UPSC Themes

UPSC CSE Mains 2026 · GS2 · 10 marks · 150 words

“Women as a class neither belong to a minority group nor are they regarded as forming a backward class.” In the light of this statement, discuss the evolution of women’s reservation from local bodies to Parliament

Theme

T68 Women in politics, law & institutions: reservation, judiciary, NCW, gender justice

What UPSC asks in this theme

Cross-paper polity–society theme: women's reservation from local bodies to Parliament, impact of reservation in panchayats, women in higher judiciary, NCW's effectiveness and constitutional status, and constitutional gender justice with case laws.

What to cover

Writing the answer

These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 7 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.

More PYQs from this theme

  1. GS2202315 marks

    Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.

  2. GS2202315 marks

    Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.

  3. GS22021

    Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.

  4. GS22020

    Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons.

  5. GS22019

    “The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process.” Comment.

  6. GS22017

    Is the National Commission for Women able to strategise and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.

All 20 GS2 2026 questions · Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International Relations · Report a typo