TS Inter 2nd Year – Civics Previous  Paper 2023

SECTION A

Note:

  • Answer ANY THREE of the following questions in 40 lines each.
  • Each question carries TEN marks.

1. Describe the powers of Prime Minister of India.

2. Explain the salient features of the Indian Constitution.

These questions are typical of those found in Political Science (Civics) papers, particularly at the intermediate or higher secondary level. Let’s break down what each question entails:

1. Describe the powers of Prime Minister of India.

This question requires a comprehensive understanding of the Indian political system and the role of the Prime Minister. To answer this effectively, you would need to discuss:

  • Executive Powers:
    • Head of Government: The Prime Minister is the chief executive of the Union government.
    • Appoints Ministers: The Prime Minister appoints and dismisses ministers in the Council of Ministers.
    • Chairs Cabinet Meetings: The Prime Minister presides over Cabinet meetings and directs government policy.
    • Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces: The Prime Minister is the supreme commander of the Indian Armed Forces.
    • Foreign Policy: The Prime Minister plays a key role in formulating and implementing foreign policy.
  • Legislative Powers:
    • Introduces Legislation: The Prime Minister and the Cabinet are collectively responsible for introducing legislation in Parliament.
    • Guides Legislation: The Prime Minister guides the legislative process in Parliament.
  • Financial Powers:
    • Presents the Budget: The Prime Minister presents the Union Budget to Parliament.
  • Extraordinary Powers:
    • Dissolution of Parliament: The Prime Minister advises the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha.
    • Emergency Powers: The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in dealing with national emergencies.

2. Explain the salient features of the Indian Constitution.

This question delves into the core characteristics of the Indian Constitution. To answer this effectively, you would need to discuss:

  • Lengthiest Written Constitution: The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world.
  • Federal Features: It establishes a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Union and the states.
  • Parliamentary Democracy: India follows a parliamentary system of government, where the executive is responsible to the legislature.   
  • Social and Economic Justice: The Constitution emphasizes social and economic justice, aiming to create a more equitable society.
  • Fundamental Rights and Duties: It guarantees fundamental rights to citizens and also outlines fundamental duties.
  • Directive Principles of State Policy: The Constitution provides guidelines for the state to follow in achieving social and economic goals.
  • Secularism: India is a secular state, ensuring freedom of religion for all citizens.
  • Flexibility and Rigidity: The Constitution is both flexible and rigid, allowing for amendments while preserving its core principles.

3. Describe the composition, powers and functions of Election Commission of India.

Composition:

  • The Election Commission of India is a body corporate consisting of a Chief Election Commissioner and usually two other Election Commissioners.
  • All members of the Election Commission are appointed by the President of India.
  • They hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65, whichever is earlier.

Powers and Functions:

  • Conducting Elections: The primary function of the Election Commission is to conduct free and fair elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India.
  • Delimitation of Constituencies: The Election Commission is responsible for delimiting constituencies for elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies.
  • Voter Registration: The Commission maintains the electoral rolls and ensures that all eligible citizens are registered as voters.
  • Model Code of Conduct: The Election Commission issues a Model Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates during elections to ensure free and fair elections.
  • Settlement of Disputes: The Election Commission has the power to settle disputes related to elections, such as complaints regarding electoral malpractices.
  • Administrative Control: The Commission has administrative control over all matters relating to elections in India.

4. Discuss the Formation of Telangana as the new State in the Indian Union.

The formation of Telangana as a separate state in 2014 was a result of a long and protracted political struggle.

  • Historical Background: The Telangana region had a distinct cultural and historical identity. However, after India’s independence, it was merged with Andhra Pradesh, leading to concerns about regional imbalances and neglect of Telangana’s interests.

  • Movement for Statehood: The demand for a separate Telangana state gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Various political parties, civil society organizations, and student groups participated in the movement, organizing protests, rallies, and strikes.

  • Key Events: The movement gained significant traction in the late 2000s. The Telangana Joint Action Committee (TJAC) played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion and coordinating the movement.

  • Role of the Central Government: The UPA government at the center, after careful consideration and consultations, announced the decision to create the state of Telangana in 2014.

