Previous Year Questions (2013-2022)
1] The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reflects itself as a ‘social contract’. Elucidate. [2022/10m/150w/5b]
2] Mention the founding principles that define India’s Constitution. [2021/10m/150w/5c]
3] The purpose of the 42nd constitutional amendment was to make the economic and social democracy explicitly visible. Discuss. [2016/10m/150w/5d]
4] Comment on secularism in Indian constitution. [2015/10m/150w/5a]
5] In the light of new economic policies adopted since 1991, examine the relevance of the term socialist in the preamble of the Indian constitution. [2015/20m/250w/7a]
6] Comment on the significance of the Preamble. [2013/10m/150w/5b]
Model Answers to PYQs (2018-2022)
1] The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reflects itself as a ‘social contract’. Elucidate. [2022/10m/150w/5b]
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution can be seen as reflecting a “social contract” due to its articulation of the fundamental principles and objectives that form the basis of the Indian state and the relationship between the government and its citizens.
First of all, the Preamble begins with the phrase, “We, the people of India,” emphasizing that the power and authority of the government derive from the citizens. This formulation signifies that the Indian Constitution is a product of the collective will and consent of the people, reflecting the idea of a social contract where the government exists to serve the interests of the people.
The Preamble states the objectives of securing justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for the citizens of India. These principles reflect the core values of a social contract, where the government assumes the responsibility of ensuring fairness, protecting individual freedoms, and promoting social equality.
Additionally, the Preamble includes the words “Justice, social, economic and political,” indicating that the social contract entails not only civil and political rights but also socio-economic rights. It implies that the government commits itself to provide social and economic justice to its citizens, ensuring their welfare and well-being.
The Preamble affirms that the power and sovereignty of the country rest with the people. This concept resonates with the social contract theory, as it implies that the citizens possess the ultimate authority to shape the governance and hold the government accountable.
In summary, the Preamble establishes the government’s commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and welfare, based on the collective will of the people, thereby creating a social contract between the state and its citizens. [271 words]
2] Mention the founding principles that define India’s Constitution. [2021/10m/150w/5c]
Justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity are the cornerstone values that form the basis of the Indian Constitution. Further, the principles of a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic are also enshrined in the Constitution.
By the Indian constitution, all citizens are guaranteed social, economic, and political justice by the fundamental principle of justice. The freedom of religion is guaranteed by secularism, which also encourages the peaceful coexistence of many religious and cultural groups.
The democratic nature of India’s Constitution emphasizes the power and participation of the people. It guarantees a representative form of government with regular elections, enabling citizens to elect their representatives and have a say in decision-making processes.
Fraternity promotes a spirit of unity and brotherhood among all citizens, transcending differences and fostering a sense of common purpose and shared destiny. The Constitution seeks to create a society based on mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation.
These founding principles guide India’s governance and reflect its commitment to building a just, inclusive, and progressive society. [165 words]
The post contains answers to the last 5-year papers i.e. (2022-2018). Answers to the previous year questions from 2013-2017 are a part of our book PSIR Optional Model Answers to PYQs (2013-2022)