UPPSC MAINS 2018 Paper-2

Points to Remember: Rajya Sabha’s special powers stem from its composition and role as the Council of States. These powers primarily relate to safeguarding the interests of states and ensuring federal balance. The Lok Sabha’s dominance in financial matters limits the Rajya Sabha’s influence in this area. Introduction: The Indian Constitution establishes a bicameral legislature … Read more Describe those special powers of the Rajya Sabha which are not enjoyed by the Lok Sabha, under the Indian Constitution.

Points to Remember: Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) functionality VVPAT deployment in Indian General Elections Advantages and disadvantages of VVPAT usage Challenges faced in implementation Suggestions for improvement Introduction: The Indian electoral system, the world’s largest, has undergone significant evolution. A crucial addition to enhance transparency and voter confidence is the Voter Verifiable Paper … Read more Evaluate the use of VVPAT in the General Election of India.

Points to Remember: Independence of CAG Accountability of CAG Powers and functions of CAG Relationship with Parliament and Executive Limitations of CAG’s authority Introduction: The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India holds a unique and crucial position within the Indian constitutional framework. Article 148 of the Constitution establishes the CAG as an independent institution … Read more Examine the constitutional position of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India.

Points to Remember: Remittances Investment Skill Transfer Entrepreneurship Brand Ambassadors Introduction: The Indian diaspora, one of the largest and most geographically dispersed in the world, plays a significant role in India’s economic development. Comprising individuals of Indian origin residing outside India, their contributions extend beyond simple financial remittances, encompassing investments, skill transfer, entrepreneurship, and acting … Read more Write a short note on the contribution of the Indian diaspora towards the economic structure in India.

Points to Remember: Distribution of Powers: How legislative, executive, and judicial powers are divided between the central and state governments. Constitutional Framework: The structure and provisions of the respective constitutions regarding federalism. Intergovernmental Relations: The mechanisms for cooperation and conflict resolution between the central and state governments. Judicial Role: The role of the Supreme Court … Read more In what ways does the Indian federal system differ from the federal system in the United States of America (USA)? Explain.

Points to Remember: Economic Empowerment: Increased income, savings, and access to credit. Social Empowerment: Enhanced social status, decision-making power, and community participation. Improved Livelihoods: Diversification of income sources, improved agricultural practices, and access to markets. Challenges: Sustainability, outreach limitations, and potential for exploitation. Introduction: Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are village-based organizations of 10-20 women, primarily in … Read more What has been the impact of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) on India’s rural life? Describe.

Points to Remember: The ICJ’s jurisdiction is based on the consent of states. Consent can be given through special agreements, treaty clauses, or declarations recognizing the Court’s compulsory jurisdiction. Limitations exist on the Court’s jurisdiction, including reservations and exclusions. The Court’s effectiveness depends on state compliance with its judgments. Introduction: The International Court of Justice … Read more Critically examine the jurisdiction of the International Court of Justice.

Points to Remember: Land fragmentation and small farm holdings. Inadequate irrigation facilities. Lack of access to credit and technology. Poor infrastructure and market linkages. Climate change vulnerability. Debt trap and farmer suicides. Lack of diversification and value addition. Introduction: Uttar Pradesh (UP), India’s most populous state, is heavily reliant on agriculture. While agriculture contributes significantly … Read more Throw light on the challenges and problems of farmers and the agriculture sector in Uttar Pradesh. Suggest measures for improvement.

Points to Remember: Definition and mechanism of Electoral Bonds. Arguments for increased transparency through Electoral Bonds. Arguments against transparency and potential for misuse. Supreme Court’s stance and relevant government reports. Policy recommendations for improving transparency in political funding. Introduction: Electoral Bonds, introduced in India in 2017, are a relatively new instrument for political funding. They … Read more What are Electoral Bonds? Are they capable of bringing transparency in the Political funding system?

Points to Remember: India’s historical perspective on Kashmir. The nature of the dispute and its implications for sovereignty. India’s concerns regarding third-party intervention. The role of bilateralism in resolving the issue. The potential for mediation to exacerbate the situation. Introduction: The Kashmir issue is a long-standing territorial dispute between India and Pakistan, stemming from the … Read more Why is India opposed to mediation on Kashmir?