PSIR Optional · PYQ solutions
PSIR Optional PYQ Solutions, topic-wise
Three and a half decades of PSIR Optional questions (1991–2026) solved and filed by syllabus topic, not by year, so you can see how UPSC frames each theme across the years. Thinkers, current examples and a clear answer structure in every solution.
1,300+
Solved PYQs
1991–2026
Years covered
Paper I & II
All 40 units solved
Topic-wise
Not year-wise
Jump to a unit — Paper I · Section A: Political Theory and Indian Political Thought
Political Theory: Meaning and Approaches Theories of the State Justice Equality and Liberty Rights Democracy Concept of Power, Hegemony, Ideology and Legitimacy Political Ideologies Indian Political Thought Western Political Thought
Jump to a unit — Paper I · Section B: Indian Government and Politics
Indian Nationalism Making of the Indian Constitution Salient Features of the Indian Constitution Principal Organs of Government Grassroots Democracy Statutory Institutions and Commissions Federalism Planning and Economic Development Caste, Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics Party System Social Movements
Jump to a unit — Paper II · Section A: Comparative Politics and International Relations
Comparative Politics State in Comparative Perspective Politics of Representation and Participation Globalisation Approaches to the Study of International Relations Key Concepts in International Relations Changing International Political Order Evolution of the International Economic System United Nations Regionalisation of World Politics Contemporary Global Concerns
Jump to a unit — Paper II · Section B: India and the World
Indian Foreign Policy India and the Non-Aligned Movement India and South Asia India and the Global South India and the Global Centres of Power India and the UN System India and the Nuclear Question Recent Developments in Indian Foreign Policy
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Recent PSIR Optional solutions.
New answers are being added every week. The latest nine are here; every unit below lists its full set.
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Answer in about 150 words: Criticism of the institutional approach in comparative political analysis has come up in successive waves. Comment.
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Discuss the psychological approach to the study of comparative politics.
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Discuss the political socialisation of open and closed societies.
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Discuss the interpretive approach to the study of comparative politics.
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What are the crucial functions of empirical political theory in Comparative Politics?
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Discuss the main limitations of the comparative method to the study of Political Science.
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Discuss the political economy approach to the comparative analysis of politics. (150 words)
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Discuss the subject matter of comparative politics. Outline the limitations of comparative political analysis.
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Examine the significance of the comparative method in political analysis. Discuss its limitations.
Syllabus map
Paper I · Section A: Political Theory and Indian Political Thought
Political Theory: Meaning and Approaches, Theories of the State, Justice, Equality and Liberty, Rights, Democracy, Concept of Power, Hegemony, Ideology and Legitimacy, Political Ideologies, Indian Political Thought, Western Political Thought.
Unit 01
Political Theory: Meaning and Approaches
PYQ Solutions
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Resurgence of political theory.
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Explain the Philosophical approach to the study of Political theory.
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Provide a comparative analysis of behavioural and institutional approach to the study of Political theory.
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Behavioural approach to Political Science.
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Elucidate the meanings inherent in the term ‘political’ with appropriate illustrations.
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Decline of political theory.
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Normative approach in political science.
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‘Credo of Relevance’ in post-behaviouralism advocates the importance of action science. Analyze.
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Write on the Systems Approach.
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Examine the importance of behavioural approach in political theory. What led to its decline?
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Discuss the significance of a normative approach to Political theory.
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The Post-Behavioural Approach.
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Discuss David Easton’s model of systems analysis.
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“… political theory is not an escape mechanism but an arduous calling.” (John Plamenatz)
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Difference between normative and empirical theories of politics.
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Examine the significance of the behavioural revolution in politics.
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“Political Theory is, quite simply, man’s attempts to consciously understand and solve the problems of his group life and organization……. It is the disciplined investigation of political problems….. not only to show what a political practice is, but also to show what it means. In showing what a practice means, or what it ought to mean, political theory can alter what it is.” (Sabine). Comment.
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Explain the changing analytical perspectives in the development of political theory.
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Examine the arguments in ‘the Normative vs. Empirical debate’ in the study of political theory.
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Relevance of contextualist approach to the study of political theory.
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“Post-behaviouralism is not a negation of the behavioural revolution but only its corrective.” How does it seek to raise the status of the discipline of Political Science?
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“A scientific politics can develop only if the materials of politics are treated in terms of systems of actions.” In the light of this statement of Kaplan with regard to application of systems theory to political science, critically examine the drawbacks of its application.
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Critically evaluate and bring out the weakest aspects of behavioural and post-behavioural approaches to the analysis of political system. What measurable and quantifiable criteria are available in political science to evaluate political behaviour?
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What is meant by “behavioural approach” to politics? Is it a fool-proof approach? How far is it correct to say that the behavioural approach to political analysis appeared in order to counteract the Marxist approach.
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Discuss the importance of the Systems Theory in modern political analysis.
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Discuss the basic assumptions of behaviouralism. In what way post behaviouralism differs from behavioural theory?
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Examine the fact-value dichotomy in political science. To what extent has post behaviouralism resolved the conflict in the dichotomy?
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Examine the place of ‘obligation’ in political theory.
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What is the nature of the crisis in political theory? Suggest remedies to overcome it.
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Examine the limitations of Behaviouralism as an approach to the study of politics.
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Discuss the Normative and Behavioural Approaches to the study of political science and examine the limitations of Behavioural Approach.
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‘Political Science is a master-science, “architectonic” in its character, from which all other practical sciences take their cue’ (Ernest Barker). Discuss.
Unit 02
Theories of the State
PYQ Solutions
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Write on the following in about 150 words: Post-colonial theory of State.
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What is the Marxist and liberal approach towards the state? On what grounds the theoretical differences between them are premised? Explain.
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Write approximately 150 words on Pluralist theory of State.
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Eurocentrism is both the target and the motive force of the post-colonial political theory. Discuss.
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Examine the liberal theory of State in contemporary politics.
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Comment in about 150 words: Feminist critique of the State.
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What is the contemporary relevance of Marxism?
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Critically examine the neo-liberal -theory of State.
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Comment on Neo-liberal perspective of State (150 words)
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Discuss Feminist theory of the State.
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Examine the challenges to sovereignty of the State in the contemporary world.
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Discuss in what sense Marx’s understanding of state can be considered as materialistic.
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What is meant by ‘relative autonomy of State in Marxist analysis?
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Make all assessment of the post-colonial understanding of State.
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Evaluate Marx’s instrumentalist approach to the State.
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Do you think that the modern nation-state has been declining in the wake of globalization? Justify your answer.
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Critically examine Hamza Alavi’s formulation of the overdeveloped State.
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Comment: “State is the result of the irreconcilability of class antagonism”. (Lenin)
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Comment: “Because the society is federal, the authority must also be federal”. (Laski)
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Comment: Impact of Globalisation on State Sovereignty.
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Comment: “The discovery of Sovereign in a federal state is an impossible adventure.” (Laski)
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Comment: “The reason why men enter into civil society is the preservation of their property.” (Locke)
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Comment: “Will, not force, is the basis of the state.” (T. H. Green)
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Critically examine Marxist theory of the state with reference to the dictatorship of the proletariat.
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Comment: “I give the name to every state that is governed by laws, no matter what the form of its administration.” (Rousseau)
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Comment: “As soon as a nation appoints representatives, it is no longer free, it no longer exists.” (Rousseau)
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Examine critically the pluralist arguments against the theory of sovereignty.
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Examine the main issues involved in the Church- State controversy. What were its consequences?
Unit 03
Justice
PYQ Solutions
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Explain how Rawls used the liberal and egalitarian perspective to develop his theory of justice.
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Rawls’ idea of ‘liberal self’ is too individualistic. Explain, in this context, the communitarian critique of Rawls’ theory of justice.
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Examine the entitlement theory of justice.
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Dr. Ambedkar’s idea of social justice leads to ‘egalitarian justice’ as compared to Rawls’ ‘justice as fairness’ which aims at the notion of ‘pure procedural justice’. Comment.
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How has Rawls enriched the idea of justice in liberalism?
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Make a comparative assessment of Greek perspective of Justice with Rawlsian concept of Justice.
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Examine communitarian perspective on justice.
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Comment in 150 words: Distributive Justice.
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Analyse John Rawls justification of discrimination to achieve the goals of justice.
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Rawls’ theory of justice is both contractual and distributive. Examine.
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Critically examine John Rawl’s Argument for democratic equality.
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Comment in 150 words·: ‘Difference Principle’ in Rawls’ Theory of Justice.
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Explicate the conception of justice in the critiques of communitarian theorists.
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Comment in 150 words : “Original position”
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Comment: ‘Veil of ignorance.
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To what extent does the Rawlsian goal of achieving social justice depend on an overarching consensus among cultural, religious and ideological groups?
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Consider: “…………We believe that as a matter of principle each -number of society has an inviolability founded on justice.” (Rawls)
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What is the concept of justice in modern political theory? How is it related to Liberty and Equality?
Unit 04
Equality and Liberty
PYQ Solutions
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Write on the following in about 150 words: The freedom of the pike is death to the minnows.
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What is capability approach? Elaborate the distinctive features of the capability theory of equality.
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Write a note on the relation between equality and liberty from the multi-cultural perspective.
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The nature of relationship between equality of democratic citizenship and liberty of citizens is influenced by economic equality. Comment.
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Affirmative action policies draws as much strong criticism as strong support. Analyze this statement in the context of equality.
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“Equality of estates caused equality of power, and equality of power is liberty.” Comment.
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Comment in about 150 words: Affirmative action.
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Comment in about 150 words : Equality of outcome as a political idea.
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Comment in 150 words: Equality of opportunity.
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Compare negative and positive concepts of liberty.
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Equality means fair treatment rather than equal treatment. Comment.
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Differentiate between Freedom and Liberty. Discuss Marx’s notion of freedom.
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How is liberty a precondition for equality Explicate the rehitionship between equality and liberty.
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Comment on the difference between equality of opportunity and equality of outcome. (150 words)
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Why is ‘affirmative action’ important in provision of equal opportunity?
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Comment: “The end of law is not to abolish or restrain but to preserve and enlarge freedom.” (Locke)
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Comment: ‘Reason teaches all mankind who will but consult it, that being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty and possessions’ (Locke)
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Comment: ‘Since liberty is a fruit that does not grow in all climates, it cannot be enjoyed by all people alike’. (Rousseau)
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‘ The existence of Liberty depends upon our willingness to build the foundations of society upon the basis of rational justice and to adjust them to changing conditions in terms of reasoned discussion and not violence.’ (Harold J. Laski). Discuss.
Unit 05
Rights
PYQ Solutions
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“Rights of the man are separate and independent of the State.” Critically analyze the perspective of Laski.
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The debate on human rights is caught between the limitations of both universalism and cultural relativism. Comment.
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Comment on multicultural perspective on rights.
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Human Rights are complex and contested social practice that organises relations between individuals, society and the State. Comment.
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Write on the Cultural Relativism.
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Can there be universal conception of human rights? Give your arguments.
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Assess the significance of right to property in political theory.
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Discuss the doctrine of ‘rights as trumps’.
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What do you understand by three generations of Human Rights?
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What do you understand by Multiculturalism 7 Discuss Bhikhu Parekh’s views on Multiculturalism.
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“The implementation of human rights is regarded as a matter of changing the conduct of States.” Comment.
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Comment in 150 words: Idea of Natural Rights.
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Analyse the relation between natural rights and human rights.
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Explain Berlin’s notion of value pluralism.
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Critically examine the cultural relativist approach to human rights.
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Explain as to why Jeremy Bentham dismisses the theory of natural rights as ‘nonsense upon stilts.’
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“Human rights are basic moral guarantees that people in all countries and cultures possess, simply because they are people”. Explain the statement.
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Discuss the evolution of the theories of human rights from natural rights to collective and environmental rights.
Unit 06
Democracy
PYQ Solutions
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“Representative democracy is not an absolute principle, rather a question of time, place and circumstances.” Analyze the statement. Mention the major challenges to representative democracy.
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Explain briefly the elite theory of democracy.
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Deliberative democracy seeks to promote democratic decision making about public issues among the citizens. Discuss.
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Success of contemporary democracies lies in State limiting its own power. Comment.
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Elitist theory of democracy denies the possibility of democracy as ‘rule of the people’. Elucidate.
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“Free and fair deliberation is key to the foundation of democracy.” Explain.
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Representative democracy ……. means the people as a body must be able to control the general direction of government policy. (J. S. Mill). Comment.
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Comment: Deliberative democracy.
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Comment in 150 words Substantive Democracy.
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Critically examine Macpherson’s views on Democracy.
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Deliberative democracy does not have its salience without participation and participatory democracy does not have its credence without deliberations. Comment.
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Explicate the features of Representative Democracy.
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Comment in 150 words: Difference between Participatory and Deliberative Democracy.
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Comment in 150 words: “India has thrown up a form of judicial democracy that has no parallel anywhere else, and has nurtured a kind of civil society that is uniquely its own.” (Bhikhu Parekh)
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Explicate the features of deliberative democracy.
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Comment on issues of debate in contemporary democratic theory. (150 words)
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Examine the ‘Participatory Model of Democracy’.
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Comment Robert Dahl’s concept of deformed polyarchy.
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Assess the deliberate theories of democracy.
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Comment on the proposition that liberal constitutionalism precedes liberal democracy.
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‘Political process in a country is merely the manifestation of its_ political culture”. Elucidate.
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“Democratic theory presupposes self-determination, human rights and social justice.” Discuss this with particular reference to M.K. Gandhi.
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Comment: Polyarchy.
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The modern pluralist democracies have posed a great threat to the fabric of nation state. Discuss.
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Comment: “Laws are any necessary relations arising from the nature of a thing.” (Montesquieu)
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Examine the nature and limits of the rights of Resistance and Revolution recognised in modern political theory.
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Discuss the philosophical basis of doctrine of popular sovereignty, and its significance for mankind.
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Comment: “Punishment should be preventive and corrective rather than retaliatory.” (Bentham)
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Comment: “Obedience to mere impulse of appetite is slavery.” (Rousseau)
Unit 07
Concept of Power, Hegemony, Ideology and Legitimacy
PYQ Solutions
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Write on the following in about 150 words: Legitimacy is always a ‘social construct’.
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Explain the Macpherson’s view on power.
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Do you think that legitimacy acquired by consent or manufactured by indoctrination is an essential element in maintenance of political rule? Justify your answer with relevant examples.
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Linkage between Power and Hegemony.
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Legitimacy adds positive value to political authority and obligation. Discuss.
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Comment on Foucault’s concept of power.
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Write on the Bases of Power.
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Comment in about 150 words: Tools of legitimation of the State.
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Examine the nature and meaning of power.
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According to Gramsci, ‘hegemony is primarily based on the organisation of consent’. Comment.
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Explain the relationship between power, authority and legitimacy.
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Comment: Gramsci’s concept of Hegemony.
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Discuss Hannah Arendt’s analysis of the role of ideology in modern totalitarian regimes.
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Distinguish between Power and Authority.
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Discuss the ‘crisis of legitimacy’ in capitalist societies. (Habermas)
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Discuss Gramsci’ s notion of ‘organic intellectuals’
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Examine the conditions that are required for the maintenance of legitimacy in modern societies.
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Comment in 150 words: “Power is never the property of an individual; it belongs to a group and remains in existence only so long as the group keeps together.” (Hannah Arendt)
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Explain, as per Gramsci, the distinction between hegemony and domination.
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Distinguish between the concepts of legitimacy and hegemony.
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Comment on Hannah Arendt’s conception of the ‘political’. (150 words)
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Attempt a comparative examination of the view of Marx and Weber on the ‘Power’.
