UPSC Mains Notes Functions of Union And The States, Federal Structure Issues , Devolution Of Powers And Finances

Previous Year Questions Asked In Mains From This Topic

  • How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the states to improve their fiscal position? [2021]
  • 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 States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. [2021]
  • 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 [2020]
  • The strength sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funds’ to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times. [2020]
  • From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged. Explain. [2019]
  • “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. [2019]
  • ‘In the context of neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost-effective and remove many implementation blockages. ‘ — Discuss. [2019]
  • Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine. [2018]
  • Assess the “importance of the Panchayat system in India as part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out for financing developmental projects? [2018]
  • “The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance.” Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation. [2017]
  • Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution ? Discuss. [2017]
  • “Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are inter-dependent.” Discuss their relationship in the context of India. [2016]
  • The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. [2015]
  • In absence of a well-educated and organized local level government system, ‘Panchayats’ and ‘Samitis’ have remained mainly political institutions and not effective instruments of governance. Critically discuss. [2015]
  • Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also be justified that more number of smaller States would bring in effective governance at State level? Discuss. [2013]
  • Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process inadequacy or both ? Discuss. [2013]
  • Discuss the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission which have been a departure from the previous commissions for strengthening the local government finances. [2013]