4: Recognise that actual current strength is different, but the question is explicitly about the maximum possible number. Step 5: Compare this with the options and note that 552 is the only number that matches the constitutional breakdown. Step 6: Eliminate 512, 542, 532, and 550 as they do not reflect the correct combination of state, union territory, and nominated seats. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify by remembering the common mnemonic that Lok Sabha maximum is 552, which is often taught as 550 members chosen and 2 nominated. Although the English wording in current constitutional texts has been updated in relation to the nominated seats, competitive examinations still commonly ask about the traditional maximum figure of 552 derived from the original Article 81. Checking standard polity textbooks confirms that 552 is repeatedly cited as the constitutional maximum strength of the Lok Sabha. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The numbers 512, 542, 532, and 550 are either arbitrary or incomplete combinations of state and union territory seats. For example, 550 would correctly represent the sum of elected members from states and union territories, but it leaves out the nominated component that used to be part of the maximum scheme. Similarly, 542 and 532 do not match the constitutional breakdown described in Article 81. Therefore, none of these alternatives correctly captures the full maximum possible size of the Lok Sabha as originally provided. Common Pitfalls: A common confusion arises between the actual present strength of the Lok Sabha and the maximum number sanctioned by the Constitution. Many students recall that 543 members are currently elected but then mistakenly choose 542 or 550 as the maximum. Another pitfall is to forget the contribution of nominated members. To avoid this, always separate the concepts of actual current strength and constitutional maximum, and remember the classic formula 530 plus 20 plus 2 equals 552. Final Answer: According to the constitutional scheme, the maximum possible number of members in the Lok Sabha is 552.

Question 4

Which Article of the Constitution of India specifies the Fundamental Duties of every citizen?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Fundamental Duties of citizens were added to the Constitution of India by the Forty Second Constitutional Amendment Act. They outline a moral code of conduct expected from citizens towards the nation, the Constitution, and fellow citizens. These duties are listed in a specific Article of the Constitution, which is frequently asked in examinations. This question checks whether you remember the exact Article number associated with Fundamental Duties. Given Data / Assumptions: The topic is Fundamental Duties of citizens under the Constitution of India. We must identify the Article that enumerates these duties. Options include Article 80, Article 343, Article 51A, Article 356, and Article 32. We assume the standard numbering as per the Forty Second Amendment and subsequent changes. Concept / Approach: The Fundamental Duties are inserted in Part IV-A of the Constitution under Article 51A. This Article lists duties such as respecting the Constitution, the National Flag, and the National Anthem, protecting the environment, and promoting harmony. The other Articles mentioned in the options relate to different matters: Article 80 deals with the composition of the Rajya Sabha, Article 343 with the official language, Article 356 with President's Rule in states, and Article 32 with the right to constitutional remedies. Only Article 51A matches the description given in the question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Fundamental Duties were added to the Constitution by the Forty Second Amendment in a new Part IV-A. Step 2: Remember that this new Part consists of a single Article, which is Article 51A. Step 3: Recognise that Article 51A specifically enumerates the Fundamental Duties owed by citizens to the nation and society. Step 4: Compare this with Article 80, which relates to the composition of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha). Step 5: Note that Article 343 deals with the official language of the Union, which is Hindi in Devanagari script. Step 6: Article 356 concerns the imposition of President's Rule in a state when constitutional machinery breaks down, not duties of citizens. Step 7: Article 32 provides for the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights, not duties. Step 8: Conclude that the only correct Article for Fundamental Duties is Article 51A. Verification / Alternative check: An easy way to verify is to remember that Articles 36 to 51 belong to Part IV, which contains Directive Principles of State Policy, and that Part IV-A, inserted afterwards, begins with Article 51A. Many textbooks group these together and describe Article 51A as the sole Article in Part IV-A. Therefore, whenever the exam asks for the Article specifying Fundamental Duties, you can immediately recall Article 51A as the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Article 80 defines the composition of the Rajya Sabha, including the number of members to be elected and nominated. Article 343 declares Hindi in Devanagari script as the official language of the Union. Article 356 deals with the President's power to impose President's Rule in a state where the constitutional machinery has failed. Article 32 guarantees the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of fundamental rights and is often called the soul of the Constitution, but it is not about duties. None of these Articles list Fundamental Duties, so they are incorrect in this context. Common Pitfalls: Some learners confuse Directive Principles in Part IV with Fundamental Duties in Part IV-A because their numbers and themes sometimes overlap. Others confuse Article 51 with 51A. A useful memory aid is that Article 51 deals with promotion of international peace and security, while Article 51A, with the additional letter, contains the duties. Remembering the link between Part IV-A and Article 51A can help avoid such mistakes. Final Answer: The Fundamental Duties of citizens are specified in Article 51A of the Constitution of India.

