UPSC Themes

UPSC CSE Mains 2014 · GS2

Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against the concept of strong federalism. Discuss.

Theme

T87 Centre–State relations: cooperative, competitive & confrontational federalism

What UPSC asks in this theme

A heavily repeated GS2 theme with links to GS1 and GS3: centralising tendencies, cooperative and competitive federalism, recent Centre–State changes, CBI consent, federal supremacy, and accommodating diversity.

What to cover

Writing the answer

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 8 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.

On the map

Map module 0: India outline & map grammarMap module 2: Drainage & water bodiesMap module 9: Society & polity on the map

More PYQs from this theme

  1. GS2202615 marks

    How far has the Indian federal framework been successful in accommodating regional and cultural diversities? Highlight the role of asymmetric federalism and suggest measures to make dispute resolution mechanisms more effective

  2. GS2202415 marks

    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.

  3. GS22021

    The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India.

  4. GS22020

    How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer.

  5. GS22020

    Indian Constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts.

  6. GS22019

    From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged. Explain.

  7. GS22015

    The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasised in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings.

All 20 GS2 2014 questions · Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations · Report a typo