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UPSC Mains 2024 · General Studies Paper II

UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 2 Questions with Answer Frameworks

All 20 questions of General Studies Paper II, UPSC Mains 2024, held on 21 September 2024, each with an answer framework that shows what the question asks, a strong opening, the points to cover and a balanced conclusion.

  • 21 September 2024Exam date
  • 20Questions
  • 250Marks
  • 3 hoursTime
See the questions Official PDF Answer booklet
GS Paper 2 in other years:202620252024

UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 2 Questions

GS II Q1Polity

Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation – one election” principle.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Examine Probe the issue in depth: Causes, evidence and consequences.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Give both sides of simultaneous elections, then name the Kovind committee and the 129th Amendment Bill.

What the question asks

Examine why electoral reforms are needed, as committees have recommended, with particular reference to 'one nation, one election' (simultaneous elections): The case for it, the case against, and what the reform requires.

A strong opening

Simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies were the norm from 1951-52 to 1967. The cycle broke in 1968 and 1969 when some Assemblies were dissolved early, and today some election is held almost every year.

Points to cover

What committees have proposed

  • The Law Commission's draft report of August 2018 favoured holding all direct elections within a single year and listed the amendments needed to the Constitution, the Representation of the People Act and the House rules.
  • A high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, set up on 2 September 2023, recommended a framework for synchronised elections, with panchayat and municipal polls following the national and State polls.
  • The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 17 December 2024.

The case for simultaneous elections

  • Saves public money and the cost of repeated polls; reduces the strain on administration and security forces.
  • Policy continuity: The model code of conduct would not freeze development work so often.
  • Less time spent on campaigning and more on governance.

Concerns

  • Federalism: State issues may be drowned out by national ones, and early dissolution of an Assembly needs a workable rule.
  • Constitutional amendments touching Articles 83, 172 and related provisions, and ratification by States for local-body polls (Article 324A) and a common electoral roll (Article 325).
  • Logistics: EVMs, VVPATs and staff for all elections at once.

Wider electoral reforms

  • Other reforms committees have urged: Curbing money power, decriminalising politics, strengthening the Election Commission's independence and regulating party finances.
A balanced conclusion

Simultaneous elections could cut costs and policy paralysis, but only with careful safeguards for federalism and accountability. The reform should be judged on whether it strengthens the voter's choice.

Study the topic: One Nation One Election: Simultaneous Polls to the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies · Election Commission of India: Article 324, Powers, Functions and Appointment

Sources: One Nation, One Election (Wikipedia)

GS II Q2Polity

Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Explain Say what it is and why or how it happens, step by step.
  • Distinguish Set out the differences point by point, ideally in a table.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: A table comparing basis, cost and cases answers "distinguish" and the civil-criminal part together.

What the question asks

Explain and distinguish Lok Adalats and arbitration tribunals, and say whether each can take up civil as well as criminal cases.

A strong opening

Both are forms of alternative dispute resolution that take cases out of overloaded courts, but they rest on different laws and work in different ways.

Points to cover

Lok Adalats

  • Set up under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 to settle disputes by conciliation and compromise.
  • The award is deemed a civil court decree and is final and binding; no appeal lies against it.
  • No court fee is charged, and fees already paid are refunded when a pending case is settled.
  • Cases: Civil disputes, including marriage and family disputes, and compoundable criminal offences; non-compoundable offences are excluded.

Arbitration tribunals

  • Work under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, which covers domestic arbitration, international commercial arbitration and the enforcement of foreign awards.
  • Parties agree to refer a dispute to one or more arbitrators, whose award binds them and can be enforced like a court decree; courts may set it aside only on limited grounds.
  • Cases: Civil and commercial disputes arising from contracts; criminal offences cannot be sent to arbitration.

Key differences

  • Basis: Lok Adalats settle by compromise; arbitrators decide like a private court.
  • Cost: Lok Adalats are free; arbitration can be costly.
  • Scope: Lok Adalats take civil and compoundable criminal cases; arbitration only civil and commercial matters.
A balanced conclusion

Lok Adalats bring quick, free settlement to ordinary litigants, while arbitration serves commercial disputes. Together they ease the burden on courts, each within its own field.

Study the topic: Lok Adalat, NALSA and Free Legal Aid in India: Legal Services Authorities Act and Gram Nyayalayas

Sources: Lok Adalat (Wikipedia); Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 (Wikipedia)

GS II Q3Polity

“The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy.” Elucidate.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Elucidate Explain clearly with examples, so the point becomes plain.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Show how the cabinet dominates, then the checks that remain, and end with reforms.