Question 5

During a national emergency in India, which one of the following fundamental rights is not suspended and continues to remain enforceable?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India contains provisions for the proclamation of emergency under certain circumstances, such as war, external aggression, or armed rebellion. During a national emergency under Article 352, certain fundamental rights can be restricted or their enforcement suspended. However, after constitutional developments, especially the Forty Fourth Amendment, not all fundamental rights can be suspended. In particular, rights under specific Articles continue to remain enforceable. This question asks you to identify which fundamental right is not suspended during an emergency and remains protected. Given Data / Assumptions: The context is a national emergency declared under Article 352. The focus is on fundamental rights that can or cannot be suspended. Options include various rights such as freedom of association, freedom of speech and expression, personal liberty, freedom of assembly, and freedom of movement. We assume the current constitutional position after the Forty Fourth Amendment. Concept / Approach: Under Article 359, the President may declare that the right to move any court for enforcement of fundamental rights, except those under Articles 20 and 21, can be suspended during an emergency. The Forty Fourth Amendment made it clear that rights conferred by Articles 20 and 21, which include protection in respect of conviction for offences and the right to life and personal liberty, cannot be suspended even during an emergency. Therefore, personal liberty, which is part of Article 21, continues to remain enforceable. Other rights under Article 19, such as freedom of association, speech, assembly, and movement, can be restricted or their enforcement suspended during a national emergency. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 359 allows suspension of enforcement of certain fundamental rights during an emergency. Step 2: Remember that after the Forty Fourth Amendment, there is an explicit protection for rights under Articles 20 and 21, which cannot be suspended. Step 3: Identify that the right to personal liberty is derived from Article 21, which reads as protection of life and personal liberty. Step 4: Recognise that freedoms of association, speech, assembly, and movement fall under Article 19. Step 5: Understand that rights under Article 19 can be curtailed or their enforcement suspended during a national emergency. Step 6: Therefore, among the given options, personal liberty is the right that remains enforceable and is not suspended. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify this conclusion by recalling historical context, especially the experience of the Emergency in the 1970s. After that period, the Constitution was amended to ensure that basic protections related to life and personal liberty could not be taken away even during emergencies. This change is reflected in the language of Article 359, which excludes Articles 20 and 21 from the scope of suspension. Since personal liberty is part of Article 21, it continues to be protected. Rights like freedom of speech, association, assembly, and movement, being part of Article 19, do not enjoy this absolute protection during an emergency. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Freedom of association, freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly without arms, and freedom to move freely throughout India are all rights under Article 19. Article 19 rights can be restricted by reasonable limitations even in normal times and are particularly vulnerable to suspension of enforcement during a national emergency, especially one based on external aggression or armed rebellion. Therefore, none of these rights can be said to remain fully enforceable in the same way as the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 after the Forty Fourth Amendment. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that all fundamental rights are suspended during an emergency, which is not accurate under the present constitutional framework. Another confusion arises between the suspension of enforcement of rights and their complete repeal, which does not happen. Some learners also forget the special protection given to Articles 20 and 21 after the Forty Fourth Amendment. To avoid errors, focus on the key rule that the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 remains enforceable even during a national emergency. Final Answer: The fundamental right that is not suspended and continues to remain enforceable during a national emergency is personal liberty, protected under Article 21.

Question 6

The list of Fundamental Duties in the Constitution of India was inspired and largely adopted from the constitution of which country?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India drew inspiration from several foreign constitutions and legal traditions. Fundamental Duties, added by the Forty Second Constitutional Amendment Act, are one such feature that was influenced by another country's constitutional framework. Knowing the origin of these duties helps in understanding comparative constitutional law and is a frequent topic in polity based examinations. This question asks you to identify the country whose constitution served as the primary inspiration for India's Fundamental Duties. Given Data / Assumptions: The focus is on Fundamental Duties introduced into the Indian Constitution. We must identify the foreign constitution that inspired these duties. Options include the constitutions of France, India itself, Spain, the former USSR, and the United States. We assume familiarity with standard sources of constitutional borrowing for India. Concept / Approach: The idea of including a set of duties for citizens in the Constitution was inspired primarily by the Constitution of the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). The Soviet constitution prominently listed duties alongside rights, reflecting a socialist emphasis on citizens responsibility towards the state and society. When the Forty Second Amendment introduced Fundamental Duties into the Indian Constitution, the drafting committee explicitly drew on this Soviet model. Although other countries influenced different parts of the Indian Constitution, the concept of Fundamental Duties is most clearly traced to the USSR. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Fundamental Duties were added to the Indian Constitution by the Forty Second Amendment. Step 2: Remember that the inspiration for listing duties of citizens came from the socialist tradition, especially the Soviet constitution. Step 3: Check the options and identify which country was a socialist state known for including a detailed catalogue of duties. Step 4: Recognise that France is associated with concepts like liberty, equality, fraternity, and contributed mainly to ideas of liberty and rights. Step 5: Spain and the United States are not typically cited as sources for Fundamental Duties in Indian polity textbooks. Step 6: The option Indian Constitution is incorrect because the question clearly asks for a foreign source of inspiration. Step 7: Conclude that the correct answer is the USSR Constitution. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, you can recall that Indian polity references often provide a table listing which features were borrowed from which countries. For example, the idea of a written constitution and judicial review has links to the United States, the Parliamentary system to the United Kingdom, and Directive Principles of State Policy to Ireland. In the same table, Fundamental Duties are consistently traced back to the Constitution of the USSR. This repeated mention across multiple standard sources confirms that the USSR is the correct origin. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The French Constitution, and more broadly the French Revolution, inspired ideals like liberty, equality, and fraternity but not the specific concept of codified Fundamental Duties as adopted in India. The Indian Constitution cannot logically be a foreign source of inspiration for itself. The Spanish and United States constitutions were not used as the primary models for a detailed list of citizen duties in the Indian context. The United States constitution focuses more on rights and limited government, not on a formal catalogue of duties in the way the Soviet constitution did. Hence all these alternatives are incorrect in relation to Fundamental Duties. Common Pitfalls: Some students mix up sources of different constitutional features. For instance, they might mistakenly associate Fundamental Duties with the French Revolution because of its emphasis on civic virtue, or with the American constitution because of its importance in global constitutional history. To avoid such confusion, remember that the Soviet model stands out for listing detailed duties of citizens, and that the Forty Second Amendment was passed during a period when socialist ideas were particularly influential in India. Final Answer: The Fundamental Duties in the Constitution of India were inspired and largely adopted from the USSR Constitution.

