Mastering UPSC Mains: Your Ultimate Guide to GS-2 Answer Writing Excellence

Embarking on the journey of UPSC Civil Services Examination preparation can be daunting, but with the right strategy, success is within reach. A crucial aspect of this journey is mastering the art of answer writing, especially for the General Studies Paper II (GS-2). This paper delves into subjects like Polity, Governance, Social Justice, and International Relations, demanding not just factual knowledge but also analytical prowess and a structured approach to articulate your thoughts.

This week, we bring you two essential practice questions designed to sharpen your skills for GS-2 Mains.

These questions are meticulously crafted to test your understanding of core constitutional and governance mechanisms, pushing you to think critically and present comprehensive answers within strict word limits. Let's dive in and unlock the secrets to scoring high!

Question 1: The Attorney General of India – Guardian of Legal Governance

Discuss the various functions of the Attorney General of India and evaluate the extent to which this office contributes to the legal and constitutional governance of the country.

(150 words, 10 marks)

This question demands a dual approach: first, a clear exposition of the Attorney General's multifaceted roles, and second, a critical assessment of their impact on India's legal and constitutional framework. To excel, you need to go beyond simply listing duties and instead highlight the strategic importance of this office.

The Demand of the Question: The core is to illustrate the AG's functions and then analyze their contribution to maintaining the rule of law and constitutional principles.

Structuring Your Answer:

• Introduction: Begin by briefly introducing the Attorney General of India as the highest law officer, appointed under Article 76 of the Constitution, emphasizing their role as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India.
• Body – Functions: Elaborate on key functions such as: advising the government on legal matters, representing the Union in all Supreme Court and High Court cases (Article 143 cases, writ petitions, etc.), performing duties of a legal character assigned by the President, and having the right to speak and participate in parliamentary proceedings without voting rights.
• Body – Contribution to Governance: Evaluate how these functions strengthen legal and constitutional governance.

  For instance, by ensuring the government's actions are legally sound, protecting the Union's interests in legal disputes, and providing expert legal counsel on policy matters, thereby upholding constitutional sanctity and ensuring smooth administration. Mention the checks and balances the office provides.

• Conclusion: Summarize by reaffirming the Attorney General's indispensable role in upholding the rule of law, guiding government policy within legal boundaries, and thereby significantly contributing to effective legal and constitutional governance in India.

Question 2: National Human Rights Commission – A Sentinel for Rights?

Critically examine the role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in safeguarding human rights in India, highlighting its strengths and limitations.

(250 words, 15 marks)

The NHRC is a pivotal institution, but its effectiveness is often debated. This question challenges you to present a balanced, critical perspective, acknowledging its successes while candidly addressing its challenges.

The Demand of the Question: You must critically assess the NHRC, dissecting its positive contributions and simultaneously pointing out the areas where its impact is constrained.

Structuring Your Answer:

• Introduction: Start by introducing the National Human Rights Commission as a statutory body established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, with the mandate to protect and promote human rights in India.
• Body – Strengths/Achievements: Detail the NHRC's positive contributions.

  Include its role in investigating human rights violations, recommending compensation, promoting human rights literacy and awareness, reviewing international treaties, and its independence. Mention specific instances or areas where it has made a difference (e.g., prison reforms, custodial deaths, child labor).

• Body – Limitations/Challenges: Critically examine its shortcomings.

  Discuss issues like its recommendatory nature (lack of punitive powers), dependence on government for funds and staff, inability to inquire into matters after one year of incident, non-inclusion of armed forces under its direct purview, lack of suo motu powers in some critical areas, and often slow enforcement of its recommendations.

• Conclusion: Conclude with a balanced perspective.

  Acknowledge the NHRC's crucial role as a moral compass and a voice for the voiceless, but also suggest that strengthening its powers and ensuring better implementation of its recommendations are vital for it to truly become a more effective guardian of human rights in India. Propose reforms like granting more investigative and enforcement powers.

By diligently practicing these questions and following the suggested structures, you will not only enhance your knowledge but also refine your answer writing technique, making you a formidable contender in the UPSC Mains Examination.