What the question asks

Elucidate the claim that the growth of the cabinet system has marginalised parliamentary supremacy: How the executive has come to dominate Parliament, and how far the claim holds.

A strong opening

In India's parliamentary system the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. In principle Parliament controls the executive; in practice a cabinet with a stable majority often controls Parliament.

Points to cover

How the cabinet dominates

  • A disciplined majority passes the government's Bills, often with little debate; most legislation originates with the cabinet.
  • The anti-defection law (Tenth Schedule, added by the 52nd Amendment in 1985) binds members to the party whip, weakening independent voting.
  • Ordinances under Article 123 let the executive make law when Parliament is not in session.
  • Fewer sitting days, Bills passed without reference to committees, and money Bill routes reduce scrutiny.

Limits to the claim

  • Coalition and minority governments depend on Parliament's confidence; no-confidence motions remain a real check.
  • Question Hour, committees such as the Public Accounts Committee, and the Rajya Sabha still scrutinise the government.
  • Courts review the use of ordinances and the Speaker's decisions under the anti-defection law.

Restoring balance

  • More sitting days, mandatory referral of Bills to committees, limits on the whip to confidence and money matters, and a stronger opposition role.
A balanced conclusion

The cabinet has largely displaced Parliament as the centre of law-making. Stronger committees and more time for debate would restore Parliament's role without weakening stable government.

Study the topic: The Anti-Defection Law: The Tenth Schedule, the Speaker's Role and the Reform Debate

Sources: Anti-defection law (India) (Wikipedia); The Constitution of India (Legislative Department)

GS II Q4Polity

“The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety.” Comment.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Comment Give your opinion on the statement, backed by reasons and evidence.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Separate legality from propriety audit in one line each before giving the 2G and coal examples.

What the question asks

Comment on the claim that the CAG's duty is to check not only the legality of expenditure but also its propriety: The CAG's constitutional role, what propriety audit means, and its significance.

A strong opening

The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India, appointed under Article 148, audits the accounts of the Union and the States. The CAG can be removed only like a judge of the Supreme Court, on an address by both Houses on proved misbehaviour or incapacity.

Points to cover

Legality audit

  • Whether money was spent on the purpose and within the amount that the legislature sanctioned, under the rules.

Propriety audit

  • Whether the expenditure was wise, fair and economical, even if technically legal: Excessive spending, wasteful contracts or benefits to particular persons are questioned.
  • Performance audits go further, asking whether a scheme achieved its aims efficiently.

Why propriety matters

  • Public money is held in trust, so legal but wasteful spending still betrays that trust.
  • The CAG's reports go to Parliament and are examined by the Public Accounts Committee; high-profile audits on 2G spectrum and coal block allocation showed the impact of this role.

Limits

  • Propriety involves judgement and can be seen as second-guessing policy; audit follows spending and cannot prevent it; follow-up depends on the PAC and the government.
A balanced conclusion

Propriety audit makes the CAG a guardian of the public purse, not just a checker of accounts. Its value depends on timely reports and serious follow-up by Parliament.

Study the topic: Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG): Article 148, Duties, Powers and Role

Sources: The Constitution of India (Legislative Department); Comptroller and Auditor General of India (Wikipedia)

GS II Q5Polity

Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Analyse Break the topic into its parts and explain how they connect.
  • Bring out Present the key points clearly and in order.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Answer both parts: The role of local bodies first, then a pros-and-cons table on merging.

What the question asks

Analyse the role of local bodies in good governance at the local level, then bring out the pros and cons of merging rural local bodies with urban local bodies.

A strong opening

The 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992) gave panchayats (Part IX) and municipalities (Part IXA) constitutional status, with elected bodies, reserved seats and lists of functions in the Eleventh and Twelfth Schedules.

Points to cover

Role in good governance

  • Bring decisions close to the people: Gram sabhas and ward committees allow direct participation and social audit.
  • Deliver basic services: Water, sanitation, roads, street lights and local planning.
  • Representation: Reserved seats bring women, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes into local leadership.
  • Limits: Too few funds, functions and functionaries, and dependence on State governments.

The case for merging rural and urban bodies

  • Peri-urban villages around growing cities need urban services; one body can plan land use, transport and water for the whole area.
  • Economies of scale and a larger tax base.