Question 7

How many members of the Rajya Sabha can be nominated by the President of India under the Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of the Parliament of India. Its membership consists of representatives of the states and union territories, along with a certain number of members nominated by the President of India. These nominated members are chosen to represent fields such as literature, science, art, and social service. Knowing the exact number of such nominated members is a common question in Indian polity examinations. This question asks you to recall that number. Given Data / Assumptions: The institution involved is the Rajya Sabha. The focus is on members nominated by the President of India. Options include 6, 10, 12, 15, and 14. We assume the standard constitutional provisions as per Article 80. Concept / Approach: Article 80 of the Constitution specifies the composition of the Rajya Sabha. It states that the Council of States shall consist of not more than 250 members, of whom 12 members shall be nominated by the President. These 12 are chosen from among persons who have special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service. The remaining members are elected by the elected members of state legislative assemblies and by the members of electoral colleges for union territories. Therefore, the correct number of nominated members is 12. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the total possible membership of the Rajya Sabha is capped at 250. Step 2: Remember that out of these, 12 members are nominated by the President, while the rest are elected. Step 3: Focus on the specific question, which asks for the number of nominated members only. Step 4: Compare this with the given options and identify that 12 matches the constitutional provision. Step 5: Eliminate 6, 10, 14, and 15, as none of these numbers correspond to the established constitutional figure. Verification / Alternative check: A simple way to verify is to remember the typical description used in textbooks: Rajya Sabha has a maximum of 250 members, of which 238 are representatives of states and union territories and 12 are nominated by the President. The number 12 is repeated in almost every standard explanation of the Rajya Sabha's composition. If you recall this pattern, it becomes straightforward to identify 12 as the answer whenever the number of nominated members is asked. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The numbers 6, 10, 14, and 15 do not appear in Article 80 in relation to nominations to the Rajya Sabha. They are included only as distractors. None of these figures correspond to the actual constitutional provision, which clearly specifies that the President may nominate 12 members to the Council of States. Hence, choosing any of these would contradict the established composition given in the Constitution. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to confuse the number of nominated members in the Rajya Sabha with some other figures in Indian polity, such as the earlier provision for nominated Anglo Indian members in the Lok Sabha or nominated members in state legislative councils. Another error is to guess a round number like 10 or 15 without recalling the exact constitutional text. To avoid this, it is helpful to remember the specific combination 238 elected plus 12 nominated equals a maximum of 250 members for the Rajya Sabha. Final Answer: The President of India can nominate 12 members to the Rajya Sabha under the Constitution.

Question 8

In Indian non fiction literature and public life, who is the author of the inspirational book titled 'Ignited Minds', which focuses on empowering young Indians to build a developed and confident nation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Questions on important books and their authors are very common in general knowledge and Indian polity examinations because books often influence public thought and policy debates. The book 'Ignited Minds' is a well known inspirational work that speaks directly to the youth of India and to citizens who want to see the country emerge as a developed nation. Identifying its author is therefore a basic but important fact for competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: - The book in question is titled 'Ignited Minds'.- It is an inspirational, non fiction work that talks about national development and youth power.- The options list four well known public figures and writers from India. Concept / Approach: Ignited Minds is closely associated with the vision of a developed India and the idea that the minds of young people need to be awakened or ignited. This theme aligns strongly with the life and message of Dr A P J Abdul Kalam, former President of India and noted scientist, who repeatedly spoke about a developed India by 2020 and the role of students in nation building. By recalling the main themes and style of this book, we can easily connect it to Dr Kalam rather than to the other listed personalities who are known for very different kinds of writing or public roles. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Dr A P J Abdul Kalam wrote several inspirational books such as 'Wings of Fire', 'Ignited Minds' and 'India 2020', all focusing on science, technology and national development.Step 2: Note that Vikram Seth is primarily a novelist and poet, known for literary works such as 'A Suitable Boy', which is very different in genre from Ignited Minds.Step 3: Remember that Arundhati Roy is best known for 'The God of Small Things' and later political essays, not for a youth oriented science based national vision book titled 'Ignited Minds'.Step 4: Dr Manmohan Singh is an economist and former Prime Minister, but he is not widely known as the author of this particular motivational book aimed at students and young citizens.Step 5: Therefore, the only option that correctly matches the book 'Ignited Minds' is Dr A P J Abdul Kalam. Verification / Alternative check: A quick way to verify is to remember the recurring phrase 'ignited minds' in Dr Kalam's speeches, where he often said that an ignited mind is the most powerful resource on the planet. The book extends this theme, making it easy to associate with him. In most exam preparation guides, Ignited Minds is always listed under his name, which confirms this association. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Vikram Seth) is wrong because he is mainly a literary novelist and poet, not the author of this motivational science and development themed book.Option C (Arundhati Roy) is wrong because her most famous work is a Booker Prize winning novel and later essays on social issues, not Ignited Minds.Option D (Dr Manmohan Singh) is wrong because, although he is a respected economist and former Prime Minister, he is not associated with this particular youth oriented book. Common Pitfalls: Some learners confuse different inspirational books by public figures and may mix up titles such as 'India 2020', 'Ignited Minds' and other works that talk about development. Another common error is to assume that any serious book with a national theme could belong to a political leader or novelist they know well. The safest approach is to consciously pair Ignited Minds with Dr A P J Abdul Kalam and to remember that his main focus was on motivating students, scientists and ordinary citizens to participate in building a developed India. Final Answer: Correct answer: Dr A P J Abdul Kalam

