TS Inter 2nd Year – Civics Previous Paper 2020

CIVICS, Paper – II

(English Version)

Time : 3 Hours Max. Marks : 100

Section: A

Marks: 3 x 10 = 30

Notes:

Answer any three of the following questions in 40 lines each.
Each question carries ten marks.

1. Explain the salient features of the Indian Constitution.

Answer:

The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world and incorporates features from various sources, including the Government of India Act 1935, the constitutions of the United States, Ireland, Canada, and France. Some of its salient features include:

Length and comprehensiveness: The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world, containing over 440 articles and 12 schedules.
Federalism: India is a federal union with a division of powers between the central government and the state governments. However, it leans towards a unitary system with a strong central government.
Parliamentary form of government: India has a parliamentary system of government, where the executive is responsible to the legislature.
Universal adult suffrage: The Constitution grants universal adult suffrage to all citizens above the age of 18.
Fundamental Rights: The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, including the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, right to life and liberty, and right to education.
Directive Principles of State Policy: The Constitution outlines Directive Principles of State Policy, which are guidelines for the government to promote social and economic welfare of the people.
Independent Judiciary: The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary to uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of citizens.
Secularism: The Constitution declares India to be a secular state, ensuring freedom of religion to all citizens.

2. Explain the fundamental rights as incorporated in the Indian Constitution.

Answer:

The Indian Constitution guarantees six fundamental rights to all citizens under Part III of the Constitution. These rights are:

Right to Equality (Article 14-18): Ensures equality before the law, prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth, and abolishes untouchability.
Right to Freedom (Article 19-22): Guarantees freedom of speech and expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, and the right to practice any profession or occupation.
Right to Freedom from Exploitation (Article 23-24): Prohibits traffic in human beings, forced labor, and child labor.
Right to Freedom of Religion (Article 25-28): Ensures freedom of conscience and the right to practice, profess, and propagate religion.
Right to Education and Culture (Article 29-30): Protects the rights of minorities to conserve their culture and language and provides for the right to education.
Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21): Guarantees the right to life and personal liberty, including the right to live with dignity, right to privacy, and right to health.

These fundamental rights are considered to be the cornerstone of Indian democracy and are protected by the courts.

3. Describe the powers of Prime Minister of India.

Answer:

The Prime Minister of India is the head of government and holds significant powers. Here are some of the key powers:

Head of the Government: The Prime Minister is the chief executive of the Union government. They are responsible for overall governance, policy formulation, and implementation.
Cabinet Leadership: The Prime Minister chairs the Cabinet meetings and is responsible for coordinating the work of various ministries. They play a crucial role in decision-making and policy formulation.
Appointment of Ministers: The Prime Minister recommends the appointment of other ministers to the President. They also allocate portfolios to ministers.
Dissolution of Parliament: The Prime Minister advises the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament).
Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces: The Prime Minister is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of India.
External Relations: The Prime Minister represents India on the international stage and plays a significant role in foreign policy and diplomacy.
Leadership of the Ruling Party: The Prime Minister is typically the leader of the ruling party in the Lok Sabha.

4. Discuss the Formation of Telangana as the 29th State in the Indian Union.

Answer:

The formation of Telangana as the 29th state of India was a long and complex process. Here are some key points:

Background: The demand for a separate Telangana state has a long history, dating back to the pre-independence era. However, the movement gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Political Agitation: The Telangana movement involved various forms of protest, including strikes, rallies, and sit-ins. The movement gained significant traction in the 2000s.
Committee Formation: The central government appointed various committees to examine the issue, such as the Srikrishna Committee.
Political Support: The demand for Telangana received support from various political parties, including the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS).
Statehood Grant: Finally, on June 2, 2014, the Parliament of India passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, creating Telangana as a separate state with Hyderabad as its capital.

5. Elucidate the role of JACs in the Telangana State Movement.

Answer:

Joint Action Committees (JACs) played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion and sustaining the momentum of the Telangana State movement. Here are some key roles:

Coordination: JACs brought together various student, employee, and political organizations under a common platform. This helped coordinate protests, rallies, and other forms of agitation.
Mobilization: JACs were instrumental in mobilizing public opinion and raising awareness about the need for a separate Telangana state. They organized public meetings, rallies, and campaigns to garner support for the movement.
Negotiations: JACs engaged in negotiations with political leaders and government officials to press for the creation of a separate state.
Maintaining Momentum: JACs played a vital role in sustaining the momentum of the movement, especially during periods of lull or setbacks.