The case against

  • Rural voters may lose the gram sabha, local voice and rural schemes such as the rural employment guarantee.
  • Higher property taxes, loss of agricultural land and of community control over commons.
  • Larger bodies are more distant from citizens.

A balanced approach

  • Merge only where urbanisation is real and the people agree, with transition support; strengthen metropolitan and district planning committees to plan across rural and urban areas.
A balanced conclusion

Local bodies are the foundation of good governance when they have real powers. Merging rural and urban bodies should follow urbanisation and consent, not administrative convenience.

Study the topic: Urbanisation in India: Meaning, Trends, Causes, Problems and Urban Governance

Sources: The Constitution of India (Legislative Department)

GS II Q6Governance

Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India’s development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Comment Give your opinion on the statement, backed by reasons and evidence.

For Governance: Name the law, scheme or commission, add one example of good practice, and close with reforms.

For this question: Pair each strength of trusts with a condition that makes it work, such as transparent accounts.

What the question asks

Comment on how public charitable trusts can make India's development more inclusive through their work on vital public issues, and on the conditions for them to do so.

A strong opening

A public charitable trust holds property or money for the benefit of the public, for purposes such as education, health, relief of poverty or the environment. Many of India's oldest hospitals, schools and research bodies were founded by such trusts.

Points to cover

Their potential for inclusion

  • Reach: They work in areas and with groups that markets ignore and the State reaches poorly.
  • Long-term funding: Endowments allow sustained work in education, health care, scholarships and research.
  • Innovation: Trusts can test new models (low-cost hospitals, community schools) that governments later scale up.
  • Partnership: They implement government schemes and receive corporate social responsibility funds from companies.

Problems

  • Misuse of trusts for tax avoidance or private benefit, opaque accounts, and concentration in cities.
  • Regulation varies across States, and foreign funding is restricted.

What would make them more effective

  • Transparent accounts and impact reporting, stronger regulators, and partnerships with local governments to target the poorest areas.
A balanced conclusion

Public charitable trusts can extend development to those left behind, if they are transparent and accountable. Their strength lies in long-term, community-rooted work alongside the State.

Sources: Companies Act, 2013 (Wikipedia)

GS II Q7Social Justice

Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle?

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Suggest End with practical, specific measures, not general wishes.

For Social Justice: Cite the Act, the scheme and one data point on the group affected.

For this question: A cycle diagram of poverty, poor diet and low earning shows the "vicious cycle" at once.

What the question asks

Explain how poverty and malnutrition form a vicious cycle that harms human capital, then suggest steps to break the cycle.

A strong opening

Poverty leads to poor diets, illness and little health care; malnutrition in turn lowers learning and earning ability, which keeps families poor. The cycle passes from mothers to children.

Points to cover

How the cycle works

  • Poor households cannot afford enough nutritious food, safe water and health care.
  • Malnourished mothers have low-birth-weight babies; stunted children learn less and earn less as adults.
  • In India stunting among children under five declined only marginally, from 38 to 36 per cent, between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5, and is higher in rural areas (37 per cent) than urban areas (30 per cent).

Effect on human capital

  • Lower school performance, productivity and income; higher health costs; a demographic dividend that cannot be fully used.

Steps to break the cycle

  • The first 1,000 days: Maternal nutrition, breastfeeding, immunisation and growth monitoring through anganwadis.
  • Food and income security: The public distribution system, school meals, rural employment and cash transfers.
  • Women's education and empowerment, safe water and sanitation, and fortified foods.
  • Convergence: Health, nutrition, water and livelihood schemes working together at the village level.
A balanced conclusion

Breaking the poverty-malnutrition cycle requires acting early in life and on several fronts at once. Investment in nutrition is investment in India's human capital.

Study the topic: POSHAN Abhiyaan: India's National Nutrition Mission and Mission Poshan 2.0

Sources: PIB: Union Health Minister releases NFHS-5 report

GS II Q8Governance

The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely positive. Discuss.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Discuss Cover the main aspects, with arguments on more than one side.

For Governance: Name the law, scheme or commission, add one example of good practice, and close with reforms.

For this question: Explain why perception matters, then show how integrity and commitment build it.

What the question asks

Discuss why democratic governance requires the public to see civil servants as having integrity and commitment, and how that perception can be built.

A strong opening

In a democracy citizens give the State authority over their lives. They accept its decisions willingly only if they trust that officials act honestly, fairly and in the public interest.

