Category Archives: polity

Explained: What NHRC, SC have said on encounter killings

Headline : Explained: What NHRC, SC have said on encounter killings Details : In News: All four accused in the rape-and-murder of a 25-year-old woman veterinarian in Hyderabad were recently killed in an encounter by the police. While several voices, including senior officials and public figures, have hailed the killing, questions have also been raised over the legalityContinue reading “Explained: What NHRC, SC have said on encounter killings”

Explained: Jammu and Kashmir state to two UTs — today, later

Headline : Explained: Jammu and Kashmir state to two UTs — today, later Details : In News The state of Jammu and Kashmir will be officially bifurcated into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh on October 31. The day will mark the beginning of the functioning of the two UTs at a bureaucratic level. This marks anContinue reading “Explained: Jammu and Kashmir state to two UTs — today, later”

Who are the 19 lakh excluded from Assam NRC, and what next for them?

Headline : Who are the 19 lakh excluded from Assam NRC, and what next for them? Details : In News: The recently published final list of people in updated National Register of Citizen (NRC) has stripped nearly 19 lakh people in the north-eastern state of Assam of their citizenship. About: NRC The NRC for a stateContinue reading “Who are the 19 lakh excluded from Assam NRC, and what next for them?”

Can Pakistan get the ICJ to undo India’s decision on J&K’s special status?

Headline : Can Pakistan get the ICJ to undo India’s decision on J&K’s special status? Details : In News: Pakistan has decided to approach the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the recent revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status by India. Telegram: https://t.me/ShubhraRanjanPSIR Theme of the topic: The topic analysis the ICJ’s Jurisdiction over the Jammu and KashmirContinue reading “Can Pakistan get the ICJ to undo India’s decision on J&K’s special status?”

Headline : Explained: Sikkim, from Chogyal rule to Indian state

Headline : Explained: Sikkim, from Chogyal rule to Indian state Details : In News: Recently, Sikkim’s longest serving Chief Minister, Pawan Chamling, became the sole elected Opposition representative in the Assembly after the remaining 12 Sikkim Democratic Front (SDF) MLAs defected, with 10 joining the BJP and another two joining the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM).Continue reading “Headline : Explained: Sikkim, from Chogyal rule to Indian state”

Polity: Federalism- Debate, landmark cases, Types of Federalism, J&K and more

Headline : The forms of federalism in India Details : Why in News? The Union government has withdrawn the special status conferred on Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) under Article 370 of the Constitution. It has also divided the State into two regions and declared them as Union Territories. Telegram: https://t.me/ShubhraRanjanPSIR The debate concerning with federalism: NationsContinue reading “Polity: Federalism- Debate, landmark cases, Types of Federalism, J&K and more”

Incisive interventions that blunt the RTI’s edge Editorial 10th Aug’19 TheHindu

Headline : Incisive interventions that blunt the RTI’s edge Editorial 10th Aug’19 TheHindu Details : Meaning of Democracy: Democracy has to percolate beyond the bare promises of formal political equality. Along with a system of popular sovereignty founded in universal adult franchise, it also assures a set of rights, among others, to a freedom of expression, lifeContinue reading “Incisive interventions that blunt the RTI’s edge Editorial 10th Aug’19 TheHindu”

J&K Statehood and 370 Article: Analysis

Headline : The state has its reasons Editorial 7th Aug’19 IndianExpress Details : Telegram : https://t.me/SimplifiedIAS Status of J&K stuck in ambiguity: For over seven decades, the status of the state of Jammu and Kashmir has been masked in ambiguity and deceit. Successive governments of both India and Pakistan had tried but failed to arrive at anContinue reading “J&K Statehood and 370 Article: Analysis”

River water disputes: Disputes Resolution Committee (DRC), Inter State Water Dispute Act, 1956

Headline : One tribunal for all river water disputes: why the proposal, how it will work Details : In News: The Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been passed by Lok Sabha. It seeks to streamline the adjudication of disputes relating to waters of inter-State rivers and river valleys. News Summary: The Bill clearedContinue reading “River water disputes: Disputes Resolution Committee (DRC), Inter State Water Dispute Act, 1956”