Section: B

Marks: 8 x 5 = 40

Notes:

Answer any eight of the following questions in 20 lines each.
Each question carries five marks.

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

Answer:

The Indian National Movement was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon with various contributing factors. Here are four key causes:

Economic Exploitation: The British colonial rule led to the economic exploitation of India. The British drained India’s wealth through policies like the Drain of Wealth theory, where resources were extracted from India and transferred to Britain. This economic exploitation fueled resentment among Indians.
Social and Political Discrimination: The British policies often discriminated against Indians. They were denied high-ranking positions in the administration and faced social and political discrimination. This fueled a sense of nationalism and the desire for self-rule.
Rise of Nationalism in Europe: The rise of nationalism in Europe in the 19th century inspired Indian intellectuals and leaders. They drew inspiration from the French Revolution and the unification of Germany and Italy.
Social and Religious Reforms: The social and religious reform movements in India, such as the Brahmo Samaj and the Arya Samaj, played a crucial role in awakening national consciousness. These movements challenged social evils like caste discrimination and promoted social and religious reforms.

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

Answer:

The Vice President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of all the elected members of both Houses of Parliament (Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha). The election is held by secret ballot.

Functions of the Vice President:

Chairman of the Rajya Sabha: The Vice President is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. They preside over the sessions of the Rajya Sabha and maintain order and decorum in the House.
Acting President: In the absence of the President, the Vice President assumes the office of the President.
Casting Vote: In case of a tie in the Rajya Sabha, the Vice President, as Chairman, has the casting vote.

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

Answer:

The Governor is the constitutional head of a state in India. While their powers are largely discretionary, they are expected to act on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.

Powers and Functions:

Constitutional Head: The Governor is the constitutional head of the state.
Appointment of Chief Minister: The Governor appoints the Chief Minister who commands a majority in the state legislature.
Dissolution of State Legislative Assembly: The Governor can dissolve the state legislative assembly on the advice of the Chief Minister.
Assent to Bills: The Governor has the power to give assent to bills passed by the state legislature. They can also reserve bills for the consideration of the President.
Maintaining Law and Order: The Governor is responsible for maintaining law and order in the state.
Appointing High Court Judges: The Governor appoints judges to the High Court in consultation with the Chief Justice of India and the Chief Justice of the High Court.

9. Describe the legislative relations between Union and States.

Answer:

The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Union and the States. However, it leans towards a unitary system with a strong central government.

Legislative Relations:

Union List: The Union List contains subjects on which the Parliament has exclusive power to legislate, such as defense, foreign affairs, and currency.
State List: The State List contains subjects on which the state legislatures have exclusive power to legislate, such as law and order, public health, and education.
Concurrent List: The Concurrent List contains subjects on which both the Union and the States have the power to legislate. However, in case of a conflict, the Union laws prevail.
Residual Powers: The Constitution vests residual powers (powers not explicitly mentioned in any list) with the Union government.

10. Explain the powers and functions of District Collector.

Answer:

The District Collector is a senior administrative officer in India who heads the district administration. They play a crucial role in implementing government policies and programs at the district level.

Powers and Functions:

Implementation of Government Policies: The District Collector is responsible for implementing government policies and programs at the district level, including revenue collection, law and order maintenance, disaster management, and development activities.
Revenue Administration: They oversee the collection of land revenue, taxes, and other government dues.
Maintenance of Law and Order: The District Collector is responsible for maintaining law and order in the district and coordinating with law enforcement agencies.
Disaster Management: They play a crucial role in disaster management and relief operations during natural calamities.
Development Activities: The District Collector oversees various development activities in the district, such as rural development, education, and healthcare.

Note: These answers provide a brief overview of the topics. For a complete and comprehensive understanding, you should refer to your textbook or other relevant resources.

11. Write an essay on Nirbhaya Act.

This question requires you to write an essay on the Nirbhaya Act, also known as the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013.