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Comment: “Power flows throughout the system like blood in the capillaries of our body.” (Foucault)
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Comment: Politics as a power concept.
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Critically examine Gramsci’s concept of Hegemony.
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Is Gramsci a theoretician of super-structures? Give reasons in support of your answer.
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Discuss the political philosophy of Hannah Arendt.
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Comment: “In so far as national events are decided, the ‘power elite’ are those who decide them.”
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Comment: Views of Lenin, Mitchels and Duverger on political parties.
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Distinguish power from authority. How does reliance on authority affect the nature of power?
Unit 08
Political Ideologies
PYQ Solutions
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Write on the following in about 150 words: Herbert Marcuse turned Freudianism on its head in his critical theory.
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Wollstonecraft developed first systematic feminist critique. Discuss her main ideas.
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Mention the difference between Italian and German brands of fascism.
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“State ………. does the greatest harm to mankind by destroying individuality, which lies at the root of all progress.” — Mahatma Gandhi. Elucidate.
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Explain how the slogan ‘the personal is political’ addresses the issue of women’s oppression and discrimination?
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Write approximately 150 words on Decline of Liberalism.
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Fascism displays an ambivalent stance towards parliamentary democracy. Explain.
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Factors like community, culture and nation weaken the hegemony of neo-liberalism today. Discuss.
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Write on the “Revolution in Permanence”.
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“Political ideology is primarily concerned with the allocation and utilization of power.” Comment.
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Comment in 150 words Liberalism as a revolutionary idea.
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Comment: End of Ideology debate.
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Distinguish between liberal feminism and radical feminism.
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Comment in 150 words: “Nothing against the State, nothing over it, nothing beyond it.” – Mussolini.
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John Locke is the father of liberalism. Explain.
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Comment on Post-modernism (150 words)
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Define Socialism. Discuss the salient features of Fabian Socialism.
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Comment on Eco-feminism (150 words)
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Write a brief note on “The End of History debate”.
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“The Political ideology of Globalization is Nee-Liberalism.” Comment.
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Discuss the key features of pre-Marxist socialist theory.
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Comment on the view that socialism in the 21st century may be reborn as anti-capitalism.
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Examine the conception of the State in the ideologies of Fascism and Marxism.
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Comment in 150 words: “Personal is political”
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Discuss the communitarian critique of liberalism.
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Distinguish between liberal feminism and socialist feminism in detail.
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Comment: “Woman has always been man’s dependent, if not his slave; the two sexes have never shared the world in equality.” (Simone de Beauvoir)
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Comment: “Socialism is a much used hat, whose original shape no one can define.” (C. E. M. Joad)
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Comment: “Fascism is the destruction of liberal ideas and institutions in the intere$t of those who own the instruments of economic power.” (Laski)
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Do you agree with the view that liberal theories are based on ‘atomism’, whereas communitarians have a ‘social thesis’? Present your line of argument.
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“The root of politics, according to Marx, does not lie in the state; it lies in the social conditions underlying this institution, that is, in the material conditions of life as reflected through the mode of production.” Comment.
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Define ideology. Critically examine the “End of Ideology”. Debate
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Analyse the post-Marxian developments in socialist thought.
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Do you agree with. the view that ‘liberal democracy has won the historic battle of ideologies.
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Comment: ‘The mode of production in material life determines the general character of the social, political and spiritual problems of life’. (Karl Marx).
Unit 09
Indian Political Thought
PYQ Solutions
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Analyze Kautilya’s Saptanga theory. How do you explain its significance in present-day politics?
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Discuss Gandhi’s approach to property in relation to trusteeship.
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Discuss B. R. Ambedkar’s views on democracy and State socialism.
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“State ………. does the greatest harm to mankind by destroying individuality, which lies at the root of all progress.” — Mahatma Gandhi. Elucidate.
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Dharmashastra presents a duty-centric worldview for individuals and communities. Comment.
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Manabendra Nath Roy’s political thought highlighted the humanistic aspects of Marxism. Discuss.
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Buddhist thought on Dhamma facilitates the emancipation of political action. Explain.
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Sri Aurobindo’s idea of Swaraj has deep significance in the Indian social, cultural and political history. Analyze.
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“The Panchayats with Gram Sabhas should be so organised as to identify the resources locally available for the development in agricultural and industrial sectors.” Examine the statement in context of Gram Swaraj.
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Do you think that the Buddhist traditions have lent greater ethical, foundation to the ancient Indian political thought? Give your arguments.
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“When a nation becomes devoid of arts and· learning, it invites poverty.” (Sir Syed Ahmad Khan). In the light of this statement, assess the role of Sir Syed Ahmad Khan as a reformer in modem India.
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Explain the sources of ancient Indian political thought.
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Explicate the ideological components of Gandhism.
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Comment in 150 words: Ambedkar’s ideas on constitutionalism.
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Discuss Kautilya views on the elements of the State.
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Comment: M.K.Gandhi’s concept of Swaraj.
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Discuss Ambedkar’s ideas on ‘annihilation of caste’.
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What do you understand by the notion of Statecraft? Discuss the theory of statecraft as given by Kautilya.
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According to Sri Aurobindo, Swaraj is a necessary condition for India to accomplish its destined goal. Comment.
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Political democracy could not last unless social democracy lay at its base – B. R. Ambedkar. Comment.
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Discuss Shri Aurobindo’s views on Culture Nationalism.
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Examine Gandhi’s critique of ‘Modernisation’.
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Comment: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s idea of state socialism.
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Compare and contrast the views of Kautilya and Machiavelli on Statecraft.
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Comment in 150 words: Gandhi’s Views on State.
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Evaluate the contributions of Buddhist tradition to Indian political thought.
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Comment in 150 words: “Nationalism is not a mere political programme but, a way of life like religion.” (Aurobindo Ghose)
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Examine the significance of Dharma in ancient Indian political thought.
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Analyse, as per Kautilya, the Saptanga theory of the state.
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Comment in 150 words: Sri Aurobindo’s “idea of freedom”
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Examine Ambedkar’s critique of Marxism.
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Comment in 150 words: Syed Ahmed Khan as a modernizer.
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Write a note on the Buddhist tradition in Indian political thought.
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Comment on the Marxist and Radical Humanist phases of M. N. Roy’s thought.
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Examine the Gandhian idea of village community as an ideal unit of self – governance.
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Compare and contrast Dharmasastra and Arthasastra with reference to State power.
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Comment on Radical Humanism.
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Comment: “Real rights are a ·result of performance of duty”. (Mahatma Gandhi)
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Comment: “In the happiness of his subjects lies the king’s happiness; in their welfare his welfare.” (Kautilya)
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Critically examine the ‘Sapta Prakriti’, of state as envisaged by Kautilya.
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Explain Gandhi’s ideas regarding State and highlight their relationship with modern democracy and principles of anarchism.
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Comment: Ambedkar’s Concept of Social Justice.
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Comment: “Of those (officers) the ways of embezzlement are forty.” (Kautilya)
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Comment: Four Purusharthas in Indian tradition.
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Comment: The main political ideas contained in the Manusmriti.
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Comment: Mandal theory.
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Analyse M.N. Roy’s ideational journey from Marxism to Radical Humanism.
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Comment: “The true source of right is duty. If we all discharge our duties, rights will not be far to seek.” (M. K. Gandhi)
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Comment: Validity of the statement that most prominent among Gandhian principles are non-violence, adherence to truth and dignity of labour.
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What are the major components of Modern Indian Political Thought? Examine them with reference to Gandhi and M.N. Roy.
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Comment: “Rulership can be successfully carried out (only) with the help of associates: one wheel alone does not turn.” (Kautilya)
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Comment: “Material well-being alone is supreme. For, spiritual good and sensual pleasures depends upon material well-being.” (Kautilya)
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Comment: Spiritual nationalism of Aurobindo Ghosh.
Unit 10
Western Political Thought
PYQ Solutions
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“Fortune favours the brave.” In the light of this statement, discuss Machiavelli’s concepts of ‘virtue’ and ‘fortune’.
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Mill’s work was crucial to the development of liberalism, because it straddled the divide between classical and modern theories. Analyze.
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Karl Popper presents a defence of the open society against its enemies. Elaborate.
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The foundational base of western democracy has been shaped by Locke’s ideas of constitutionalism, freedom and property. Elucidate.
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Hannah Arendt analysed a few categories of vita activa. Explain.
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Critically examine Plato’s theory of Forms.
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Write approximately 150 words on Locke’s views on Revolution.
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Comment on State of Nature as State of War (Hobbes).
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“The legal subordination of one sex to another is wrong in itself, and now one of the chief hindrances to human development.” (J. S. Mill). Comment.
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Individualism is inherent in Hobbes’ absolutist ideology. Comment.
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Write on the Locke’s Social Contract.
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Explain the Aristotelian view of politics. To what extent do you think it has contributed – to the development of modern-day constitutional democracies?
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Marx’s concept of ‘alienation’ is an essential part of the reality in capitalism.
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Comment in about 150 words: J.S. Mill’s ideas on women suffrage.
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Trace the evolution of Western Political Thought from ancient to contemporary period.
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Comment in 150 words: Machiavelli’s secularism.
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Discuss Karl Marx’s concept of class.
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Explain Aristotle’s critique of Plato’s Idealism.
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Critically examine Hannah Arendt’s conceptual triad of labour, work and action.
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Critically examine Machiavelli’s views on religion and politics.
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Comment in 150 words: John Stuart Mill is a ‘reluctant democrat’. – C. L. Wayper
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Everywhere, inequality is a cause of revolution – Aristotle. Comment.
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Comment on Hobbesian notion of Political Obligation (150 words)
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Comment: “How would and my fellow human beings behave if we were to find ourselves in a state of nature, and what does this behavior tells us about our innate predispositions?” (Thomas Hobbes)
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Explain Marx’s understanding of Human Essence and Alienation.
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“Plato was an enemy of the open society.” (Popper) Comment.
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Comment in 150 words: Aristotle’s Conception of Equality.
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Discuss the relationship between base and superstructure in Marxist theory.
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Central to Aristotle’s political thought is his classification of the different types of political constitutions in the Politics. Evaluate.
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Explain how Machiavelli’s application of empirical method to human affairs marks an important stage in the evolution of political science.
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Comment in 150 words: “All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” (J. S’. Mill)
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Comment in 150 words: “Covenants without swords are but words and of no strength to secure a man at all.” (Hobbes)
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Comment on the assertion of Laslett that Filmer and not Hobbes was the main antagonist of Locke.
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Draw parallels between Arthashastra tradition and the ‘Realist’ tradition represented by Machiavelli.
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‘Locke is an individualist out and out.’ Substantiate this statement.
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Comment: “The state is a creation of nature and man is by nature a political animal.” (Aristotle)
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Comment: Hobbes as an individualist.
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It is said where there is no law there is no liberty. Give your view on this statement.
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Comment: “The worth of a State …… is the worth of individuals composing it.” (J. S. Mill)
-
Comment: “Western thought, one might say, has been either platonic or anti-platonic but hardly ever non – platonic.” (Popper)
-
Examine in detail Marx’s prescription for ending alienation and reaching the stage of de-alienation.
-
Comment: “The great and chief aim of men’s uniting, into a Commonwealth and putting themselves under Government is the preservation of property.” (Locke)
-
Comment: “Plato’s communism is a supplementary machinery to give effect to and reinforce that spirit which education is to create.” (Nettleship)
-
Discuss the importance of Machiavelli in the history of political thought. Is it correct to say that Machiavelli’s theory is ‘narrowly local and narrowly dated’?
-
Comment: “State is individual writ _large.” (Plato)
-
Attempt a critique of Aristotle’s ideas on slavery.
-
Comment: “… that the anatomy of this civil society, however, has to be sought in Political economy.” (Marx)
-
Do you agree with the view that Political culture of a society is highly significant aspect of the Political System? Give reasons in support of your answer.
-
Comment: “The sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action of any of their number is self-protection.” (J.S. Mill)
-
Plato’s theory of education ‘is the logical result of his conception of justice’. Discuss.
-
Comment: “Hobbes starts as an individualist but ends as an absolutist”.
-
Explain Hegel’s theory of dialectical idealism.
-
Comment: “Mill was the prophet of an empty liberty and an abstract individual”. (Barker)
-
Explain Plato’s communism and compare it with modern communism.
-
Comment “Machiavelli’s political philosophy was narrowly local and narrowly dated.” (Sabine)
-
“The history of all hitherto existing society is· the history of class struggle.” (Karl Marx) Comment.
-
Comment: “The polis exists by nature and that it is prior to the individual.”
-
Comment: “Until philosophers are kings, or kings and princes of this world have the spirit and power of philosophy, cities will never have rest from evil.”
-
Comment: Power is an end in itself and he (Machiavelli) inquires into the means that are best suited to acquire, retain and expand power, thus separates power from morality, ethics, religion and metaphysics. (Ebenstein on Machiavelli)
-
Comment: “State is a march of God on the Earth.” (Hegel)
-
Comment: “Polity or constitutional government may be described generally as a fusion of oligarchy and democracy.” (Aristotle)
-
Consider: “Liberty or freedom, signifies properly the absence of opposition in external impediments of motion.” (Hobbes)
-
Comment: ” …….all human history is a process whereby ideas· objectify themselves in material reality. (Hegel)
-
Comment: “Marx’s work could be seen as a compound of three elements-Green philosophy, English political economy and French socialism.” (Lenin)
-
Critically examine: “In the first place, it is mostly considered unjust to deprive anyone of his personal liberty, his property or any other thing which belongs to him by law…………………….”. (John Stuart Mill)
-
Write: Impact of modernisation and new communication technologies on political processes of Afro-Asian countries.
-
Comment: “Polity is the best practicable form of government.” (Aristotle)
-
Comment: “The prince must be fox and the lion at the same time.” (Machiavelli)
-
Comment: “Hobbes relieved sovereignty completely from the disabilities which Bodin 4. had inconsistently left standing.” (Sabine)
-
“Rousseau’s theory of Social Contract in Hobbes’s Leviathan with its head chopped off.” Discuss.
-
Comment: “Leninism is Marxism in the epoch of imperialism and proletarian revolution.” (Stalin)
-
Discuss how early radical liberalism was modified by Jolin Stuart Mill.
-
Comment: “Whoever therefore out of a State of Nature united into a Commonwealth _must be understood to give up all the Power necessary to the Ends for which they united into Society, to the majority of the Community.” ·(Locke)
-
Comment: “It is not the consciousness of men that determines their being, but, on the contrary, their social being determines their consciousness.” (Marx)
-
Comment: “Sin, therefore is the mother of servitude, and first cause of men’s subjection to men.” (St. Augustjne)
-
Comment: Process of Political socialization in Afro-Asian societies.
-
Comment: “Slavery is natural and beneficial both for the master and the slave.” (Aristotle)
-
Comment: “No man can be deprived of his property without his consent.” (Locke)
-
“It is hard indeed to turn the Lockean doctrine into any kind of unqualified democratic theory.” (Mcpherson) Discuss.
-
Comment: “Contradiction is the very moving principle of the world.” (Hegel)
-
Comment: “Rule of law is better than rule of men.” (Aristotle)
-
Comment: “The end of every man is continued success in obtaining those things which he from time to time, desires. (Hqbbes)
-
Comment: “The authority of the master and that of the statesman are different from one another.” (Aristotle)
-
Critically examine the Marxian theory of social stratification.
-
Comment: Tribalism in Africa.
-
Comment: “For, no law or ordinance is mightier than knowledge.”. (Plato)
-
Comment: “The end of obedience is protection.” (Thomas Hobbes).