India and Global Innovation Index

Headline : India rises in global innovation ranking Details : The News India has jumped five places to rank 52 in the Global Innovation Index 2019 (GII). The GII is a global benchmark that helps policy makers better understand how to stimulate and measure innovative activity, a main driver of economic and social development.   NewsContinue reading “India and Global Innovation Index”

For Naya Kashmir Editorial 6th Aug’19 IndianExpress

Headline : For Naya Kashmir Editorial 6th Aug’19 IndianExpress Details : Telegram: https://t.me/UpscExpress Kashmiri leaders also sought progress: Naya Kashmir was a memorandum that Kashmiri leader Sheikh Abdullah submitted to the King of erstwhile Kashmir kingdom Maharaja Hari Singh in 1944. It outlined a plan to convert J&K from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional democracy,Continue reading “For Naya Kashmir Editorial 6th Aug’19 IndianExpress”

Jammu and Kashmir: Article 370, Article 35(A), Resolutions, Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill and all other developments

Headline : J&K loses its special status, divided into two UTs Details : Telegram: https://t.me/UpscExpress The News: In a historic decision, the Indian government has changed the terms of engagement with Jammu and Kashmir by doing away with the special status enjoyed by the state under Article 370, scrapping Article 35A and splitting the state into two UTs of J&K and Ladakh.Continue reading “Jammu and Kashmir: Article 370, Article 35(A), Resolutions, Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill and all other developments”

Productivity of Parliament

Headline : Lawmakers work overtime, Lok Sabha session set to be most productive in 20 years Details : In News: In this session of the Parliament, Lok Sabha has already passed 30 Bills, while Rajya Sabha has passes 25 Bills. In terms of legislative business transacted during the first session of a fresh Lok Sabha, theContinue reading “Productivity of Parliament”

SC reserves verdict on changes to SC/ST law

Headline : SC reserves verdict on changes to SC/ST law Details : The News Recently, the Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on a batch of petitions challenging the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act of 2018.   The Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 Objective: to prevent atrocitiesContinue reading “SC reserves verdict on changes to SC/ST law”

In Brief: Undertrials and Covicts: Fundamental Right, Right to equality, Right to Constitutional Remedies

Headline : Plea in SC on voting rights of undertrials and convicts Details : The News Recently a plea has been filed in the Supreme Court under Article 32 challenging an electoral law denying undertrials and convicts their right to vote.   Provision violating the right to equality Section 62(5) of the Representation of People Act of 1951 :Continue reading “In Brief: Undertrials and Covicts: Fundamental Right, Right to equality, Right to Constitutional Remedies”

In Brief: Sedition, Defamation, AFSPA laws: Should repeal or amend

Headline : Sedition, Defamation, AFSPA laws that Congress wants to repeal or amend Details : The news A national party has released its manifesto for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, in which it promised to repeal or amend laws related to Sedition, Defamation and AFSPA, if they come to the power.  General information about the lawsContinue reading “In Brief: Sedition, Defamation, AFSPA laws: Should repeal or amend”

Ensuring access to justice Editorial 2nd Apr’19 TheHindu

Headline : Ensuring access to justice Editorial 2nd Apr’19 TheHindu Details :  Justice system in India is not accessible to many: The justice system in any democracy is set up, under the Constitution to serve the public, and judges are supposed to act without “fear or favour, affection or ill-will”. However, judges through lack of prescience, and manyContinue reading “Ensuring access to justice Editorial 2nd Apr’19 TheHindu”

What was hoped to be a ‘dead-letter’ of the Constitution has become one of the most controversial provisions. Discuss in the context of Article 356.

Approach: Briefly explain Article 356 and the grounds for its Explain why it was hoped to be a ‘dead-letter’. Discuss how it has become the most controversial provisions of the Answer: Article 356 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Centre to take over the State Government on certain grounds. Popularly known as the President’s ruleContinue reading “What was hoped to be a ‘dead-letter’ of the Constitution has become one of the most controversial provisions. Discuss in the context of Article 356.”

