2023 UPSC CSE Mains GS 2 PYQs

2023 UPSC CSE Mains General Studies Paper 2 PYQs

The UPSC Civil Services Mains 2023 General Studies Paper 2 is a crucial part of the examination, focusing on topics such as Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations. It covers critical areas like the Indian Constitution (historical underpinnings, features, amendments, and significant provisions), functions and responsibilities of the Union and States, separation of powers, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Governance topics include policy interventions, transparency, accountability, and the role of civil services, while Social Justice addresses issues like welfare schemes, vulnerable sections, and human rights. Additionally, International Relations examines bilateral, regional, and global groupings, and India’s place in the international community.

This post provides a detailed list of Previous Year Questions (PYQs) to help aspirants understand the exam pattern, analyze the syllabus, and prepare strategically for future UPSC Mains. Practicing these 2023 General Studies Paper 2 PYQs will enable candidates to develop a robust understanding of key concepts and refine their answer-writing skills.

Polity

Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignity.
The constitute of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a Constitution made for a progressive society. Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty.
Discuss the role of Presiding officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.
Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of Indian Parliament ?
The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the years and as a result healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law, which was legislated but with a different intention ?
Constitutionally guaranted judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy. Comment.
The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially. Comment.
Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism ?
Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.
Discuss the role of the Constitution Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.
Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India?
Explain the constitutional perspective of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.

Welfare

Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are discriminatory in approach. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer.
The crucial part of the development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.
Skill development programmes have succeeded in increasing human resources supply to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyse the linkages between education, skill and employment.

Governance

E-Governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness, transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper the enhancement of these features?

International Relations

Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the west. Describe its economic and political benefits for india.
“The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well for India.” What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer.
‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’ in the light of the above statement point out the role of India in mitigating the problems.
‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’ Discuss in the light of the above statement the role of the IMO (International Maritime Organisation) in protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security.

NGO, SHG, Pressure Groups & Civil Services

Discuss the contribution of civil groups for women’s effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislature in India.