-
Comment: ‘Reality is a shadow of ideas’. (Plato)
-
Marx treats individual primarily as a member of a class.’ Critically examine his views on the ‘economic man.’
-
Comment: ‘The aims persued by revolutionaries, like the origins of revolution, are the same in tyrannies and kingships as they are under regular Constitutions.’
-
Comment: ‘The condition of human life, which requires labour and materials to work on, necessarily introduces private possessions.’ (John Locke).
-
Comment: Lenin’s theory of ‘Democratic Centralism’.
-
Comment: ‘The relation of the state and its parts to tranquility will be seen to be similar to the relation of the animal and its parts to -health.’ (Marsiglio of Padua)
-
Comment: Agents of political socialization.
Syllabus map
Paper I · Section B: Indian Government and Politics
Indian Nationalism, Making of the Indian Constitution, Salient Features of the Indian Constitution, Principal Organs of Government, Grassroots Democracy, Statutory Institutions and Commissions, Federalism, Planning and Economic Development, Caste, Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics, Party System, Social Movements.
Unit 01
Indian Nationalism
PYQ Solutions
-
Answer in about 150 words: How did Swadeshi grow into a demand for Swaraj?
-
From passive resistors to armed revolutionaries, the Indian Freedom Struggle has a strong imprint of women freedom fighters. Elucidate.
-
Explain briefly the role of Peasant Movements after 1857 and before independence.
-
Write a note on the Dalit perspective of Indian National Movement.
-
Discuss the contribution of the Dalit struggle to establish egalitarianism in Indian society during freedom movement.
-
Comment on Satyagraha and Indian Nationalism.
-
Analyse the workers’ movement in India in the pre-Independence period.
-
Analyze the Marxist perspective of the nature of Indian National Movement. (150 words)
-
Trace the role of militant and revolutionary movements in Indian national movement.
-
Answer in 150 words: Role of Socialists in Indian National Movement.
-
National movement in India was anti-imperialist and increasingly radical ·in its socio-economic and political programmes. Discuss.
-
Comment in 150 words: Revolt of 1857 is a ‘Sepoy Mutiny’ or ‘First War of Independence’.
-
The success of Mahatma Gandhi lay in transforming both political and non-political movements into a unified nationalist movement. Comment.
-
Differentiate Moderate Nationalism from Extremist/Militant Nationalism in terms of their objectives and means.
-
Critically examine the Radical Humanist perspective on Indian National Movement.
-
Comment in 150 words: Satyagraha as a Strategy in the Indian National Movement.
-
Explain how peasant movements promoted nationalist ideas during the struggle for Indian independence.
-
Comment on the efficacy of Satyagraha as moral resistance to colonial rule.
-
Comment on views of Gandhi and Ambedkar on ‘social justice’.
-
Comment: Significance of the Civil Disobedience Movement.
-
Comment: Indian nationalism as depicted in S.N. Banerjea’s ‘A Nation in the Making’.
-
Comment: “Swaraj is the culmination of Swadeshi and Sarvodaya”.
-
Comment: Views of Jaya Prakash Narayan on ‘Total Revolution’.
-
Explain the ‘federal scheme’ under the Government of India Act, 1935. Why could this scheme not be implemented?
-
Comment: Surat Split (1907).
-
Comment: The Government of India Act, 1919.
-
Highlight Mahatma Gandhi’s role in the Indian National Movement.
-
Comment: Simon Commission.
-
Comment: Gandhi’s concept of Truth and Non-violence. Why was he opposed to modern civilisation?
-
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru comes before us as a great Nationalist, Internationalist and Humanist. Piscuss.
-
Comment: ‘Dyarchy’ under Montague-Chelmsford Reforms.
-
Examine the salient features of the Indian Independence Act (1947) relating to the transfer of power. What specific provisions did this Act make for the lapse of paramountcy?
-
Comment: Ideas of Gokhale and Tilak and their impact on the Indian struggle for freedom.
-
Comment: Raja Ram Mohan Roy as a social reformer.
-
Comment: Jinnah’s two-nation theory.
-
Comment: Swadeshi movement.
-
Comment: Anarchism in Gandhi’s philosophy.
Unit 02
Making of the Indian Constitution
PYQ Solutions
-
Write approximately 150 words on Objective Resolution of the Constituent Assembly.
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The Constitution of India is the ‘cornerstone of a nation’ (Granville Austin). Analyze.
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Comment on imprint of the British Constitution on the Indian Constitution.
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The making of the Indian Constitution is described as an attempt towards ‘social revolution’. Comment.
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“The Constitution of India is a product of a historical process, rich with constitutional antecedents.” Comment. (150 words)
-
“The Constitution makers faced the great task of forging a common national identity in the face of unparalleled social and cultural diversity in India.” Comment. (150 words)
-
Answer in 150 words: Indian Constitution makers’ concerns on social inequality.
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Unity and integrity of India was perhaps the single uppermost factor in the minds of the Constitution makers. Comment.
-
Critically examine and comment: “The Constituent Assembly was a one-party body in an essentially one-party country. The Assembly was the Congress and the Congress was India.” (Granville Austin)
-
Discuss the dominant external and internal influences in the framing of the Indian Constitution.
-
Critically examine the impact of the national movement on the making of the constitution of India.
-
Comment: Influence of Gandhi, Nehru and Ambedkar in the framing of the Indian Constitution.
-
“The origins of the Indian political system are rooted in the history of British India.” Comment.
Unit 03
Salient Features of the Indian Constitution
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: The Constitution of India was secular even before the word was included in the Preamble. Comment.
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Land Reforms programmes led to some constitutional amendments. Comment.
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Parliamentary Committees are a strong tool of Parliamentary Democracy. It provides for the opportunity for cross-pollination of ideas among members of the Parliament. Discuss.
-
Write approximately 150 words on Constitutional morality in the Indian Constitution.
-
Write approximately 150 words on Legal remedies in Part III of the Constitution of India.
-
How far do you agree that the Directive Principles of State Policy are more fundamental than the Fundamental Rights in meeting socio-economic justice as mentioned in the Preamble of the Constitution?
-
The main goal of the fundamental duties in the Indian Constitution is to generate civic responsibility among the citizen. Explain.
-
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reflects itself as a ‘social contract’. Elucidate.
-
The Doctrine of Basic Structure of the Constitution has enhanced the power of judicial review of the Supreme Court. Examine.
-
Mention the founding principles that define India’s Constitution. (150 words)
-
“Constitutionally reconciling the Fundamental Rights with the Directive Principles of State Policy has led to frequent amendments of the· Constitution and judicial interventions.” Comment.
-
Underline the significance of the first constitutional amendment. (150 words)
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Answer in 150 words: Right to Constitutional remedies in India.
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Comment on the relevance of the Directive Principles of State Policy in an era of liberalization and globalization.
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“The basic structure doctrine is implicit in the Indian Constitution; the Supreme Court has only given it an explicit for.” Comment.
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Comment in 150 words: Indian Constitution is a ‘Lawyers’ Paradise’. – Ivor Jennings.
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Right to privacy is an intrinsic part of the right to life. Comment.
-
Differentiate parliamentary supremacy from parliamentary sovereignty. Would you consider the Indian Parliament as a Sovereign Parliament, Examine.
-
Critically examine the provisions made in the Constitution for the protection of Environment.
-
Comment: ‘Article 368 does not enable Parliament to alter the basic structure or framework of the Constitution’.
-
Comment: The purpose of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment was to make the economic and social democracy explicitly visible.
-
Comment in 150 words: Secularism in the Indian Constitution.
-
In the light of neo-economic policies adopted since 1991, examine the relevance of the term ‘socialist’ in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
-
Discuss the ‘Right to Education’ and the concerns raised by it.
-
Comment in 150 words: 99th Amendment of the Indian Constitution.
-
Discuss the efficacy of judicial review in India.
-
Comment in 150 words: Increasingly higher focus on Directive Principles of State Policy.
-
What are the provisions for constitutional protection of right to freedom of religion and how far have they succeeded in promoting secularism in India?
-
Comment in 150 words: Significance of the Preamble.
-
Analyse the significance of Article 32 of the Indian Constitution.
-
Examine the significance of the verdicts of the Supreme Court in the Golaknath and Kashavananda Bharati cases for an understanding of the scope of Article 368 in regard to Fundamental Rights.
-
Discuss the extent to which the Indian Constitution reflects successful reconciliation of alternative perspectives.
-
Comment on Doctrine of Basic Structure of the Indian Constitution. (150 words)
-
Examine the significance of the Directive Principles of State Policy in achieving the goal of socio-economic justice.
-
Critically examine and comment on the assertion in about 200 words: Secularism in Indian politics is a myth.
-
“Minorities are the natural custodians of the secular state [ D.E. Smith] Discuss.
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In what ways do civil liberties and human rights movements influence the working of Indian democracy? Give your answer with suitable examples.
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Comment: The type of Government enshrined in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
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Comment: The Directive Principles of State Policy are not mere pious declarations but clear directions for the guidance of state policy.
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Comment: Fundamental Duties under Article 51A of the Constitution of India.
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Do you agree with the view that Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Polity constitute the ‘Core and Conscience’ of the Indian Constitution? Comment on the emerging trends in their interrelationship.
-
Explain the main principles embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India. What is their significance? Do you think that they are the political horoscope of the country? Discuss.
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Comment: ‘Right against exploitation’ under the Indian Constitution.
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Comment: Right to Constitutional Remedies under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution and application of the principle of Res Judicata.
-
Discuss the patterns of legislative-executive relationship prevalent in the world today What factors and forces have enabled the executive to overpower the legislature, in most countries?
-
Comment: Kesavananda Bharathi Case.
-
Comment: Reverse discrimination.
-
Examine the case for formation of small states in India.
-
Majority in legislatures does not necessarily contribute to the stability of the state Government in India. Discuss.
-
Comment: The 42nd amendment to the Constitution of India.
Unit 04
Principal Organs of Government
PYQ Solutions
-
Highlight any five constitutional provisions that restrain the powers of the executive, and evaluate their effectiveness in current times.
-
Critically comment on the shifts in the functioning of the Indian Parliament in the last two decades.
-
Delineate the key factors that have shaped the evolving political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir post 2019.
-
Examine the constitutional provisions and nature of advisory jurisdiction of Supreme Court of India. Evaluate your answer with relevant examples.
-
Write approximately 150 words on Relevance of the Legislative Council.
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Do you agree that over the years the Supreme Court has become a forum for policy evolution? Justify your answer.
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Legislative Council is a house without any effective powers. Comment.
-
The Speaker represents the freedom and dignity of the House. Examine.
-
The role of the President of India becomes more significant during a minority government and a coalition government. Explain.
-
Examine the evolution of the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court of India as a constitutional court.
-
Has the thrust of government tilted towards executive in contemporary Indian Politics? Give your arguments.
-
Answer in 150 words: Judicial overreach in India.
-
Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has emerged as the most powerful institution in India. Discuss.
-
Analyse the arguments in favour and against the lateral entry into higher civil services in India.
-
Do the lieutenant Governors have more powers than the Governors of the States? Explain.
-
Whether judicical activism has undermined or strengthened Parliamentary Democracy in India? Discuss.
-
How is the President of India: elected? Outline the salient· characteristics of the electoral college of the Indian President.
-
Judiciary has acquired the role of both, a legislature and an executive in recent years. Examine with suitable examples.
-
Critically examine the role of Governor in recent times.
-
Critically analyze the discretionary powers granted to the Governor by the Indian Constitution.
-
Examine the debates on the appointment procedure of judges to the higher judiciary in India.
-
Analyse the position of Prime Minister of India in a coalition regime.
-
Comment in 150 words: Decline of Indian Parliament
-
Examine the role of Supreme Court as the final interpreter of the Indian Constitution.
-
Comment on judicial activism and social change. (150 words)
-
In normal conditions, the Governor is a constitutional executive but in case of constitutional crisis, he can become a powerful and effective executive. Discuss.
-
Critically examine the arguments being advanced for review of the present system of appointment of judges to the higher judiciary of the country.
-
Explain the concept of Judicial activism, and examine its impact on the relationship between executive and judiciary in India.
-
Critically examine the role and contribution of India’s bureaucracy in nation building.
-
Comment: Judicial Activism.
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Comment: Parliamentary Committees in India.
-
How does the Supreme Court of India function as the “Guardian of the Constitution” and “protector of the rights of the citizens”?
-
Comment Concept of committed bureaucracy.
-
The role of Indian Prime Ministers in the federal system was always controversial. Do you agree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer with apt examples.
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Comment: Corruption in Administration in India and its impact on socio-economic reconstruction.
-
Critically evaluate Weber’s ideas on Bureaucracy and highlight the significance of the Weberian model from India’s point of view.
-
Write: Public Interest Litigation and Judicial Activism.
-
“The recent spate of judicial activities has created problems for the operation of parliamentary democracy in India.” Discuss.
-
Discuss the role and limits of the Indians Parliament in checkmating political corruption, with special reference to the Bofors payoff and the Securities scams.
-
“The roots of India’s growing problems of governability are more political than socioeconomic, that is, they are located in India’s political structure.” Discuss.
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Comment: Representative bureaucracies.
-
The function of a legislature is not merely making of laws. What other functions are expected of a modern legislature?
-
Comment: Public interest litigation.
-
Comment: Judicial behaviour.
-
‘The role of the Indian Judiciary in recent years has been one of dynamic judicial activism.’ Elucidate.
Unit 05
Grassroots Democracy
PYQ Solutions
-
Answer in about 150 words: Ending proxy leadership in Panchayati Raj is a necessary step towards true grassroots democracy. Comment.
-
Enunciate the impediments to women’s participation in local governance in the process of political decentralisation.
-
Gram Sabha in the Panchayati Raj system is a forum which gives expression to the collective wisdom, aspirations and the will of the people. Comment.
-
Discuss the major provisions of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act. Do you think that the Act remains an ‘unfulfilled dream’? Argue your case.
-
Comment on functions of District Planning Committee.
-
Examine the unique features of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. Do you think this Amendment would contribute in achieving the goal of empowerment of marginalised sections of the society?
-
Do you think that despite having significant limitations the Panchayati Raj Institutions have strengthened the process of democratic decentralization? Give your views.
-
To what extent has 73rd and 74th amendments of the Indian Constitution enhanced women’s empowerment?
-
Political decentralization has not been matched by administrative decentralization at the grass roots level. Explain.
-
Comment in 150 words: New Panchayat Raj is an effective instrument for women empowerment.
-
Examine the provisions of Panchayat Extension Services Act (PESA), 1996.
-
Has the 73rd Constitutional Amendment empowered women in panchayats in India? Discuss.
-
The goal of Good governance will be achieved only by strengthening the grass root level democracy.
-
Examine the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies in deepening of democracy in India.
-
Explain how the participation of women impacted the functioning of rural local bodies in India.
-
Examine the changing structures of Panchayati Raj institutions with special reference to 73rd Constitution Amendment Act.
-
Comment: The Panchayati Raj institutions and district administration should develop a new relationship for achieving the goal of good governance.
-
Discuss how far the grass root democratic institutions have remained successful in accelerating the process of rural development after 73rd constitutional amendment.
-
Highlight the impact of 73rd Constitutional Amendment on the working of the Panchayati Raj institutions in India.
-
Comment: Role of Gram Sabha under the Constitution (Seventy-third-Amendment) Act, 1992.
-
Bring out the common and unique features of the 73rd and the 74th amendments to the Constitution of India. Do you think that these amendments would contribute to the achievement of ‘gender’ and ‘social’ justice at the grassroot level?
