TS Inter 2nd Year – Civics Model Paper 2024

SECTION – A

1. Explain the salient features of the Indian Constitution.

Answer:

The Indian Constitution, adopted in 1950, is the longest written constitution in the world. Its salient features are:

  1. Federal System of Government: India has a federal structure with a division of powers between the Union and State Governments. However, it is also a strong unitary state, where the Union Government holds significant power during emergencies.
  2. Parliamentary System: The Indian Constitution provides for a parliamentary system of governance, where the executive (the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers) is responsible to the legislature (Parliament). The President is the nominal head of the state.
  3. Sovereign State: India is a sovereign country, meaning it has full control over its domestic and foreign affairs without interference from external forces.
  4. Secular State: The Constitution mandates that the state will not support any particular religion, ensuring religious freedom to all citizens.
  5. Independent Judiciary: The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislature, ensuring checks and balances. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority.
  6. Republic: India is a republic, meaning that the head of the state (the President) is elected, not a monarch.
  7. Fundamental Rights: The Constitution guarantees certain basic rights to all citizens, such as the right to equality, freedom of speech, and the right to life and liberty.
  8. Directive Principles of State Policy: These are guidelines for the government to ensure social and economic justice, aimed at achieving the welfare of the people.
  9. Bicameral Legislature: The Parliament consists of two Houses – Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
  10. Single Citizenship: The Constitution provides for single citizenship for the entire country, unlike in some federal systems where both the state and union offer separate citizenship.

2. Explain the Fundamental Rights as incorporated in the Indian Constitution.

Answer:

The Fundamental Rights are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution and are essential for ensuring the dignity of the individual and equality before the law. The key Fundamental Rights include:

  1. Right to Equality (Articles 14-18): This includes equality before the law, prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, and equality of opportunity in public employment.
  2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22): This guarantees freedom of speech and expression, freedom of assembly, freedom to move freely across the territory of India, and protection against arbitrary arrest and detention.
  3. Right against Exploitation (Articles 23-24): This includes prohibition of human trafficking, child labor, and forced labor.
  4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28): This ensures that every individual has the freedom to profess, practice, and propagate their religion.
  5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30): This protects the rights of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
  6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32): This allows individuals to approach the Supreme Court for enforcement of their fundamental rights.
  7. Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21): This right ensures that no person shall be deprived of their life or personal liberty except according to the procedure established by law.

These rights are not absolute and can be restricted under certain conditions, such as in the interest of public order, morality, or the security of the state.

3. Describe the powers of the Prime Minister of India.

Answer:

The Prime Minister of India holds significant powers, both as the head of government and the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha. The key powers include:

  1. Executive Powers: The Prime Minister is the chief executive of the country, responsible for the formation of the Cabinet and decision-making on major policy matters.
  2. Leader of the Cabinet: The Prime Minister is the head of the Council of Ministers and coordinates the work of the different ministries.
  3. Adviser to the President: The Prime Minister is the chief adviser to the President of India, who acts according to the advice given by the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.
  4. Appointments: The Prime Minister recommends the appointment of other ministers and key officials like governors and ambassadors.
  5. Legislative Powers: The Prime Minister is responsible for representing the government in Parliament, introducing bills, and guiding them through the legislative process.
  6. Foreign Affairs: The Prime Minister represents India on the international stage and plays a significant role in shaping foreign policy.
  7. Crisis Management: The Prime Minister has the authority to handle emergencies, such as national security crises or economic challenges, and make key decisions swiftly.
  8. Head of National Security Council: The Prime Minister is the head of the National Security Council, which advises on security and defense policies.

4. Explain the various factors which led to the agitation for separate Telangana state.

Answer:

The agitation for a separate Telangana state was driven by a combination of political, social, and economic factors:

  1. Historical Background: Telangana was merged with Andhra Pradesh in 1956 based on linguistic reorganization. However, many in Telangana felt that their region was politically and economically marginalized.
  2. Economic Disparities: Telangana was perceived to be deprived of its fair share of resources, particularly in terms of revenue allocation, irrigation projects, and government jobs, which led to feelings of neglect.
  3. Cultural Identity: Telangana has a distinct culture, language, and traditions, and many felt that their identity was being overshadowed by the dominant culture of the Andhra region.
  4. Political Discontent: Political leaders and activists in Telangana, such as those from the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), raised the issue of unequal development and lack of political representation for the people of the region.
  5. Youth and Student Movements: Student organizations and youth groups played a significant role in organizing protests and raising awareness about the need for a separate Telangana state.
  6. Governance Issues: There was dissatisfaction with the governance and decision-making, as people felt that the Andhra region dominated political offices and resources, resulting in the underdevelopment of Telangana.
  7. Successive Governments’ Failure: Various assurances by governments regarding equitable development remained unfulfilled, which led to mounting frustration and support for statehood.