Here are some key points you could include in your essay:

Background: Briefly discuss the incident that led to the enactment of the Nirbhaya Act (the 2012 Delhi gang rape).
Key Provisions: Outline the main provisions of the Act, such as:
- Enhanced punishments for sexual assault and other crimes against women.
- Establishment of fast-track courts for speedy trials.
- Provisions for stricter bail conditions for accused persons.
- Measures to protect the identity of victims.
- Introduction of new offenses like stalking and acid attacks.
Impact and Significance: Discuss the impact of the Nirbhaya Act on women’s safety and the legal system. Analyze whether the Act has been effective in achieving its objectives.
Challenges and Limitations: Discuss any challenges or limitations in the implementation and enforcement of the Nirbhaya Act

12. Write a note on Tribal Movement in Telangana.

Answer:

Telangana has a rich history of tribal movements, driven by issues of land rights, displacement, and cultural identity. The Adivasi Pullamulla Golla Kurram (APGK) movement, led by Komaram Bheem, is a prominent example. It fought against feudal exploitation and for the rights of the Gond tribe.

Other notable movements include the Adilabad peasant uprising and the Telangana statehood movement, which involved significant participation from tribal communities. These movements highlight the struggle for self-determination and the preservation of tribal culture and identity in Telangana.

13. Explain in brief the Industrial Pollution in Patancheru (Telangana).

Answer:

Patancheru, an industrial hub in Telangana, faces severe environmental challenges due to industrial pollution. The concentration of pharmaceutical, chemical, and other industries has led to significant air and water pollution.

Air pollution is caused by emissions from factories, while untreated industrial effluents contaminate local water bodies. This pollution has adverse effects on human health, agriculture, and the local ecosystem. The government has taken steps to address the issue, but the problem persists.

14. Explain the provisions of Gentleman’s Agreement.

Answer:

The Gentleman’s Agreement was an informal agreement between the United States and Japan in 1907-1908. It aimed to curb Japanese immigration to the United States. Under this agreement, Japan agreed to limit the emigration of its citizens to the U.S., while the U.S. agreed to end anti-Japanese legislation in California.

The agreement was a response to growing anti-Japanese sentiment in the U.S. and aimed to ease tensions between the two countries. However, it was discriminatory and violated the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

15. Describe the various anticorruption laws in India.

Answer:

India has a comprehensive legal framework to combat corruption. Key laws include:

Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: This act deals with bribery, criminal misconduct by public servants, and illegal gratification.
The Right to Information Act, 2005: This act promotes transparency and accountability by giving citizens the right to access information from public authorities.
Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013: This act establishes institutions at the central and state levels to investigate and prosecute corruption cases involving public servants.
Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016: This act prohibits benami transactions, which are transactions where the real beneficiary is different from the person in whose name the property is held.

16. What is SMART Governance?

Answer:

SMART governance is an approach to public administration that emphasizes specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. It aims to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in government operations.

SMART governance principles can be applied to various aspects of public administration, such as policy formulation, service delivery, and resource management.

17. Briefly describe the powers and functions of the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN).

Answer:

The Secretary-General of the UN is the chief administrative officer of the organization. Key powers and functions include:

Representing the UN to the world
Bringing issues to the attention of the Security Council
Overseeing the UN Secretariat
Promoting international peace and security
Acting as a mediator in conflicts
Implementing UN programs and initiatives
12. Write a note on Tribal Movement in Telangana.

Answer:

Telangana has a rich history of tribal movements, driven by issues of land rights, displacement, and cultural identity. The Adivasi Pullamulla Golla Kurram (APGK) movement, led by Komaram Bheem, is a prominent example. It fought against feudal exploitation and for the rights of the Gond tribe.

Other notable movements include the Adilabad peasant uprising and the Telangana statehood movement, which involved significant participation from tribal communities. These movements highlight the struggle for self-determination and the preservation of tribal culture and identity in Telangana.

13. Explain in brief the Industrial Pollution in Patancheru (Telangana).

Answer:

Patancheru, an industrial hub in Telangana, faces severe environmental challenges due to industrial pollution. The concentration of pharmaceutical, chemical, and other industries has led to significant air and water pollution.

