Basic Concepts of Polity

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Which one of the following best (c) A number of persons who have
defines the term ‘State’? (PYQ 2021) been living in a definite territory
(a) A community of persons
for a very long time with their own
permanently occupying a definite
territory independent of external culture, tradition, and government.
control and possessing an (d) A society permanently living in
organized government.
a definite territory with a central
(b) A politically organized people of a
definite territory and possessing an authority, an executive responsible
authority to govern them, maintain to the central authority and and
law and order, protect their natural
independent judiciary
rights, and safeguard their means
of sustenance. Solution (a)

7 Mastering Indian Polity

 Constitutional Amendment & Basic Structure Doctrine

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Consider the following statements: (a) 1 only
(PYQ 2022) (b) 2 only
1. A bill amending the Constitution (c) Both 1 and 2
requires a prior recommendation (d) Neither 1 nor 2
of the President of India. Solution: (d)
2. When a Constitution 3. Consider the following statements:
Amendment Bill is presented (PYQ 2013)
to the President of India, it is 1. An amendment to the
obligatory for the President of Constitution of India can be
India to give his/her assent. initiated by an introduction of a
3. A Constitution Amendment Bill bill in the Lok Sabha only.
must be passed by both the Lok 2. If such an amendment seeks
Sabha and the Rajya Sabha by a to make changes in the federal
special majority and there is no character of the Constitution,
provision for joint sitting. the amendment also requires to
Which of the statements given above be ratified by the legislature of
are correct? all the States of India.
(a) 1 and 2 Only Which of the statements given above
(b) 2 and 3 Only is/are correct?
(c) 1 and 3 Only (a) 1 Only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2 Only
Solution: (b) (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
2. Consider the following statements:
Solution: (d)
(PYQ 2020)
1. The Constitution of India 4. Consider the following statements:
defines its ‘basic structure’ in An amendment of the Constitution
terms of federalism, secularism, of India can be initiated by the
fundamental rights, and (PYQ 1999)
democracy. 1. Lok Sabha.
2. The Constitution of India 2. Rajya Sabha.
provides for ‘judicial review’ to 3. State Legislatures.
safeguard the ‘citizens’ liberties 4. President.
and to preserve the ideals on Select the correct answer using the
which the constitution is based. codes given below:
Which of the statements given above (a) 1 Only
is/are correct? (b) 1, 2 and 3

35 Mastering Indian Polity

 Constitutional Amendment & Basic Structure Doctrine

(c) 2, 3 and 4 (c) 1, 3 and 4

(d) 1 and 2 (d) 2, 3 and 4
Solution: (d) Solution: (a)
5. Which of the following are matters on 6. The basic structure theory of the
which a constitutional amendment is Constitution of India implies that
possible only with the ratification of (PYQ 1994)
the legislatures of not less than one- (a) certain features of the Constitution
half of the States? (PYQ 1995) are so essential to it that they
1. Election of the President cannot be abrogated
(b) fundamental rights cannot be
2. Representation of States in
abridged or taken away
Parliament
(c) the Constitution cannot be
3. Any of the Lists in the amended except in accordance
7thSchedule with the procedure prescribed in
4. Abolition of the Legislative Article 368
Council of a State (d) the Preamble of the Constitution
Choose the correct answer from the cannot be amended for it is not
codes given below: part of the Constitution and at the
(a) 1,2 and 3 same time represents its real spirit
(b) 1, 2 and 4 Solution: (a)

Mastering Indian Polity 36

 Nature of Indian State

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Democracy’s superior virtue lies in 2. A constitutional government by
the fact that it calls into activity definition is a (PYQ 2020)
(PYQ 2017) (a) government by legislature
(a) the intelligence and character of (b) popular government
ordinary men and women. (c) multi-party government
(b) the methods for strengthening (d) limited government
executive leadership. Solution (d)
(c) a superior individual with
dynamism and vision.
(d) a band of dedicated party workers.
Solution (a)

59 Mastering Indian Polity

 Objectives of the Constitution

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. ‘Economic Justice’ the objectives of 4. Which one of the following reflects
Constitution has been as one of the the nicest, appropriate relationship
Indian provided in: (PYQ 2013) between law and liberty? (PYQ 2018)
(a) the Preamble and Fundamental
Rights (a) If there are more laws, there is less
(b) the Preamble and the Directive liberty.
Principles of State Policy (b) If there are no laws, there is no
(c) the Fundamental Rights and the liberty.
Directive Principles of State Policy
(c) If there is liberty, laws have to be
(d) None of the above
made by the people.
Solution (b) (d) If laws are changed too often,
2. One of the implications of equality in liberty is in danger.
society is the absence of (PYQ 2017)
Solution (b)
(a) Privileges
(b) Restraints 5. In the context of polity, which one
(c) Competition
(d) Ideology of the following would you accept as
the most appropriate definition of
Solution (a) liberty? (PYQ 2019)
3. Which one of the following objectives (a) Protection against the tyranny of
is not embodied in the Preamble to political rulers
the Constitution of India? (b) Absence of restraint
(PYQ 2017) (c) Opportunity to do whatever one
(a) Liberty of thought likes
(b) Economic liberty
(c) Liberty of expression (d) Opportunity to develop oneself
(d) Liberty of belief fully.

