GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 (Mains) question paper and analysis are available in this article. The questions in this paper were from governance, constitution, polity, social justice, and international relations. Further details related to the question paper and exam analysis are mentioned below.

UPSC conducted the General Studies Paper 2, as part of the Civil Services Main Exam 2024 on 21-09-2024.

A total of 20 questions are asked in the paper. Out of which 10 questions are of 10 marks and the rest of the 10 are of 15 marks.

Further details related to the UPSC CSE mains 2024 GS paper 2 question paper and exam analysis are provided below.

Table of Contents

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024: Instructions

The instructions mentioned on the UPSC CSE GS 2 Mains exam paper are as follows:

Total Marks: 250 marks, Time duration: 3 hours.
There are 20 questions printed both in ENGLISH and HINDI.
All questions are compulsory.
The number of marks carried by a question/part is printed against it.
Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the admission certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this question-cum-answer (QCA) booklet in the space provided.
No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
Answers to questions no. 1 to 10 should be in 150 words, whereas answers to questions no. 11 to 20 should be in 250 words.
Keep the word limit indicated in the questions in mind.
Any page or portion of the page left blank, must be struck off clearly.
The content of the answer is more important than its length.

General Studies Paper 2 Question Paper: UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2024

Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation – one election” principle. (Answer in 150 words)
Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats And Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases? (Answer in 150 words)
“The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy:” Elucidate. (Answer in 150 words)
“The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety.” Comment. (Answer in 150 words)
Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies. (Answer in 150 words)
Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India’s development more inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment. (Answer in 150 words)
Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (Answer in 150 words)
The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely positive. Discuss.
‘The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategically to counter China’s political and economic dominance.” Explain this statement with examples. (Answer in 150 words)
Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance in regional and global geopolitics. (Answer in 150 words)
What are the aims and objects of recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act ? (Answer in 250 words).
Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of child in the womb to establish its paternity. (Answer in 250 words)
What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-Stare relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. (Answer in 250 words)
Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful judiciary ? (Answer in 250 words)
Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution. (Answer in 250 words)
The Citizens’ charter has been a landmark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hindering the realisation of its promise and suggest measures to overcome them. (Answer in 250 words)
In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system the Indian State should play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system. Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of public healthcare at the grassroots level. (Answer in 250 words)
e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the ‘Interactive Service Model’ of e-governance. (Answer in 250 words)
‘Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security.’ Evaluate the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter Terrorism Committee (CTC and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this threat at the international level. (Answer in 250 words)
Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and/energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition? (Answer in 250 words )

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 (Mains) Question Topics

Here are brief notes on each of the questions from the UPSC CSE Mains 2024 General Studies Paper 2:

1. Need for Electoral Reforms: “One Nation – One Election”

Need for Reforms: High election costs, frequent elections lead to policy paralysis and diversion of resources. Electoral reforms aim at increasing transparency, reducing corruption, and strengthening democracy.
One Nation – One Election: Proposal for simultaneous Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections to reduce costs, improve governance, and ensure stability. Challenges include constitutional amendments and practical hurdles in implementation.

2. Lok Adalats vs. Arbitration Tribunals

Lok Adalats: Alternative dispute resolution forums under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987. They focus on speedy justice and handle civil cases including family disputes, but not criminal cases.
Arbitration Tribunals: Set up under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, resolve contractual and commercial disputes. Both can resolve civil cases, but criminal cases are outside their purview.

3. Growth of Cabinet System and Marginalization of Parliamentary Supremacy

Cabinet System: Concentrates power in the executive, especially the Prime Minister, marginalizing Parliament. Cabinet dominance often undermines the deliberative role of Parliament.
Marginalization: Though Parliament retains legislative supremacy, its role is often reduced due to the party majority system, limiting genuine scrutiny of the executive.

4. Role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)

CAG’s Role: Ensures the legality, propriety, and efficiency of public expenditure. Beyond auditing, it assesses whether spending adheres to principles of economy and effectiveness.
Propriety: Focuses on whether public funds are used for the intended purposes and whether they provide value for money.

5. Role of Local Bodies in Good Governance

Local Bodies: Critical for decentralized governance, enabling better service delivery and public participation at the grassroots.
Merging Rural and Urban Bodies: Pros include resource sharing and unified governance. Cons involve the dilution of focus on specific needs of rural or urban areas, leading to inefficiency.