-
Comment: Political Modernization in India.
Unit 06
Statutory Institutions and Commissions
PYQ Solutions
-
There is a debate on the procedure for appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners to the Election Commission of India. Analyse its various aspects.
-
How far has the National Human Rights Commission been successful in achieving its objectives? Comment.
-
Explain the structure and functions of the National Commission for Women.
-
Comment on National Commission for Minorities.
-
How far is the National Commission for Backward Classes an empowered body? Assess its role in the context of rising demand for backwardness among dominant communities.
-
“The success of electoral democracy can partly be attributed to the status and role of the Election Commission of India.” Explain.
-
Examine the role and functioning of the Election Commission of India and the Comptroller and Auditor General in the last two decades.
-
The Comptroller and Auditor-General of India enhances the accountability of the Government and serves as the watchdog of the finances of the Government. Explain.
-
Discuss, in brief, the role of the National Commission for Women. Do you think it is a toothless organization?
-
Examine the role of the National Commission for Minorities in preserving, promoting and protecting the rights of minorities in India.
-
Examine the objective and role of the National Human Rights Commission.
-
Comment in 150 words: The role of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in promoting good governance.
-
Discuss the working of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes to curb violence against Dalits.
-
Comment on Role of National Commission for Women in India.
-
Comment: Role of National Commission for Scheduled Castes.
-
Make an assessment of the role of the Election Commission of India in the conduct of free and fair elections.
-
Assess the effectiveness of the National Human Rights Commission in redressing grievances pertaining to human rights violations in India.
-
Comment on the functions, duties and powers of the appropriate National Commission as laid down in Clauses (5), (8) and (9) of Article-338 of the Constitution.
-
Make an assessment of the composition, functioning and the role of the Election Commission of India in the conduct of free and fair elections.
-
Comment: Union Public Service Commission.
-
Comment: Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
-
Can modern democratic institutions be insulated from inter oriented politics? Discuss.
Unit 07
Federalism
PYQ Solutions
-
Evaluate the Centre-State relation with reference to Article 293 and analyze its implications for the Indian federal structure.
-
Discuss the causes and consequences of inter-State water disputes in India.
-
The recent developments in Indian Politics has not eroded the true spirit of federalism in India. Critically examine this statement with the help of appropriate illustrations.
-
Does the actual working of Indian federalism conform to the centralizing tendencies in Indian polity? Give reasons for your answer.
-
Discuss the composition and functions of the Inter-State Council. To what extent has this body been successful in achieving its objectives?
-
Do you think that there has been a gradual shift in the basis on which the demands for the creation of new States have been raised in different regions of India? Explain.
-
Answer in 150 words: Mechanism for settling inter-state disputes.
-
Does the functioning of the federalism in India tend to make it appear as a unitary state in practice?
-
Despite constitutional mandate, the Inter-State Council has not come of age. Discuss.
-
Comment in 150 words: Implementation of GST and NEET is a major challenge to Indian federalism.
-
Discuss asymmetrical federalism in India.
-
Indian federation has moved from cooperative federation to competitive federation. Comment.
-
Comment: The philosophy and Comment: Economic liberalisation in India administration of the distribution of powers between Centre and state is required to be re-assessed.
-
Comment in 150 words: Cooperative Federalism in India.
-
Identify the contested areas in Centre-State relations in India.
-
“Cooperative federalism produces a strong central, or general government, yet it does not necessarily result in weak provincial governments that are largely administrative agencies for central policies. Indian federation has demonstrated this.” (Granville Austin). Examine the uniqueness of Indian federalism in the light of the above statement.
-
Comment on Demands for the creation of new States in India. (150 words)
-
Examine the efficacy of available mechanisms for resolving Inter-State disputes in India.
-
Critically examine and comment on the assertion in about 200 words: It is not constitutional law but political factors that ultimately determine Centre-States relations in India.
-
Comment: Inter – state water disputes.
-
Critically examine and comment: “Articles 2 and 3 of the Indian Constitution are inconsistent with the spirit of federalism.”
-
Comment on Inter State Committees.
-
Discuss whether coalitional politics has led to a different pattern of federalism in India.
-
Comment: Factors for the growth of regionalism in India.
-
Comment: ‘Shared rule’ to be as important as ‘self-rule’ in explaining the possibility of federal power sharing.
-
What are the salient features of Sarkaria Commission Report as regard to federal restructuring in India with special reference to autonomy demand by states?
-
Comment: Cooperative federalism in India-its problems and prospects.
-
Trace and analyse the co-operative trends in Indian federalism.
Unit 08
Planning and Economic Development
PYQ Solutions
-
Answer in about 150 words: Discuss the impact of liberalization on agriculture sector in India.
-
With reference to Peruvian experience of planning and economic development, examine how the early phase of economic planning in India has laid the foundation for future development.
-
The decision to conduct Population Census-2027 has reopened the debate on delimitation in India. Discuss its various aspects.
-
The legacy of the Planning Commission still has a bearing on India’s development policies. Discuss.
-
The blueprint of Gram Swaraj is the key to understand the Gandhian perspective on planning. Discuss.
-
How does NITI Aayog as a ‘policy think tank with a shared vision’ visualize the reorganization of planning in India? Justify your answer.
-
Discuss the policy initiatives of the Fourteenth Finance Commission aimed towards promising and strengthening agricultural development in India.
-
What explains India’s modest improvements in social development outcomes even as the rate of growth has accelerated since the initiation of economic reforms?
-
‘Liberalisation of Indian Economy has not been accompanied with adequate reforms’. Comment.
-
What has been the political fallout of the Green Revolution in India? Explain.
-
Exmine the various causes of agrarian crisis in India.
-
In the post-liberalization era, Indian politics is moving from ascriptive politics to developmental politics. Comment.
-
What do you understand by Green Revolution? Do you think that a Second Green Revolution is needed to adequately address the agrarian challenge in contemporary India? Examine.
-
Critically examine the politics of Economic growth in India.
-
Land reforms have failed in the eradication of rural poverty. Comment.
-
Comment in 150 words: Structure and Function of NITI Aayog.
-
Compare the Nehruvian and Gandhian models of development.
-
Comment in 150 words: Gandhian perspective of development and its contemporary relevance.
-
Critically examine Green Revolution as a strategy for sustainable agricultural development.
-
Comment: Economic liberalisation and uneven development among Indian States.
-
Do you think that the post-1991 reforms in India mark a significant shift from the Nehruvian model of economic development? Justify your answer.
-
Comment: The correlation between democracy and development in India.
-
Comment: Nehru’s views on socialism.
-
Comment: Decentralized Planning.
-
Comment: New Economic Policy 1991.
-
It is generally believed that federalism suffers in a system of centralized planning. Do you agree with this point of view? Would you advocate ‘decentralized governance’ for India in the context of liberalization since 1991.
-
Comment: Impact of disinvestment and privatization on planning in India.
-
Comment: Political Dimensions of Development Administration.
-
Comment: Economic liberalisation in India.
-
Comment: Jawaharlal Nehru on Socialism and Secularism.
-
‘Planning has superseded the federation and our country is functioning almost like a unitary system in many respects.’ In the light of the statement, examine the recent trends in Indian Federalism.
Unit 09
Caste, Religion and Ethnicity in Indian Politics
PYQ Solutions
-
Answer in about 150 words: Identity has become an important phenomenon in the modern politics in India. Discuss.
-
Map the different types of ethnic conflicts that have emerged in 21st century India.
-
Caste remains a vital axis for political mobilisation in India. How would the caste census address the aspirations of people? Discuss.
-
“Relative deprivation is a major source of ethnic conflict.” Elaborate the statement with relevant examples.
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The rise of caste politics is to be attributed to both regional aspirations and electoral manifestations. Comment.
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Ethnicity is the underlying cause which poses a great challenge in the resolution of the problems in the North-East region of India. Comment.
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Explain how caste as a social category is also becoming a political category in the democratic politics of India.
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Examine the role of religion in Indian Electoral Politics in the contemporary times.
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Development has overshadowed the influence of caste in electoral behaviour in recent elections. Discuss.
-
Critically examine the ethnic conflicts in North-East India.
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Religion is still an important factor in Indian politics. Discuss.
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Comment: Cultural and Regional differences are the enduring bases on which politics is played out in India.
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Comment on the emergence of Backward classes in the Indian politics.
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Comment in 150 words: Relation between ethnicity and democracy in India.
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Explain the phenomenon of ethnic politics in India in recent times.
-
Point out and comment on the historic importance of the document “Towards Equality (1974)”, for women’s movement in India.
-
Critically examine and comment on the assertion in about 200 words: Indian politics has influenced caste and caste has influenced Indian politics.
-
“The OBC politics has challenged the nature of dominant caste politics in the states.” Critically examine this statement and bring out your conclusions.
-
Examine the effect of caste and community in Indian politics. Do you foresee their continued relevance in the country’s politics?
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Comment: The instability of national politics is due to rising influence of regional politics.
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Comment: Tribal peoples’ movement in the North-East.
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Comment: Caste and religion as operative factors with Indian polity.
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“The electoral behaviour of Indian votes is more or less caste-ridden, including the selection process of party candidates.” In the light of the above statements, critically examine the positive or the negative role of caste in the Indian political system.
-
Discuss how far the politics of regionalism and communalism have affected nation building in India.
-
Analyse the problems of nation building in India.
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Comment: Ethnic separatism.
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Comment: Creamy Layer and social justice.
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Illustrate from contemporary Indian experience the theory of circulation of elites.
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Comment: Cultural secularization.
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How far do regional groupings pose a threat to the stability of Indian political system?
-
How do caste and class interact with each other in Indian politics?
-
Comment: Theory of circulation of elites.
-
‘Community and Caste still threaten social harmony and political peace in India.’ Discuss.
Unit 10
Party System
PYQ Solutions
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When there are multiple stakeholders of power, conversation and consensus become the natural ingredients of governance. Analyze with respect to coalition politics.
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Elucidate the prominent trends in voting behaviour in contemporary India, and discuss how astroturfing affects the scenario.
-
Illustrate with examples how regional parties in India have played a crucial role in drawing the historically disadvantaged groups into the mainstream political system.
-
Critically assess the role of pressure groups in the decision-making process of the government.
-
The decade 1989-1999 has created an epochal shift in the Indian party system at the national level. Identify the major national trends in the party system during this era.
-
How far is it correct that the regional parties have strengthened Indian democracy and federal system? Substantiate your answer with suitable examples.
-
Electoral behaviour of voters is governed more by the social and economic factors than the political factors. Explain.
-
“The Indian party system is shaped by a complex interaction of the country’s federal structure, electoral system and social cleavages.” Explain.
-
To what extent has the inadequate intraparty democracy affected the functioning of Indian Democracy?
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The changing socio-economic profile of of legislators does not augur well for the health of Indian democracy. Comment.
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Comment in150 words: Political personalities are more significant than political parties in India.
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Explain the increasing role of regional political parties in the national politics.
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State subvention/funding may be an effective instrument in strengthening electoral democracy in India. Comment.
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India has moved from ‘one-party dominant system’ to ‘one-party led coalition’. Discuss.
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Discuss the pattern of Political Parties from one dominant party system to coalition politics in national politics.
-
“Identity politics has trumped development politics in India.” Comment.
-
Account for the rise of regional political parties and assess their role in contemporary India.
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Comment in 150 words: Marginalization of the left ideology in India.
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Discuss the nature of reforms of the electoral process in India and explain the further scope for reforms.
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Explain how pressure groups have been influencing public policy-making with suitable illustrations.
-
Account for the changes in the socio-economic profile of legislators during last one decade in India.
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Explain to what extent the concept of “oneparty dominance” (W.H. Morris-Jones) model is relevant in Indian politics today.
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Examine the impact of coalition-politics on Indian political system.
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Comment: Trade unions as pressure group in Indian politics.
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Examine the changing pattern of electoral behaviour in India.
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Comment: Upsurge in political participation among the marginalised communities in the Indian General Elections during the last two decades.
-
Critically examine and comment: “The principle of collective responsibility, a la the Cabinet system of government, has eroded in the context of the emergence of coalition governments in India.”
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Comment: Implications of the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) on electoral politics.
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Comment: Revision in the Election Code of Conduct.
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In what ways do pressure groups and movements exert influence in politics? In the Indian political context, discuss the implications of such influence being exerted.
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“Political reform must precede and not follow social reforms”. (Tilak). Elucidate.
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Comment: Coalition Governments in India at the Centre since 1998.
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Identify the major pressure-groups in Indian Politics and examine their role in it.
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Indian democracy began with the unique advantages of an efficient civil service and a well-organized political party yet its record is dismal. What are the causes for such poor performance?
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Differentiate a political party from a pressure group. Explain the role of R.S.S. and Bajrang Dal-units of Sangh-Parivar as pressure-groups in the Indian political system.
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Write: “Divisionism” in Indian political parties with special reference to Janta Dal, Congress, CPI and Akali Dal.
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Comment: Politics of terrorism in India.
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Comment: Minority Governments in India.
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Comment: Proportional representation.
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Comment: Politics of terrorism.
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Comment: Personality factor and party system in India.
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‘Tradition is not always incompatible with Modernity’. Comment on the statement with reference to the modernisation trends in Indian policy.
Unit 11
Social Movements
PYQ Solutions
Syllabus map
Paper II · Section A: Comparative Politics and International Relations
Comparative Politics, State in Comparative Perspective, Politics of Representation and Participation, Globalisation, Approaches to the Study of International Relations, Key Concepts in International Relations, Changing International Political Order, Evolution of the International Economic System, United Nations, Regionalisation of World Politics, Contemporary Global Concerns.
Unit 01
Comparative Politics
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: Criticism of the institutional approach in comparative political analysis has come up in successive waves. Comment.
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Discuss the psychological approach to the study of comparative politics.
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Discuss the political socialisation of open and closed societies.
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Discuss the interpretive approach to the study of comparative politics.
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What are the crucial functions of empirical political theory in Comparative Politics?
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Discuss the main limitations of the comparative method to the study of Political Science.
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Discuss the political economy approach to the comparative analysis of politics. (150 words)
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Discuss the subject matter of comparative politics. Outline the limitations of comparative political analysis.
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Examine the significance of the comparative method in political analysis. Discuss its limitations.
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Describe the changing nature of Comparative Politics. Briefly explain the Political Economy approach to the study of Comparative Politics.
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Explain the Political-Sociological Approach in the field of comparative politics and discuss its limitations.
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Critically examine the Marxist aspect of political economy approach to the study of comparative politics.
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Which are the major approaches of comparative politics? Explain in brief, the political economy approach to the study of comparative inquiry.
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“Examining political phenomena through a process of cross – global investigation has become the fundamental function of Comparative Politics.” Discuss. (150 words)
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Elucidate the transdisciplinary nature of modern comparative politics and identify the contributions of political sociologists towards this goal. (200 words)
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“Structural-functional approach to political analysis focuses more on status quoism, and less on change.” Elucidate.
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How is the modern comparative politics approach different from the traditional legal-institutional approach?
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How does comparative political sociology help in understanding of socio-political process of different countries of the world?
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Examine the relevance of the political economy approach to the study of comparative politics.
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Comment: Input-output functions of political system.
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Critically evaluate the nature of capitalist model of development and its usefulness and limitations for developing countries.
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Comment: The importance and limitations of the Political Economy Approach.
Unit 02
State in Comparative Perspective
PYQ Solutions
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Discuss the factors responsible for the changing nature of states in contemporary industrial societies and explain its impact.
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What are the distinctive features of the post-modern state in the advanced capitalist economies? Analyse.