Solution (b) Solution (d)

67 Mastering Indian Polity

 Union & its Territory

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. If a new state of the Indian Union is to (a) First
be created, which one of the following (b) Second
Schedules of the Constitution must (c) Third
be amended (PYQ 2001) (d) Fourth
Solution: a

Mastering Indian Polity 86

 Citizenship

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. With reference to India, consider the of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur,
following statements: (PYQ 2021) Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim,
1. There is only one citizenship Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh,
and one domicile. and Goa.
2. A Citizen by birth only can
become the Head of State. 2. Constitution of India and
3. A foreigner once granted the the United States of America
citizenship cannot be deprived envisage a dual policy (The
of it under any circumstance. Union and the States) but a
Which of the statements given above single citizenship.
is/are correct? 3. A Naturalized citizen of India
(a) 1 Only can never be deprived of his
(b) 2 Only citizenship.
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 2 and 3 Which of the statements given above
Solution: (a) is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
2. Consider the following statements:
(b) 1 and 3 only
(PYQ 2005)
(c) 3 only
1. Articles 371-A to 371-I were
inserted in the Constitution of (d) 1 only
India to meet regional demands Solution: (d)

99 Mastering Indian Polity

 Fundamental Rights

17. Freedom of News Papers in India- (c) is guaranteed under the provisions
(PYQ 1994) of Article 361 A of the Constitution
(a) is specifically provided in Article (d) emanates from the operation of the
19 (1) (a) of the Constitution Rule of Law In the country
(b) is implied in the wider freedom of Solution: (b)
expression guaranteed by Article
19(1)(a) of the Constitution

169 Mastering Indian Polity

 Directive Principles of State Policy

1. They shall be enforceable by Select the correct answer using the

courts. code given below:
2. They shall not be enforceable by (a) 1 only
any court. (b) 2 only
3. The principles laid down in this (c) 1 and 3 only
part are to influence the making (d) 2 and 3 only
of laws by the State. Solution (d)

Mastering Indian Polity 184

 Federal Structure of Indian Polity

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Which one of the following in (c) With the consent of the states
Indian polity is an essential feature concerned
that indicates that it is federal in (d) Without the consent of any state
character? (PYQ 2021) Solution: (d)
(a) The Independence of judiciary is
safeguarded. 4. The Parliament of India acquires the
(b) The Union Legislature has elected power to legislate on any item in the
representatives from constituent State List in the national interest if a
units. resolution to that effect is passed by
(c) The Union Cabinet can have elected the (PYQ 2016)
representatives from regional (a) Lok Sabha by a simple majority of
parties. its total membership.
(d) The Fundamental Rights are (b) Lok Sabha by a majority of not
enforceable by Courts of Law. less than two-thirds of its total
Solution: (a) membership.
2. Which one of the following suggested (c) Rajya Sabha by a simple majority of
that the Governor should be an its total membership.
eminent person from outside the (d) Rajya Sabha by a majority of not
State and should be a detached figure less than two-thirds of its members
without intense political links or present and voting.
should not have taken part in politics Solution: (d)
in the recent past? (PYQ 2019)
5. Consider the following statements:
(a) First administrative Reforms (PYQ 2003)
Commission (1966)
(b) Rajamannar Committee (1969) In India, stamp duty on financial
(c) Sarkaria Commission (1983) transactions is:
(d) National Commission to Review 1. imposed and collected by the
the Working of the Constitution state government
(2000) 2. regulated by the union
Solution: (c) government.
3. The Parliament can make any law Which of the following is/are
for whole or any part of India for correct?
implementing international treaties (a) 1 Only
(PYQ 2013) (b) 2 Only
(a) With the consent of all the states (c) Both 1 and 2
(b) With the consent of the majority of (d) Neither 1 nor 2
states Solution: (c)

237 Mastering Indian Polity

 Federal Structure of Indian Polity

6. Agriculture Income Tax is assigned (d) Distribution of powers between

to the State Government by (PYQ union and states.
1995) Solution: (b)
(a) The Finance Commission
8. In which respect have the Centre-
(b) The National Development Council
state relations been specifically
(c) The Inter-State Council termed as municipal relations (PYQ
(d) The Constitution of India 1994)
Solution: (d) (a) Centre’s control of the state in the
7. Which one of the following legislative sphere.
determines that Indian Constitution (b) Centre’s control of the state in
is Federal? (PYQ 1994) financial matters.
(a) A written and rigid Constitution (c) Centre’s control of the state in the
(b) An independent Judiciary administrative sector.
(c) Vesting of residuary powers with (d) Centre’s control of the state in the
the Centre. planning process.
Solution: (d)

