UPSC GS Paper II — PYQ & Model Answers (2026)

"Right to privacy relating to self-identity is very dear to every human being and well protected under Article 21 of the Constitution." In this context, examine the effect of the 2026 amendment to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

"Women as a class neither belong to a minority group nor are they regarded as forming a backward class." Discuss the evolution of women's reservation from local bodies to Parliament in this context.

Examine whether the Lok Sabha Speaker's constitutional office has become vulnerable to partisan politics under the current anti-defection regime, and suggest institutional changes needed to ensure the Speaker's neutrality.

Is the right to vote a fundamental right? Discuss the Election Commission's position on examining voter citizenship during electoral roll revision.

Do constitutional bodies like the NCSC and NCST possess adequate enforcement powers for substantive social equality? Suggest measures to enhance their effectiveness.

Does India's tribal development policy reflect aspirations for socially grounded, equity-based governance?

"Malnutrition in India is not merely a public health concern; it is also a challenge of social equity, human development and effective welfare governance." Discuss.

Analyse the advantages and limitations of India's generalist civil service structure in contemporary governance.

"IPMDA bridges the gap between India's SAGAR vision and the Quad's collective Indo-Pacific strategy." Make a critical assessment.

"BRICS acts as a powerful counterweight in global governance, actively amplifying the voice and influence of the Global South." Explain.

Discuss the Governor's position in India's federal polity, the nature of his power regarding assent to State Legislature bills, and whether he is bound by the advice of the Council of Ministers.

What is judicial legislation? Discuss apex court verdicts on "passive euthanasia" and "living will."

Assess how successful India's federal framework has been in accommodating regional and cultural diversities, highlighting the role of asymmetric federalism and suggesting more effective dispute resolution mechanisms.

Compare separation of powers in India versus the USA's rigid presidential model, comparing the actual authority of the Prime Minister with that of the US President.

To what extent do pressure groups, social movements, and corporate lobbies deepen pluralistic democracy by representing excluded interests? Does growing corporate-political convergence threaten the autonomy of democratic institutions?

"Transparency and accountability in governance are not about controlling corruption but about creating the trust of stakeholders in the policy process by following the Rule of Law and Participatory Governance." Comment.

Can constitutional rights-based welfare mandates be effectively realised amid non-integrated governance and minimal public investment? Examine.

Should education be primarily a state welfare obligation or a strategic investment for global competitiveness? Critically evaluate.

"India's global diaspora acts as a living bridge, a critical economic factor and knowledge network in transforming cultural heritage into geopolitical influence and strategic leverage worldwide." Critically examine this statement.

"China's Belt and Road Initiative has transformed South Asia into a theatre of great power competition." Analyse the strategic implications for India's security and regional influence.