Saturday, 17 January 2026

 

GS-II Previous Questions & Answers – Page 3

UPSC Mains GS-II
Parliament & Executive


Q21. Examine the role of Parliament in a parliamentary democracy.

Answer:

Parliament is the supreme legislative body in a parliamentary democracy. It performs law-making, financial control, and executive oversight. Through debates, questions, and committees, Parliament ensures accountability of the Executive.

It also represents the will of the people and acts as a forum for national deliberation. Thus, Parliament is central to democratic governance.

Prelims value: Parliament controls Executive through questions and motions.


Q22. Discuss the significance of parliamentary committees.

Answer:

Parliamentary committees enable detailed examination of bills, budgets and policies. They enhance legislative efficiency, ensure bipartisan scrutiny, and strengthen executive accountability.

Committees also help Parliament overcome time constraints and improve the quality of legislation.


Q23. “The effectiveness of Parliament is declining.” Critically examine.

Answer:

Frequent disruptions, reduced sittings and limited legislative scrutiny have raised concerns about parliamentary effectiveness. The increasing use of ordinances and weakened committee system further undermine its role.

However, reforms such as strengthening committees and improving conduct can restore Parliament’s centrality.


Q24. Explain the concept of collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers.

Answer:

Collective responsibility means that the Council of Ministers is jointly responsible to the Lok Sabha for all decisions. Even if a minister disagrees, the decision binds the entire Council.

This principle ensures unity, accountability and stability in governance.

Prelims value: Collective responsibility is to the Lok Sabha.


Q25. Distinguish between political executive and permanent executive.

Answer:

The political executive consists of elected representatives who formulate policies, while the permanent executive comprises civil servants who implement them. The former provides direction, and the latter ensures continuity and expertise.

Both are complementary for effective administration.


Q26. Evaluate the role of the Prime Minister in Indian parliamentary system.

Answer:

The Prime Minister is the real executive authority, leading the Council of Ministers and coordinating government functioning. He or she plays a key role in policy-making, administration and parliamentary leadership.

However, the Prime Minister operates within constitutional limits and collective responsibility.


Q27. Discuss the constitutional position of the President of India.

Answer:

The President is the constitutional head of the State, exercising powers on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers. Though largely ceremonial, the President plays a vital role during constitutional crises.

Thus, the President acts as a stabilising authority.

Prelims value: President acts on aid and advice of Council of Ministers.


Q28. Examine the role of the Governor in State administration.

Answer:

The Governor acts as the constitutional head of the State and a link between the Centre and the State. While expected to function impartially, discretionary powers have sometimes led to controversies.

Balanced use of discretion is essential for federal harmony.


Q29. “Ordinance-making power is a legislative necessity but democratic risk.” Discuss.

Answer:

The ordinance-making power enables the Executive to respond to urgent situations when Parliament is not in session. However, frequent use bypasses legislative scrutiny and undermines parliamentary supremacy.

Judicial oversight and restraint are essential to prevent misuse.


Q30. How does Parliament ensure executive accountability?

Answer:

Parliament ensures executive accountability through question hour, zero hour, motions, debates, budgetary control and committee oversight.

These mechanisms strengthen democratic checks and balances.


— Shaktimatha 369 Learning

📘 UPSC GS–II MASTER LIBRARY

Polity • Governance • Social Justice • International Relations
Prelims | Mains | Interview


📚 SECTION 1: GS–II FOUNDATION & CORE BUILDING


🏛️ SECTION 2: GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL JUSTICE


🌍 SECTION 3: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS


🧠 SECTION 4: CASE STUDIES & FINAL REVISION


📝 SECTION 5: GS–II PREVIOUS YEARS QUESTIONS (ANSWERED)


📦 SECTION 6: MASTER HUBS & CONNECT


“GS–II is not about memorising articles, but mastering governance with constitutional wisdom.”

— Shaktimatha 369 Learning

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