  • Formation of the State: The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, was passed by the Parliament, officially creating the state of Telangana on June 2, 2014.

  • Significance: The formation of Telangana is a significant milestone in Indian federalism. It demonstrates the power of people’s movements and the importance of addressing regional aspirations.

5. What are the differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy?

Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State 1 Policy are two important pillars of the Indian Constitution. While both aim to promote the welfare of the people, they differ significantly in their nature and enforceability. 

Fundamental Rights:

  • Legally Enforceable: Fundamental Rights are legally enforceable. Citizens can approach the courts to seek redress if their Fundamental Rights are violated.
  • Justiciable: They are justiciable, meaning they can be enforced through the courts.
  • Negative Rights: They primarily impose limitations on the state, restricting its actions that might infringe upon individual liberties.
  • Examples: Right to equality, right to freedom of speech and expression, right to life and personal liberty.

Directive Principles of State Policy:

  • Not Legally Enforceable: Directive Principles are not legally enforceable. They cannot be directly claimed in a court of law.
  • Non-Justiciable: They are not justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced through the courts.
  • Positive Obligations: They impose positive obligations on the state to work towards achieving social and economic goals.
  • Examples: Right to work, right to education, right to a decent standard of living.

In essence, Fundamental Rights are enforceable legal rights that protect individuals from state interference, while Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the state to strive towards a just and equitable society.

SECTION B

Note:

  • Answer ANY EIGHT of the following questions in 20 lines each.
  • Each question carries FIVE marks.

6. Write about powers and functions of the State Governor.

The State Governor is the constitutional head of a state in India. While they hold significant constitutional powers, their role is largely ceremonial and symbolic in practice. Here’s a breakdown of their powers and functions:

Powers:

  • Executive Powers:

    • Appoints the Chief Minister: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister who commands a majority in the State Legislative Assembly.
    • Appoints and dismisses ministers: The Governor appoints and dismisses ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister.
    • Assents to Bills: The Governor gives assent to bills passed by the State Legislature. They can also reserve a bill for the consideration of the President or even withhold assent in certain cases.
    • Issues Ordinances: The Governor can issue ordinances when the State Legislature is not in session. However, these ordinances must be approved by the Legislature within six weeks.

  • Legislative Powers:

    • Summoning and Prorogation of the State Legislature: The Governor summons and prorogues the sessions of the State Legislature.
    • Address to the Legislature: The Governor addresses the State Legislature at the beginning of each session.

  • Financial Powers:

    • Gives Assent to State Budgets: The Governor gives assent to the State budget.

  • Judicial Powers:

    • Appoints Judges to High Courts: The Governor appoints judges to the High Court in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Chief Minister.
    • Pardoning Power: The Governor has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishments or to suspend, remit or commute sentences in certain cases.   

Functions:

  • Constitutional Head: The Governor is the constitutional head of the state, representing the President of India.
  • Guardian of the Constitution: The Governor is responsible for upholding the Constitution of India.
  • Promoting harmony: The Governor plays a role in maintaining harmony and cooperation between different branches of the state government.
  • Maintaining law and order: The Governor is responsible for maintaining law and order within the state.
  • Centre of communication: The Governor acts as a link between the state government and the Union government.

7. Examine the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission.

The Sarkaria Commission was appointed by the Government of India to review the Centre-State relations. It submitted its report in 1988, making several important recommendations:

  • Strengthening State Autonomy: The Commission recommended strengthening the autonomy of states within the framework of the Constitution.
  • Resolving Inter-State Disputes: The Commission suggested the establishment of an Inter-State Council to resolve disputes between states.
  • Role of the Governor: The Commission recommended that the role of the Governor should be strictly constitutional and apolitical. It emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality and avoiding any interference in the functioning of the state government.
  • Centre-State Relations: The Commission recommended measures to improve communication and cooperation between the Centre and the states.

8. Write about election of Vice President and his functions.

The Vice-President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament.