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What are the difficulties faced by a political theorist in comparing the States?
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The modernization thesis asserts that affluence breeds stable democracy. How do you explain the success of India being the world’s largest democracy as an exceptional case?
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Describe the changing nature of the State in the developing societies in the context of inclusive growth in the 21“century.
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“A combination of internal pressures (Ethnic and regional forces) and external threats (EU, UN, TNC, Global market, etc.) has produced what is commonly referred to as a ‘crisis of the nation-state’.” Elaborate.
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Do you subscribe to the view that the modern constructs of the State and politics are preeminently Eurocentric and not indigenous and appropriate for the analysis of non-western societies?
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‘A minimal State ensures maximum of Individual Liberty.’ Examine the concept of Minimal State. (250 words)
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“Nations and States have become virtually synonymous.” Elucidate. (200 words)
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“Although transnationalism is an important force in contemporary world politics, it is premature to speak of the demise of the nation-state, given the continued attachment to nationalism felt throughout the world.” In the light of this statement, discuss the role of nation-state as an actor in international relations.
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‘Despite a number of trends to the contrary, the State has been and remains the primary actor in the global system. Elucidate the statement by analysing the factors which helped create State and the reasons for the primacy of States as actors in International Relations.
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Comment: Military Industrial Complex.
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How far has interdependence among states undermined sovereignty?
Unit 03
Politics of Representation and Participation
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: Clientilism.
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Of late, centrist and centre-left political parties have been facing setbacks while centre-right parties have been in ascendency the world over. Comment.
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The world currently has been in the throes of a twin process of ‘democratic backsliding’ and ‘democratic backlash’. How would you explain this paradox?
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Comment on the Red Lipstick Movement in the context of feminist rights.
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Critically examine the role of political parties in sustaining and stabilising democracies in the developing societies.
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How does democratic politics construct citizenship?
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How has the electoral democracy augmented the participation of people in the democratic process?
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Discuss the role of social movements in strengthening the democratic processes in developing societies.
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“Political parties and pressure groups are sine qua non of democracy.” Comment.
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Explain the impact of electoral systems and cleavages in shaping party systems with reference to developing countries.
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Analyze the contribution of liberal democratic principles in the democratization of Indian polity.
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Has the increased participation of the underprivileged in the political process of the developing societies strengthened democracy or created political chaos and conflict? Comment.
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Explain the reasons for low voter turnout in democratic countries with suitable examples.
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Write an essay on ‘New Social Movements’ in developing countries.
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How big a role does identity play in determining political participation in the developing countries? Discuss your answer with suitable illustrations.
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Examine the LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender) movement in developed societies and how it is affecting the political participation in developing societies.
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Comment on the decline of political parties and examine whether new social movements shall be alternative strategy for establishing link between government and society.
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Do interest groups help to promote democracy or to undermine it? Give your opinion.
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What is the difference between Interest Groups and Pressure Groups? Are the Pressure Groups in India in a position to fully protect or promote the interests of their members?
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Party system in India is neither western nor indigenous. Explain.
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In what respect is the new social movement new in nature? Discuss.
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Compare and contrast social movements in advanced industrial and developing societies.
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Is the rise of social movement a sign of opening up of popular space in political process or decline of representative politics? Examine.
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How did the struggle for representation increase the level and quality of democracy in the industrial societies? (150 words)
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Evaluate the nature and distinction of anomic and associational interest groups in the pressure politics of developing countries (200 words)
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Examine the significance of ideological and policy aspects in the structural growth of modern political parties. (250 words)
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What is ‘New Social Movement (NSM)’? Explain the main challenges of the NSM in the developing countries.
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Bring out your perspectives on the indications of the emergence of a global civil society.
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Is it necessary to evolve a distinct theoretical framework for analyzing emergent politics in the developing world?
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Examine the comparative advantages of democracy and autocracy in restraining political violence. Do you think that autocratic societies are more prone to political violence? Illustrate your answer with a comparative study of a few societies.
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How does functioning of interest groups differ from political parties? Discuss with appropriate examples.
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Analyse the basic goals of Third World movement for global justice. What is the importance of South-South co-operation to achieve these?
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Comment: Nature of political process in the Third World.
Unit 04
Globalisation
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: Extractive capitalism.
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Global South-sensitive model of globalization would prevent the danger emanating from overcentralized globalization. Discuss.
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Latin America has made moderate success in countering US-led global economic order by forming various organizations emphasizing regional sovereignty, economic integration and alternative development. Discuss.
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“Deglobalisation is displacing globalisation.” Comment.
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Critically examine the impact of globalization on the developing countries of the world.
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What are the main challenges faced by the developing countries in the era of globalisation?
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What is globalisation? Why is there an intense debate about globalisation and its consequences?
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Critically examine the Globalisation in the past 25 years from the perspectives of the Western world.
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Discuss the impact of globalization on the internal functioning of the state.
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Is globalization essentially a process of ‘universalisation’ of capitalist modernity?
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How is it that economic and neo-liberal globalization is being interrogated from inside even in developed countries? What are the economic consequences of such globalization?
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What is ‘global village’? Elaborate its main characteristics and also the factors that contributed to its growth.
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How would you describe the contemporary worlds beyond the languages of ‘ North/ South’ and ‘Developed/ Developing’? Is the present transformation driven by domestic compulsions, or external overall crisis of the global economy? (250 words)
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Examine the nature and dynamics of contemporary globalization.
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Comment: Rethinking on sovereign state.
Unit 05
Approaches to the Study of International Relations
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: What role does identity and technology play in the conceptualisation of Defensive realism?
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Theories of international relations which claim objectivity inevitably harbour subjective biases. Elucidate.
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Neo-liberalism lightened neo-realism’s dark view of international politics. Comment.
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Explain the various facets of the idealist approach to the study of international relations. Comment on its contemporary relevance.
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‘The Gramscian theory of hegemony provides many valuable insights into the nature of global power.” Comment.
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Explain the central tenets of the World-Systems Theory.
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What do you mean by offensive and defensive realism?
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In what ways does the functionalist approach in International relations help in maintaining peace and order in global politics?
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What is the realist prescription to the States to ensure their survival in an anarchical world?
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Discuss the commonalities between the Marxist and Realist approach to the study of International Politics.
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Discuss the emergence of neo-realism and its basic tenets.
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“Marxist approach to the study of international relations has lost its relevance in the post-cold war era.” Comment.
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“The post-colonial state was thought of an entity that stood outside and above society as an autonomous agency.” Explain.
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Explain the relevance of the Marxist approach in the context of globalization.
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Bring out the major differences between the Classical Realism of Hans Morgenthau and the Neorealism of Kenneth Waltz.
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Critically examine the Functionalist approach to the study of International Relations.
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What, according to Joseph Nye, are the major sources of a country’s soft power? Discuss its relevance in the contemporary world politics.
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Is Realist Approach the best method to understand International Relations? Examine this in the context of Classical Realism.
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Critically examine the functional and system approaches to the study of international relations.
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Identify the major differences between the classical realism of Hans J. Morgenthau and the neorealism of Kenneth Waltz. Which approach is best suited for analysing international relations after the Cold War?
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“Morton A. Kaplan’s system theory is contrary to the fundamental precepts of systems approach.” Comment.
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Discuss the main factors that have contributed to the gradual transformation of the world from ‘Billiard Ball Model’ to ‘Cobweb Model’.
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Examine major principles of State centric world views.
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Write a note on Intellectual precursors of Realism.
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How does Marxist approach explain contemporary International Relations?
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‘Building ‘peace by pieces’ is the basis of functionalism’. Elaborate.
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What are the great debates between ‘classical’ and ‘modern’ realists? Is there any thin line of continuity between these two traditions?
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Does the perspective of Dependency Theory offer a robust critique on the nature of mainstream development process taking place in Africa and Latin America?
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Do you agree that liberal international theories are essentially ‘Eurocentric’ and not necessarily imperialist?
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Explain the uses of systems approach in international relations and examine the relevance of Kaplan’s system analysis.
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Examine the post- modernist critique of Realism in international politics.
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What are the major critiques of liberal internationalism?
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Discuss the realist and neo-realist approaches to the study of International relations.
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Do you agree with the notion that Marxist approach to the study of International relations is largely based on economic reductionism? Give reasons.
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Analyse and evaluate the role of decision-making theory as a tool of foreign policy analysis.
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Comment: Game Theory for the study of International Politics and its limitations.
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Discuss the Systems Approach to the Study of International Relations.
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Clearly explain Realist Theory to the study of International Politics.
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Comment: Traditional approach and its significance.
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Comment: Marxist approach to international politics.
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“The decision-making is only a partial theory of international politics.” Critically examine the above statement.
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Examine the explanatory potential of Kaplan’s systems theory in explaining the phenomenon of international politics in the present context.
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Comment: Neo-Colonialism.
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Comment: Cultural Imperialism.
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“Realism as an approach to international relations helps to explain why states fight are threaten each other, but it is less effective in explaining much of the cooperative behaviour we see … ” Comment.
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“The traditional principle of sovereignty which plays a central role in the foreign policies of all states, is now increasingly counteracted by the growing facts of interdependence…” Discuss.
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Discuss, with illustrations, the way decision making is influenced by the external and internal environment as perceived by the decision maker.
Unit 06
Key Concepts in International Relations
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: Discuss various methods of Balance of Power.
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Diplomacy has always rested on two pillars: Institutional memory and individual craft. Elaborate.
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Explain the non-traditional security threats in the context of food and environmental crises.
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Transnational actors have qualitatively transformed the world by the way of their fresh insights and actions. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples.
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Collective security and responsibility to protect (R2P) are similar but different in scope, goals and methods. Explain.
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National Interest is an essentially contested concept. Comment.
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Bipolar structure of the world is more stable than the multipolar one. Comment.
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Discuss the conceptual dimensions of collective security.
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What is ‘complex interdependence’? Discuss the role of transnational actors in the international system.
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Explain the concept of balance of power. What are the various techniques of maintaining balance of power?
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Enumerate the challenges in the operation of the principles related to collective security in the UN Charter.
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Discuss the utility of Nuclear Deterrence Theory in the context of the recent standoff between India and Pakistan.
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Identify the benefits of a multi-polar world.
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“Some feel Multinational Corporations (MNCs) are a vital new road to economic growth, whereas others feel they perpetuate underdevelopment.” Discuss.
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Discuss the changing nature of modern state with reference to transnational actors.
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How has the development of Global Capitalism changed the nature of socialist economies and developing societies?
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Explain the instruments and methods devised for the promotion of national interest.
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“The notion of balance of power is notoriously full of confusion.” In the light of this quotation, do you think that the concept of balance of power is relevant?
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Discuss the theory of Nuclear Deterrence. Did Nuclear Deterrence prevent a superpower war?
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Critically assess the changing nature of the concept of national security.
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How do you explain the growing importance of multi-national corporations (MNCs) and civil society in contemporary international politics?
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‘National Interests are Dynamic’. Identify the dynamic nature of National Interests in the contemporary world politics with suitable examples.
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‘Collective Security and Collective Defence are the institutional and State mechanisms to sustain the domination of powers that be in International politics.’ Elaborate.
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Is ‘terrorism’ an essentially ‘contested’ concept? What are the different manifestations of ‘terrorism’ as a concept, and as practice?
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What constitutes ‘national security discourses’? How far have the IR Feminists questioned how ‘security’ has been problematised?
-
Is power a zero – sum or variable game in international relations? Can zero – sum game explain the mixture of conflict and cooperation of the present dynamics of international relations?
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Examine the idea of a ‘balance’ between ‘security’ and ‘liberty’ in modern international politics. Do you think the liberal international order is more ‘security – friendly?
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Why is the ‘polarity of power’ thesis less relevant and meaningful in the present architecture of ‘balance of power’?
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How would you explain the future of ‘Nuclear Deterrence’? Do you think that ‘preventive war’ is a good substitute for Nuclear Deterrence?
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Review the increasing role of Multi-National Corporations in the policy making process of developing countries.
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What is comprehensive approach to national security?
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Do you agree with the view that over-widening of the concept of ‘national security’ has made it a more amorphous concept? Discuss.
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Should National Interest be viewed as a constant category or is it situation- specific? Bring out your perspectives.
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Explain the meaning and application of the concept of ‘strategic engagement’.
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Assess in detail the prospects of the emergence of a nuclear-weapons free world.
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Explain the difference between security dilemma and insecurity dilemma.
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Explain the concept of ‘Hegemonic stability’.
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Comment: “International politics, like all politics, is a struggle for power.
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“A well-established system of collective security is a guarantee of world peace.” Explain.
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Comment: The realist vision of ‘national interest’.
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Comment: Balance of power and its impact on world politics.
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Discuss various elements and limitations of national power.
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Comment: Information Technology – an element of national power.
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Comment: Summit Diplomacy.
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Comment: National Interest and Ideology.
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Comment: Relevance of Diplomacy in the Nuclear Age.
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Comment: Power.
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Comment: Alliances.
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Comment: Effective government as a source of national power.
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“The relations of the Balance of Power to Collective Security have been at the same time complementary and antagonistic.” Elucidate.
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Comment: Council for Security Cooperation in Asia Pacific.
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Diplomacy is not only a technique of foreign policy implementation, but also an instrument by which other techniques-military and economic- can be successfully deployed. Discuss the significance of diplomacy in the conduct of foreign relations.
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“One of the truisms in world politics is that nothing is distributed equally on the face of the globe not people or their talent, not resources, not even climate, geographic features, technology or air quality.” Elucidate.
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Comment: National Interest and Capability.
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One cannot understand the international politics of arms control without taking into account the domestic political forces which have a stake in maintaining large defence expenditure. Analyse these force which help in promoting international arms races.
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Explain the essential rules of the balance of power system and evaluate the role which balance of power plays in the stability of the global order in a multi-polar system.
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Define Alliance. What is the role of Alliances in power politics? Discuss the relevance of Alliance in a nuclear age.
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Comment: Open versus Secret Diplomacy.
Unit 07
Changing International Political Order
PYQ Solutions
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NATO, the oldest surviving collective security system, is facing challenge of transactional coercion from its own biggest member. What future does NATO have amidst such developments?
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Does power transition theory reflect the dynamics of US-China relations?
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“Trump’s return to the White House is a jolt to push the European Union to invest in its own defence and economic and technological revival.” Comment.
-
The expansionist tendencies of the current Russian regime indicate its intentions for the realisation of a Greater Russia on the lines of the Soviet era. Comment.
-
Do you agree with the view that the USA uses NATO as a traditional tool of strategy to perpetuate its hegemony in the world?
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The changing global order and ongoing regional conflicts, with the global powers taking sides, have jeopardised the progress made towards disarmament in the past. Comment.
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Discuss the relevance of the normative ethos of the Non-Aligned Movement in magnifying India’s soft power in pursuit of her national interest.
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“During the Cold War, the Non-Aligned Movement tried to become a ‘Third Force’ in world politics, but failed because it was too large and unwieldy.” Discuss.
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Discuss the various constraints on American hegemony today. Which of these are likely to become more prominent in the future?
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Critically examine the rise of People’s Republic of China (PRC) as a great power and its implications on Asian Political order.
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Critically examine the decline of the United States of America as a hegemon and its implications for the changing international political order.
-
Critically analyze the implications of Sino American strategic rivalry for the South and South-East Asian region.
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Discuss the ways to strengthen the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to enable it to address the challenges faced by the developing countries.
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Write a brief note on the 17th NAM Summit in Venezuela.
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Discuss the consequences of Trump’s “America First” and Xi’s “Chinese Dream” on World Politics.