Points to cover

Why public perception matters

  • Legitimacy: Trust in officials makes laws and policies acceptable without coercion.
  • Cooperation: Citizens pay taxes, follow rules and take part in schemes when they believe the system is fair.
  • Effectiveness: Perceived corruption or bias breeds cynicism and evasion, and undermines development.

What shapes the perception

  • Integrity: Honesty, avoiding conflicts of interest, and refusing favours.
  • Commitment: Responsiveness, empathy and timely service, especially to the poor.
  • Visible accountability: Transparent decisions (Right to Information), grievance redress and action against wrongdoing.

Building positive perception

  • Codes of ethics and conduct, transparent procedures, e-governance that reduces discretion, citizen charters with service standards, and leadership by example.
A balanced conclusion

Public trust is the capital of a democratic administration. Civil servants build it through daily conduct that is honest, fair and responsive.

GS II Q9International Relations

‘The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Explain Say what it is and why or how it happens, step by step.

For International Relations: A small map helps; state India's interest plainly and name agreements and groupings.

For this question: Give one example each for supply chains and strategy, then note India's strategic autonomy.

What the question asks

Explain, with examples, the claim that the West is fostering India as an alternative to China in supply chains and as a strategic partner against China's political and economic dominance.

A strong opening

After the COVID-19 disruptions and rising tension with China, Western countries have sought to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains (often called 'China plus one') and to balance China's power in the Indo-Pacific. India's size, democracy and market make it a natural partner.

Points to cover

Supply-chain diversification

  • Technology: The US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), unveiled in May 2022 and launched with the first meeting on 31 January 2023, covers artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors and wireless telecommunication.
  • Semiconductors and electronics: Collaboration on a semiconductor fabrication plant in India with the India Semiconductor Mission; global electronics firms expanding manufacturing in India.
  • Critical minerals, pharmaceuticals and clean energy partnerships to cut dependence on one supplier.

Strategic partnership

  • The Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia) and cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
  • Defence technology, joint exercises and information-sharing agreements.

India's own interest and limits

  • India gains investment, technology and jobs, but follows strategic autonomy: It keeps ties with Russia and avoids formal alliances.
  • Infrastructure, skills and regulatory gaps limit how fast India can replace China in supply chains.
A balanced conclusion

The West sees India as a partner to diversify supply chains and balance China. India benefits most by using this moment to build capacity while keeping its strategic autonomy.

Sources: United States-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (Wikipedia)

GS II Q10International Relations

Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics.

10 marks150 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Critically analyse Break the issue into parts, test each, and conclude with your view.

For International Relations: A small map helps; state India's interest plainly and name agreements and groupings.

For this question: Use three heads, diplomatic, economic and strategic, and end with the limits.

What the question asks

Critically analyse India's evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the five Central Asian Republics, and their growing importance in regional and global geopolitics.

A strong opening

The Central Asian Republics (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) are India's extended neighbourhood, rich in energy and minerals and located between Russia, China, Iran and Afghanistan.

Points to cover

Diplomatic

  • The first India-Central Asia Summit was held virtually on 27 January 2022; the leaders agreed to hold the summit every two years and to set up an India-Central Asia Secretariat in New Delhi.
  • All five are members or partners of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, in which India participates.

Economic

  • Energy (uranium from Kazakhstan, gas), minerals and pharmaceuticals; but trade remains small because of the lack of direct land access.
  • Connectivity: The Chabahar port in Iran and the International North-South Transport Corridor; the summit set up a joint working group on the use of Chabahar.

Strategic and security

  • Shared concerns over terrorism, drug trafficking and stability in Afghanistan; a joint working group on Afghanistan.
  • Balancing China's Belt and Road presence and Russia's influence in the region.

Limits

  • Geography and Pakistan's denial of transit; China's much larger investment; India's limited economic presence.
A balanced conclusion

India's ties with Central Asia have gained an institutional framework and a strategic purpose. Turning goodwill into trade and connectivity remains the main challenge.

Sources: PIB: India-Central Asia Virtual Summit (27 January 2022)

GS II Q11Governance

What are the aims and objects of recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act?

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

For Governance: Name the law, scheme or commission, add one example of good practice, and close with reforms.

For this question: Answer the last part plainly: University and State board examinations are not covered.

What the question asks

Explain the aims and objects of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, and say whether university and State board examinations are covered.

A strong opening

Paper leaks and organised cheating had disrupted many recruitment and entrance examinations. Parliament passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, India's first central law against unfair means in public examinations; it came into force on 21 June 2024.