Question 9

Under the Constitution of India, amendments to the Constitution are carried out according to the detailed procedure laid down in which specific Article of the Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India is a living document, designed to be amended when necessary to respond to social, economic and political changes. However, this power to amend is not unlimited or casual. It follows a specific constitutional procedure. Knowing which Article sets out this procedure is a fundamental piece of information in Indian polity and is frequently asked in examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question asks about the Article that lays down the procedure for amending the Constitution.- The options list four different Articles by number: 368, 345, 351 and 333.- Only one of these Articles is directly connected with constitutional amendment procedure. Concept / Approach: Article 368 of the Constitution of India explicitly deals with 'Power of Parliament to amend the Constitution and procedure therefor'. It describes different categories of amendments, including those requiring only a special majority in Parliament and those requiring, in addition, ratification by at least one half of the State legislatures. The other Articles mentioned in the options deal with different subjects such as language and representation and have no relationship with the amendment procedure. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 368 is always mentioned in connection with constitutional amendments, such as the First Amendment, Forty Second Amendment or One Hundredth Amendment.Step 2: Recognise that Article 345 is about the official language of a State and allows a State legislature to adopt any one or more languages in use in the State or Hindi as the official language.Step 3: Note that Article 351 deals with the directive for development of the Hindi language, encouraging its enrichment with forms and expressions used in other Indian languages.Step 4: Article 333 concerns the representation of the Anglo Indian community by nomination in certain State Legislative Assemblies, which is unrelated to amendment procedures.Step 5: Therefore, the only Article that lays down the amendment procedure is Article 368. Verification / Alternative check: A simple memory aid is that most standard polity textbooks have a separate chapter on constitutional amendments, and almost all of them start by quoting or explaining Article 368. If you remember that this Article number is always linked with amendments and special majorities, it becomes easy to answer such questions correctly even under exam pressure. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B (Article 345) is wrong because it deals with the official language of a State, not with amending the Constitution.Option C (Article 351) is wrong as it speaks about the directive for the development and promotion of Hindi.Option D (Article 333) is wrong because it relates to representation of the Anglo Indian community in State Assemblies. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes confuse Article numbers that refer to language provisions or representation with those that deal with amendment powers. Another error is to assume that any Article in the 300 range might relate to amendments without specifically remembering 368. Repeated revision and association of the keyword 'amendment' with Article 368 is the best way to avoid these mistakes in examinations. Final Answer: Correct answer: Article 368

Question 10

In the context of the Government of India's think tank NITI Aayog, who served as the first Vice Chairperson (Vice Chairman) of NITI Aayog after its creation, working alongside the Prime Minister in guiding national policy?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was created to replace the Planning Commission and to act as the apex policy think tank of the Government of India. At the top of its structure is the Prime Minister as Chairperson and a Vice Chairperson who plays a key role in shaping strategies, coordinating with States and advising on reforms. Many competitive exams test awareness of the first key office bearers of newly created institutions, including the first Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog. Given Data / Assumptions: - The body in question is NITI Aayog, formed after the abolition of the Planning Commission.- The question asks about the first Vice Chairperson, that is, the person who initially occupied this post.- The options include Dr Bibek Debroy, Dr V K Saraswat, Dr Arvind Panagariya and Arun Jaitley. Concept / Approach: When NITI Aayog was constituted, the Government appointed a well known economist as its first Vice Chairperson. Dr Arvind Panagariya, an economist with international academic experience, was chosen for this role. Other figures in the options also held important positions in or around NITI Aayog, but not as its first Vice Chairperson. Therefore, you must distinguish between different roles such as full time members, part time members and external advisors. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Dr Arvind Panagariya, an economist with experience at Columbia University and international organisations, was widely reported as the first Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog when it was formed.Step 2: Dr Bibek Debroy is a well known economist who served as a full time member of NITI Aayog and later chaired the Prime Minister's Economic Advisory Council, but he was not the first Vice Chairperson.Step 3: Dr V K Saraswat is a scientist and defence expert who served as a full time member of NITI Aayog, focusing on areas such as science and technology, but again not as Vice Chairperson.Step 4: Arun Jaitley was the Union Finance Minister and a key political leader but did not hold the post of Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog.Step 5: From the above, it is clear that Dr Arvind Panagariya is the correct answer as the first Vice Chairperson. Verification / Alternative check: A helpful way to verify is to remember the transition from the Planning Commission to NITI Aayog. Many news articles at that time highlighted that a prominent economist, Dr Arvind Panagariya, was appointed as the first Vice Chairperson, signalling a shift towards research oriented, reform focused policymaking. This association is repeatedly mentioned in exam preparation materials, which supports the answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Dr Bibek Debroy) is wrong because he served as a member of NITI Aayog and later in the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister, not as the first Vice Chairperson.Option B (Dr V K Saraswat) is wrong because, although he is a respected scientist and member of NITI Aayog, he was not appointed as its first Vice Chairperson.Option D (Arun Jaitley) is wrong because he was the Finance Minister and did not occupy the Vice Chairperson role in NITI Aayog. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse different positions within NITI Aayog, assuming that any senior economist associated with it might have been Vice Chairperson. Another typical error is to misattribute the role to a Cabinet Minister because of their visibility. To avoid this, remember the specific pairing: Prime Minister as Chairperson and Dr Arvind Panagariya as the first Vice Chairperson at the start of NITI Aayog's functioning. Final Answer: Correct answer: Dr Arvind Panagariya

Question 11

Under the Constitution of India, what is the minimum age required for a person to be eligible to become a member of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of the Parliament of India. It represents the States and Union Territories and is often considered a more mature and deliberative chamber. The Constitution sets specific eligibility conditions, including minimum age requirements, for membership of different representative bodies. This question checks whether you know the minimum age prescribed to become a member of the Rajya Sabha. Given Data / Assumptions: - The office in question is membership of the Rajya Sabha.- The options give four possible minimum ages: 18, 30, 36 and 24 years.- We must select the age that the Constitution actually prescribes. Concept / Approach: Article 84 of the Constitution of India sets out the qualifications for membership of Parliament. It specifies that a person must be at least 25 years old to be a member of the Lok Sabha and at least 30 years old to be a member of the Council of States, that is, the Rajya Sabha. The lower ages of 18 and 21 are associated with voting and certain other rights but not with membership of the upper house. Therefore, the correct answer is 30 years. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that to be a member of the Lok Sabha, a candidate must be at least 25 years old. This itself rules out 18 and 24 for the upper house, which usually has a higher minimum age.Step 2: Article 84 clearly differentiates between the two Houses: 25 years for the House of the People and 30 years for the Council of States.Step 3: The figure 36 years does not appear in the Constitution as a minimum age for any representative office; it is a distractor.Step 4: The figure 18 years is associated with the minimum voting age for citizens to be registered as voters, not with the age for becoming a member of Parliament.Step 5: Therefore, among the given options, 30 years is the correct minimum age to become a Rajya Sabha member. Verification / Alternative check: A simple memory pattern is: 18 years to vote, 25 years to contest for Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly, and 30 years to contest for the Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council. If you keep this hierarchy of ages in mind, you can quickly answer questions about eligibility without confusion. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (18 years) is wrong because it is the minimum age for voting, not for becoming a Rajya Sabha member.Option C (36 years) is wrong as the Constitution does not prescribe this as a qualifying age for membership of any House of Parliament.Option D (24 years) is wrong because it is below the minimum age even for Lok Sabha membership, which is 25 years. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes mix up age limits for voting, contesting elections and holding various offices. Another common mistake is to assume that both Houses of Parliament have the same minimum age requirement. Learning the standard age ladder and revising Articles 84 and 173 (for State legislatures) helps to avoid such errors in the exam hall. Final Answer: Correct answer: 30 years

