UPSC ADVANCE STUDY NOTES
(BY BRAJESH KATARA)
1. Polity: What is the Basic Structure Doctrine in the Indian
Constitution?
Answer: The Basic Structure Doctrine, evolved by the Supreme Court in the
Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), limits Parliament’s power to amend the
Constitution. Fundamental principles like democracy, secularism, judicial review,
federalism, and the rule of law cannot be altered. This safeguard ensures the
Constitution’s core philosophy remains intact despite political changes.
2. Polity: How do the powers of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha differ?
Answer: Lok Sabha, being directly elected, enjoys greater authority over the
executive and finances. It can introduce money bills and dismiss the government
through a no-confidence motion. Rajya Sabha, however, represents states and is a
permanent body. It can delay or suggest amendments to money bills and allows
Parliament to legislate on State List matters (Article 249).
3. Modern Indian History: Why was the rebellion of 1857 significant in
India’s independence struggle?
Answer: The 1857 revolt united diverse groups—soldiers, peasants, and rulers—
against British exploitation. Although suppressed, it ended East India Company rule
and transferred power to the British Crown. The uprising exposed weaknesses in
colonial administration and fostered a sense of unity that inspired later freedom
movements.
4. Modern Indian History: Why was the Simon Commission (1927)
boycotted by Indians?
Answer: Indians opposed the Commission because it lacked Indian members,
reflecting British disregard for local aspirations. Demonstrations with the slogan
“Simon Go Back” spread nationwide. The boycott strengthened the national
movement and reinforced demands for self-rule and Indian participation in law-
making.
5. Economy: Why was the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implemented
in India?
Answer: GST unified multiple indirect taxes into a single system, reducing the
cascading effect of taxation. It simplified compliance, improved transparency, and
created a common national market. Businesses benefit from reduced costs, while
consumers enjoy more predictable prices.
(BY BRAJESH KATARA)
1. Polity: What is the Basic Structure Doctrine in the Indian
Constitution?
Answer: The Basic Structure Doctrine, evolved by the Supreme Court in the
Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), limits Parliament’s power to amend the
Constitution. Fundamental principles like democracy, secularism, judicial review,
federalism, and the rule of law cannot be altered. This safeguard ensures the
Constitution’s core philosophy remains intact despite political changes.
2. Polity: How do the powers of the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha differ?
Answer: Lok Sabha, being directly elected, enjoys greater authority over the
executive and finances. It can introduce money bills and dismiss the government
through a no-confidence motion. Rajya Sabha, however, represents states and is a
permanent body. It can delay or suggest amendments to money bills and allows
Parliament to legislate on State List matters (Article 249).
3. Modern Indian History: Why was the rebellion of 1857 significant in
India’s independence struggle?
Answer: The 1857 revolt united diverse groups—soldiers, peasants, and rulers—
against British exploitation. Although suppressed, it ended East India Company rule
and transferred power to the British Crown. The uprising exposed weaknesses in
colonial administration and fostered a sense of unity that inspired later freedom
movements.
4. Modern Indian History: Why was the Simon Commission (1927)
boycotted by Indians?
Answer: Indians opposed the Commission because it lacked Indian members,
reflecting British disregard for local aspirations. Demonstrations with the slogan
“Simon Go Back” spread nationwide. The boycott strengthened the national
movement and reinforced demands for self-rule and Indian participation in law-
making.
5. Economy: Why was the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implemented
in India?
Answer: GST unified multiple indirect taxes into a single system, reducing the
cascading effect of taxation. It simplified compliance, improved transparency, and
created a common national market. Businesses benefit from reduced costs, while
consumers enjoy more predictable prices.