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Discuss the significance of Non-Aligned Movement as a unique contribution of the Non-Western world to World Politics.
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“The development of advanced missile technology and nuclear threat by North Korea has challenged the American hegemony in South-East Asia.” Evaluate the above statement in the context of recent developments in the region.
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Do you endorse the view that the end of Bipolarity and the rise of multiple regional organisations has made Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) more or less irrelevant?
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Discuss the evolution of non-proliferation of nuclear weapons in the post-Cold War Period.
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Examine in brief the rise and fall of the Cold War.
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Discuss the positive and negative impacts of Soviet Union’s disintegration on developing nations.
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Discuss the collapse of the Soviet Union and its impact on international politics.
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“Ukraine crisis is a product of power politics and geo-politics.” Comment.
-
Identify the major changes in the International Political economy in post-Cold War period. (200 words)
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What does the pace of nuclear proliferation in post-Cold War suggest? (150 words)
-
Highlight the major features of Non alignment 2.0 document. (200 words)
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Identify the challenges to American hegemony in post-Soviet world. (150 words)
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Do you think that Iran’s ‘victory’ in the NAM on the nuclear issue has brought in a new debate on the relevance of the Non-Aligned Movement? (250 words)
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Bring out your perspectives on Plausible aims of the Non – Aligned Movement in the post-Cold War period.
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Explain how far Deutsch’s model explains the framework of international interdependence. Do you think that the processes of interdependence and integration have grown steadily in the post-Cold War globalization trajectory?
-
The growth and possession of WMD has seriously undermined international security. Discuss.
-
How would you differentiate the post-Cold War global order from its predecessor?
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“The Afghan Civil War gave the US a long-awaited upper hand in South Asia”. Elaborate.
-
Comment: Oil crisis: Its impact on India’s development strategy.
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Comment: Relevance of Non-Alignment in Post-Cold war era.
-
Analyse critically the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 as an instance of super-power relations during the Cold War period.
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Do you think Cold War still exists after the disintegration of the Soviet Union?
-
Critically examine the roots of Afghan Civil War. What role the Soviet Union and the United States played in it?
-
The Arab-Israeli conflict is basically a conflict between two resurgent nationalisms. Do you agree with the above assertion? Give reasons in support of your answer.
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Do you agree with the stand that the Non-Aligned Movement needs to be reinvented?
-
Examine the Israel-Arab conflict as a conflict of interest between the U.S.A. and the Soviet Union.
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Comment: The Gulf Crisis 1991-92.
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“In a uni-polar world, non-alignment has lost its relevance.” Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in support of your answer.
-
Assess the role of the rim countries of the Indian Ocean in making it a peace zone in the post-Cold War era.
-
Comment: Palestine-Israel conflict in the present context.
-
“The change in the position of the people of Asia and Africa and their relations with Europe was the surest sign of the advent of a new era.” Discuss.
-
Comment: Hamas and peace in West Asia.
-
Comment: Agenda before NAM.
-
Comment: Peace in West Asia.
-
The new world order as conceived by USA is an effort to re-establish the American century in military terms as the American economic and industrial dominance of the last 50 years is lost. Comment.
-
Nation-State is currently exposed to disintegrative tendencies from within and integrative tendencies from without. Elucidate the statement in the context of developments in Europe.
-
Comment: Palestinian Homeland issue and the West Asian crisis.
-
Comment: Iraq after the Gulf War.
-
Comment: Disintegration of the Soviet Union and the threat of nuclear proliferation.
-
Comment: China’s Middle Kingdom Complex.
-
Discuss the prospects of peace in West Asia in view of the changes in the US and Israeli policy and attitudes in this regard.
-
Comment: Pax Americana.
-
Comment: Perestroika.
-
Comment: Racialism in South Africa.
Unit 08
Evolution of the International Economic System
PYQ Solutions
-
How did the Council of Mutual Economic Assistance (CMEA) reflect geo-political division of the world during the cold war?
-
Trump’s unilateral imposition of reciprocal tariffs on scores of countries poses impending threat to the future of the rule-based multilateral global trading system under the WTO. What options do the WTO members have to salvage the organization?
-
The return of trade barriers and economic sanctions has diminished the spirit of GATT. In this context, discuss the factors contributing to the decline of WTO in recent times.
-
Identify and evaluate the reasons for deadlock in the WTO negotiations on fisheries between the developing and developed countries.
-
Critically evaluate the role of the United States of America in the World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism and its implications for the future of the WTO.
-
Explain the significance and importance of the demand raised by the developing countries for a New International Economic Order (NIEO). Are they likely to achieve their objectives of NIEO in foreseeable future?
-
How are the rising powers challenging the USA and Western dominance in the IMF and the World Bank?
-
Explain the concept of the North-South divide and suggest how structural inequalities between the high wage, high investment industrial North and low wage, low investment predominantly rural South can be reduced.
-
“The IMF, World Bank, G-7, GATT and other structures are designed to serve the interests of TNCs, Banks and investment firms in a “New Imperial age’.” Substantiate with examples of governance of new world order.
-
Sketch the journey of global political economy from Washington consensus to the present. (150 words)
-
Explain the role of non – state actors, like IMF, World Bank, European Union and MNCs, in modulating and transforming the broad dynamics of international relations.
-
How has geo-economics replaced geo-politics in the present International scenario?
-
Elaborate the factors which cause North South divide in the age of globalisation.
-
Comment: Main features of WTO.
-
How far the existing international economic order is unjust and hegemonic towards developing countries?
-
Identify some of the major issues challenging the North-South countries.
-
Liberalization and Globalization are feared by the developing countries, as the Trojan Horses of the developed countries. Elucidate.
-
Comment: The New International Economic Order.
-
Bring out the contradiction between Internationalism and Globalisation.
-
Comment: North -South conflict at Rio.
-
Comment: Intellectual Property Rights and free world trade.
-
Comment: GATT treaty and developing countries.
-
Discuss the Third World perspective on the causes and cures of underdevelopment.
-
The central focus of global politics is no longer the conflict between Socialism and Capitalism, but North versus South. Explain.
-
Examine the problems and prospects of South-South economic cooperation.
Unit 09
United Nations
PYQ Solutions
-
What is UNCLOS? Explain its salient features.
-
The withdrawal of the United States of America from the World Health Organization is set to have far-reaching impacts on global health. Reimagining the existing WHO is vital for the global health agenda. Discuss.
-
Discuss the structure and functions of UN Security Council?
-
What is the structure and functions of International Court of Justice?
-
Describe the composition of the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Discuss its voluntary jurisdiction.
-
What measures have been undertaken by the United Nations for its reforms? (150 words)
-
Discuss the significance and urgency of the UN Security Council reforms. Explain the relevance of the reform proposals made by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres for the developing countries.
-
In what way does the predominance of the USA in the UN funding affect its decision-making?
-
Do you think that sustainable development goals are really attainable by 2030?
-
Evaluate the role of the International Court of Justice in inter-State disputes.
-
Discuss the relevance of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on the security of women in conflict zones.
-
Do you agree with the view that despite the limitations in the functioning of the UN, it has distinguished and unique achievements to its credit?
-
Do you endorse that the United Nations needs major changes in its structures and functioning? Suggest the changes for efficient improvements.
-
How far are the world governance mechanisms, dominated by IMF and World Bank, legitimate and relevant? What measures do you suggest to improve their effectiveness in global governance?
-
Has the reform of the economic and social arrangements of the United Nations been effective?
-
What are the real objectives of Millennium Development Goals (MDG)? Do you think that millennium development goals have been able to achieve the desired goals of poverty alleviation and sustainable development?
-
Do you agree that the U.N. has failed to contain transnational terrorism? Elaborate your answer with examples.
-
Argue a case for U.N. reform in the context of changing global milieu.
-
How far the efforts to maintain international order in the post-Cold War period by the UN have been successful?
-
What are the major impediments to UN Security Council reform?
-
“The UN today is more of a social service organisation than an exclusively security-oriented body.” Critically examine.
-
Analyse critically the major changes in the role of the United Nations (UN) since the onset of the new millennium.
-
Comment: International Court of Justice.
-
“Few agencies of International co-operation have been more successful in tending to the welfare of humanity than the I.L.O.” Discuss the organisation and activities of the International Labour Organisation in the light of the above statement.
-
Comment: The compulsory jurisdiction clause under the statute of the International Court of Justice.
-
Comment: The U.N. General Assembly Millennium Summit Sep-2000.
-
Write a critical essay on the role of the Third World in international relations, especially in the United Nations.
-
Analyse the challenges and prospects of the UNO in becoming a world state.
-
Judged from the past, UN does not hold much promise to free the Third World from the clutches of neo-imperialism. Elucidate.
-
“From the start, the United Nations become a microcosm of world politics, with developments within the institution tending to mirror the atmosphere and happenings outside its walls.” Comment.
-
Comment: Role of international Law in international cooperation.
-
Comment: UN’s peacekeeping role in domestic conflicts.
-
Comment: Case for a permanent UN peace keeping force.
-
The United Nations is not political system acting in a vacuum: nor does it operate above international system. Comment.
-
‘The UN has done well but not well enough. Comment.
Unit 10
Regionalisation of World Politics
PYQ Solutions
-
QUAD requires more robust architecture than the summit driven mode to tide over the current challenges. Elaborate.
-
Latin America has made moderate success in countering US-led global economic order by forming various organizations emphasizing regional sovereignty, economic integration and alternative development. Discuss.
-
“Trump’s return to the White House is a jolt to push the European Union to invest in its own defence and economic and technological revival.” Comment.
-
How successful has the ‘ASEAN Plus Three’ been in addressing regional problems? Support your answer with specific examples.
-
What were the limitations of NAFTA? How did its replacement by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement counter them? Explain.
-
Do you agree with the view that the EU has thus far proved to be the most successful experiment in the regional integration processes? Account for its successes and also some of the recent challenges that it is faced with.
-
Account for the rise of European Union as a highly influential regional organisation.
-
How does the regime change and political crisis in Myanmar threaten regional security and peace?
-
Russian-Ukraine crisis has cast a dark shadow on the energy needs of the member states of the European Union (EU). Comment.
-
Explain the success of ASEAN as a regional organisation.
-
Explain India’s relations with the European Union in the context of Brexit.
-
Critically analyze the role of ASEAN in the promotion of regional peace and security through economic cooperation and trade.
-
Evaluate the role of BIMSTEC in multisectoral technical and economic cooperation.
-
“Since its inception the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has failed to deliver on its promises.” What initiatives should be taken to reinvigorate the organization.
-
American President Donald Trump’s proposal to withdraw from the ‘NAFTA’ would bring unforeseen consequences to the regionalisation of world politics. Elaborate.
-
How has ‘ BREXIT’ affected the regionalisation process initiated by European Union and what could be its likely impacts in the regionalisation process of world politics?
-
How does the regionalism shape the world politics? Explain with examples.
-
‘The European Union has become the most politically influential, economically powerful and demographically diverse regional entity in the world.’ Discuss.
-
“Despite so many agreed areas of cooperation, innumerable institutional mechanisms and a permanent secretariat, South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has not taken off as a meaningful regional grouping.” Discuss.
-
Give reasons for Regionalisation of world politics. (200 words)
-
Substantiate APEC as a regional economic and trade arrangement. (200 words)
-
The effort in restricting illegal migration from Mexico to U.S.A. and Canada has been one major gain for the United States through NAFTA. Comment. (200 words)
-
Outline the constraints SAARC is facing to emerge as an effective regional organisation.
-
How did the European Union emerge as a successful case of regional organization? Is it replicable in other regions?
-
Comment: ‘ASEAN’ as third world model of regional cooperation.
-
Comment: The European Union.
-
Comment: Maastricht Treaty.
-
Comment: West Asian Peace Conference at Madrid, 1991.
-
Comment: SAPTA and SAFTA.
-
Comment: US role in the OAS.
-
Comment: OAU and conflicts in Africa.
-
Comment: Russia and NATO.
-
Comment: Political and legal status of C.I.S.
-
Comment: G–77.
Unit 11
Contemporary Global Concerns
PYQ Solutions
-
International Human Rights frameworks are hostage to politics among nations. Comment.
-
The world currently has been in the throes of a twin process of ‘democratic backsliding’ and ‘democratic backlash’. How would you explain this paradox?
-
Explain the non-traditional security threats in the context of food and environmental crises.
-
Comment on the Red Lipstick Movement in the context of feminist rights.
-
Discuss the major recent social movements related to the physical rights of women in various countries of the world.
-
Narrate the various ways in which rapid environmental degradation is posing a serious threat to human security. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples.
-
Discuss the efficacy of global conventions to combat international terrorism.
-
Examine the role of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and other major efforts by the UN to address the global environmental crisis.
-
Discuss the importance of personal data protection in the context of human rights.
-
Is democracy promotion in developing countries a feasible idea?
-
Would you agree that the on-going debates on international environmental politics continue to be marred by a new North-South ideological divide over historical responsibility and developmental model? Illustrate your answer with suitable examples.
-
Critically examine the notion of “Asian Values” in the context of the on-going debates on human rights.
-
Discuss the implications of the Trump-Kim Singapore Summit on the prospects of denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula.
-
Give an assessment of the Feminist critique of contemporary global issues.
-
The recent move of USA to withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement is a setback in the consensus achieved on protecting the world environment. In this context, assess the future prospectives on climate control.
-
Why does global human security need to be emphasized along with economic security? Explain with examples.
-
Examine the main problems and challenges involved in looking after environmental concerns in world politics.
-
‘The struggle for democracy has been marked by bitter strife and tribulations.’ Examine the statement, illustrating the cases of Pakistan, Nepal and Myanmar.
-
Do you endorse that the conventional discourse on human rights has failed to include women’s rights? Explain in the context of feminist theories.
-
“The Feminist approach to international politics is biased.” Comment.
-
Critically evaluate the approaches of global south towards addressing environment concerns.
-
Who was Mr. ‘X’ in international politics? Elaborate his approach to foreign policy.
-
Identify the role and place of Gender in the global economy. (200 words)
-
Compare and contrast Sino-India approaches to global Environmental concerns. (200 words)
-
What roles do norms, taboos and epistemic communities play in the context of nuclear proliferation? (200 words)
-
State the place of Gender Justice in global political agenda. (150 words)
-
‘Global commons belong to global society and requires global attention.’ Comment. (150 words)
-
How far have the UN reform efforts of 2004-5, transformed the concept of ‘Sovereignty’ as a fundamental principle of International Law? Do you think that UN reform discourse represents a ‘biopolitical reprogramming’ of contemporary sovereignty and global governance? (250 words)
-
“Human Rights constitute the Third Generation of Rights.” Analyse the range and complex dimension of Human Rights in the globalised era. (150 words)
-
Bring out linkages between environmental degradation and neo -corporatism in the globalised era. (200 words)
-
“Either terrorism triumphs or civilization triumphs.” Comment on the above statement.
-
Discuss the different perspectives on global environment that have emerged in the context of the Copenhagen Summit.
-
Comment on the recent trends in Russia’s foreign policy.
-
What is the significance of the increasing global diffusion of nuclear and long-range delivery vehicle technology?
-
Comment on the contribution of global feminism to the consolidation of global civil society.
-
“Development in contemporary discourse has dimensions larger than just economic.” Bring out the significance of this statement.
-
Define geopolitics and account for its prevalence even in the modern nuclear age.
-
Comment: Sustainable Development.
-
Comment: Basic issues in movements for Gender Justice.
-
Describe and assess the role and importance of Geo-political and Geo-economic factors in the determination of foreign policy of a country.
