MPPSC MAINS 2018 Paper-II

Points to Remember: The Indian President’s role is largely ceremonial but holds significant constitutional powers. The President’s actions are subject to the advice of the Council of Ministers. Despite being largely ceremonial, the President’s reserve powers are crucial for maintaining constitutional balance. Understanding the President’s prerogatives is vital for comprehending India’s parliamentary democracy. Introduction: The … Read more

Points to Remember: The Indian Constitution establishes a parliamentary system of government. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The President’s powers are largely nominal, while the Prime Minister wields real executive power. The relationship is defined by convention and practice, rather than strict constitutional provisions. … Read more

Points to Remember: Role of rural bureaucracy in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Challenges faced by PRIs due to bureaucratic interference. Synergistic potential between bureaucracy and PRIs. Recommendations for improved coordination and effectiveness. Introduction: The Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India, established under the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992, aim to empower local self-governance at … Read more

Points to Remember: The role of the Governor in the Indian federal system. The Governor’s powers and limitations. The debates surrounding the need for the office of the Governor. The significance of the Governor in maintaining federal balance. Introduction: The Governor is the head of a state in the Indian federal system. Appointed by the … Read more

Points to Remember: Free and fair elections Independent judiciary Strong and accountable executive Active and informed citizenry Respect for fundamental rights Robust media Effective anti-corruption mechanisms Introduction: India, the world’s largest democracy, operates under a parliamentary system. Its success hinges on the strength and effectiveness of its democratic institutions. However, challenges such as corruption, political … Read more

Points to Remember: The Constituent Assembly’s primary task was drafting India’s Constitution. Numerous challenges and debates shaped the final document. The Assembly navigated diverse opinions and conflicting interests. Introduction: The Constituent Assembly of India, formed in 1946, faced a monumental task: drafting a constitution for a newly independent nation grappling with immense challenges. The process … Read more

Points to Remember: Definition of Federalism and Federal Supremacy Features of Indian Federalism: Union List, State List, Concurrent List, Emergency Provisions Judicial pronouncements on Federal Supremacy Limitations on Federal Supremacy Balancing Federal Supremacy with State Autonomy Introduction: India operates under a quasi-federal system, often described as a “federal system with a strong centralizing tendency.” While … Read more

Points to Remember: Federalism: India’s system is a quasi-federal one, blending federal and unitary features. Constitutional Provisions: The distribution of powers between the Union and States is enshrined in the Constitution’s Seventh Schedule. Administrative Overlap: Significant overlap exists in administrative functions, leading to potential conflicts. Inter-governmental Cooperation: Mechanisms for cooperation and dispute resolution are crucial … Read more

Points to Remember: The 11th Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with Panchayats. It lists 29 functional items devolved to Panchayats. The Schedule aims to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Understanding the subjects helps in assessing the extent of decentralization in India. Introduction: The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 added the Eleventh Schedule to … Read more

Points to Remember: Lack of transparency and accountability in campaign financing. Influence of money and muscle power. Voter apathy and low voter turnout, especially among marginalized groups. Ineffective regulation of media coverage during elections. Challenges in ensuring free and fair elections in conflict-ridden areas. Introduction: India’s electoral system, the world’s largest, is a cornerstone of … Read more