In Brief: Money Bill , Finance Bill , It’s comparison and Authority over Bills

Headline : Finance Bill, 2017 certified as Money Bill by Speaker, court can’t interfere: Centre to SC Details : News Summary A batch of petitions were filed in the Supreme Court challenging that the passing of Finance Act, 2017 as a Money Bill was a “colourable exercise of power and a fraud on the Constitution.” ArgumentsContinue reading “In Brief: Money Bill , Finance Bill , It’s comparison and Authority over Bills”

Everything about About anti-defection law

Headline : What is anti-defection law, why it won’t apply to two MGP MLAs who switched to BJP Details : Context: Recently, two of the three MLAs of a Goan political party (MGP) have joined another party (BJP) while also merging their party’s legislative wing. Now, as two out of the three MLAs have merged theContinue reading “Everything about About anti-defection law”

What do you mean by delegated legislation? Give its advantages and disadvantages.

What do you mean by delegated legislation? Give its advantages and disadvantages. Approach Briefly explain delegated legislation in the introduction. Discuss the positives of such legislation. Then give its disadvantages. Conclude with some suggestions. Model Answer : When law making power is delegated to executive by legislation, then it is known as delegated legislation orContinue reading “What do you mean by delegated legislation? Give its advantages and disadvantages.”

 Despite the consensus around the need for reforms, Indian prisons remain in a poor state as reflected in various issues including overcrowding and violation of prisoners’ rights. Discuss in light of the recently formed Amitava Roy committee. What measures must be taken to address this issue? (15 marks)

 Despite the consensus around the need for reforms, Indian prisons remain in a poor state as reflected in various issues including overcrowding and violation of prisoners’ rights. Discuss in light of the recently formed Amitava Roy committee. What measures must be taken to address this issue? (15 marks) Approach: Introduce with the recent SC decision toContinue reading ” Despite the consensus around the need for reforms, Indian prisons remain in a poor state as reflected in various issues including overcrowding and violation of prisoners’ rights. Discuss in light of the recently formed Amitava Roy committee. What measures must be taken to address this issue? (15 marks)”

Is the High Court’s power to issue writs wider than that of the Supreme Court of India? Examine. (10 marks)

Is the High Court’s power to issue writs wider than that of the Supreme Court of India? Examine. (10 marks) Approach: Introduce with the power of courts to issue writs under Article 32 and 226 Compare the writ jurisdictions of SC and HCs – wider jurisdiction of HC in some aspects and SC writ jurisdictionContinue reading “Is the High Court’s power to issue writs wider than that of the Supreme Court of India? Examine. (10 marks)”

5 provisions under which Parliament can legislate on a subject.

There are 5 provisions under which Parliament can legislate on a subject included in state list: Article 249  if the Council of States has declared by resolution supported by not less than two thirds of the members present and voting that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that Parliament should make lawsContinue reading “5 provisions under which Parliament can legislate on a subject.”

Indian Parliamentary Group – Brief

The Indian Parliamentary Group is an autonomous body formed in the year 1949 in pursuance of a Motion adopted by the Constituent Assembly (Legislative) in 1948. A Member of Parliament can become a life Member of the Group on payment of life subscription of only Rs. Five Hundred. The aims and objects of the IndianContinue reading “Indian Parliamentary Group – Brief”

The position with respect to lapsing of bills

The position with respect to lapsing of bills is as follows: A bill pending in the Lok Sabha lapses (whether originating in the Lok Sabha or transmitted to it by the Rajya Sabha). A bill passed by the Lok Sabha but pending in the Rajya Sabha lapses. A bill not passed by the two HousesContinue reading “The position with respect to lapsing of bills”

Everything about Finance Commission

Finance Commission of India It is set up every five years by the President under Article 280 of the Constitution. It first came into existence in 1951. Functions It was formed to define the financial relations between the centre and the state. These recommendations cover a period of five years. The commission also lays downContinue reading “Everything about Finance Commission”

Safeguard for Minorities in India

Currently there are 6 minorities in India viz. Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Parsis and Jains. The Constitution does not define a minority or provide details relating to the geographical and numerical specification of the concept. However, it talks about ‘Minorities’ and speaks of those ‘based on religion or language and provides for special domain rightsContinue reading “Safeguard for Minorities in India”

The Naga insurgency has been a major threat to India’s security and integrity and can destabilize multiple states in north-eastern India. Elaborate. Also discuss various measures taken by the governments in handling the issue.