Mastering Indian Polity 238

 Emergency

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Consider the following statements in the reduction of salaries and
respect of financial emergency under allowances of all or any class of
Article 360 of the Constitution of persons, serving in connection
India: (PYQ 2007) with the affairs of the Union
1. A Proclamation of financial but excluding the Judges of the
emergency issued shall cease Supreme Court and the High
to operate at the expiration of Courts.
two months, unless, before the
Which of the statements given above
expiration of that period, it has
is/are correct?
been approved by the resolutions
of both Houses of Parliament. (a) 1 Only
2. If any Proclamation of financial (b) 2 Only
emergency is in operation, it (c) Both 1 and 2
is competent for the President (d) Neither 1 nor 2
of India to issue directions for Solution: (a)

259 Mastering Indian Polity

 Executive Branch

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. Consider the following statements: value of vote of each MLA of
(PYQ 2023) that State.
1. If the election of the President 3. The value of vote of each MLA
of India is declared void by of Madhya Pradesh is greater
the Supreme Court of India, than that of Kerala.
all acts done by him/her in the 4. The value of vote of each MLA of
performance of duties of his/ Puducherry is higher than that of
Arunachal Pradesh because the
her office of President before the
ratio of total population to total
date of decision become invalid. number of elective Puducherry
2. Election for the post of the is greater as compared to
President of India can be Arunachal Pradesh.
postponed on the ground that How many of the above statements
some Legislative Assemblies have are correct?
been dissolved and elections are (a) Only One
yet to take place. (b) Only two
3. When a Bill is presented to (c) Only three
the President of India, the (d) All four
Constitution prescribes time Solution: (a)
limits he/she has to declare his/ 3. Consider the following statements:
her assent. (PYQ 2022)
How many of the above statements 1. The Constitution of India
are correct? classifies the ministers into
(a) Only one four ranks viz. Cabinet
Minister, Minister of State with
(b) Only two
Independent Charge, Minister
(c) Only three of State and Deputy Minister.
(d) None 2. The total number of ministers
Solution: (d) in the Union Government,
2. Consider the following statements in including the Prime Minister,
shall not exceed 15 percent of
respect of election to the President of
the total number of members in
India (PYQ 2023) the Lok Sabha.
1. The members nominated to Which of the statements given above
either House of Parliament or the is/are correct?
Legislative Assemblies of States (a) 1 Only
are also eligible to be included (b) 2 Only
in the Electoral College. (c) Both 1 and 2
2. Higher the number of elective (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Assembly seats, higher is the Solution: (b)

325 Mastering Indian Polity

 Executive Branch

4. Consider the following statements: 6. Consider the following statements:

(PYQ 2022) (PYQ 2018)
1. Attorney General of India and 1. No criminal proceedings shall be
Solicitor General of India are the instituted against the Governor
only officers of the Government of a State in any court during his
who are allowed to participate in term of office.
the meetings of the Parliament 2. The emoluments and allowances
of India. of the Governor of a State shall
2. According to the Constitution not be diminished during his
term of office.
of India, the Attorney General
of India submits his resignation Which of the statements given above
when the Government which is/are correct?
appointed him resigns. (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
Which of the statements given above (c) Both 1 and 2
is/are correct? (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(a) 1 Only Solution: (c)
(b) 2 Only
7. Consider the following statements:
(c) Both 1 and 2
(PYQ 2015)
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
1. The Executive Power of the
Solution: (d) Union of India is vested in the
5. With reference to the Legislative Prime Minister.
Assembly of a State in India, consider 2. The Prime Minister is the ex
the following statements: (PYQ 2019) Officio Chairman of the Civil
Services Board.
1. The Governor makes a
customary address to Members Which of the statements given above
is/are correct?
of the state legislature at the
(a) 1 only
commencement of the first
(b) 2 only
session of the year.
(c) Both 1 and 2
2. When a State Legislature does (d) Neither 1 nor 2
not have a rule on a particular Solution: (d)
matter, it follows the Lok Sabha
rule on that matter. 8. Which of the following is/are the
function/ functions of the Cabinet
Which of the statements given above Secretariat? (PYQ 2014)
is/are correct? 1. Preparation of agenda for
(a) 1 Only Cabinet Meetings
(b) 2 Only 2. Secretariat assistance to Cabinet
(c) Both 1 and 2 Committees
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 3. Allocation of financial resources
Solution: (c) to the Ministries

Mastering Indian Polity 326

 Executive Branch

Select the correct answer using the (a) 1 and 2 only

code given below: (b) 1 and 3 only
(a) 1 only (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 2 only Solution: (b)
(d) 1,2 and 3
11. With reference to Union Government,
Solution: (c)
consider the following statements:
9. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2013)
(PYQ 2014)
1. The Constitution of India
1. The President shall make provides that all Cabinet
rules for the more convenient Ministers shall be compulsorily
transaction of the business of
the sitting members of Lok
the Government of India.
Sabha only.
2. All executive actions of the
2. The Union Cabinet Secretariat
Government of India shall be
operates under the direction of
expressed to be taken in the
the Ministry of Parliamentary
name of the Prime Minister.
Affairs.
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Which of the statement(s) given
above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (a) 1 Only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (b) 2 Only
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (c) Both 1 and 2
Solution: (a) (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution: (d)
10. Which of the following are the
discretionary powers given to the 12. Consider the following statements:
Governor of a State? (PYQ 2014) (PYQ 2009)
1. Sending a report to the President 1. The Advocate General of a
of India for imposing the State in India is appointed
President’s rule by the President of India on
2. Appointing the Ministers the recommendation of the
3. Reserving certain bills passed Governor of the concerned State.
by the State Legislature for 2. As provided in the Civil
consideration of the President of Procedure Code, High Courts
India have original, appellate and
4. Making the rules to conduct the advisory jurisdiction at the State
business of the State Government level.
Select the correct answer using the Which of the statement(s) given
code given below: above is/are correct?

