Here is an outline of the governance-related topics that you should cover for UPSC Prelims:
1. Constitutional Framework:
- Historical background
- Making of the Constitution
- Preamble of the Constitution
- Salient features of the Constitution
- Fundamental Rights and Duties
- Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
- Amendment procedures
2. Political System in India:
- Parliamentary System
- Federalism in India
- Center-State relations
- Emergency provisions
- Role of the President, Prime Minister, and Cabinet
3. Public Policy and Governance:
- Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors
- Issues and challenges related to the federal structure
- Role of civil services in a democracy
4. Judiciary:
- Structure and functions of the Supreme Court and High Courts
- Judicial review and its limitations
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
- Alternative dispute resolution mechanisms
5. Local Governance:
- Panchayati Raj institutions
- Municipalities and urban governance
- 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments
6. Accountability and Transparency:
- Citizen’s Charters
- Right to Information (RTI)
- Social audit
7. E-Governance:
- Applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential
- Challenges in implementation
8. Anti-Corruption Measures:
- Lokpal and Lokayuktas
- Whistleblower protection
- Prevention of Corruption Act
9. International Organizations and Conventions:
- United Nations (UN)
- World Bank, IMF, WTO
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- International human rights conventions
10. Recent Developments and Issues:
- Important government initiatives and schemes
- Current affairs related to governance and public policy
It’s important to stay updated on current affairs, government policies, and recent developments, as questions in the UPSC Prelims often draw from contemporary issues. Additionally, refer to previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern and the type of questions asked in the governance-related section.