Approach: Introduce the issue of Naga insurgency. Explain its impact on security of India as well as that in northeastern states. Provide measures undertaken by Government especially Naga peace accord. Conclude appropriately. Model Answer : Ever since Indian Independence, the Naga Insurgency has taken many forms, including the demands for secessionism to wanton violence. TheContinue reading “The Naga insurgency has been a major threat to India’s security and integrity and can destabilize multiple states in north-eastern India. Elaborate. Also discuss various measures taken by the governments in handling the issue.”

In Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan is fighting a hybrid war, and Indian response should also be in the hybrid domain”. Discuss.

Approach: Introduce with Hybrid conflict Talk about how Pakistan indulges in regular and hybrid wars against India and India’s response Discuss why India needs to engage in hybrid war and what it involves Conclude appropriately Model Answer : Hybrid war is one fought through a combination of conventional, irregular (efforts to win legitimacy and influenceContinue reading “In Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan is fighting a hybrid war, and Indian response should also be in the hybrid domain”. Discuss.”

With the passage of The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016, transgender people will have a better chance at being integrated into mainstream leading to greater inclusiveness. Critically comment. Approach

With the passage of The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016, transgender people will have a better chance at being integrated into mainstream leading to greater inclusiveness. Critically comment. Approach • Introduce with the discrimination faced by transgenders • Highlight the key provisions of the Transgender Bill • Comment on how the provisions fallContinue reading “With the passage of The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2016, transgender people will have a better chance at being integrated into mainstream leading to greater inclusiveness. Critically comment. Approach”

Everything about Cauvery Verdict

• A three-judge Bench, led by Chief Justice of India, gave verdict on Cauvery river water dispute. CWDT’s verdict: • The Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) verdict in 2007: Of the 740 thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of water available for utilisation, • 419 TMC was awarded to Tamil Nadu, • 270 TMC to Karnataka, •Continue reading “Everything about Cauvery Verdict”

Special provision for Sikkim (Art 371F, 36th Amendment Act, 1975)

Special provision for Sikkim (Art 371F, 36th Amendment Act, 1975) The members of the legislative Assembly of Sikkim shall elect the representative of Sikkim in the House of the People. Parliament may provide for the number of seats in the Assembly to protect the rights and interests of various sections of the population of Sikkim,Continue reading “Special provision for Sikkim (Art 371F, 36th Amendment Act, 1975)”

Explain De-urbanisation phenomenon during British rule

“In the late eighteenth century, Calcutta, Bombay and Madras rose in importance as Presidency cities. They became the centres of British power in the different regions of India. At the same time, a host of smaller cities declined. Many towns manufacturing specialised goods declined due to a drop in the demand for what they produced.Continue reading “Explain De-urbanisation phenomenon during British rule”

Linguistic commissions

Dhar Commission There was a demand from different regions, mainly South India, for reorganization of States on linguistic basis. Consequently, in June 1948, the Government of India appointed the Linguistic Provinces Commission under the chairmanship of S.K.Dhar to study the feasibility of organizing states on Linguistic basis. The Commission, later on, rejected the linguistic basisContinue reading “Linguistic commissions”

Sources of the Constitution :

Sources of the Constitution 1. Government of India Act of 1935: Federal Scheme, Office of governor, Judiciary, Public Service Commissions, Emergency provisions and administrative details. 2. British Constitution: Parliamentary government, Rule of Law, legislative procedure, single citizenship, cabinet system, prerogative writs, parliamentary privileges and bicameralism. 3. US Constitution: Fundamental rights, independence of judiciary, judicial review,Continue reading “Sources of the Constitution :”

Everything about Seventh Schedule

The Union List or List-I is a list of 100 items (the last item is numbered 97) given in Seventh Schedule in the Constitution of India on which Parliament has exclusive power to legislate. The legislative section is divided into three lists: Union List, State List and Concurrent List. Unlike the federal governments of theContinue reading “Everything about Seventh Schedule”

Unitary Features of Indian constitution:

Unitary Features of Indian constitution: 1.     The States of Indian Don’t have their own constitution as in the states of USA and Australia have their own constitution. 2.     Uniform and single Citizenship in India (Australia and USA have double citizenship). 3.     Parliament can make the changes of territorial extent of a State without its consent.Continue reading “Unitary Features of Indian constitution:”