327 Mastering Indian Polity

 Executive Branch

(a) 1 only (a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) 2, 3 and 4
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (d) 3 and 4
Solution: (a) Solution: (a)
13. With reference to Union Government, 15. If the Prime Minister of India belongs
consider the following statements: to the Upper House of Parliament
(PYQ 2009) (PYQ 1997)
1. The Ministries/Departments (a) He will not be able to vote in
of the Government of India are his favor in the event of a no-
created by the Prime Minister confidence motion.
on the advice of the Cabinet (b) He will not be able to speak in
Secretary. his favor in the event of a no-
confidence motion.
2. Each of the Ministries is assigned
(c) He can make statements only in the
to a Minister by the President of
Upper House.
India on the advice of the Prime
(d) He will have to become a member
Minister.
of the Lower House within six
Which of the statement(s) given months after being sworn in as the
above is/are correct? Prime Minister.
(a) 1 only Solution: (a)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 16. Which one of the following
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 statements is correct about the Prime
Minister of India (PYQ 1996)
Solution: (b)
(a) He is free to choose his ministers
14. Consider the following statements only from among those who
about the Attorney General of India: are members of either House of
(PYQ 2000) Parliament.
1. He is appointed by the President (b) He can choose his cabinet
of India colleagues after due counselling
2. He must have the same by the President of India in this
qualifications as are required for regard.
a Judge of the Supreme Court. (c) He has full discretion in the choice
3. He must be a member of either of persons who are to serve as
House of Parliament. ministers in his cabinet.
(d) He has only limited power in the
4. He can be removed by
choice of his cabinet colleagues
Impeachment by Parliament.
because of the discretionary powers
Which of these statements are vested in the President of India.
correct? Solution: (c)

Mastering Indian Polity 328

 Executive Branch

17. Which one of the following is a 2. No Governor can continue in

part of the electoral college of the office beyond the expiration of a
President but not of the process of period of five years.
impeachment? (PYQ 1996) Code:
(a) Lok Sabha (a) 1 only
(b) Rajya Sabha (b) 2 only
(c) State Legislative Councils (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) State Legislative Assemblies (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution: (d) Solution: (d)
18. Which one of the following is not 20. Which among the following is/are
explicitly stated in the Constitution appointed by the President of India?
of India but followed as a convention? (1994)
(PYQ 1995) 1. Chairman of the Finance
(a) The finance minister is to be a Commission
Member of the Lower House. 2. Vice-Chairman of the Planning
(b) The Prime Minister has to resign if Commission
he loses the majority in the Lower 3. Chief Ministers of the Union
House. Territories
(c) All the parts of India are to be Select the correct answer by using
represented in the Council of the following code:
Ministers. (a) 1 is correct
(d) In the event of both the President (b) 1 and 2 are correct
and the Vice-President demitting (c) 1 and 3 are correct
office simultaneously before the (d) 2 and 3 are correct
end of the tenure, the Speaker of Solution: (c)
the Lower House of the Parliament
21. The Chief Minister of a state in
will officiate as the President.
India is not eligible to vote in the
Solution: (b)
presidential election if- (1993)
19. Article 156 of the Constitution of (a) He is a candidate
India provides that a Governor shall (b) He is yet to prove his majority on
hold office for a term of five years from the floor of the Lower House of the
the date on which he enters upon his State Legislature.
office. Which of the following can be (c) He is a member of the Upper House
deduced from this? (PYQ 1995) of the State Legislature.
1. No Governor can be removed (d) He is a member of the Lower House
from office till the completion of of the State Legislature.
his term. Solution: (c)

329 Mastering Indian Polity

 Executive Branch

22. The only instance when the President (c) The Indian Post Office
of India exercised his power of veto, (Amendment) Bill
is related to- (PYQ 1993) (d) The Dowry Prohibition Bill
(a) The Hindu Code Bill Solution: (c)
(b) The PEPSU Appropriation Bill