Functions:

  • Chairman of Rajya Sabha: The most important function of the Vice-President is to serve as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (upper house of Parliament).
  • Acts as President: The Vice-President assumes the office of the President in case of the death, resignation, or removal of the President from office.
  • Casting Vote: In case of a tie in the Rajya Sabha, the Vice-President, as Chairman, has the casting vote.

9. What is E-Governance? Explain its merits.

E-Governance refers to the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) such as computers and the internet to deliver government services, exchange information, and conduct business transactions electronically between the government and the public, business, or other arms of the government.

Merits of E-Governance:

  • Improved Efficiency and Transparency: E-governance streamlines government processes, reduces paperwork, and improves efficiency. It also enhances transparency by making information readily accessible to the public.
  • Increased Accessibility and Convenience: It provides citizens with easy access to government services from anywhere, anytime, improving convenience and reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.
  • Reduced Corruption: By minimizing human intervention in service delivery, e-governance can help reduce corruption and ensure fair and equitable access to services.
  • Better Service Delivery: E-governance enables the government to deliver services more effectively and efficiently, leading to improved service delivery and increased citizen satisfaction.
  • Accountability and Transparency: E-governance promotes accountability and transparency by making government operations more visible and accessible to the public.
  • Economic Growth: E-governance can contribute to economic growth by facilitating trade, improving business processes, and attracting investment.

10. Describe the legislative relations between Union and States.

The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Union and the States. However, the relationship between the Union and the States is complex and dynamic. Here are some key aspects of their legislative relations:

  • Union List: The Union List contains subjects on which only the Parliament can legislate, such as defense, foreign affairs, and currency.
  • State List: The State List contains subjects on which only the State Legislatures can legislate, such as education, agriculture, and law and order.
  • Concurrent List: The Concurrent List contains subjects on which both the Parliament and State Legislatures can legislate. However, in case of a conflict, the Union laws prevail.
  • Residual Powers: The Constitution vests residual powers (powers not explicitly mentioned in any of the lists) with the Union.
  • Legislative Relations:
    • Parliament can legislate on any subject in the State List in the national interest.
    • States can legislate on subjects in the Concurrent List, but if there is a conflict, the Union law shall prevail.
    • The President can also ask Parliament to legislate on a subject in the State List if it is necessary in the national interest.

11. Explain the provisions of A.P. Reorganisation Act, 2014.

The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, was passed by the Indian Parliament to create the new state of Telangana. Key provisions of the Act include:

  • Formation of Telangana: The Act carved out 10 districts from the existing state of Andhra Pradesh to form the new state of Telangana.
  • Hyderabad as Joint Capital: Hyderabad was designated as the common capital for both Telangana and the residual state of Andhra Pradesh for a period of ten years.
  • Division of Assets and Liabilities: The Act provided for the division of assets and liabilities between the two states.
  • Legislative Assembly Seats: The Act allocated seats in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies to both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
  • Provisions for Development: The Act included provisions for the development of Telangana, particularly in areas of education, infrastructure, and irrigation.

12. Explain any two features of Indian Foreign Policy.

Indian Foreign Policy is guided by several core principles and objectives. Here are two key features:

1. Non-Alignment:

  • Core Principle: India has traditionally pursued a policy of non-alignment, meaning it does not align itself with any major power bloc, such as NATO or the Warsaw Pact. It aims to maintain its independence in decision-making and not get entangled in power struggles between major powers.
  • Historical Context: This policy was articulated by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru after India’s independence. It was a response to the Cold War era, where the world was divided into two major power blocs led by the United States and the Soviet Union.
  • Implications: Non-alignment allows India to pursue its own national interests and maintain friendly relations with all countries, regardless of their political ideology or alliances. It has enabled India to play a significant role in promoting peace and cooperation in the international arena.

2. Peaceful Coexistence:

  • Core Principle: India advocates for peaceful coexistence among nations and opposes the use of force in international relations. It believes that all international disputes should be resolved through peaceful means such as dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiation.
  • Panchsheel: This principle is closely linked to the Panchsheel principles, which were first articulated in the 1954 Agreement on Trade and Relations between India and China. These principles include peaceful coexistence, mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference in internal affairs, and equality and mutual benefit.  
  • lobal Impact: India’s commitment to peaceful coexistence has earned it respect in the international community. It has played a crucial role in promoting peace and stability in various regions of the world, including South Asia.