-
Comment: The need for, and the hindrances to the development of a common global approach to ecological concerns.
-
Critically examine the protection and enforcement of Human Rights under the U.N. system.
-
Comment: Human rights and humanitarian intervention.
-
“Moral claims of today become the human rights of tomorrow.” Trace the efforts in the international protection of human rights in the twentieth century.
-
Comment: National interest and national peculiarities: A guide to foreign policy.
-
Comment: Agenda 21 and after.
-
Examine the changing perspective of the US foreign policy towards South Asia in recent times and its implications for prospects of peace in the region.
-
People are concerned about the degradation of the environment and the problems that go with it. Discuss the international response.
-
Comment: Technology and state sovereignty over water resources.
-
Comment: Role of idiosyncratic factors in foreign policy.
-
Russian foreign policy is described as the “tyranny of the weak”. Explain how judiciously Russia has made use of her weakness vis-a-vis the West and USA.
-
Comment: Role of Ideology in International Relations.
-
Comment: Economic determinants of Chinese foreign policy.
-
Comment: Sovereign Nation State and International concern for Human Rights.
-
Comment: Ideological basis of Chinese foreign policy in the post Mao period.
-
Comment: Human Rights in the US foreign policy.
-
Discuss with reference to the USA, how domestic factors influence the foreign policy of the country.
Syllabus map
Paper II · Section B: India and the World
Indian Foreign Policy, India and the Non-Aligned Movement, India and South Asia, India and the Global South, India and the Global Centres of Power, India and the UN System, India and the Nuclear Question, Recent Developments in Indian Foreign Policy.
Unit 01
Indian Foreign Policy
PYQ Solutions
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Critically analyze the different phases of India’s foreign policy since independence. How justified, do you think, is S. Jaishankar’s classification of the current phase as the phase of ‘energetic diplomacy’?
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Would you agree with the contention that India’s inclination to lean on a ‘more aggressive hyper-realist posture’ has gained a new momentum in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist strike? Comment.
-
India maintains strong ties with countries that will assure a free and open Indo-Pacific and guarantee greater connectivity with rest of the world. Analyze.
-
India continues to invoke its time-tested policy of strategic autonomy vis-à-vis both the United States of America and Russia by rejecting US’ offer of mediation on Kashmir issue and by refusing to criticize Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. Comment.
-
For India, a multipolar world order would also mean a multipolar Asia. Comment.
-
Would you concur with the view that of late, India’s foreign policy has been in a transition mode from Nehruvianism to Neoliberalism? Support your answer with the help of suitable examples.
-
What are the external determinants of the Foreign Policy of a State?
-
Explain the major features of India’s foreign policy in the 21st century.
-
Critically examine the major factors responsible for a turnaround in the trajectory of India’s foreign policy in the post-cold war period.
-
Discuss the role of public diplomacy in the enhancement of India’s global standing.
-
Peaceful co-existence remains the cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. Comment.
-
Explain the philosophical foundations of India’s foreign policy. (150 words)
-
How do the constituent states influence the foreign policy making process in India?
-
Describe the structure and function of the National Security Council of India. What role does it play in the formulation of Indian foreign policy.
-
Examine the role of ‘parliamentary diplomacy’ in India’s foreign policy.
-
How is India responding to the idea of Indo-Pacific?
-
Examine the increasing significance of maritime security in India’s foreign policy.
-
Do you agree with the view that the Indian Foreign Policy is increasingly being shaped by the Neoliberal outlook? Elaborate.
-
“India is often said to have a rich strategic culture.” Discuss.
-
“India’s current foreign policy marks significant qualitative shifts from that of the previous regimes.” Discuss.
-
Discuss the role of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in promoting India’s soft power abroad.
-
Examine the Indian National Movement and geographical location of India as determinants of India’s foreign policy.
-
Which determinant factors play an important role in making India’s foreign policy? Illustrate with examples.
-
The social structure of a country influences its foreign policy-making. How does the social structure of India impact the course and direction of its foreign policy?
-
How does the Parliament determine and influence the making of India’s foreign policy?
-
Economic interest has emerged as the main component of India’s foreign policy.’ Discuss the statement in the light of India’s initiatives to improve relations with China, Japan and the Central Asian republics.
-
“Federal units are critical in the making of India’s foreign policy.” Examine this statement with reference to the role of West Bengal vis-a-vis Bangladesh.
-
The Ministry of External Affairs is losing its importance in the making of India’s foreign policy with the parallel rise of the P.M.O. Explain.
-
Identify the elements of change in India’s Foreign Policy. (150 words)
-
The economic content of India’s Foreign trade is increasingly growing.’ Substantiate the statement with economic diplomatic engagements of India in the last decade. (200 words)
-
What have been the main challenges to India’s foreign policy in the last two decades? Are these essentially ‘concerns’ with domestic politics or ‘strategic’ issues? (200 words)
-
Comment on the essential elements of India’s foreign policy that are required to secure energy and security in the Indian Ocean region. (150 words)
-
Assess the scope and importance of setting up the Public Diplomacy Division in the Ministry of External Affairs in strengthening India’s Foreign Policy.
-
Explain the following statement and elucidate its implications: “India’s policy in post-Cold War era is tilted towards pragmatism and wisdom.”
-
Explain the impact of coalition politics on India’s Foreign Policy since late 1990s.
-
“Domestic problems and historic legacies, apart from other factors, constitute major strains on Indian foreign policy.” Discuss this statement with suitable examples.
-
“India’s Foreign Policy could have matched with the fast-changing international system.” Discuss it.
-
Comment: Pre-independence origins of India’s foreign policy.
-
Evaluate the foreign policy of India with special reference to Pakistan and China in the present context.
-
Present a critique of India’s foreign policy.
Unit 02
India and the Non-Aligned Movement
PYQ Solutions
-
India has adopted multi-alignment to fulfill its core values and interests in International relations. Discuss.
-
Does the Non-Aligned Movement have any future in the wake of India’s growing indifference towards it?
-
NonAlignment 2.0 underscores India’s unique aspiration to emerge as a site for an alternative universality. Comment.
-
“India has of late, chosen to debunk non-alignment in its pursuit of multi-alignment.” Comment.
-
“Non-alignment was little more than a rational strategy on the part of a materially weak India to maximise its interests with a bipolar distribution of global power.” Comment.
-
Compare and contrast Non-alignment 1.0 with Non-alignment 2.0.
-
Comment on India’s contribution to Non-Alignment Movement and its contemporary relevance.
-
‘Non-alignment’ has been the basic principle of India’s foreign policy since independence. Discuss its relevance in the contemporary context.
-
“India’s policy of non-alignment has been guided by the genius of the Indian people and their interests.” Explain.
-
Explain the following statement and elucidate its implications: “India’s policy of non-alignment was based on both idealist and realist calculations.”
-
Was there any domestic sociopolitical basis for India to pursue the policy of non-alignment?
-
Comment: Give a critical estimate of India’s role in the Non-Aligned Movement.
-
What were the major determinants of India’s Foreign Policy of Non-alignment? Indicate the changes in India’s Foreign Policy since the 1990’s.
-
Critically examine the view that in the post-Cold War era, Indian policy of non-alignment has become irrelevant.
-
Discuss India’s contribution to the growth and development of the Non-Aligned Movement.
-
Comment: India and the Bandung Conference: Hope and Reality.
-
Has the Non-Aligned Movement lost its relevance in the present-day situation and how has India evolved its foreign policy goals to the changing international scenario?
Unit 03
India and South Asia
PYQ Solutions
-
Accelerating of Chinese influence across South Asia is fundamentally reshaping the region’s geopolitical landscape. This is a big foreign policy challenge for India. Analyse.
-
Critically evaluate the important factors of India-Maldives relations on the eve of sixty years of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
-
Answer in about 150 words: What strategic options can India exercise as a response to the tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan?
-
The island of Kachchatheevu remains an intractable issue in India-Srilanka relations. Comment.
-
Answer in about 150 words: Discuss the main features of the land-boundary agreement between India and Bangladesh.
-
How does illegal cross border migration pose challenges to India’s security? Discuss the steps taken by the government in this direction and their effectiveness.
-
China’s growing footprint and a tangible shift in power dynamics in Bangladesh has weakened India’s leverage in Dhaka. Comment.
-
Discuss the potential role India can play in initiating a possible phase of trilateral economic engagement among India, China and Nepal.
-
Discuss the future of SAARC in the light of India’s increased focus on other regional groupings like ASEAN and BIMSTEC.
-
Despite deep ties, India’s relations with Sri Lanka have seen strains due to China’s growing influence in Sri Lanka through investments and economic dominance. Analyse.
-
Bhutan has historically been an ally of India, but the China-Bhutan border related issues have become a security issue for India. Discuss.
-
Discuss the implications of the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime with Myanmar by the Indian Government on the complex ethno-political dynamics of the north-eastern region.
-
What are the reasons for lack of ‘regionness’ in South-Asia?
-
Why do ethnic conflicts and insurgencies continue to remain major impediments to regional cooperation in South-Asia?
-
Discuss the ways and means to realise greater economic co-operation among the Member States of South Asia.
-
Discuss the steps required to realise ‘hydro-co-operation’ between India and Bangladesh.
-
What are the implications of ‘Look-East’ Policy on the north-eastern region of India?
-
Discuss the Consequences of illegal cross-border migration in India’s north-eastern region.
-
Why South Asia is considered as the world’s politically and economically least integrated region? Explain.
-
Discuss the strategic implications of India’s ‘Look East Policy’ transforming into ‘Act East Policy’. (150 words)
-
Write a brief analysis of the ethnic conflicts and cross-border migrations along India-Myanmar and India-Bangladesh borders.
-
Outline the reasons of low volume of trade in the SAARC region.
-
Analyze the impact of hydropolitics on Indo-Bangladesh relations.
-
Discuss the future prospects of Indo-Nepal relations in the context of the recent publication of new Nepalese map wrongly claiming Indian territory.
-
How does cross-border terrorism impede the achievements of peace and security in South Asia?
-
Evaluate India’s stand on the recent Rohingya refugee issue.
-
Analyse the significance of India’s Look East Policy in the light of concerns of the indigenous peoples of North-east India.
-
What are the impediments in the development of South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA)?
-
“Despite the differences between India and Pakistan on various issues, Indus Water Treaty has stood the test of times.” In the light of this statement, discuss the recent developments over this issue.
-
“The Treaty of Perpetual Peace and Friendship between India and Bhutan needs to be revised with more pragmatic, realistic obligations and responsibilities.” Comment.
-
Sometimes we visualize that SAARC’s efforts come to halt because of various impediments to regional cooperation.” Elaborate with reasonable examples of impediment.
-
Discuss the shift of India’s foreign policy towards Pakistan in the light of Pathankot incident.
-
What are the hopes and aspirations of ‘Look East Policy’ of India? Explain.
-
Ethnic conflicts and insurgencies in NorthEast India can be better managed by improving relations with the neighbouring countries. Substantiate the statement with suitable examples.
-
River water disputes are emerging as a major source of irritation between India and its neighbours. Identify the sources of conflicts and suggest the remedial measures.
-
What are the political and environmental contexts of the Siachen Glacier conflict? Comment on the possibility of environmental peace – keeping and collaborative arrangements being worked out with Pakistan on this aspect. (250 words)
-
“Despite the potentialities, India’s ‘Look East Policy’ requires a major course correction.” Discuss. (200 words)
-
Illustrate the issue of illegal cross-border migration in South Asia and its impact on regional alliances and bilateral relations. (150 words)
-
Explain the major flaws in India’s ‘Look East Policy’. Is it possible to steer and implement the policy successfully in view of China’s emergence as a high-tech power in Asia-Pacific?
-
Discuss the implications of ethnicity and nation-building in South Asia, and their impact in the relations of states within South Asia.
-
Would it be to India’s benefit if it were to pursue a more serious relationship with South-East Asia? Critically evaluate.
-
Assess the problems being faced by India on account of illegal migration into the country.
-
Examine India’s role in strategic terms with regard to the land-locked countries in South Asia. With regard to Nepal, to what extent has the involvement of major powers such as China, the US and the EU impacted India’s strategic interests?
-
Do you think that India’s ‘Look East policy would help a common Asian market, unlike European common market?
-
Analyze the basic causes of insurgency and terrorism in two major areas that are affected in the country. In this regard, to what extent have state policies to counter terrorism been effective in these areas?
-
“Domestic turmoil in neighbouring South Asian countries often constitutes a strain on Indian foreign policy.” Discuss with illustrations.
-
Critically review the progress of India-Pakistan peace process since the Kargil War.
-
Identify the persistent points of friction between India and Bangladesh at present.
-
What are the motivations for India’s ‘Look East’ policy?
-
“The establishment of South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC) has opened the gates of mutual cooperation among the States of South Asia.” In the light of this statement examine India’s role in the South Asian region.
-
Explain the importance and limitations of recent Confidence Building Measures in Indo-Pak relations.
-
Comment: India’s interest in ASEAN.
-
Give an account of the major contending issues in Indo-Bangladesh relations. Assess the prospects for greater cooperation between the two countries.
-
Comment: Distinguishing features of Indo-Nepal Relations.
-
Comment: Prospects and problems of India’s relations with South-East Asia.
-
Comment: India’s role in the independence of Bangladesh.
-
Comment: Role and consequences of IPKF in Sri Lanka.
-
Comment: “Look East” policy of India.
-
Comment: SAARC: Problems and Prospects
-
‘Indo-Pak relationship veers around the peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue.’ Critically evaluate various alternatives for its solution.
-
Discuss some of the major issues of conflict and cooperation between India, Nepal and Bhutan.
-
Comment: Prospects of a free trade area in South Asia.
-
Comment: Islamic factor in Indo-Pak Relations.
-
It is said that India bashing by its neighbouring countries is directly or indirectly linked to their internal social conflicts. Explain with the help of developments in Indo-Pak and Indo-Srilankan relations.
-
“Regional cooperation makes sense only in the event of there being, at least as the bottom line, a degree of ideological cohesion and/or economic dependence. The SAARC members have neither.” Comment.
-
Keeping in view the global developments during the last few years, what are the prospects of cooperative and friendly relations between India and Pakistan.
-
Comment: Indus water Treaty.
Unit 04
India and the Global South
PYQ Solutions
-
Answer in about 150 words: Analyse the relevance of India-Brazil economic co-operation in strengthening the bilateral relations between the two countries.
-
Examine India and South-Africa co-operation through bilateral and multi-lateral forums.
-
Answer in about 150 words: Describe India’s objections to agricultural negotiations at the World Trade Organisation.
-
Trump’s unilateral imposition of reciprocal tariffs on scores of countries poses impending threat to the future of the rule-based multilateral global trading system under the WTO. What options do the WTO members have to salvage the organization?
-
Discuss some of the key drivers of India’s new interests in Africa which might help in developing long-term comparative advantage over China.
-
Discuss the potential role that India could play as the leader of the Global South in realising the goal of establishing a new international economic order in the 21st century.
-
“Nothing is going to move within the WTO negotiations unless India is on board.” Discuss the main reasons behind India’s increased clout in the WTO.
-
Discuss the major drivers of India’s interests in Africa.
-
What diplomatic steps has India taken to articulate the interests of the Global South in International Politics?
-
Why is the compromise reached at WTO regarding the Covid-19 vaccine manufacturing not a Trade Related Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver?
-
Discuss the relevance of the demand for New International Economic Order (NIEO) in the present era of globalisation.
-
Explain India’s position on the waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines in WTO.
-
How do the guiding principles of India-Africa relations seek to enhance harmony and mutual cooperation between India and Africa?