Mastering Indian Polity 330

 Legislative Branch

PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. What is the difference between “vote- Solution: (c)
on-account” and “interim budget”?
4. When the annual Union Budget is
(PYQ 2011) not passed by the Lok Sabha
1. The provision of a “vote-on-
(PYQ 2011)
account” is used by a regular
(a) The Budget is modified and
Government, while an “interim
presented again
budget” is a provision used by a
caretaker Government. (b) The Budget is referred to the Rajya
Sabha for suggestions
2. A “vote-on-account” only
(c) The Union Finance Minister is
deals with the expenditure in
asked to resign
Government’s budget, while an
(d) The Prime Minister submits the
“interim budget” includes both
resignation of Council of Ministers
expenditure and receipts.
Solution: (d)
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? 5. With reference to the Delimitation
(a) 1 only Commission, consider the following
(b) 2 only statements (PYQ 2012)
(c) Both 1 and 2 1. The orders of the Delimitation
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 Commission cannot be
Solution: (b) challenged in a Court of Law.
2. The authorization for the withdrawal 2. When the orders of the
of funds from the Consolidated Fund Delimitation Commission are
of India must come from: (PYQ 2011) laid before the Lok Sabha or
State Legislative Assembly, they
(a) The President of India
(b) The Parliament of India cannot effect any modifications
(c) The Prime. Minister of India in the orders.
(d) The Union Finance Minister Which of the statements given above
Solution: (b) is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
3. All revenues received by the Union (b) 2 only
Government by way of taxes and (c) Both 1 and 2
other receipts for the conduct of
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Government business are credited to
Solution: (c)
the: (PYQ 2011)
(a) Contingency Fund of India 6. A deadlock between the Lok Sabha
(b) Public Account and the Rajya Sabha calls for a joint
(c) Consolidated Fund of India sitting of the Parliament during the
(d) Deposits and Advances Fund passage of (PYQ 2012)

Mastering Indian Polity 430

 Legislative Branch

1. Ordinary Legislation (c) 1 and 3

2. Money Bill (d) None
3. Constitution Amendment Bill Solution: (d)
Select the correct answer using the
9. Regarding the office of the Lok Sabha
codes given below:
Speaker, consider the following
(a) 1 only statements: (PYQ 2012)
(b) 2 and 3 only
1. He/She holds the office during
(c) 1 and 3 only
the pleasure of the President.
(d) 1, 2 and 3
2. He/She need not be a member
Solution: (a) of the House at the time of his/
7. In the Parliament of India, the her election but has to become a
purpose of an adjournment motion member of the House within six
is (PYQ 2012) months from the date of his/her
(a) to allow a discussion on a definite election.
matter of urgent public importance 3. 3. If he/she intends to resign, the
(b) to let opposition members collect letter of his/her resignation has
information from the ministers to be addressed to the Deputy
(c) to allow a reduction of specific Speaker.
amount in demand for grant Which of the statements given above
(d) to postpone the proceedings to is /are correct?
check the inappropriate or violent (a) 1 and 2 only
behaviour on the part of some (b) 3 only
members (c) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: (a) (d) None
Solution: (b)
8. Consider the following statements:
(PYQ 2012) 10. Which of the following special
1. Union Territories are not powers have been conferred on the
represented in the Rajya Sabha. Rajya Sabha by the Constitution of
India? (PYQ 2012)
2. It is within the purview of the
(a) To change the existing territory of
Chief Election Commissioner to
a State and to change the name of
adjudicate the election disputes.
a State
3. According to the Constitution
(b) To pass a resolution empowering
of India, the Parliament consists the Parliament to make laws in the
of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya State List and to create one or more
Sabha only. All India Services
Which of the statements given above (c) To amend the election procedure
is/are correct? of the President and to determine
(a) 1 only the pension of the President after
(b) 2 and 3 his/her retirement

431 Mastering Indian Polity

 Legislative Branch

(d) (d) To determine the functions of (b) The Lok Sabha cannot consider the
the Election Commission and to Bill further
determine the number of Election (c) The Lok Sabha may send the Bill to
Commissioners the Rajya Sabha for reconsideration
Solution: (b) (d) The President may call a joint
sitting for passing the Bill
11. Which of the following are the Solution: (a)
methods of Parliamentary control
over public finance in India? 13. Consider the following statements
(PYQ 2013)
(PYQ 2012)
1. An amendment to the
1. Placing Annual Financial
Constitution of India can be
Statement before the Parliament
initiated by an introduction of a
2. Withdrawal of moneys from
bill in the Lok Sabha only.
Consolidated Fund of India only
2. If such an amendment seeks
after passing the Appropriation
Bill to make changes in the federal
character of the Constitution,
3. Provisions of supplementary
the amendment also requires to
grants and vote-on-account
be ratified by the legislature of
4. A periodic or at least a mid-
all the States of India.
year review of programme
of the Government against Which of the statements given above
macroeconomic forecasts and is/are correct?
expenditure by a Parliamentary (a) 1 only
Budget Office (b) 2 only
5. Introducing Finance Bill in the (c) Both 1 and 2
Parliament (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Select the correct answer using the Solution: (d)
codes given below: 14. Consider the following statements:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
(PYQ 2013)
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 3, 4 and 5 only The Parliamentary Committee on
(d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Public Accounts
Solution: (a) consists of not more than 25
Members of the Lok Sabha
12. What will follow if a Money Bill is
scrutinizes appropriation finance
substantially amended by the Rajya
Sabha? (PYQ 2013) accounts of Government
(a) The Lok Sabha may still proceed examines the report Comptroller
with the Bill, accepting or not and Auditor and General of India
accepting the recommendations of Which of the statements given above
the Rajya Sabha is / are correct?