Question 12

Which one of the following rights is not explicitly guaranteed as a Fundamental Right under the Constitution of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India contains a carefully structured list of Fundamental Rights in Part III. These rights protect various aspects of human dignity, such as equality, freedom, protection against exploitation, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights and the right to constitutional remedies. At the same time, the Constitution, along with later amendments, also recognises certain specific rights to education. This question asks you to distinguish between rights that are explicitly guaranteed as Fundamental Rights and one that is not, in the broad form mentioned. Given Data / Assumptions: - Right to Equality is mentioned as an option.- Right to freedom of religion is mentioned.- Right to constitutional remedies is mentioned.- Right to free education for all persons of all ages is mentioned in a very broad form. Concept / Approach: Right to Equality (Articles 14 to 18), right to freedom of religion (Articles 25 to 28) and right to constitutional remedies (Article 32) are clearly and explicitly listed as Fundamental Rights in the Constitution. The right to education is recognised as a Fundamental Right under Article 21A, but it is limited to children between the ages of 6 and 14 years and is not framed as a right to free education for all persons of all ages. Therefore, the broad statement in option D does not match any explicit Fundamental Right and is the correct choice for this question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Confirm that Right to Equality is a Fundamental Right in Part III, covering equality before law, non discrimination, equality of opportunity and abolition of untouchability and titles.Step 2: Confirm that Right to freedom of religion is also explicitly guaranteed as a Fundamental Right, allowing freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion, subject to reasonable restrictions.Step 3: Recall that the Right to constitutional remedies, given in Article 32, allows an individual to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights and is itself a Fundamental Right.Step 4: Examine option D carefully. It speaks of a right to free education for all persons of all ages. In reality, the Constitution through Article 21A guarantees free and compulsory education only for children between 6 and 14 years of age.Step 5: There is no Fundamental Right guaranteeing free education for every person regardless of age, which makes option D the right answer. Verification / Alternative check: You can verify by recalling the exact wording of Article 21A and also by noting that expansion of free education to all age groups would involve enormous financial commitments and is therefore not framed as a Fundamental Right. Instead, broader educational goals for different age groups appear in Directive Principles rather than as enforceable Fundamental Rights. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A is wrong as the answer because Right to Equality is one of the central Fundamental Rights listed in Articles 14 to 18.Option B is wrong because Right to freedom of religion is clearly part of Part III of the Constitution.Option C is wrong because Right to constitutional remedies is itself a Fundamental Right, often called the heart and soul of the Constitution by Dr B R Ambedkar. Common Pitfalls: Many learners know that education is important and that the Constitution talks about free education, but they may not remember the precise age group to which Article 21A applies. As a result, they may incorrectly treat a very broad statement about free education for all ages as a Fundamental Right. To avoid this, always pay attention to the exact scope and beneficiary group mentioned in the constitutional provisions and in the exam options. Final Answer: Correct answer: Right to free education for all persons of all ages

Question 13

According to the Supreme Court's interpretation of the Constitution of India, the fundamental Right to Privacy is primarily protected under which Article of the Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In recent years, the Right to Privacy has become a very important topic in Indian constitutional law and public policy, particularly because of issues like data protection, surveillance and personal autonomy. Although the original text of the Constitution did not explicitly mention a Right to Privacy, the Supreme Court has interpreted existing Fundamental Rights to recognise privacy as a fundamental protection for individuals. This question asks under which Article this right is primarily located. Given Data / Assumptions: - The Right to Privacy is recognised as a fundamental right through judicial interpretation.- The options include Articles 19, 20, 21 and 18.- We need to identify the Article that is the main constitutional source for this right. Concept / Approach: The Supreme Court, particularly in the landmark judgment in K S Puttaswamy versus Union of India, held that the Right to Privacy is an intrinsic part of the right to life and personal liberty guaranteed by Article 21. While elements of privacy are also connected to freedoms under Article 19, the core recognition is anchored in Article 21. Article 20 deals with protection in respect of conviction for offences and Article 18 concerns abolition of titles, neither of which directly forms the foundation of the privacy right. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Article 21 states that no person shall be deprived of life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.Step 2: Over time, the Supreme Court has given a broad, liberal meaning to the term personal liberty, including various rights necessary to lead a life of dignity, and among these, privacy has been recognised as a core aspect.Step 3: Article 19 provides freedoms such as speech, movement and association, and some privacy related arguments can be linked to these freedoms, but the central doctrinal base is Article 21.Step 4: Article 20 is limited to criminal procedure protections like no ex post facto law, no double jeopardy and protection against self incrimination, not general privacy.Step 5: Article 18 concerns abolition of titles and has no connection with privacy at all.Step 6: Therefore, the correct answer is Article 21, as interpreted to include the Right to Privacy. Verification / Alternative check: A practical way to verify is to remember that many modern Fundamental Right expansions, such as the rights to live with dignity, clean environment, legal aid and now privacy, have been read into Article 21 rather than being separately enumerated. Article 21 thus functions as a rich source of implied rights necessary for a meaningful life and personal liberty. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Article 19) is wrong as the main answer because, although some aspects of privacy intersect with freedoms under Article 19, the Supreme Court bases the fundamental Right to Privacy primarily on Article 21.Option B (Article 20) is wrong because it focuses on safeguards in criminal proceedings and punishment, not on privacy in a broad sense.Option D (Article 18) is wrong since it deals with titles and does not address privacy at all. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes think that privacy must be connected to freedom of speech or movement under Article 19 and therefore mistakenly pick that Article. Others may simply guess among the Article numbers without recalling the judicial developments. To avoid such errors, it is important to remember the key idea that Article 21, through judicial interpretation, has become the central provision for many modern rights including the Right to Privacy. Final Answer: Correct answer: Article 21