5. Describe the role of TRS Party in separate Telangana movement.

Answer:

The Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) played a pivotal role in the movement for a separate Telangana state. Key contributions include:

  1. Political Leadership: TRS, founded by K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) in 2001, was the primary political force advocating for the creation of Telangana. KCR’s leadership provided direction to the movement, gaining mass support.
  2. Mobilizing Public Support: The TRS used grassroots mobilization, organizing protests, rallies, and hunger strikes to rally public support for the cause of a separate Telangana state.
  3. Legislative Action: TRS played a significant role in influencing public discourse and pushing the demand for a separate state within the Indian political system, especially through Parliament.
  4. Accession to Power: In the 2004 elections, TRS won significant seats in the state assembly, strengthening its position as the leader of the Telangana movement. KCR’s resignation from the state cabinet in 2006 to protest against the delay in statehood galvanized public support.
  5. Formation of the State: The TRS played a crucial role in negotiating with the Congress-led UPA government at the center, which ultimately led to the passing of the Telangana Bill in Parliament in 2014.

SECTION – B

6. Explain any four causes for the birth of the Indian National Movement.

Answer:

The Indian National Movement emerged due to various factors, including:

  1. British Exploitation: The economic exploitation and the drain of wealth from India to Britain led to widespread resentment among Indians.
  2. Social Reforms: Reform movements like those led by Raja Ram Mohan Roy and others aimed at modernizing Indian society, challenging traditional practices, and promoting education, which inspired a sense of national awakening.
  3. Economic Deprivation: The British colonial policies led to the destruction of indigenous industries, crippling agriculture, and creating widespread poverty, fueling discontent among the masses.
  4. Nationalism and Unity: A sense of unity and nationalism began to grow, especially with the establishment of organizations like the Indian National Congress in 1885, which provided a platform for Indians to unite against British rule.

7. Write about the election of Vice President and his functions.

Answer:

The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) through a proportional representation system. The Vice President’s main functions include:

  1. Presiding over Rajya Sabha: The Vice President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and presides over its sessions, ensuring smooth conduct of business.
  2. Succession to the Presidency: In case of the President’s death, resignation, or incapacity, the Vice President assumes the office of the President.
  3. Representative Role: The Vice President represents India at ceremonial occasions, both within the country and abroad.
  4. Impartiality: As the Chairman of Rajya Sabha, the Vice President maintains impartiality in the House and ensures that parliamentary procedures are followed.

8. Write about any Four powers and functions of the State Governor.

Answer:

The Governor of a State is the constitutional head of the state. Their powers and functions include:

  1. Executive Powers: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers, and ensures that the laws are implemented within the state.
  2. Legislative Powers: The Governor can summon or prorogue the state legislature and dissolve the legislative assembly. They also give assent to bills passed by the legislature.
  3. Judicial Powers: The Governor has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, and remissions of punishment for offenses against state laws.
  4. Discretionary Powers: In certain situations, such as when no party has a clear majority, the Governor may exercise discretionary powers to appoint a Chief Minister or to dissolve the Assembly.

9. Examine the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission.

Answer:

The Sarkaria Commission (1983) was set up to examine the relationship between the Union and the States in India and to recommend measures for improving the functioning of federal institutions. Some key recommendations include:

  1. Strengthening Federalism: The commission recommended that the Union Government should not interfere in the constitutional powers of state governments unless absolutely necessary.
  2. Inter-Governmental Relations: It suggested that the Center should consult the States on major issues like financial policy and should aim to resolve disputes through dialogue and consultation.
  3. Inter-State Council: The commission proposed the establishment of an Inter-State Council to discuss and resolve issues between the Union and the States.
  4. Review of Article 356: The commission recommended that the use of Article 356 (President’s Rule) to dissolve state governments should be used only in exceptional circumstances and should be reviewed by the Parliament.