These two features, non-alignment and peaceful coexistence, have been cornerstones of Indian foreign policy since its inception. They have shaped India’s approach to international relations and contributed to its image as a responsible and influential member of the international community.

13. Describe the main provisions of the 73rd Constitution Amendment Act, 1992.

The 73rd Constitution Amendment Act, 1992, is a landmark legislation in India that provides for the establishment of Panchayati Raj institutions (PRIs) at the village, intermediate, and district levels. It aims to decentralize power and empower local self-government.

Key Provisions:

  • Constitutional Status: The Act provides constitutional status to Panchayati Raj institutions, making them an integral part of the Indian democratic system.
  • Three-Tier System: It mandates the establishment of a three-tier system of Panchayati Raj institutions at the village, intermediate (block), and district levels.
  • Regular Elections: The Act mandates regular elections to the Panchayati Raj institutions through universal adult suffrage.
  • Financial Powers: It provides for the devolution of functions and funds to Panchayati Raj institutions.
  • State Finance Commissions: The Act mandates the establishment of State Finance Commissions to review the financial position of Panchayats and recommend measures for their financial upgradation.
  • Reservation for SCs, STs, and Women: The Act provides for reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women in Panchayati Raj institutions.

14. Explain any four causes for the Indian National Movement.

The Indian National Movement was a long and arduous struggle for India’s independence from British colonial rule. Several factors contributed to its rise and growth. Here are four key causes:

  • Economic Exploitation: The British colonial rule exploited India’s resources and impoverished the Indian economy. High taxes, land revenue policies, and the drain of wealth to Britain fueled resentment among the Indian people.
  • Social and Political Discrimination: The British discriminated against Indians in various ways, denying them equal rights and opportunities. This discrimination fueled nationalist sentiments and a desire for self-rule.
  • Rise of Nationalism: The rise of nationalist ideas in Europe and the world inspired Indian intellectuals and leaders. They began to envision an independent India based on principles of self-determination and national sovereignty.
  • Role of Indian Leaders: The emergence of charismatic leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose provided inspiration and direction to the movement. Their leadership mobilized public opinion and united people from different backgrounds in the struggle for freedom.

15. Briefly write about Electoral Reforms in India.

Electoral reforms are aimed at improving the quality and fairness of elections in India. Some key areas of electoral reform include:

  • Election Funding Reforms: Measures to regulate and transparently fund political parties and campaigns.
  • Improving Voter Turnout: Efforts to increase voter participation, particularly among young and marginalized sections of society.
  • Strengthening the Election Commission: Enhancing the powers and resources of the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections.
  • Electoral Roll Purification: Ensuring the accuracy and integrity of electoral rolls by removing duplicate entries and identifying ineligible voters.
  • Use of Technology: Utilizing technology to improve election administration, such as electronic voting machines and online voter registration.

16. Describe various anti-corruption laws in India.

India has enacted several laws to combat corruption. Some key anti-corruption laws include:

  • Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: This Act deals with offenses related to bribery, corruption, and criminal misconduct by public servants.
  • Right to Information Act, 2005: This Act provides citizens with the right to access information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability.
  • Lokpal and Lokayukta Acts: These acts provide for the establishment of institutions to investigate and prosecute corruption cases against public servants.
  • Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016: This Act aims to curb black money and corruption by making benami transactions illegal.

17. Explain the provisions of Gentlemen’s Agreement.

The Gentlemen’s Agreement was an informal agreement between the United States and Japan in 1907-1908. It was aimed at reducing Japanese immigration to the United States.

  • Key Provisions: The agreement limited the number of Japanese laborers entering the United States. In return, the Japanese government agreed to restrict the issuance of passports to the United States for Japanese laborers.

  • Impact: The Gentlemen’s Agreement was a significant event in the history of US-Japan relations. It reflected the growing tensions between the two countries over immigration and trade issues.