-
How is India pursuing her foreign policy objectives through the IBSA Dialogue Forum (India, Brazil and South Africa)?
-
“India’s capacity building programmes under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) has earned much goodwill for it in Africa.” Discuss.
-
“India’s Research and Information System for Developing Countries” (RIS) is a major initiative in the area of South-South Cooperation. Discuss.
-
India’s coalitional diplomacy within the WTO has earned it wide appreciation. What accounts for the success of India’s coalitional diplomacy?
-
Suggest measures so that India’s partnership with Africa becomes a true symbol of South South Cooperation, delivering clear-cut economic and political dividends to both sides of the equation.
-
Analyse the stalled progress of Doha Round of WTO negotiations over the differences between the developed and the developing countries.
-
Discuss the factors for the decline of India’s presence in Latin America.
-
Sketch the leadership role of India in WTO negotiations. (150 words)
-
Identify India’s contributions and assistance in the process of nation-building in South Africa.
-
‘The constant breakdown in WTO negotiations suggest too many disagreements in world politics’. Would you agree?
-
Does India’s rise as a major market power in a globalised world mean that it is no longer concerned with the ‘new international economic order’ that it once championed? Discuss.
-
Give a critical account of India’s role in the affairs of the Third World countries.
-
Comment: India and the emerging International Economic Order.
-
How far institutions like WTO and IMF have influenced India’s political and economic sovereignty? What has been India’s response to these?
-
Comment: India and the WTO.
-
Describe, explain and suggest improvement in the state of India’s relationship with Latin America.
-
Comment: IMF and India’s development.
-
Critically examine the various controversial issues in the functioning of the World Trade Organization from the point of view of developing countries, particularly India.
-
Give us analysis of India’s Africa policy.
-
Explain the role of the Third World countries in the promotion of NIEO.
-
Comment: India and the IMF.
Unit 05
India and the Global Centres of Power
PYQ Solutions
-
“The mother of all deals” is a transformative milestone in Indo-EU trade relations. Elaborate on the new Security and Defence partnership.
-
Critically evaluate India-Russia relations in the 21st century. How have both the countries responded to America meddling in their relations in the recent times.
-
India continues to invoke its time-tested policy of strategic autonomy vis-à-vis both the United States of America and Russia by rejecting US’ offer of mediation on Kashmir issue and by refusing to criticize Russia in its ongoing war against Ukraine. Comment.
-
China’s growing footprint and a tangible shift in power dynamics in Bangladesh has weakened India’s leverage in Dhaka. Comment.
-
Discuss the potential role India can play in initiating a possible phase of trilateral economic engagement among India, China and Nepal.
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The tariff threats have pushed India and the European Union closer. Evaluate the India-EU partnership.
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Historical ties between India and Japan grew into a ‘special strategic and global partnership’. Comment.
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“India and USA have become such strong strategic partners that they need not become formal allies.” Comment.
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Does the idea of the 21st century as ‘Asian century’ continue to remain feasible given the growing friction between India and China?
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Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) performs an important role in India’s strategic balancing act to withstand the dominance of China in Asia. Discuss.
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Arms trade, economic ties and congruent geo-political interests are no longer the three pillars of India – Russia relationship in the emerging strategic context. Comment.
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Explain the significance of Basic Exchange and Co-operation Agreement (BECA) for Indo-US strategic relations.
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What are the main drivers of India-Japan Strategic and Global Partnership?
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Explain India’s relations with the European Union in the context of Brexit.
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Examine the Geo-strategic points of contention in the bilateral relationship between India and China.
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‘Relations between India and Russia are rooted in history, mutual trust and mutually beneficial cooperation.’ Discuss.
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Discuss the significance of Indo-US strategic partnership and its implications for India’s security and national defence.
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What are the notable features of the recently concluded pact or the Acquisition and Cross Servicing Agreement (ACSA) between India and Japan? How is it likely to address the security concerns of India?
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Explain the defence and foreign policy options of India to address the challenges emerging out of the current India-China standoff at the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
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Describe briefly China’s ‘One Belt One Road (OBOR)’ Initiative and analyze India’s major concerns.
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What are the current issues in Brahmaputra River water sharing between India and China?
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Critically examine India’s position on South China Sea Dispute.
-
Discuss the role of Indian diaspora in promoting Indo-US relations.
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Do you agree that the growing assertiveness of China is leading to multilayered Indo-Japan relations? Comment.
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Critically assess the evolving convergence of India and China in the areas of trade and environment.
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The natural behaviour of India and the United States is likely to serve each other’s interests. Hence, a deliberate strategy of dovetailing their efforts will obviously benefit both. Elaborate.
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Do you subscribe to the idea that in the new evolving Asian dynamics, Japan and India have not only moved closer in economic cooperation, but also in strategic partnership?
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How is the ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ of China going to affect India-China relations?
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The recent differences between India and Russia are the result of misconceptions than facts. Elucidate.
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Comment on India’s growing relationship with USA in the background of constrained relations between India and China.
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Explain Britain’s ouster from EU and bring out its consequences on world economy in general and India in particular.
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Illustrate the main causes of tension between India and China. Suggest the possibilities of improving relationship.
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Before the year 2000, the Indo-U.S. relationship has been marked more with estrangement than cordiality. Why?
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Do you agree with the view that the USA is of late willing to treat India as a partner rather than merely a camp-follower? Give reasons for your answer.
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“EU – India relations have a long way to go before they can purposely be termed strategic.” Discuss.
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Evaluate the recent changes in Indo – Japan relations.
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“Some of the major changes that occurred in India’s foreign policy after the Sino – India war in 1962 were within the larger framework of continuity.” Discuss.
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Analyse the drivers of Indo-Russian relations in the post-Cold-War era.
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Is there any linkage between a shift in China’s relations with Japan to a perceived shift in her relations with India? Examine in the light of China’s so- called ‘anti- encirclement struggle’. (150 words)
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Explain the role of the Parliament in the shaping of 123 Agreement between India and the US on Civil-nuclear Cooperation.
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Do you think that India should sign a treaty with China on water sharing of Brahmaputra River, similar to what she did with Nepal and other neighbouring states?
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Examine India’s response to the Af-Pak policy of the US.
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Examine the nature of the issues currently being debated with the European Union.
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‘The relationship between India and China is characterised by high levels of conflict and cooperation.’ Comment.
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Comprehensively examine the major developments/trends in Indo-US relations since the early 1990s. Do you visualise the strengthening of ties between the two nations? Substantiate.
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Examine the trends in India’s relations with the European Union.
-
Discuss the present state of Indo-Russian relations.
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Comment: Emerging areas of co-operation between India and Japan.
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Examine the areas of cooperation and conflict in the Indo-American relations.
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Comment: Impact of Sino-Indian conflict of 1962 on International Politics.
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Comment: Areas of cooperation between India and Russia.
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Examine the recent developments in Sino-Indian relations.
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Examine Pakistan as a factor in Indo-American relations during the Cold War.
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Comment: Indo-Russian Summit 1997.
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Comment: Diego Garcia.
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Examine the changes in China’s India policy in 1990’s. Do you attribute these changes to the altered global environment or to the domestic factors?
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What, in your option, is the objective of the US policy in South Asia-status quo or peaceful change? Examine the strategies adopted by Washington in this regard.
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Despite some problems which USA is facing in Asia, it is unlikely that pressures on India over the nuclear issue, Kashmir and missile programme will be released. Discuss.
-
Analyse the developments in the Indo-US relations since the end of the Gulf War. Give the reasons for changes, if any, in the South Asia policy of USA.
Unit 06
India and the UN System
PYQ Solutions
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“India must strive to become a semi-permanent member of the UNSC, rather than a permanent member without the right to veto.” Comment.
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Discuss the importance of India’s role in UN peacekeeping operations as a ground for its claim to a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
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Explain the factors which justify India’s claim for a permanent seat at the UN security council.
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Discuss the ‘Sustainable Development Goals’ as set by the United Nations.
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Explain the importance of India’s claim for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council.
-
Analyze the recent trends in India’s role in the UN peacekeeping operations.
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Discuss the various impediments in India’s way to a permanent seat in the Security Council.
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“India has been the largest and consistent country contributing to the UN peacekeepers worldwide.” Examine India’s role in this perspective.
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‘Uniting for Consensus’ also known as ‘Coffee Club’ has opposed the claims of India and other countries over permanent membership of the UN Security Council. Point out their major objections.
-
Critically analyze China’s role in international politics against India’s demand for permanent seat in UN Security council.
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The United Nations completes 70 years of its establishment in 2015. What reforms is India asking for to strengthen the global institutions of governance and why?
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Is India’s quest for a permanent seat in the Security Council a possibility or just a pipedream? Elaborate with reasons.
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Evaluate India’s participation in United Nations peace-keeping operations over the years.
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Bring out the objectives of India seeking permanent seat in Security Council. (150 words)
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Bring out India’s perspectives and concerns on reform in the UN Security Council.
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Bring out the role played by Indian armed forces in UN peace – keeping efforts in various parts of the world.
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Evaluate the role India has played in U.N. Peace-keeping activities and the cause of global disarmament.
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Comment: India and the U.N. Peace-keeping Force.
Unit 07
India and the Nuclear Question
PYQ Solutions
-
India’s reluctance to perceive any ‘existential threat’ inevitably made the multilateral path to nuclear security a ‘default option’ until it decided to cross the nuclear Rubicon in 1998. Identify and analyse some of the major reasons behind this shift in India’s position on the nuclear question.
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Critically examine India’s persistent refusal to sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT) despite being recognized as a de-facto nuclear power.
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“India’s Nuclear policy is deeply influenced by its cultural beliefs and the pragmatic approach of its foreign policy.” Discuss.
-
Discuss the reasons behind India’s refusal to sign the nuclear non-proliferation treaty (NPT).
-
Examine the evolution of India’s role in the global nuclear order.
-
Discuss the efficacy of India’s ‘no first use’ policy (nuclear weapons) in the context of the evolving strategic challenges from its neighbours.
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Given the recent developments in the region, do you think that there is a need to change India’s ‘No First Use (NFU)’ nuclear policy?
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The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) has failed to achieve the ultimate objective of Global Nuclear Disarmament. Discuss the deficiency in the provision of NPT.
-
Critically analyze India’s nuclear policy.
-
Explain the socio-economic impacts of arms race and identify the obstacles In the way of disarmament.
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In 1998, India declared itself as a nuclear weapon state. India refuses to sign NPT and CTBT. What would be the implications for India’s nuclear policy in case it signs both the treaties?
-
Is India’s nuclear doctrine a viable one? (150 words)
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“While India opposes NPT as discriminatory, it opposes CTBT on the ground of ineffectiveness.” Comment.
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In the context of developments on the nuclear weapons front in the neighbourhood, do you think that any change in India’s defence strategy is indicated?
-
Give arguments in defence of India’s approach to Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT).
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Comment: India’s claim for acceptance as a nuclear power.
-
Critically examine India’s objections to CTBT and NPT.
-
Comment: India’s opposition to the Non-Proliferation Treaty: A realist paradigm.
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Explain India’s role in global disarmament.
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Comment: Peaceful Nuclear Explosions (PNE)
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Comment: Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
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Comment: Uses of nuclear energy.
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Analyse the barriers to arms control.
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Comment: China and Nuclear Weapons.
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Explain the differences between India and USA on the question of CTBT. Why has India decided to link CTBT with the elimination of nuclear weapon?
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Examine the issues raised in the context of renewal of NPT both by its advocates and its critics.
-
Non-proliferation has now acquired the status of a vested interest with the nuclear weapon states which, in the name of political stability, are trying to perpetuate a global order which will preserve their hegemonic position. Discuss.
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Comment: NPT safeguards and Non-Nuclear Weapon States.
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Comment: Impact on nuclear weapons on international relations.
Unit 08
Recent Developments in Indian Foreign Policy
PYQ Solutions
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Answer in about 150 words: Discuss the three areas of security co-operation between India and Israel.
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India has recognised that West Asia is not a single contest, but a tangle of rivalries, bargains and anxieties. Comment.
-
Would you agree with the contention that India’s inclination to lean on a ‘more aggressive hyper-realist posture’ has gained a new momentum in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist strike? Comment.
-
For India, a multipolar world order would also mean a multipolar Asia. Comment.
-
Discuss the rationale behind replacing the “Asia-Pacific” strategy with the new term “Indo-Pacific” strategy.
-
Critically examine the continuity and change in India’s Palestine policy in the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas War.
-
Discuss the significance of “West Asia Quad” in the light of India’s ‘Look West’ policy.
-
What are the challenges and limitations in India-Iran relations?
-
What steps has India taken to regain its foothold in Afghanistan since the Taliban has taken over the country in August 2021?
-
How does India-Israel bilateral ties reflect the autonomy of India’s foreign policy choices?
-
Discuss India’s vision of a New World order in the 21st century.
-
Discuss the five proposals made by India in the recent COP-26 conference held in Glasgow. (150 words)
-
Write about the growing significance of QUAD. (150 words)
-
How does the recent takeover of Afghanistan by Taliban impact India’s strategic interests? (150 words)
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“The war in Afghanistan is crucial from the point of view of India’s national security. If the Americans withdraw and Jihadis emerge with a sense of triumphalism, India will face increasing onslaught of terrorism.” Comment.
-
Identify the key sectors of cooperation between India and Israel since 2014. Examine their significance in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two countries.
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Critically examine the role of India in shaping the emerging world order.
-
The growing closeness between India and Israel will strengthen the cause of Palestine. Comment.
-
Write a brief note on India’s interests in West Asia.
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How is the current standoff between the USA and Iran affecting India’s energy security?
-
Do you think that India’s capacity building role in Afghanistan has shrunk the strategic space for Pakistan there? Discuss.
-
Has the recent Indo-Israeli relationships given a new dynamics to India’s stand on Palestinian statehood?
-
Vision of a new world order has emerged as the major objective of India’s foreign policy. Discuss the policy initiative taken by India in this regard and the challenges faced by it.
-
Discuss the realistic foreign policy initiatives taken by India to balance its relations between Israel & the Arab world.
-
Discuss the humanitarian role played by India in the crisis – stricken Gulf countries like Yemen and Iraq.
-
Examine the implications of turmoil in Iraq and West Asia for India’s security and foreign policy concerns.
-
“Afghanistan is a litmus test for India’s ascendance as a regional and global power.” Discuss.
-
In the history of foreign policy, seldom have relations between any two nations blossomed as fast as they have in the case of India and Israel. Discuss.
-
Is it correct to conclude that the ‘Arab Street revolutions have radically altered the political power scenario of the West Asian countries?
-
To what extent is multi-lateralism a reality with regard to India’s ‘constructive strategic partnership’ with Central Asian states?
-
Can Israel be termed a ‘natural ally’ of India?
-
To what extent is India’s policy in regard to Afghanistan dictated by a vision of ‘Global South’, rather than compulsion?
-
Comment: Pan-Americanism.
-
Comment: Potentials of Non-conventional energy sources.
-
Comment: China’s foreign policy towards Pakistan in the present context.
-
Comment: Conventional arms Trade.
-
“It is not ideological differences but national interests and considerations of leadership in world affairs that are responsible for Sino-Russian schism.” Discuss this statement and show its impact on India.
-
Comment: An oligopolistic global system
-
Comment: US trade relations with Japan
-
Comment: China’s “one China” policy.
-
Comment: Russia’s policy towards Japan
Both papers solved
Paper I and Paper II are now fully solved: all 40 units, filed topic-wise from 1991 to 2026. For the theory behind each answer, read the free notes and year-wise question lists on the PSIR Optional hub.
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