10. Discuss the powers and functions of the District Collector.

Answer:

The District Collector, also known as the District Magistrate, is the chief administrative officer in a district. Some of their key powers and functions include:

  1. Executive Function: The District Collector is responsible for the administration of government policies, schemes, and laws at the district level. They oversee various departments like education, health, and agriculture.
  2. Revenue Collection: The Collector is responsible for collecting land revenue and taxes. They also handle land disputes and settlement of properties.
  3. Law and Order: The District Collector has the responsibility to maintain law and order in the district, often working with the police to ensure peace and security.
  4. Disaster Management: The Collector plays a key role in disaster management, coordinating relief efforts during natural calamities and emergencies.
  5. Election Duty: They oversee the conduct of elections within the district, ensuring that the process is free and fair.

11. Write an essay on the Nirbhaya Act.

Answer:

The Nirbhaya Act (also known as the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013) was passed in response to the brutal gang rape and murder of a young woman (Nirbhaya) in Delhi in December 2012. The act introduced several changes in the criminal law to provide better protection to women and enhance punishment for sexual offenses. Key provisions include:

  1. Tougher Punishments: The Act introduced the death penalty for the most heinous crimes, such as rape and sexual assault, particularly when the victim is under 12 years of age.
  2. Expansion of the Definition of Rape: The Act expanded the legal definition of rape, including various forms of sexual assault such as acid attacks, stalking, and voyeurism.
  3. Faster Trials: The Act called for the establishment of fast-track courts to deal with cases of sexual violence, ensuring swift justice for victims.
  4. Gender-neutral Provisions: The Act recognized that men can also be victims of sexual assault and included provisions for gender-neutral offenses like sexual harassment.

12. Write a note on Tribal Movement in Telangana.

Answer:

The Tribal Movement in Telangana has been a significant part of the region’s history, particularly in the context of land rights and exploitation. The key elements of the tribal movement in Telangana include:

  1. Struggles for Land Rights: Tribals in Telangana fought against the exploitation of their land and resources, especially from the feudal landlords and the forest department. They demanded recognition of their customary rights over forest produce and land.
  2. Telangana Rebellion (1946-51): One of the most notable tribal uprisings in Telangana was the Telangana Rebellion, during which tribals, along with peasants, rose up against the Nizam’s rule and the feudal system that exploited them.
  3. Tribal Welfare: The demand for better welfare measures for tribals, including education, healthcare, and better representation in politics, has been a central theme of the tribal movement.

13. Explain in brief the industrial pollution in Patancheru.

Answer:

Patancheru, located near Hyderabad, is one of the most polluted industrial areas in India. The main causes of pollution include:

  1. Industrial Effluents: Factories, especially chemical plants, discharge untreated effluents directly into water bodies, leading to severe water contamination and affecting the health of local communities.
  2. Air Pollution: Industrial emissions, including harmful gases and particles, contribute to severe air pollution, causing respiratory issues and other health problems.
  3. Environmental Impact: The extensive industrialization in the region has led to the degradation of the environment, including soil contamination and loss of biodiversity.

14. Explain the provisions of the Gentleman’s Agreement.

Answer:

The Gentleman’s Agreement was a political agreement made in 1956 between leaders of the Andhra region and the Telangana region in the context of the formation of Andhra Pradesh. Key provisions included:

  1. Protection of Interests: It assured the protection of the cultural, linguistic, and economic interests of Telangana, including safeguards for jobs and development.
  2. Equal Distribution of Resources: The agreement promised equal distribution of water and other resources, ensuring that Telangana would not be neglected in terms of infrastructure development.

15. Elucidate various types of Terrorism in the Indian context.

Answer:

Terrorism in India has taken various forms over the years, including:

  1. Jihadi Terrorism: This type of terrorism is inspired by radical interpretations of Islam and includes attacks by groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed.
  2. Kashmir Insurgency: The insurgency in Kashmir has seen violent acts by separatist groups demanding independence or merger with Pakistan.
  3. Left-Wing Extremism (Naxalism): Naxalites, mainly in rural areas, engage in violent insurgency against the government, demanding land reforms and addressing socio-economic inequalities.
  4. Ethnic and Regional Terrorism: Various ethnic and regional groups, like those in the North-East and the states of Punjab, have engaged in terrorism demanding autonomy, self-rule, or independence.

16. Explain the provisions of the Right to Information Act.

Answer:

The Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005 empowers citizens to seek information from government bodies. Key provisions include:

  1. Public Authorities: It covers government bodies at the central, state, and local levels, including public sector undertakings and non-governmental organizations receiving substantial government funding.
  2. Information Disclosure: Citizens can request any information that is not exempted, and the government is required to respond within 30 days.
  3. Transparency and Accountability: The RTI Act promotes transparency and accountability in government functioning by allowing citizens to access information regarding the government’s decisions, policies, and expenditures.