Federal Features of Indian Constitution

The main federal features of the Indian Constitution are as follows: 1. Written Constitution: The Indian Constitution is a written document containing 395 Articles and 12 schedules, and therefore, fulfils this basic requirement of a federal government. In fact, the Indian Constitution is the most elaborate Constitution of the world. 2. Supremacy of the Constitution:Continue reading “Federal Features of Indian Constitution”

Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Unnat Krishi Shiksha Scheme

It was launched to promote agricultural education. Under the scheme 100 centres are opened with a fund of Rs.5.35 crore. “Attracting and retaining youth in Agriculture (ARYA)” is a project sanctioned by the Indian Council of Agriculture (ICAR) and is being implemented at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs). The main objective of the project was to provideContinue reading “Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Unnat Krishi Shiksha Scheme”

Everything about special courts for politicians

• The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that it will set up at least 12 special courts to try exclusively criminal cases involving MPs and MLAs. Issues • Criminalisation of politics has remained a key issue. In 2014, as many as 1,581 lawmakers were facing prosecution in a mind-boggling 13,500 cases. • It took years,Continue reading “Everything about special courts for politicians”

Everything about TFA, GATS and  WTO Ministerial Conference

The Ministerial Conference is the highest decision-making body of the WTO and meets at least once every two years. Main points of discussion in MC11 Service negotiation under GATS will be on priority: Domestic regulation: to address the contentious issue of professional visa fee hikes by the likes of the US and UK, which India hasContinue reading “Everything about TFA, GATS and  WTO Ministerial Conference”

Everything about INDIA- SINGAPORE Relations.

INDIA- SINGAPORE RELATIONS • India’s connection with Singapore dates back to the Cholas who are credited with naming the island and establishing a permanent settlement. • The close relationship shared by India and Singapore is based on convergence of economic and political interests. • The process of economic reforms in India since the early 1990sContinue reading “Everything about INDIA- SINGAPORE Relations.”

Everything about Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)

Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) • It is the preeminent annual entrepreneurship gathering that convenes emerging entrepreneurs, investors and supporters from around the world. • It was started by U.S. government in 2010. • It serves as a vital link between governments and the private sector and convenes global participants to showcase projects, network, exchange ideasContinue reading “Everything about Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)”

Everything about Net Neutrality

Net neutrality • The term was coined by Tim Wu in 2003. • It is the guiding principle that preserves the free and open Internet. • It means that the Internet Service Provider may not discriminate between different kind of content and applications online. • It guarantees a level playing field for all websites andContinue reading “Everything about Net Neutrality”

Q.What are bio ethics? Why has its importance increased recently? Discuss one bio ethical issue of eminence in recent times.

Bioethics is a field of applied ethics which involves ethical issues related to living beings and concerns three broad areas namely medical ethics (health care, health science, and health policy), animal ethics, and environmental ethics. It involves not just doctors, but patients,scientists, activists and policy makers and public at large. The increase of the importanceContinue reading “Q.What are bio ethics? Why has its importance increased recently? Discuss one bio ethical issue of eminence in recent times.”

What is the relevance of probity in governance? What steps can be taken to promote it.

For any country to survive and prosper there should be a continuous growth, optimal utilization of resources using state of the art technology and reduction of economic disparities so that all sections and regions of the country contribute to its growth. It is even more a necessity for a country like India where a sizableContinue reading “What is the relevance of probity in governance? What steps can be taken to promote it.”

It is easier to build a boy than to mend a man. Discuss this statement in the light of selecting an individual for public office. 150 words

The basis of the statement lies in two elements: firstly, that it is possible to change behavior but very difficult to change attitudes; secondly, that as one ages,attitudes become more rigid and difficult to change. Thus, the earlier we introduce interventions to correct or improve behaviours and attitudes, the greater the chances of a meaningful impact. WithContinue reading “It is easier to build a boy than to mend a man. Discuss this statement in the light of selecting an individual for public office. 150 words”

How will NSG membership help India? 