Mastering Indian Polity 432

 Legislative Branch

(a) 1 only 17. Which one of the following is the

(b) 2 and 3 only largest Committee of the Parliament
(c) 3 only (PYQ 2014)
(d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) The Committee on Public Accounts
Solution: (b)
(b) The Committee on Estimates
15. Consider the following statements: (c) The Committee on Public
(PYQ 2013) Undertakings
1. The Chairman and the Deputy (d) The Committee on Petitions
Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are Solution: (b)
not the members of that House.
18. Which one of the following Schedules
2. While the nominated members
of the Constitution of India contains
of the two Houses of the
provisions regarding anti-defection?
Parliament have no voting right
in the presidential election, they (PYQ 2014)
have the right to vote in the (a) Second Schedule
election of the Vice President. (b) Fifth Schedule
Which of the statements given above (c) Eighth Schedule
is/are correct? (d) Tenth Schedule
(a) 1 only Solution: (d)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 19. Consider the following statements:
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 (PYQ 2015)
Solution: (b) 1. The Rajya Sabha has no power
either to reject or to amend a
16. Consider the following statements
Money Bill
regarding a No- Confidence Motion
in India: (PYQ 2. The Rajya Sabha cannot vote on
2014) the Demands for Grants.
1. There is no mention of a No- 3. The Rajya Sabha cannot discuss
Confidence Motion in the the Annual Financial Statement.
Constitution of India. Which of the statements given above
2. A Motion of No-Confidence can is/are correct?
be introduced in the Lok Sabha (a) 1 only
only. (b) 1 and 2 only
Which of the statements given above (c) 2 and 3 only
is / are correct? (d) 1, 2 and 3
(a) 1 only Solution: (b)
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2 20. When a bill is referred to a joint sitting
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 both the Houses of the Parliament, it
Solution: (c) has to be passed by (PYQ 2015)

433 Mastering Indian Polity

 Legislative Branch

(a) a simple majority of member Legislative Council of that

present and voting particular state.
(b) three-fourths majority of member Which of the statements given above
present and voting is/are correct?
(c) two-thirds majority of the House (a) 1 only
(d) absolute majority of the House (b) 2 only
Solution: (a) (c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
21. With reference to the Union
Solution: (d)
Government, consider the following
statements. 23. Which of the following statements is/
(PYQ 2015) are correct? (PYQ 2016)
1. The Department of Revenue is 1. A bill pending in the Lok Sabha
responsible for the preparation lapses on its prorogation.
of Union Budget that is presented 2. A bill pending in the Rajya
to the parliament Sabha, which has not been
passed by the Lok Sabha, shall
2. No amount can be withdrawn
not lapse on dissolution of the
from the Consolidated Fund of
Lok Sabha.
India without the authorization
of Parliament of India. Select the correct answer using the
code given below:
3. All the disbursements made
from Public Account also need (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
the Authorization from the
(c) Both 1 and 2
Parliament of India
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Which of the following statements Solution: (b)
given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only 24. The Parliament of India exercises
(b) 2 and 3 only control over the functions of the
(c) 2 only Council of Ministers through (PYQ
(d) 1, 2, and 3 2017)
1. Adjournment motion
Solution: (c)
2. Question hour
22. Consider the following statements: 3. Supplementary questions
(PYQ 2015) Select the correct answer using the
1. The Legislative Council of a state code given below:
in India can be larger in size than (a) 1 only
half of the Legislative Assembly (b) 2 and 3 only
of that particular state. (c) 1 and 3 only
2. The Governor of a state (d) 1, 2 and 3
nominates the Chairman of Solution: (d)

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25. With reference to the Parliament 2. According to the provisions laid

of India, consider the following down in the Constitution of
statements: India, in Lok Sabha, the Speaker’s
(PYQ 2017) post goes to the majority party
1. A private member’s bill is a and the Deputy Speaker’s to the
bill presented by a Member of Opposition.
Parliament who is not elected Which of the statements given above
but only nominated by the is/are correct?
President of India. (a) 1 only
2. Recently, a private member’s (b) 2 only
bill has been passed in the (c) Both 1 and 2
Parliament of India for the first (d) Neither 1 nor 2
time in its history. Solution: (d)
Which of the statements given above
28. With reference to the Parliament
is/are correct?
of India, which of the following
(a) 1 only Parliamentary Committees
(b) 2 only scrutinizes and reports to the
(c) Both 1 and 2
House whether the powers to make
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
regulations, rules, sub-rules, by-laws,
Solution: (d) etc. conferred by the Constitution or
26. For election to the Lok Sabha, a delegated by the Parliament are being
nomination paper can be filed by properly exercised by the Executive
(PYQ 2017) within the scope of such delegation ?
(a) Anyone residing in India. (PYQ 2018)
(b) A resident of the constituency (a) Committee on Government
from which the election is to be Assurances
contested. (b) Committee on Subordinate
(c) Any citizen of India whose name Legislation
appears in the electoral roll of a (c) Rules Committee
constituency. (d) Business Advisory Committee
(d) Any citizen of India. Solution: (b)
Solution: (c) 29. Consider the following statements:
27. Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2018)
(PYQ 2017) 1. The Speaker of the Legislative
1. In the election for Lok Sabha Assembly shall vacate his/ her
or State Assembly, the winning office if he/she ceases to be a
candidate must get at least 50 member of the Assembly.
percent of the votes polled, to be 2. Whenever the Legislative
declared elected. Assembly is dissolved, the