Question 14

As per the Constitution of India, what is the maximum possible strength, that is, the total number of members that the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) can have?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the permanent upper chamber of the Indian Parliament. Unlike the Lok Sabha, it is not subject to dissolution, and one third of its members retire every two years. The Constitution fixes a ceiling on the total number of members the Rajya Sabha can have, including elected representatives from States and Union Territories and nominated members. This question asks you to recall that maximum strength. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question uses the phrase maximum possible strength, referring to the constitutional upper limit.- Options given are 150, 200, 250 and 300 members.- We assume general familiarity with Articles 80 and related provisions. Concept / Approach: Article 80 of the Constitution of India provides that the Council of States shall consist of not more than 250 members. Out of these, a maximum of 238 members represent States and Union Territories and up to 12 members are nominated by the President from persons having special knowledge or practical experience in fields like literature, science, art and social service. The current actual strength may be slightly different at any given time, but the constitutional upper limit remains 250. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall Article 80, which specifies that the Rajya Sabha shall not have more than 250 members in total.Step 2: Understand that of these 250, most are elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies and by members of the electoral college for Union Territory representatives, through the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.Step 3: Note that up to 12 members can be nominated by the President for their contributions to art, literature, science and social service.Step 4: Compare this constitutional maximum of 250 with the options: 150 and 200 are clearly below the known figure, while 300 exceeds the constitutional limit.Step 5: Therefore, 250 members is the correct answer for the maximum strength. Verification / Alternative check: A memory trick is to remember the pair: maximum Lok Sabha strength is 552 (with not more than 530 from States, 20 from Union Territories and previously up to 2 nominated Anglo Indian members) and maximum Rajya Sabha strength is 250. Together, these two numbers often appear in examination questions and in standard polity tables. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (150 members) is wrong because it does not match the constitutional upper limit and would make the House much smaller than it actually is.Option B (200 members) is wrong because it also underestimates the maximum size prescribed in Article 80.Option D (300 members) is wrong because it exceeds the constitutional cap and has never been used as a limit or actual strength. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes confuse current strength with maximum constitutional strength or mix up figures for the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Another common error is to think that both Houses must have similar membership capacities. To avoid confusion, revise a small table of key numbers such as 250 for Rajya Sabha, 552 for Lok Sabha and the basic breakdown of elected and nominated members in each House. Final Answer: Correct answer: 250 members

Question 15

Who was the first woman to serve as a Governor of a State in independent India, becoming the country's first female State Governor?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Women leaders have played an important role in India's freedom struggle and later in the country's political and constitutional life. Knowing the first woman to hold various constitutional offices, such as Governor, Chief Minister or President, is a common theme in general knowledge questions. This question focuses on the first woman Governor of a State in independent India. Given Data / Assumptions: - The office in question is that of Governor of a State.- The focus is on the first woman to occupy this office after independence.- Options include Kamala Nehru, Madam Bhikaji Cama, Sarojini Naidu and Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit. Concept / Approach: Sarojini Naidu, a prominent poet and freedom fighter, became the first woman Governor of a State when she was appointed the Governor of the State of Uttar Pradesh (then known as the United Provinces). Kamala Nehru and Madam Bhikaji Cama were important figures in the freedom movement but did not serve as State Governors. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit held several distinguished positions, including as a diplomat and as President of the United Nations General Assembly, but she was not the first woman State Governor. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Sarojini Naidu was appointed Governor of the United Provinces (later Uttar Pradesh) shortly after independence, making her the first female Governor of a State in India.Step 2: Kamala Nehru was a freedom fighter and the wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, but she did not hold constitutional offices after independence.Step 3: Madam Bhikaji Cama was an early Indian revolutionary who worked largely from abroad and is famous for unfurling an early version of the Indian flag, not for holding governor level posts in independent India.Step 4: Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit was an influential leader and diplomat, serving as India's ambassador to several countries and as President of the UN General Assembly, but she was not the first woman Governor of a State.Step 5: Therefore, among the given options, Sarojini Naidu is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Most standard general knowledge books list Sarojini Naidu as the first woman Governor of a State in India. If you memorise a small list of first women in major offices, such as first woman Governor (Sarojini Naidu), first woman Prime Minister (Indira Gandhi) and first woman President (Pratibha Patil), it becomes easier to answer such questions quickly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Kamala Nehru) is wrong because she did not serve as a State Governor; her major role was in the freedom struggle.Option B (Madam Bhikaji Cama) is wrong because she was a revolutionary and nationalist leader but did not hold gubernatorial office in independent India.Option D (Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit) is wrong because, although she was an important diplomat and presided over the UN General Assembly, she was not the first woman Governor of a State. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse different women leaders and their firsts, especially between Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit and Sarojini Naidu. Another common mistake is to assume that leaders who were related to powerful male politicians automatically held high constitutional posts. To avoid these errors, it is better to memorise a concise chart of first women in key national roles along with the offices they held. Final Answer: Correct answer: Sarojini Naidu