SECTION – C

Note:

  • Answer ANY FIFTEEN of the following questions in 5 lines each.
  • Each question carries TWO marks.

18. Composition of Electoral College.

The Electoral College is the body responsible for electing the President and Vice-President of India. It consists of elected members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of all states and union territories.  

19. Methods of Extremists.

Extremists employ various methods to achieve their goals, which often involve violence and disregard for the rule of law. These methods can include terrorism, sabotage, assassination, and other forms of violence.

20. Gram Sabha

Gram Sabha is the village assembly in the Panchayati Raj system in India. It is the cornerstone of local self-governance, consisting of all adult members of the village. Gram Sabha plays a crucial role in decision-making and development planning at the village level.

21. Concurrent List

The Concurrent List is a list of subjects on which both the Parliament and State Legislatures have the power to legislate. However, in case of a conflict between a Central law and a State law on a subject in the Concurrent List, the Central law prevails.   

22. Drafting Committee.

The Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly was responsible for drafting the Constitution of India. It was chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and comprised of seven members.

23. What are Electronic Voting Machines?

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are machines used in India for conducting elections. They are designed to record votes electronically and ensure the accuracy and transparency of the electoral process.

24. When is National Voters’ Day observed?

National Voters’ Day is observed every year on January 25th to create awareness about the importance of voting and to encourage voter participation in elections.

25. List the main organs of UNO.

The main organs of the United Nations (UNO) are:

    • The General Assembly
    • The Security Council
    • The International Court of Justice
    • The Economic and Social Council
    • The Secretariat  
    • The Trusteeship Council (currently inactive)

        26. Right to Equality.

        The Right to Equality is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. It prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. It also ensures equality before the law and equal protection of the laws.

        27. Composition of Rajya Sabha

        The Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament, has a maximum strength of 250 members.

        • 233 members are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies through a system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.  
        • 12 members are nominated by the President of India for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social service.

        28. Assembly Speaker.

        The Assembly Speaker is the presiding officer of the Legislative Assembly in a state. They are responsible for maintaining order and decorum during the proceedings of the Assembly, ensuring fair debates, and conducting the business of the House.

        29. Sarpanch.

        The Sarpanch is the elected head of a Gram Panchayat (village council) in the Panchayati Raj system of India. They are responsible for the overall administration and development of the village.

        30. Whistle Blowers.

        Whistle-blowers are individuals who expose illegal, unethical, or corrupt activities within an organization or government. They play a crucial role in maintaining transparency and accountability.

        31. Mulki Rules.

        The Mulki Rules were a set of regulations in Hyderabad State that gave preference to local residents in government jobs. These rules were implemented in the 1920s and later became a source of controversy, leading to protests and demands for their relaxation.

        32. Characteristics of Terrorism.

        Terrorism is the unlawful use or threat of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, for political aims. Key characteristics include:

        • The use of violence to achieve political goals
        • Targeting civilians to create fear and panic
        • The use of unlawful and indiscriminate violence
        • Aiming to destabilize governments and undermine social order

        33. Million March.

        The Million March refers to a series of large-scale protests held in Telangana in support of the statehood movement. These protests, which drew massive crowds, played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion and pressuring the government to create the state of Telangana.

        34. Sakala Janula Samme.

        Sakala Janula Samme (General Strike) was a major protest held in Telangana in 2014 to demand the immediate formation of the state of Telangana. The strike, which involved widespread participation from various sections of society, put immense pressure on the government and contributed to the creation of the new state.

        35. List out the Stakeholders in Governance.

        Stakeholders in governance are individuals or groups that are affected by or have an interest in government policies and decisions. They include:

        • Citizens
        • Political parties
        • Civil society organizations
        • Businesses
        • Media
        • International organizations

        36. In which year the RTI was enacted & enforced?

        The Right to Information Act (RTI) was enacted in India in 2005 and came into force on October 12, 2005.

        37. What is BIMSTEC?

        BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation. It is a regional organization 1 comprising seven member states located around the Bay of Bengal: Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal, and Bhutan. BIMSTEC aims to promote economic cooperation and regional integration among its member states.