435 Mastering Indian Polity

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Speaker shall vacate his/her of India or the Contingency Fund

immediately. of India.
Which of the statements given above (c) A Money Bill is concerned with the
is/are correct? appropriation of moneys out of the
(a) 1 only Contingency Fund of India.
(b) 2 only (d) A Money Bill deals with the
(c) Both 1 and 2 regulation of borrowing of money
or giving of any guarantee by the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Government of India.
Solution: (a)
Solution: (c)
30. Consider the following statements:
32. Consider the following statements:
(PYQ 2018)
(PYQ 2019)
1. In the first Lok Sabha, the single
1. The parliament (Prevention
largest party in the opposition
of Disqualification) Act, 1959
was the Swatantra Party.
exempts several posts from
2. In the Lok Sabha, a “Leader of disqualification on the grounds
the Opposition” was recognized of ‘Office of Profit’.
for the first time in1969. 2. The above-mentioned Act was
3. In the Lok Sabha, if a party amended five times.
does not have a minimum of 75 3. The term ‘Office of Profit’ is
members, its leader cannot be well-defined in the Constitution
recognized as the Leader of the of India.
Opposition.
Which of the following statements
Which of the statements given above given above is/are correct?
is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only
(a) 1 and 3 only (b) 3 only
(b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3 Solution: (a)
Solution: (b)
33. With reference to the Legislative
31. Regarding the Money Bill, which Assembly of a State in India, consider
of the following statements is not the following statements: (PYQ 2019)
correct? (PYQ 2018) 1. The Governor makes a customary
(a) A bill shall be deemed to be a address to Members of the
Money Bill if it contains only House at the commencement of
provisions relating to imposition, the first session of the year.
abolition, remission, alteration or 2. When a State Legislature does’
regulation of any tax. not have a rule on a particular
(b) A Money Bill has provisions for the matter, it follows the Lok Sabha
custody of the Consolidated Fund rule on that matter.

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 Legislative Branch

Which of the statements given above Which of the statements given above
is / are correct? is/are correct?
(a) 1 only (a) 1 only
(b) 2 only (b) 2only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Solution: (c)
Solution: (d)
34. Rajya Sabha has equal powers with
Lok Sabha in (PYQ 2020) 36. Consider the following statements:
(a) the matter of creating new All India (PYQ 2020)
Services 1. The President of India can
(b) amending the Constitution summon a session of the
(c) the removal of the government
Parliament at such a place as he/
(d) making cut motions
she thinks fit.
Solution: (b)
2. The Constitution of India
35. Consider the following statements: provides for three sessions of the
(PYQ 2020) Parliament in a year, but it is not
1. According to the Constitution mandatory to conduct all three
of India, a person who is eligible
sessions.
to vote can be made a minister
in a State for six months even if 3. There is no minimum number
he/she is not a member of the of days that the Parliament is
Legislature of that State. required to meet in a year.
2. According to the Representation Which of the statements given above
of People Act, 1951, a person is/are correct?
convicted of a criminal offence
(a) 1 only
and sentenced to imprisonment
(b) 2 only
for five years is permanently
disqualified from contesting an (c) 1 and 3 only
election even after his release (d) 2 and 3 only
from prison. Solution: (c)

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PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

1. The Ninth Schedule to the Indian 3. Which of the following are included
Constitution was added by in the original jurisdiction of the
(PYQ 2003) Supreme Court? (PYQ 2012)
(a) First Amendment 1. A dispute between the
(b) Eighth Amendment Government of India and one or
more States
(c) Ninth Amendment
2. A dispute regarding elections to
(d) Forty second Amendment
either House of the Parliament
Solution (a)
or that of Legislature of a State
2. What is the provision to safeguard 3. A dispute between the
the autonomy of the Supreme Court Government of India and a
of India? (PYQ 2012) Union Territory
1. While appointing the Supreme 4. A dispute between two or more
Court Judges, the President of States
India has to consult the Chief Select the correct answer using the
Justice of India. codes given below:
2. The Supreme Court Judges can (a) 1 and 2
be removed by the Chief Justice (b) 2 and 3
of India only. (c) 1 and 4
(d) 3 and 4
3. The salaries of the Judges are
charged on the Consolidated Solution (c)
Fund of India to which the
legislature does not have to vote. 4. The power of the Supreme Court of
India to decide disputes between the
4. All appointments of officers
Centre and the States falls under its
and staffs of the Supreme
(PYQ 2014)
Court of India are made by
(a) advisory jurisdiction
the Government only after
(b) appellate jurisdiction.
consulting the Chief Justice of
(c) original jurisdiction
India.
(d) writ jurisdiction
Which of the statements given above
is/are correct? Solution (c)
(a) 1 and 3 only 5. The power to increase the number of
(b) 3 and 4 only judges in the Supreme Court of India
(c) 4 only is vested in (PYQ 2014)
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 (a) the President of India
Solution (a) (b) the Parliament