Question 16

How many Lok Sabha (House of the People) parliamentary seats are allocated to the State of Kerala under the present distribution of seats?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Lok Sabha is the directly elected lower house of the Parliament of India. Each State and certain Union Territories are allotted a fixed number of Lok Sabha seats based on their population and other considerations, subject to constitutional limits. Knowing the number of seats a particular State has is a common topic in Indian polity and general knowledge exams. This question focuses on the State of Kerala. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question is about Lok Sabha parliamentary seats, not Rajya Sabha seats.- The State in question is Kerala.- The options are 2, 13, 20 and 25 seats. Concept / Approach: The allocation of Lok Sabha seats to States has been fixed for several decades based on earlier census data, and a freeze on changing this number has been maintained to encourage population control efforts. Kerala, a southern coastal State, has a specific number of constituencies from which Members of Parliament are elected to the Lok Sabha. The correct number for Kerala is 20, which is widely mentioned in election data and standard polity references. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Kerala is a medium sized State in terms of population compared to very large States like Uttar Pradesh, which has 80 Lok Sabha seats.Step 2: Remember that Kerala has 20 parliamentary constituencies for Lok Sabha elections; this number appears repeatedly in election coverage and statistical handbooks.Step 3: Option A (2) is far too small for a State the size of Kerala and typically corresponds to smaller Union Territories.Step 4: Option B (13) and Option D (25) are close enough to cause confusion but do not match the officially notified number of constituencies for Kerala.Step 5: Therefore, the correct answer is 20 Lok Sabha seats for Kerala. Verification / Alternative check: A practical verification method is to recall well known lists of Lok Sabha seats by State, where it is standard that Kerala has 20 and neighbouring Tamil Nadu has 39 seats. These figures are often highlighted during general elections when news channels show State wise seat distribution. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (2) is wrong because it severely underestimates Kerala's representation and is more suitable for a small Union Territory, not a full State.Option B (13) is wrong because this number is associated with representation from other States or is simply a distractor here.Option D (25) is wrong because it is higher than the actual allocation and does not match official data. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse the number of Lok Sabha seats of Kerala with those of neighbouring States or may mix up figures for Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha representation. Another mistake is simply guessing among the middle values when not sure. To avoid these issues, it helps to revise a concise table of seat allocations for major States before examinations, paying attention to States that frequently appear in questions such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Final Answer: Correct answer: 20

Question 17

In the Lok Sabha (House of the People), what is the maximum total number of members who can represent the States of India, excluding representation from Union Territories?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Constitution of India sets upper limits on the total membership of the Lok Sabha and also on how many of those members can represent the States and the Union Territories. Article 81 deals with the composition of the House of the People and originally fixed these maximum numbers. Many polity questions ask specifically about the maximum possible number of members from States, which is different from the overall maximum including Union Territories. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question concerns the Lok Sabha's maximum strength from States only.- Representation from Union Territories is to be excluded when counting this number.- Options include 630, 530, 430 and 330. Concept / Approach: Article 81 originally provided that the House of the People shall consist of not more than 530 members chosen by direct election from territorial constituencies in the States and not more than 20 members to represent the Union Territories. In addition, there used to be a provision for nominated Anglo Indian members, which has since been removed. For this question, we are concerned only with the maximum of 530 from States, ignoring Union Territories and any nominated members. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the full maximum strength of the Lok Sabha, as per the original constitutional framework, was 552 (530 from States, 20 from Union Territories and 2 nominated Anglo Indian members).Step 2: The question explicitly asks about members from States only, so we focus on the 530 figure.Step 3: Option B (530) matches this figure exactly, while 630, 430 and 330 do not correspond to any standard constitutional limit.Step 4: Therefore, the correct answer is 530 as the maximum number of members from States in the Lok Sabha. Verification / Alternative check: A simple memory trick is to remember the pair 530 and 20: 530 elected representatives from States and 20 from Union Territories, together forming the main elected component of the Lok Sabha. Adding the earlier 2 nominated members gives the familiar 552 figure. Even if the nominated category changes, the State wise maximum of 530 remains an important benchmark. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (630) is wrong because it exceeds the known maximum and has no basis in the constitutional text.Option C (430) and Option D (330) are wrong because they underestimate the capacity of the House and do not match any standard figure for Lok Sabha composition. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse the overall maximum strength of the Lok Sabha with the maximum strength from States alone, or they forget the exact numbers and guess among the options. Another frequent error is not reading the phrase from States carefully and accidentally including the Union Territory seats. To avoid such mistakes, revise Article 81 and keep the numbers 530 (States), 20 (Union Territories) and 552 (historical overall maximum) clearly in mind. Final Answer: Correct answer: 530

Question 18

During the Internal Emergency declared in India in 1975, who was holding office as the President of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Internal Emergency of 1975 to 1977 is one of the most discussed periods in modern Indian political history. It involved suspension of many civil liberties, curtailment of political opposition and significant constitutional changes. Understanding which leaders held key offices during this time, such as President and Prime Minister, is important for exams on Indian polity and history. This question specifically asks about the President of India at the time the Emergency was proclaimed in June 1975. Given Data / Assumptions: - The Emergency in question is the Internal Emergency proclaimed in 1975 under Article 352.- The options for President are Morarji Desai, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, V P Singh and Indira Gandhi.- We need to identify who was the President, not the Prime Minister. Concept / Approach: Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed served as the President of India from 1974 until his death in 1977. It was during his term that the Emergency was proclaimed in June 1975 on the advice of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Morarji Desai and V P Singh served as Prime Ministers at different times later or earlier, not as Presidents during the Emergency. Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister, not the President, at that time. Therefore, the correct answer is Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Emergency of 1975 is widely associated with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.Step 2: Identify Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed as the President of India from 1974 to 1977, covering the Emergency period.Step 3: Note that Morarji Desai became Prime Minister only in 1977 after the Emergency ended and was never President of India.Step 4: Remember that V P Singh served as Prime Minister later, in 1989 to 1990, and was never President.Step 5: Indira Gandhi, although central to the Emergency as Prime Minister, did not hold the office of President.Step 6: Therefore, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A good way to verify is to recall that after President V V Giri and President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, B D Jatti served as Acting President and then Neelam Sanjiva Reddy became President. The Emergency falls squarely within Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed's term, and many political histories mention his role in signing the proclamation of Emergency. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Morarji Desai) is wrong because he was Prime Minister after the Emergency and never served as President.Option C (V P Singh) is wrong as he was Prime Minister in a later period and did not hold the office of President.Option D (Indira Gandhi) is wrong because she was the Prime Minister during the Emergency, not the President; the question specifically asks about the President. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the roles of President and Prime Minister when dealing with historical events, especially when a particular leader such as Indira Gandhi is strongly associated with that period. Another error is to misremember the sequence of Presidents. To avoid this, it is helpful to study a timeline of Presidents and Prime Ministers, marking key events like wars and emergencies against those timelines. Final Answer: Correct answer: Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed

Question 19

Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY), a scheme to provide financial support to micro and small enterprises through Mudra loans, was launched under the leadership of which Prime Minister of India?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) is a flagship financial inclusion scheme of the Government of India that aims to provide collateral free credit to micro and small enterprises through Mudra loans. It reflects a policy focus on promoting self employment, entrepreneurship and small businesses. Exams often ask under whose leadership or during whose tenure certain major schemes were launched, making this a straightforward but important recall question. Given Data / Assumptions: - The scheme in question is Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY).- It provides Mudra loans to micro and small entrepreneurs.- Options list four Prime Ministers: Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Narendra Modi and Dr Manmohan Singh. Concept / Approach: PMMY is a relatively recent initiative launched in the middle of the 2010s. It was introduced during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of a broad set of schemes aimed at financial inclusion and entrepreneurship promotion, such as Jan Dhan Yojana, Start up India and Stand Up India. Earlier Prime Ministers like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh had their own landmark policies but did not launch this specific scheme. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the timeline: Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi served during earlier decades, long before schemes like Mudra Yojana were conceived.Step 2: Dr Manmohan Singh was Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and focused on other financial and social sector reforms but did not launch Mudra Yojana.Step 3: Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana was launched after 2014, in the early period of the Narendra Modi government, in line with its emphasis on self employment and small business promotion.Step 4: Among the given names, only Narendra Modi fits this time frame and policy context.Step 5: Therefore, the correct answer is Narendra Modi. Verification / Alternative check: One way to verify is to group schemes by period: programmes like PMJDY (Jan Dhan Yojana), PMMY (Mudra), Swachh Bharat Mission and Ujjwala Yojana are all associated with the tenure of Narendra Modi. Older leaders such as Nehru and Indira Gandhi are linked with policies like Five Year Plans, nationalisation of banks and the Green Revolution, not with Mudra loans. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (Jawaharlal Nehru) is wrong because his tenure was in the early decades after independence, long before Mudra Yojana existed.Option B (Indira Gandhi) is wrong as she led during the 1960s, 1970s and early 1980s and is associated with policies such as bank nationalisation and the Emergency, not PMMY.Option D (Dr Manmohan Singh) is wrong because, although a key economic reformer, he did not launch Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana during his time as Prime Minister. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse different financial inclusion schemes or assume that all schemes with the phrase Pradhan Mantri must have been introduced recently without pinning them to the correct leader. Another mistake is failing to connect the scheme to its time period. To avoid such errors, it helps to memorise a table of major recent schemes and the Prime Minister under whom they were launched. Final Answer: Correct answer: Narendra Modi

Question 20

How many Lok Sabha (House of the People) parliamentary seats are allocated to the State of Punjab under the present distribution of seats?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: For the Lok Sabha, each State and certain Union Territories are allocated a fixed number of constituencies. These seat numbers are important facts in Indian polity and electoral studies, and questions frequently ask about the number of seats for specific States. Here, the focus is on the State of Punjab, a north western State with a significant political history. Given Data / Assumptions: - The question concerns Lok Sabha seats, not Rajya Sabha seats.- The State in question is Punjab.- The options are 2, 13, 20 and 25 seats. Concept / Approach: Punjab has a fixed number of Lok Sabha constituencies from which its Members of Parliament are directly elected. The seat allocation has been stable for several years under the freeze on changes relating to population. The correct number of Lok Sabha seats for Punjab is 13, which is a commonly cited figure in election reporting and exam preparation material. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that Punjab is smaller in population and area than many large States such as Uttar Pradesh but still has a moderate level of representation.Step 2: The State has 13 Lok Sabha constituencies, from each of which one Member is elected.Step 3: Option A (2) is clearly too low for a full State and is more typical for smaller Union Territories.Step 4: Option C (20) and Option D (25) correspond to larger States or are distractors, not matching Punjab's official allocation.Step 5: Therefore, 13 is the correct answer for the number of Lok Sabha seats from Punjab. Verification / Alternative check: During general elections, news coverage and electoral maps often mention that Punjab has 13 Lok Sabha seats while neighbouring Haryana has 10 and Himachal Pradesh has 4. Remembering these clusters of numbers can help you verify your answer quickly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A (2) is wrong because it underestimates the representation of Punjab and is not associated with any major State.Option C (20) is wrong because 20 seats belong to other States such as Kerala, not to Punjab.Option D (25) is wrong because it exceeds Punjab's actual allocation and does not match official figures. Common Pitfalls: Examinees sometimes confuse the number of seats of Punjab with those of other States, especially when options contain numbers also used by neighbouring regions. Another mistake is to assume that all medium sized States have the same number of seats. To avoid such errors, revise a simple table of States and their seat allocations before sitting for the exam, paying special attention to frequently asked States such as Punjab, Kerala, Bihar and Gujarat. Final Answer: Correct answer: 13

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