17. Explain any two Features of Indian Foreign Policy.

Answer:

  1. Non-Alignment: India’s foreign policy is based on non-alignment, meaning it does not align itself with any particular power bloc, especially during the Cold War. India focuses on promoting peace, mutual cooperation, and respect among nations.
  2. Panchsheel: The Panchsheel (Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence) guide India’s diplomatic relations. These principles include mutual respect for sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and peaceful coexistence.

18. Drafting Committee

Answer: The Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution was formed in 1947 by the Constituent Assembly to draft the Constitution of India. It was headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who is known as the chief architect of the Constitution. The committee was tasked with converting the proposals discussed in the Constituent Assembly into the Constitution’s final text.

The committee consisted of 7 members, including notable figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and K.M. Munshi. The committee worked from 1947 to 1949, deliberating over provisions regarding fundamental rights, governance, and structure of the state, ultimately creating the framework that defines India’s democratic republic.

19. Any two differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles

Answer: Here are two key differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles:

  1. Legal Status:
    • Fundamental Rights: These are justiciable rights, meaning individuals can approach the judiciary if these rights are violated. They are enforceable in a court of law.
    • Directive Principles: These are non-justiciable, meaning they are not enforceable in courts. They are guidelines to the state for making laws and policies, but individuals cannot go to court if these principles are violated.
  2. Nature:
    • Fundamental Rights: These are individual rights that guarantee freedom, equality, and protection against discrimination, and are essential for the dignity of individuals.
    • Directive Principles: These are broader guidelines aimed at establishing social and economic justice in the country. They focus on welfare, economic development, and creating conditions for a just society.

20. Any four Fundamental Duties

Answer: The Fundamental Duties were added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 (based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee). Some of the key Fundamental Duties include:

  1. Respecting the National Flag and Anthem: It is the duty of every citizen to show respect to the National Flag and the National Anthem.
  2. Upholding and Protecting the Constitution: It is the duty of every citizen to abide by the Constitution, respect its ideals, and promote its values.
  3. Promoting Harmony: Citizens should promote the spirit of brotherhood, national integration, and dignity of individuals, irrespective of their religion, language, or region.
  4. Protecting the Environment: It is the duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

21. Write an Electoral College

Answer: An Electoral College is a body of electors who are responsible for selecting the President of India. The Electoral College consists of:

  1. Elected Members of Both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha)
  2. Elected Members of the Legislative Assemblies of States and Union Territories

Each member of the Electoral College has a specific number of votes, which are determined based on the population of the respective states and Union Territories. The total number of votes of the Electoral College is fixed at 1,098, with the value of each vote varying across states.

22. What is Judicial Review?

Answer: Judicial Review is the power of the judiciary to review the constitutionality of laws, orders, and actions of the executive and legislature. This means that the judiciary can invalidate laws and executive actions if they are found to be in violation of the Constitution.

In India, Judicial Review is a part of the basic structure of the Constitution, ensuring that no law or policy violates the fundamental principles laid down in the Constitution. The Supreme Court of India and High Courts have the authority to perform judicial review.

23. Write a note on the Union List.

Answer: The Union List is one of the three lists under the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which defines the distribution of legislative powers between the Union and State legislatures.

The Union List consists of subjects on which only the Union Government can legislate. These subjects are of national importance, and their laws apply across the country. Some key subjects in the Union List include defense, foreign affairs, atomic energy, and railways.

24. NITI Aayog

Answer: The NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) was established on January 1, 2015, to replace the Planning Commission. It is a policy think tank of the Indian government and serves as the apex body for formulating and monitoring India’s developmental agenda.

NITI Aayog’s main objectives include:

  1. Fostering Cooperative Federalism: It helps in building a partnership between the Union and State governments.
  2. Promoting Sustainable Development: It works on strategies for sustainable economic growth and development across the country.
  3. Monitoring Progress: It assesses the progress of schemes, programs, and projects to ensure their effective implementation.

25. ‘She-Teams’

Answer: ‘She-Teams’ are specialized police units formed by the Hyderabad City Police to combat and prevent crimes against women. These teams consist of women officers who patrol public places like malls, markets, and transport hubs to ensure the safety of women.

The She-Teams engage in both proactive and reactive roles. They conduct covert operations to identify and catch perpetrators of sexual harassment, eve-teasing, and other forms of gender-based violence. The initiative has been praised for addressing the issue of safety for women in public spaces.