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(c) the Chief Justice of India (b) The power of the Judiciary to
(d) The Law Commission question the wisdom of the laws
enacted by the Legislatures.
Solution (b)
(c) The power of the Judiciary to
6. Who/Which of the following is the review all the legislative enactments
Custodian of the Constitution of before they are assented to by the
India? President.
(PYQ 2015) (d) The power of the Judiciary to
(a) The President of India review its own judgements given
(b) The Prime Minister of India earlier in similar or different cases.
(c) The Lok Sabha Secretariat Solution (a)
(d) The Supreme Court of India
9. Consider the following statements:
Solution (d)
(PYQ 2018)
7. With reference to the ‘Gram 1. The Parliament of India can place
Nyayalaya Act,’ which of the following a particular law in the Ninth
statements is/are correct? Schedule of the Constitution of
(PYQ 2016) India.
1. As per the Act, Gram Nyayalayas 2. The validity of a law placed in
can hear only civil cases and not the Ninth Schedule cannot be
criminal cases. examined by any court and no
2. The Act allows local social judgement can be made on it.
activists as mediators/ Which of the statements given above
reconciliators. is/are correct?
Select the correct answer using the (a) 1 only
code given below: (b) 2 only
(a) 1 only (c) Both 1 and 2
(b) 2 only (d) Neither 1 nor 2
(c) Both 1 and 2 Solution: (a)
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
10. The Ninth Schedule was introduced
Solution (b)
in the Constitution of India during
8. In India, Judicial Review implies the prime ministership of(PYQ 2019)
(PYQ 2017) (a) Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Lal Bahadur Shastri
(a) The power of the Judiciary
(c) Indira Gandhi
to pronounce upon the
(d) Morarji Desai
constitutionality of laws and
executive orders. Solution: (a)

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 Judicial Branch

11. Consider the following statements: 13. With reference to the constitution
(PYQ 2019) of India, prohibition or limitations
th
1. The 44 Amendment to the or provisions contained in ordinary
Constitution of India introduced laws cannot act as prohibitions or
an article placing the election limitations on the constitutional
of the Prime Minister beyond powers under Article 142. It could
judicial review. mean which one of the following?
2. The Supreme Court of India (PYQ 2019)
struck down the 99th Amendment (a) The decisions taken by the Election
to the Constitution of India as being Commission of India while
violative of the independence of discharging its duties cannot be
judiciary. challenged in any court of law.
Which of the statements given above is/ (b) The Supreme Court of India is
are correct? not constrained in the exercise
(a) 1 only of its powers by laws made by the
(b) 2 only parliament.
(c) Both 1 and 2 (c) In the event of grave financial
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 crises in the country, the President
of India can declare Financial
Solution (b) Emergency without the counsel
from the cabinet.
12. With reference to the Constitution
(d) State Legislatures cannot make
of India, consider the following
laws on certain matters without
statements:
the concurrence of the Union
(PYQ 2019) legislature.
1. No High Court shall have the
jurisdiction to declare any Solution (b)
central law to be constitutionally 14. Consider the following statements:
invalid.
(PYQ 2019)
2. An amendment to the
1. The motion to impeach a
Constitution of India cannot
judge of the supreme court of
be called into question by the
Supreme Court of India. India cannot be rejected by the
speaker of the Lok Sabha as per
Which of the statements given above the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968.
is/ are correct?
2. The constitution of India
(a) 1 only
defines and gives details of
(b) 2 only
what constitutes ‘incapacity
(c) Both 1 and 2
and proven misbehavior’ of the
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
judges of the Supreme Court of
Solution (d) India.

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3. The details of the process of the 15. In India, Legal Services Authorities
impeachment of the judges of provide free legal services to which
the Supreme Court of India are of the following type of citizens?
given in the judges (Inquiry)
(PYQ 2020)
Act, 1968.
1. Person with an annual income of
4. If the motion of the impeachment
of a judge is taken up for voting, less than Rs 1,00,000
the law requires the motion to 2. Transgender with an annual
be backed by each house of the income of less than Rs 2,00,000
parliament and supported by a 3. Member of Other Backward
majority of total membership of Classes (OBC) with an annual
that house and by not less than income of less than ₹ 3,00,000
two- thirds of total members of 4. All Senior Citizens
that House present and voting.
Select the correct answer using the
Which of the statements given above
code given below:
is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 (a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only (b) 3 and 4 only
(c) 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 (d) 1 and 4 only
Solution (c) Solution (a)

517 Mastering Indian Polity