Air pollution is caused by emissions from factories, while untreated industrial effluents contaminate local water bodies. This pollution has adverse effects on human health, agriculture, and the local ecosystem. The government has taken steps to address the issue, but the problem persists.

14. Explain the provisions of Gentleman’s Agreement.

Answer:

The Gentleman’s Agreement was an informal agreement between the United States and Japan in 1907-1908. It aimed to curb Japanese immigration to the United States. Under this agreement, Japan agreed to limit the emigration of its citizens to the U.S., while the U.S. agreed to end anti-Japanese legislation in California.

The agreement was a response to growing anti-Japanese sentiment in the U.S. and aimed to ease tensions between the two countries. However, it was discriminatory and violated the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

15. Describe the various anticorruption laws in India.

Answer:

India has a comprehensive legal framework to combat corruption. Key laws include:
- Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: This act deals with bribery, criminal misconduct by public servants, and illegal gratification.
- The Right to Information Act, 2005: This act promotes transparency and accountability by giving citizens the right to access information from public authorities.
- Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013: This act establishes institutions at the central and state levels to investigate and prosecute corruption cases involving public servants.
- Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016: This act prohibits benami transactions, which are transactions where the real beneficiary is different from the person in whose name the property is held.
16. What is SMART Governance?

Answer:

SMART governance is an approach to public administration that emphasizes specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. It aims to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in government operations.

SMART governance principles can be applied to various aspects of public administration, such as policy formulation, service delivery, and resource management.

17. Briefly describe the powers and functions of the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN).

Answer:

The Secretary-General of the UN is the chief administrative officer of the organization. Key powers and functions include:
- Representing the UN to the world
- Bringing issues to the attention of the Security Council
- Overseeing the UN Secretariat
- Promoting international peace and security
- Acting as a mediator in conflicts
- Implementing UN programs and initiative

Section: C

Marks: 15 x 2 = 30

18. What is Civil Disobedience Movement?

The Civil Disobedience Movement, also known as the Salt Satyagraha, was a major non-violent protest campaign launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1930 against British rule in India. It aimed to challenge the British Salt Act, which imposed a tax on salt, a staple for Indians. The movement involved mass participation, including the famous Dandi March, where Gandhi and his followers marched 241 miles to the sea to break the salt law.

19. Socialistic Principles.

Socialistic principles are a set of ideas that emphasize social and economic equality, collective ownership, and the welfare of society as a whole. Key principles include:

Social Justice: Ensuring fair distribution of resources and opportunities.
Economic Equality: Reducing income and wealth disparities.
Public Welfare: Providing essential services like healthcare, education, and social security.
Collective Ownership: Promoting cooperative ownership of resources.
State Intervention: Government intervention to regulate markets and protect social welfare.

20. Any four Fundamental Duties.

Fundamental Duties are moral obligations that citizens of India are expected to uphold. Some examples include:

Respecting the National Flag and National Anthem.
Cherishing the noble ideals that inspired our national struggle for freedom.
Protecting the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
Developing scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
Safeguarding public property and preventing violence.

21. National Emergency (352)

Article 352 of the Indian Constitution empowers the President to declare a National Emergency in the event of an external aggression or internal disturbance that threatens the security of India or a part of it. During an emergency, the President can assume wide-ranging powers, including the power to suspend fundamental rights and take over the administration of states.

22. What is judicial review?

Judicial review is the power of the judiciary to review laws and government actions to determine their constitutionality. It is a fundamental principle of constitutional democracy, ensuring that the government acts within the limits of the Constitution. The Supreme Court of India has the power of judicial review, which it exercises through its judgments in various cases.

23. Write a short note on the Sarkaria Commission.

The Sarkaria Commission was a high-level body constituted by the Government of India in 1983 to examine Centre-State relations. It was tasked with reviewing the existing arrangements and suggesting measures to strengthen federalism and inter-governmental cooperation. The Commission’s report, submitted in 1988, made several recommendations, including:

Strengthening the role of the Inter-State Council.
Granting greater autonomy to states in matters of their concern.
Ensuring financial stability for states.
Promoting cooperative federalism through inter-state cooperation.

24. NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog is the National Institution for Transforming India, a policy think tank formed in 2015 to replace the Planning Commission. It aims to foster cooperative federalism and promote economic growth and development in India. Key functions of NITI Aayog include:

Providing strategic policy direction to the government.
Fostering the competitive federalism spirit.
Strengthening Centre-State cooperation.
Giving direction to sectoral policies.

25. Cantonment Board

A Cantonment Board is a local governing body responsible for the administration of cantonments, which are areas primarily inhabited by military personnel. They are established under the Cantonments Act, 2006. Cantonment Boards provide civic amenities like water supply, sanitation, street lighting, and maintenance of roads and parks to the residents of the cantonment areas.

26. Gram Sabha

The Gram Sabha is the heart of local self-governance in rural India. It is a body of all adult residents of a village, and its role is crucial in decision-making regarding development and governance issues at the village level. The Gram Sabha has powers to approve the village development plan, monitor the work of the Gram Panchayat, and participate in the planning and implementation of development programs.

27. SHE Teams

SHE Teams are special teams formed by the Telangana government to address issues of violence against women and girls. They are empowered to take immediate action against eve-teasing, sexual harassment, and other forms of violence against women in public spaces. The SHE Teams have been successful in creating a safer environment for women in Telangana.

28. Who were the Razakars in Telangana?

The Razakars were a paramilitary force that operated in the Hyderabad State during the pre-integration period. They were known for their violent activities against the local population, particularly against Hindus and other non-Muslims. The Razakars played a significant role in the conflict that led to the integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union in 1948.

29. Who are Dalits? Discuss.

Dalits, also known as Scheduled Castes, are a socially and economically marginalized group in India. They have historically faced discrimination and oppression due to their caste status. The Indian Constitution has provisions for the upliftment of Dalits, including reservations in education and government jobs. However, despite these measures, Dalits continue to face challenges in accessing education, employment, and other opportunities.

30. Sakala Janula Samme

The Sakala Janula Samme (All People’s Struggle) was a massive protest movement in Telangana demanding the formation of a separate state. The movement, which began in 2009, involved widespread participation from various sections of society, including students, employees, farmers, and intellectuals. The protests put immense pressure on the central government, eventually leading to the formation of Telangana in 2014.

31. Million March

The Million March was a large-scale protest organized by students and youth in Telangana in 2009. The march, which saw the participation of lakhs of people, was a significant event in the Telangana statehood movement. It demonstrated the widespread support for the cause and put pressure on the government to address the demands of the people.

32. Kulasangala J.A.C.

Kulasangala J.A.C. (Joint Action Committee) was a broad alliance of political parties, student organizations, and social activists formed to spearhead the Telangana statehood movement. The J.A.C. played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion, coordinating protests, and putting pressure on the government.

33. MIM

MIM stands for the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, a political party based in Hyderabad. It is primarily focused on representing the interests of the Muslim community. The MIM has a significant presence in Hyderabad and has been a key player in the city’s politics.

34. Forms of Corruption

Corruption is a pervasive issue that manifests in various forms. Some common forms of corruption include:

Bribery: Offering or accepting bribes for personal gain.
Embezzlement: Misappropriation of public funds.
Nepotism: Favoring relatives or friends in appointments and contracts.
Extortion: Illegally obtaining money or property through threats or force.
Cronyism: Showing favoritism to friends and associates.

35. Explain the displacement scenario in India.

Displacement is a major challenge in India, affecting millions of people. It occurs due to various factors, including development projects (dams, mines, highways), natural disasters, and conflict. Displacement often leads to loss of livelihoods, homes, and social networks, causing significant hardship for those affected.

36. What is a Smart City?

A Smart City is an urban area that uses technology to improve the quality of life for its citizens. It integrates various technologies like IoT, AI, and big data to manage resources efficiently, provide better services, and create a sustainable environment. Key features of a Smart City include:

Smart transportation: Efficient public transport, traffic management, and parking solutions.
Smart governance: Citizen-centric services, e-governance, and transparency.
Smart infrastructure: Sustainable buildings, smart grids, and water management.
Smart living: Safe and secure living environment, healthcare services, and education.

37. Who are the members in BRICS?

BRICS is an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. These five emerging economies form a powerful bloc that plays a significant role in the global economy and geopolitics.