26. Who are Minorities?

Answer: Minorities in India refer to groups that are numerically smaller in population compared to the dominant group in a society, and who may face social, economic, or political disadvantages. The Constitution of India defines minorities based on religion, language, and culture.

Under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians (Parsis) are recognized as religious minorities, while linguistic minorities are determined by the proportion of speakers of different languages in a given region.

27. Who are Dalits? Discuss.

Answer: Dalits (formerly referred to as Untouchables) are the lowest caste group in the traditional Indian caste system. They have historically faced severe social and economic discrimination and marginalization.

Dalits were excluded from mainstream society, denied access to education, public resources, and places of worship. Over the years, several movements, such as the Dalit Panthers and efforts led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, have worked for the upliftment of Dalits.

The Indian Constitution has provisions to protect Dalits from discrimination, such as reservations in educational institutions, government jobs, and political representation, as well as the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to prevent caste-based violence.

28. Who are the Razakars in Telangana?

Answer: The Razakars were a paramilitary group formed by the Nizam of Hyderabad in the early 1940s, primarily to resist the integration of Hyderabad State into India after Independence. The Razakars were responsible for implementing the Nizam’s policy of maintaining an independent Hyderabad and often engaged in violent activities against those who supported integration with India.

The group became notorious for its brutal suppression of political opponents and the Muslim-Hindu tensions it fostered. The Razakars were eventually disbanded after the Police Action by the Indian Army in 1948, which led to the integration of Hyderabad into India.

29. Hyderabad as Common Capital

Answer: After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and the creation of Telangana in 2014, Hyderabad was declared the common capital for both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for a period of 10 years.

This arrangement was made to ensure that both states had adequate time to establish their capitals and to address the infrastructural and administrative challenges of setting up new capitals. Hyderabad continues to be an economic and technological hub for both states, with the city housing major IT companies, educational institutions, and industries.

30. Telangana Jagruthi

Answer: Telangana Jagruthi is a prominent cultural and social organization that was founded by K. Kavitha, daughter of the first Chief Minister of Telangana, K. Chandrashekar Rao. The organization has played a significant role in raising awareness about Telangana’s cultural identity, language, and socio-political issues.

It also participated actively in the Telangana Movement and the formation of Telangana State. The organization’s activities include organizing public events, educational programs, and campaigns for social justice and empowerment.

31. Whistle Blowers

Answer: Whistleblowers are individuals who expose or report unethical or illegal activities within an organization, often at the risk of their own careers or safety. In India, the Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 provides protection to individuals who expose corruption, misconduct, or other malpractices in government bodies and public institutions.

The Act aims to safeguard whistleblowers from retaliation, such as harassment, victimization, or harm to their employment.

32. What is Accountability?

Answer: Accountability refers to the obligation of individuals or institutions, especially public officials or organizations, to be answerable for their actions, decisions, and the use of resources. It involves transparency, responsibility, and the acknowledgment of any mistakes or failures. In a democratic system, accountability ensures that government institutions serve the public interest and uphold the rule of law.

33. Forms of Corruption

Answer: Corruption in India takes various forms, including:

  1. Bribery: Offering, receiving, or soliciting money or gifts to influence actions or decisions.
  2. Nepotism: Favoritism shown to family members or close associates in matters of employment or opportunities.
  3. Embezzlement: Misappropriation or theft of funds entrusted to an individual’s care, especially in government bodies.
  4. Political Corruption: Manipulation or exploitation of political power for personal gain or to favor certain groups.

34. What is Smart City?

Answer: A Smart City uses digital technologies, IoT (Internet of Things), and data analytics to improve the quality of life for its citizens, enhance urban services, and optimize resource usage. Smart cities are designed to be efficient, sustainable, and livable, with features like intelligent traffic management, smart waste management, and widespread use of renewable energy.

35. Cantonment Board

Answer: A Cantonment Board is a local self-government body for administering cantonments, which are military areas under the control of the Ministry of Defence. These boards oversee municipal services like sanitation, water supply, roads, education, and health in cantonments.

36. Balwant Rai Mehta Committee

Answer: The Balwant Rai Mehta Committee (1957) was set up to study the functioning of local government in India and recommend improvements. It proposed the three-tier system of Panchayati Raj, which includes village, intermediate, and district levels, to decentralize power and bring governance closer to the people.

37. Who are the Members in BRICS?

Answer: BRICS is an acronym for a group of five major emerging economies:

  1. Brazil
  2. Russia
  3. India
  4. China
  5. South Africa

BRICS aims to promote economic cooperation and development, political dialogue, and cultural exchange among these nations.