Points to cover

Aims and objects

  • To bring transparency, fairness and credibility to public examinations and protect honest candidates.
  • To define unfair means (paper leaks, impersonation, tampering with answer sheets or computer systems) and make them offences.
  • Penalties in the 2024 Act: Three to five years' imprisonment and a fine up to ten lakh rupees for individuals; a fine up to one crore rupees and a four-year bar for service providers; five to ten years and at least one crore rupees for organised crime.

Which examinations are covered

  • Examinations conducted by the authorities in its Schedule: The UPSC, the Staff Selection Commission, the Railway Recruitment Boards, the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection and the National Testing Agency, and Central ministries and departments.
  • University examinations and State school board examinations are not covered; they fall under the States, which make their own laws.

The 2026 amendment

  • After paper-leak protests in 2026, Parliament amended the Act (assent 31 July 2026): Jail terms for individuals rose to five to ten years with fines up to fifty lakh rupees, service providers face fines up to five crore rupees and an eight-year ban, and special task forces and fast-track courts were added.
A balanced conclusion

The Act gives central examinations a strong legal shield, now made stricter. University and State board examinations remain the responsibility of the States.

Sources: The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 (Gazette of India); Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 (Wikipedia); PIB: Stronger Law, Safer Exams (31 July 2026); PIB Factsheet: Public Examinations Amendment

GS II Q12Polity

Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of child in the womb to establish its paternity.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Explain Say what it is and why or how it happens, step by step.
  • Discuss Cover the main aspects, with arguments on more than one side.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Quote Puttaswamy, then apply the Bhabani Prasad Jena test of "eminent need" to the unborn child.

What the question asks

Explain why the right to privacy is part of life and personal liberty under Article 21, then discuss the law on DNA testing of a child in the womb to establish paternity.

A strong opening

In Justice K. S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) a nine-judge bench unanimously held that 'the right to privacy is protected as an intrinsic part of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 and as a part of the freedoms guaranteed by Part III'.

Points to cover

Privacy as part of Article 21

  • Privacy protects bodily integrity, personal information and decisional autonomy (choices about family, body and relationships).
  • It is not absolute: Restrictions must pass the tests of legality, a legitimate aim and proportionality.

DNA testing and paternity

  • Courts treat DNA tests as an intrusion into privacy and bodily integrity, to be ordered only with care.
  • In Bhabani Prasad Jena (2010) the Supreme Court held that DNA in a matter of paternity should not be directed as a matter of course or in a routine manner; the court must weigh the presumption of legitimacy under the Evidence Act and order a test only when it is eminently needed.
  • A prenatal test involves the bodily integrity of the mother and risks to the foetus, so it needs a stronger justification and the mother's consent or a court order after balancing interests, for example in cases of sexual assault where paternity is evidence.

Balancing rights

  • The child's interest in identity and maintenance, the mother's privacy and health, the alleged father's rights and the court's duty to find the truth must all be weighed.
A balanced conclusion

Privacy under Article 21 makes any DNA test an exception that needs strong reasons. For a child in the womb, the mother's bodily integrity makes that bar higher still.

Study the topic: Right to Freedom: Articles 19 to 22, Article 21 and Preventive Detention

Sources: Puttaswamy v. Union of India (Wikipedia); Supreme Court: Bhabani Prasad Jena v. Orissa State Commission for Women (2010)

GS II Q13Polity

What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Suggest End with practical, specific measures, not general wishes.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: List the recent changes first, then the trust-building measures, keeping the two parts distinct.

What the question asks

Identify the changes the Union Government has recently made in Centre-State relations, and suggest measures to build trust between the Centre and the States and strengthen federalism.

A strong opening

Indian federalism has a strong Centre by design, but the balance keeps shifting through new institutions, laws and political practice. Recent changes have touched fiscal, legislative and administrative relations.

Points to cover

Recent changes

  • Fiscal: GST (2017) pooled indirect taxes, with decisions in the GST Council under Article 279A; NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission in 2015.
  • Finance Commission devolution: The Sixteenth Finance Commission retained the States' share of central taxes at 41 per cent for 2026-31.
  • Territorial: The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 turned a State into two Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir with a legislature and Ladakh without one.
  • Growth of cesses and surcharges outside the divisible pool, and of centrally sponsored schemes with conditions.

Sources of distrust

  • Shrinking fiscal space, the role of Governors (delays on Bills), use of central agencies, and disputes in the GST Council.