How will NSG membership help India?  Clean energy push: India is a growing country with massive energy needs. It has set for itself an ambitious goal of sourcing 40% of its power from non-fossil sources and here is where nuclear energy comes into play. India will need latest technology and NSG membership will come inContinue reading “How will NSG membership help India? “

Madhyamik and Uchchatar Shiksha Kosh (MUSK)

Madhyamik and Uchchatar Shiksha Kosh (MUSK) A single non-lapsable corpus fund Madhyamik and Uchchatar Shiksha Kosh (MUSK) will work as a repository for the revenue of the Secondary and Higher Education Cess. It will be inducted to help the education schemes for which demand exceeds budgetary allocations. A non-lapsable reserve fund means that if theContinue reading “Madhyamik and Uchchatar Shiksha Kosh (MUSK)”

Purpose and functions of a Constitution:

 • Lays out certain ideals that form the basis of the kind of country that we as citizens aspire to live in. • Defines the nature of a country’s political system; plays a crucial role in laying out certain important guidelines that govern decision-making within these societies. • Provides a set of basic rules thatContinue reading “Purpose and functions of a Constitution:”

Khadi and Freedom movement

Khadi and Freedom movement Khadi owes its revival to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi who saw it as a tool to become self-reliant and independent. Britishers bought raw materials at cheaper rate from India and sold their costly finished products in India. This unfavourable balance of trade was first brought to the mainstreamContinue reading “Khadi and Freedom movement”

Minerals of India

Minerals Metallic  Ferrous – Iron, manganese Non Ferrous – Cu, Bauxite Non Metallic  Fuel – Coal, Oil, petroleum Others – mica, limestone, granite Iron ore  India has largest reserve in Asia Haematite and magnetite Northern Orissa – Rourkela steel plant (German collaboration) Jharkand – Jamshedpur , Bokaro steel plant (Russian collaboration) Chattisgarh – Bhilai steelContinue reading “Minerals of India”

Jyotiba Phule

Born: 11 April, 1827 Passed Away: 28 November, 1890 Originally Jyotirao’s family belonged to ‘mali’ caste, considered as inferior by the Brahmins. Jyotiba Phule devoted his entire life for the liberation of untouchables from the exploitation of Brahmins. He revolted against the tyranny of the upper castes.  Contributions  Jyotiba Phule was one of the prominent social reformersContinue reading “Jyotiba Phule”

Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES):

Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES): It is the preeminent annual entrepreneurship gathering that convenes emerging entrepreneurs, investors and supporters from around the world. It was started by U.S. government in 2010. It serves as a vital link between governments and the private sector, and convenes global participants to showcase projects, network, exchange ideas, and champion newContinue reading “Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES):”

Right to Freedom 

Right to Freedom Art 19(1) – Democratic rights Speech and expression  Art 19(1)(a) and Art 21 – inalienable disjunct Express your view, right to listen, any communicable medium Express others view Right to know Press freedom Elect/reject candidate based on informed choices Dissent – criticize govt ITA 2000 – Sec 66A – chilling effect DefamationContinue reading “Right to Freedom “

About the Direct Benefit Transfer

The program aims to transfer subsidies directly to the people through their bank accounts. Crediting subsidies directly into bank accounts help reduce leakages, delays, etc. DBT has now extended to most of the government schemes. DBT has two components: Subsidy: When a government meets a part of the cost of providing a good or service to aContinue reading “About the Direct Benefit Transfer”

Right to Freedom of religion

Right to Freedom of religion Art 25:  P3 -Profess,Practice,Propagate Conscience – inner freedom Profess -declare openly Practice – rituals and use signs Propagate – spread but not force Opinion & belief – no state interference Conduct & practice – state can Art 26: Religious denomination  Est. institutions for religion and charity Manage its affairs Right to property Administer its propertyContinue reading “Right to Freedom of religion”

Right to equality  

Right to equality   Art 14 : Law  Equal before law   Negative English const Absence of any privileges Law is supreme authority – govt subjected to law Art 361 (exception for president and governor) Dicey No punishment unless law violated Every one equal before law without discrimination Law is the superior – const is superior inContinue reading “Right to equality  “

Cultural and Educational Rights 

Cultural and Educational Rights Art 29: Minorities interest  Protect identity Unity in diversity Majority and minority State can’t deny admission in edu on grounds of religion, race, caste or language  Art 30: Minority education  Linguistics and religious minorities Can have schools of their own – state and ntl recognition BC not part of minority RightContinue reading “Cultural and Educational Rights “