6. Public Charitable Trusts and Inclusive Development

Potential: Charitable trusts address public issues like education, healthcare, and poverty, complementing government efforts.
Inclusive Development: These trusts can fill gaps in public services and promote social equity, but must operate transparently to avoid misuse of funds.

7. Poverty and Malnutrition’s Vicious Cycle

Cycle: Poverty leads to malnutrition, which impairs cognitive and physical development, hindering human capital formation and perpetuating poverty.
Breaking the Cycle: Steps include improving access to nutritious food, healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

8. Doctrine of Democratic Governance and Civil Servants’ Integrity

Doctrine: A well-functioning democracy requires that civil servants maintain public trust through integrity and commitment.
Public Perception: Positive perception is crucial for administrative efficiency and public satisfaction. Measures include transparent promotions, accountability, and performance-based rewards.

9. India as an Alternative to China in Global Supply Chains

West’s Strategy: Countries like the US are promoting India to diversify supply chains and reduce dependency on China, especially in manufacturing.
Strategic Counterbalance: India’s economic rise and geopolitical influence are seen as crucial in countering China’s dominance in the Indo-Pacific.

10. India’s Relations with Central Asian Republics (CARs)

Strategic Importance: Central Asia is significant for energy security, connectivity, and combating terrorism. India seeks greater engagement through initiatives like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
Regional Politics: CARs are important in counterbalancing China’s influence (Belt and Road Initiative) and maintaining stability in Afghanistan.

11. Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024

Aims: To curb cheating and malpractice in public exams like competitive exams and university assessments.
Coverage: Includes University and State Education Board exams. It provides for strict penalties, including fines and imprisonment for malpractices.

12. Right to Privacy and DNA Testing of Unborn Children

Article 21: The right to privacy is an extension of the right to life, as upheld in the Puttaswamy judgment.
DNA Testing: DNA testing of unborn children raises ethical concerns but is allowed in cases involving the determination of paternity under legal frameworks like the Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act.

13. Changes in Centre-State Relations and Strengthening Federalism

Recent Changes: Recent amendments have clarified areas like GST, and the NITI Aayog has increased states’ roles in policy-making.
Strengthening Federalism: Building trust through fiscal decentralization, empowering states in national planning, and revisiting subjects in the Concurrent List can enhance federalism.

14. Growth of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India

Reasons: PILs emerged to increase access to justice, especially for the poor and marginalized. Factors include judicial activism and a liberalized locus standi.
Supreme Court’s Power: PILs have significantly increased the scope of judicial intervention, making India’s judiciary one of the most powerful in terms of rights protection.

15. Secularism in India vs. the US

India’s Secularism: Ensures equal treatment of all religions, without a complete separation of state and religion.
US Secularism: Based on the strict separation of church and state (First Amendment). India’s model accommodates religious diversity, while the US emphasizes non-involvement in religious matters.

16. Citizens’ Charter and Its Challenges

Significance: Aims to enhance service delivery and make government offices more accountable.
Challenges: Poor awareness, lack of enforcement, bureaucratic resistance, and inadequate grievance redressal mechanisms hinder its full potential.
Measures: Creating awareness campaigns, linking charters with incentives for performance, and introducing accountability measures can enhance effectiveness.

17. Role of the State in Enhancing Public Healthcare

State Role: Government intervention is critical in containing the negative impacts of market-driven healthcare systems.
Measures: Expanding primary healthcare centers, regulating private hospitals, investing in telemedicine, and strengthening the National Health Mission (NHM) are key steps.

18. e-Governance and the Interactive Service Model

e-Governance: Involves digital tools for better service delivery. It enhances transparency, citizen engagement, and government accountability.
Interactive Service Model: This model facilitates a two-way interaction between government and citizens, improving feedback mechanisms and transparency in processes.

19. United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC)

CTC’s Role: Established post 9/11, the CTC coordinates global efforts to combat terrorism by monitoring member states’ compliance with anti-terrorism measures.
Effectiveness: While it has provided a global platform for cooperation, its success is limited by political disagreements and lack of enforcement capabilities.