Measures to build trust

  • Revive the Inter-State Council and Zonal Councils as forums for regular consultation.
  • Keep cesses limited, untie more funds, and make GST Council decisions more consensual.
  • Clear conventions on Governors' role and time limits for assent; cooperative federalism in practice.
A balanced conclusion

Recent reforms have pooled resources and decisions at the Centre. Federalism is strengthened when that pooling comes with genuine consultation and fair sharing.

Study the topic: Sarkaria Commission and Punchhi Commission: Centre-State Relations and Cooperative Federalism

Sources: The Constitution of India (Legislative Department); PIB: Government accepts 16th Finance Commission's recommendation to retain vertical share of devolution at 41 percent; NITI Aayog (Wikipedia); The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 (gazette text)

GS II Q14Polity

Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful judiciary?

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Explain Say what it is and why or how it happens, step by step.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: Explain the growth of PIL with Hussainara Khatoon, then weigh the "most powerful" claim both ways.

What the question asks

Explain why public interest litigation (PIL) has grown in India, and judge whether, as a result, the Supreme Court has become the world's most powerful judiciary.

A strong opening

Public interest litigation lets any public-spirited person approach the court for those who cannot, relaxing the traditional rule of locus standi. It began in the late 1970s with Justices P. N. Bhagwati and V. R. Krishna Iyer.

Points to cover

Why PIL grew

  • Post-Emergency activism: The Court sought legitimacy as the protector of the poor.
  • Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar (1979), on undertrial prisoners held for years, opened the door.
  • Easy access: Letters and telegrams to the court have been heard as PILs (epistolary jurisdiction).
  • Executive and legislative failure on environment, prisons, bonded labour and corruption pushed citizens to the courts.

Has it made the Supreme Court the most powerful judiciary?

  • Arguments for: The Court frames guidelines (Vishaka), monitors investigations, appoints its own judges through the collegium, and can strike down constitutional amendments under the basic structure doctrine.
  • Arguments against: Its orders depend on executive compliance; PIL has also been misused, and the Court has itself cautioned against frivolous petitions; other courts too have strong powers of review.
A balanced conclusion

PIL has made the Supreme Court an unusually powerful and accessible court. Its strength lasts only if it is used with restraint and respects the separation of powers.

Sources: Public interest litigation in India (Wikipedia)

GS II Q15Polity

Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Discuss Cover the main aspects, with arguments on more than one side.
  • Compare Set out similarities and differences on the same heads.

For Polity: Quote Articles, landmark cases and committees by name; end with a balanced way forward.

For this question: A table comparing Indian principled distance with the US wall of separation answers the comparison.

What the question asks

Discuss India as a secular state and compare it with the secular principles of the US Constitution.

A strong opening

The Forty-second Amendment of 1976 added the word 'secular' to the Preamble, but secularism was already part of the Constitution through the rights to equality and freedom of religion.

Points to cover

Indian secularism

  • No state religion; equal respect for all religions; freedom of conscience and religion under Articles 25 to 28, subject to public order, morality and health.
  • The State may intervene in religion for reform (temple entry, abolition of untouchability) and may support religious minorities' educational institutions.
  • This approach, called 'principled distance', lets the State keep away from or engage with religion depending on constitutional values.
  • In S. R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) the Supreme Court held secularism to be part of the basic structure.

US secularism

  • The First Amendment's Establishment Clause states that 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof'.
  • Jefferson described it as 'a wall of separation between church and State': The State neither supports nor interferes with religion.

Comparison

  • The US model is strict separation; India's is engagement with equal respect.
  • India allows reform of religious practice and support to minorities; the US avoids funding or regulating religion.
  • Both protect freedom of religion and forbid a state religion.
A balanced conclusion

India's secularism is not a wall but a principled distance, suited to a deeply religious, diverse society. Its test is equal treatment of all faiths in practice.

Study the topic: Communalism in India: Meaning, Stages, Causes, Communal Violence and Secularism

Sources: Secularism in India (Wikipedia); Establishment Clause (Wikipedia)

GS II Q16Governance

The Citizens’ charter has been a landmark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hindering the realisation of its promise and suggest measures to overcome them.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Suggest End with practical, specific measures, not general wishes.

For Governance: Name the law, scheme or commission, add one example of good practice, and close with reforms.

For this question: List the hindering factors, then match each with a measure such as right-to-services laws.

What the question asks

Identify why the Citizens' Charter has not reached its full potential in ensuring citizen-centric administration, and suggest measures to realise its promise.