Everything about Ordinance

What is an ordinance and who makes it? Article 123 of the Indian Constitution grants the President of India to Promulgate Ordinances when either of the two Houses of the Parliament is not in session which makes it impossible for a single House to pass and enact a law. Ordinances may relate to any subjectContinue reading “Everything about Ordinance”

In South Asia, be the Un-China Editorial 12th Aug’17 The Hindu

India-China stand-off watched by neighbourhood: The stand-off at Doklam between the Indian and Chinese militaries has entered its third month. The potential fallout is being watched by the entire neighbourhood. There is obvious interest in how the situation plays out and the consequent change in the balance of power between India and China in SouthContinue reading “In South Asia, be the Un-China Editorial 12th Aug’17 The Hindu”

Important Commitees

N.K.Singh committee To review the FRBM Act of 2003 Ratan Watal Committee On digital payments Anil Kakodkar Committee On railway safety A.K.Bhargava Net Neutrality Madhukar Gupta committee India Pakistan Border issue Aravind Subramanian Tackle shortage of pulses in India Bibek Debroy committee Railways and privatization of railways Shekatkar committee Defense Shyam Benegal committee Film certificationContinue reading “Important Commitees”

 Parliamentary vs Presidential System

Does India need a presidential system? Arguments :- Against Debate can be divided in to feasibility and desirability In the existing constitutional scheme, change is not possible. Supreme court of India already held parliamentary form of Government as part of the basic structure of the constitution. Presidential system centralizes power and chances of it turning inContinue reading ” Parliamentary vs Presidential System”

What is Article 35A of Constitution: Jammu and Kashmir 

Article 35A Article 35A gives the Jammu and Kashmir legislature the power to define the “permanent residents” of the state and provide them with special rights and privileges. Article 35A offers special privileges to state subjects of J&K in matters related to employment, acquisition of immovable property, settlements and scholarships in relation to Article 370Continue reading “What is Article 35A of Constitution: Jammu and Kashmir “

WRITS Under Article 32

Literal Meaning Habeas Corpus – to have the body of Mandamus – command/order to do the duty to public official Prohibition – to forbid higher court to lower court – prevent from exceeding the jurisdiction (in between the trial) Certiorari – to be certified – superior court to inferior court to squash the order orContinue reading “WRITS Under Article 32”

Everything About the Rajya Sabha

Rajyasabha Our Parliament comprises of the President and the two Houses—Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The origin of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) can be traced to the Montague-Chelmsford Report of 1918. The Government of India Act, 1919 provided for the creation of a ‘Council of State’Continue reading “Everything About the Rajya Sabha”

United Nations General Assembly -UNGA

It is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations and the only one in which all member nations have equal representation. Its powers are to oversee the budget of the United Nations, appoint the non-permanent members to the Security Council, receive reports from other parts of the United Nations and make recommendationsContinue reading “United Nations General Assembly -UNGA”

United Nations Security Council – UNSC

The 15-member Security Council is by far the most powerful arm of the United Nations. It can impose sanctions, as it did against Iran over its nuclear program, and authorize military intervention, as it did against Libya in 2011. Its five permanent members are the victors of World War II: the United States, Britain, China,Continue reading “United Nations Security Council – UNSC”

International Court of Justice – ICJ

ICJ is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN). It was established in June 1945 by the Charter of the United Nations and began work in April 1946. The seat of the Court is at the Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands). Of the six principal organs of the United Nations, it isContinue reading “International Court of Justice – ICJ”

National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has been constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 to provide free Legal Services to the weaker sections of the society and to organize Lok Adalats for amicable settlement of disputes. NALSA is headed by the Chief Justice of India. In every State, State Legal Services Authority hasContinue reading “National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)”

World Economic Forum – WEF

It is a Swiss nonprofit foundation, based in Cologny, Geneva. The forum was founded in 1971 by Klaus Schwab, a German-born business professor at the University of Geneva. Recognized by the Swiss authorities as the international institution for public-private cooperation, its mission is cited as “committed to improving the state of the world by engagingContinue reading “World Economic Forum – WEF”

BIMSTEC

It is a regional organization comprising seven Member States lying in the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of Bengal constituting a contiguous regional unity. This sub-regional organization came into being on 6 June 1997 through the Bangkok Declaration.  The regional group constitutes a bridge between South and South East Asia and represents a reinforcementContinue reading “BIMSTEC”