20. Geostrategic Importance of Maldives for India

Importance: Maldives is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, crucial for global trade routes and energy flows.
Impact on India: A strong relationship helps ensure maritime security, counter China’s influence, and maintain regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 (Mains) Question Paper Analysis

Please find my analysis of the UPSC CSE Mains 2024 General Studies Paper 2:

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Thematic Coverage:

The paper is balanced between constitutional governance, law, international relations, and socio-economic issues.

It tests candidates’ understanding of the Indian political system, federalism, rights and duties, as well as their grasp on public policy and the role of global organizations.

Key Areas of Focus:

Electoral and Constitutional Reforms: Several questions, including the one on electoral reforms and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in India’s political system. The question on Centre-State relations delves into federal dynamics, addressing changes in governance structures.
Legal and Judicial Framework: Questions related to PILs, the right to privacy, and the role of Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals focus on the functioning of India’s legal system, its flexibility, and its impact on societal well-being. This requires candidates to grasp legal doctrines as well as evolving jurisprudence (e.g., PILs and privacy rights).
Governance and Public Administration: The questions on citizens’ charters, public healthcare, and e-governance demonstrate the emphasis on improving governance through participatory mechanisms and accountability. These questions challenge candidates to evaluate governance models and suggest ways to improve public service delivery, particularly in the context of digital governance and healthcare access.
International Relations and Geopolitics: Questions on India’s relations with Central Asian Republics (CARs), the importance of Maldives, and global supply chains reflect India’s foreign policy priorities and strategic positioning in the international arena. Understanding China’s growing influence and India’s role as a counterbalance in the Indo-Pacific is crucial, along with India’s engagement with neighboring regions like Central Asia and the Indian Ocean.
Social and Economic Issues: The paper touches on deep social issues like poverty and malnutrition, integrity of civil servants, and secularism. These questions require a solid understanding of social structures, human capital development, and public perception in governance. The question on public charitable trusts links civil society’s role in addressing development challenges.

Key Observations:

Integration of Policy and Law: Several questions, such as those on the Public Examination Act and Centre-State relations, require candidates to demonstrate an understanding of recent legislative developments and policy measures. This reflects the increasing relevance of policy awareness in governance and public administration.
Analytical and Comparative Approach: The paper often asks for critical analysis (e.g., PIL growth and India as a secular state). Candidates are expected to go beyond basic facts and evaluate the effectiveness of institutions, policies, and reforms. Additionally, comparative analysis, such as the question on Indian vs. US secularism, tests the ability to draw global parallels.
Global Context and Strategic Relevance: Many questions place India in a global context, such as its role in counter-terrorism, China’s supply chain dominance, and the geopolitical importance of Maldives. Candidates need to understand India’s strategic interests, foreign policy dynamics, and how they are shaped by global power politics.
Public Governance and Development Challenges: The questions on good governance, PILs, and the role of public healthcare highlight challenges in public administration and service delivery. This requires candidates to be well-versed in policy implementation, public administration frameworks, and the role of civil society in governance.

Challenge Level:

The paper emphasizes not just factual knowledge but also conceptual clarity and the ability to connect themes.

The questions are designed to test both depth and breadth of knowledge, especially in understanding how policy frameworks function in real-world governance, law, and international relations contexts.

Complexity: Many questions demand a nuanced understanding of legal principles, policy reforms, and international relations. For example, explaining the relationship between China’s economic dominance and India’s strategic role requires knowledge of trade, geopolitics, and diplomacy.
Critical Thinking: Candidates are expected to critically assess policies, such as the Citizens’ Charter and e-governance models, and suggest reforms. This requires a solution-oriented mindset and an ability to evaluate the effectiveness of governance structures.

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Conclusion:

The UPSC CSE Mains 2024 General Studies Paper 2 is designed to test candidates’ understanding of constitutional governance, public policy, judicial principles, and international relations.

It challenges candidates to think critically about India’s governance structures, draw comparisons with global examples, and evaluate the effectiveness of policies in real-world scenarios.

Success in this paper requires conceptual clarity, a strong grasp of current affairs, and the ability to connect multiple disciplines—law, governance, and international relations—to present well-rounded, analytical responses.

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 (Mains) Question Paper and Analysis

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024: Instructions

General Studies Paper 2 Question Paper: UPSC Civil Services Main Exam (Written) 2024

GS Paper 2 UPSC 2024 (Mains) Question Topics