A strong opening

A Citizens' Charter is a public statement by a government department of the services it offers, the standards citizens can expect, and how to complain if those standards are not met. The idea began in the United Kingdom in 1991 under John Major.

Points to cover

Factors hindering it

  • Charters are not legally enforceable, so missed standards carry no penalty.
  • Many were drafted without consulting citizens or staff, in vague language, and never updated.
  • Low public awareness, weak grievance redress and no independent monitoring.
  • Staff were not trained or given the resources to meet the promised standards.

Measures

  • Make service standards enforceable through right-to-services laws with time limits and compensation, as several States have done.
  • Draft charters with citizens, publish them in local languages and review them regularly.
  • Link charters to grievance redress and to the performance assessment of officials.
  • Use technology to track service requests and show delays publicly.
A balanced conclusion

A Citizens' Charter becomes real only when standards are specific, enforceable and monitored. Right-to-services laws turn its promise into an entitlement.

Sources: Citizen's Charter (Wikipedia)

GS II Q17Social Justice

In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Suggest End with practical, specific measures, not general wishes.

For Social Justice: Cite the Act, the scheme and one data point on the group affected.

For this question: Open with the out-of-pocket figures, then give measures for primary care and market regulation.

What the question asks

Suggest measures by which the State can expand public healthcare to the grassroots and limit the harmful effects of the marketisation of health care.

A strong opening

India's health care is increasingly private and market-driven, which raises costs and leaves the poor exposed. Out-of-pocket spending has fallen but remains high, so the State's role in primary and public care is vital.

Points to cover

The problem

  • Out-of-pocket expenditure fell from 62.6% to 39.4% of total health expenditure between 2014-15 and 2021-22, while the government's share rose from 29% to 48%.
  • Private hospitals are concentrated in cities, and costs push many families into debt.

Measures to strengthen public health care

  • Primary care: Upgrade sub-centres and primary health centres into health and wellness centres with doctors, medicines and diagnostics close to home.
  • Human resources: Recruit and train doctors, nurses and community health workers, with incentives for rural service.
  • Free medicines and diagnostics in public facilities; generic drug stores.
  • Insurance for hospital care for poor families, with regulation of rates and quality in empanelled private hospitals.
  • Raise public spending on health and invest in district hospitals and medical colleges.

Regulating the market

  • Clinical establishment rules, price controls on essential drugs and devices, and transparency in hospital charges.
A balanced conclusion

Universal health care needs a strong public system at the grassroots and a regulated private sector. Lowering what families pay out of pocket is the measure of success.

Study the topic: National Health Accounts Estimates 2022-23: India's Health Spending

Sources: PIB: National Health Accounts estimates 2020-21 and 2021-22

GS II Q18Governance

e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model’ of e-governance.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Evaluate Judge the worth or impact, positives and negatives, and conclude.

For Governance: Name the law, scheme or commission, add one example of good practice, and close with reforms.

For this question: Show what makes the model "interactive", give MyGov as an example, then evaluate its limits.

What the question asks

Evaluate the 'Interactive Service Model' of e-governance, which goes beyond using technology to deliver services and uses many-sided interaction between citizens and government for transparency and accountability.

A strong opening

Early e-governance put government information and services online. An interactive model goes further: Citizens can ask, complain, comment and take part in decisions, and the government must respond, which builds transparency and accountability.

Points to cover

What the interactive model involves

  • Two-way channels: Grievance portals, feedback on services, online consultations on draft policies.
  • Citizen participation: Crowdsourcing ideas, surveys and discussions.
  • Transparency: Public dashboards on scheme progress, spending and service delivery.
  • Example: MyGov, launched in 2014 as a citizen engagement platform, aims to crowdsource governance ideas from citizens; it had 100,000 registered users within two weeks of its launch.

Strengths

  • Brings government closer to citizens, exposes delays and corruption, and improves policy with public input.

Limits

  • The digital divide excludes many; consultations can be tokenistic if feedback is not acted on; data privacy and misinformation risks.

Making it work

  • Assisted access (Common Service Centres), local languages, time-bound responses to grievances, and publication of how feedback changed decisions.
A balanced conclusion

The interactive model makes e-governance a conversation rather than a service counter. Its value depends on the government listening and acting on what citizens say.

Study the topic: Digital India Programme: E-Governance and the Citizen Platforms

Sources: MyGov.in (Wikipedia); E-governance (Wikipedia)

GS II Q19International Relations

‘Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.’ Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level.