United Nations – UN

The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that promotes international cooperation and peace building. The United Nations was established after the end of WWII on the 24th of October 1945 in order to prevent a similar global conflict from ever reoccurring. The United Nations replaced the ineffective League of Nations, which was created after theContinue reading “United Nations – UN”

Islamic Development Bank

The Islamic Development Bank is an international financial institution established in pursuance of the Declaration of Intent issued by the Conference of Finance Ministers of Muslim Countries held in Jeddah in December 1973, and the Bank was formally opened on 20 October 1975. The purpose of the Bank is to foster the economic development andContinue reading “Islamic Development Bank”

International Organizations: UNHRC

It is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe and for addressing situations of human rights violations and make recommendations on them. It meets at the UN Office at Geneva. The Council is made up of 47 United Nations Member StatesContinue reading “International Organizations: UNHRC”

Electoral Reforms : NOTA

NOTA – None of the Above NOTA is designed to allow the voter to indicate disapproval of all of the candidates in a voting system. It is based on the principle that consent requires the ability to withhold consent in an election, just as they can by voting no on ballot questions. The Supreme CourtContinue reading “Electoral Reforms : NOTA”

Indian vs American constitution

Indian vs American constitution Telegram: https://t.me/SimplifiedIAS Feature India America Length Longest written Shortest written Constitution type Federal with unitary basis Federal Citizen ship One (except J&K A 370) One for America, and one for the state Nature of democracy Parliamentary (because of British rule) Presidential Legislature type Flexible with rigid Rigid Number of constitution OnlyContinue reading “Indian vs American constitution”

Electoral Bond

The concept of electoral bonds was introduced by Mr. Jaitley during his Budget 2017 speech in order to bring some transparency to the electoral funding process. These bonds have to be authorised under a scheme under the Income Tax Act. It will open for a limited period of time during the elections, or maybe a little beforeContinue reading “Electoral Bond”

Indus Treaty

Signed in 1960 by then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and then Pakistan President Ayub Khan, the treaty allocates 80% of water from the six-river Indus water system to Pakistan. Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum from the Indus water system that flows from India to Pakistan. The Indus river basin spans parts of 4Continue reading “Indus Treaty”

Medical council of India (MCI)

Medical Council of India (MCI) The Medical Council of India (MCI) is a statutory body for establishing uniform and high standards of medical education in India. The Council grants recognition of medical qualifications, gives accreditation to medical schools, grants registration to medical practitioners, and monitors medical practice in India. The Medical Council of India wasContinue reading “Medical council of India (MCI)”

​Censure Motion:

​Censure Motion • This motion can be moved only in the Lok Sabha and by the Opposition of the House. • It can be moved against the Council of Ministers or an individual Minister or a group of Ministers for their failure to act or not to act or for their policy and may expressContinue reading “​Censure Motion:”

​Why India faces huge corruption?

​Why India faces huge corruption? • Colonial Legacy of unchallenged authority and abritary use of power • Asymmetry of power. Reduces societal pressure to conform to ethical behavior  • Conscious choice of our economic policies which put citizen at the mercy of state – Monopoly – Corruption.  • Over Centralization – Power is exercised moreContinue reading “​Why India faces huge corruption?”

Citizenship (Art.5 -11)

​CITIZENSHIP:  Acquisition of Citizenship:  By descent : Present : registration in embassy.  By registration : 1+ 6/8 By Naturalization  : 1 + 11/14 By Incorporation of new territory.  By Birth : 1993 : Atleast one parent, present : both father and mother. Children of foreign diplomats and enemy alien – no citizenship by birth  TerminationContinue reading “Citizenship (Art.5 -11)”

Revolutionary Movement in India – Contribution, Source of Influence, Strategy, Achievement

Revolutionary Movement in India Telegram : https://t.me/SimplifiedIAS Contributions Revolutionary term is used for section of Indian Nationalists who believed in “Cult of Bomb”. Difference between Revolutionary and Terrorist Revolutionaries used violence against those whom they considered as exploiters. Terrorist go for indiscriminate use of violence and Killing of innocent people can not be justified. SourcesContinue reading “Revolutionary Movement in India – Contribution, Source of Influence, Strategy, Achievement”