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Evaluate Judge the worth or impact, positives and negatives, and conclude.

For International Relations: A small map helps; state India's interest plainly and name agreements and groupings.

For this question: Name the CTC, CTED and Resolution 1373, then weigh achievements against political limits.

What the question asks

Evaluate how effective the UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee and its associated bodies have been in addressing terrorism at the international level.

A strong opening

After the 11 September 2001 attacks the Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1373, which obliges all States to criminalise assistance to terrorists, deny them finance and safe haven, and share information. The Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) monitors its implementation.

Points to cover

The CTC and associated bodies

  • The CTC reviews States' laws and capacity; in 2004 Resolution 1535 created the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) to give it expert advice and arrange technical assistance.
  • Other bodies: The sanctions committee on ISIL and Al-Qaida, which lists terrorists for asset freezes and travel bans, and the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism.

Achievements

  • Most States now criminalise terrorist financing; country assessments and technical help have built capacity.
  • Attention to new threats: The CTC's special meeting in India adopted the Delhi Declaration (October 2022), on countering terrorist use of payment technologies and unmanned aerial systems (drones), with non-binding guiding principles.

Limits

  • No agreed definition of terrorism, and the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism proposed by India is still pending.
  • Political blocks: Listing of terrorists has been held up by members' vetoes or 'technical holds'.
  • Its recommendations are non-binding and depend on States' will.
A balanced conclusion

The CTC has built a global legal framework against terrorism, but politics within the Security Council limits its reach. An agreed definition and an end to political holds would make it far more effective.

Sources: United Nations Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee (Wikipedia); UN Counter-Terrorism Committee: Delhi Declaration

GS II Q20International Relations

Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition?

15 marks250 words8 min 45 s

See the answer frameworkWhat to write, point by point

How to write this answer

  • Discuss Cover the main aspects, with arguments on more than one side.

For International Relations: A small map helps; state India's interest plainly and name agreements and groupings.

For this question: A small sketch map of the Maldives beside the shipping lanes shows its importance in one look.

What the question asks

Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of the Maldives for India, focusing on global trade and energy flows, and how the relationship affects India's maritime security and regional stability amid international competition.

A strong opening

The Maldives is a chain of coral islands in the Indian Ocean, south-west of India, lying beside the busy east-west shipping lanes that carry trade and energy between the Gulf, Africa and East Asia.

Points to cover

Geopolitical and geostrategic importance

  • Trade and energy: Ships carrying oil and gas from the Gulf and goods between Asia and Europe pass close to the Maldives; its waters are vital for India's sea trade.
  • Security: A friendly Maldives helps India watch the sea lanes, counter piracy and terrorism, and respond to disasters.
  • Competition: China's investment and loans under the Belt and Road Initiative raise concern about its presence near India.

India's engagement

  • India has been the first responder: Operation Cactus defeated an attempted coup in 1988, and India gave a $150 million currency swap during COVID-19.
  • Development: The Greater Male connectivity project, funded by a $100 million grant and a $400 million line of credit from India, links four islands that hold almost half the Maldivian population.

Challenges

  • The 'India Out' campaign in Maldivian politics and swings in government policy between India and China.
  • Debt pressures in the Maldives, which affect its choices.

Effect on maritime security and stability

  • Good relations extend India's maritime domain awareness and its role as a security provider in the Indian Ocean; strained relations open space for rival powers.
A balanced conclusion

The Maldives sits astride India's sea lanes, so its stability is India's security. Steady, people-centred partnership is India's best answer to strategic competition there.

Sources: India-Maldives relations (Wikipedia)

Questions students ask

UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 2: Common Questions

How many questions were asked in UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 2?

GS Paper 2 of UPSC Mains 2024, held on 21 September 2024, had 20 questions on polity, governance, social justice, international relations. The paper carried 250 marks and three hours.

Which topics did UPSC Mains 2024 GS Paper 2 cover?

By topic, the questions were: Polity (9), Governance (5), International Relations (4), Social Justice (2).

Does UPSC publish answers for Mains 2024 GS Paper 2?

No. UPSC publishes the question paper but not model answers. The answer frameworks on this page are written by Digitally Learn to show what each question asks and the points a good answer covers.

Questions are reproduced from the official question papers published by the Union Public Service Commission. UPSC does not publish model answers for the Main examination; the answer frameworks are written by Digitally Learn and are its copyright. upsc.gov.in