Preamble is important part of polity syllabus. Previous Year Question (PYQ) papers are invaluable resources for aspirants preparing for competitive exams like the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations. In this article we present important PYQ on Preamble.
UPSC PYQ on Preamble
Q- The Preamble to the Constitution of India is (2020)
(a) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect
(b) not a part of the Constitution and has no legal effect either
(c) part of the Constitution and has the same legal effect as any other part
(d) a part of the Constitution but has no legal effect independently of other parts
Answer- Option D
EXPLANATION
The Preamble is considered a component of the Constitution but lacks legal standing on its own. In the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973), the Supreme Court affirmed the Preamble’s inclusion as part of the Constitution, highlighting its role in articulating the goals and desires of the populace, which are reflected in different constitutional provisions. However, it cannot be enforced independently in a court of law.
Q- The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which of the following? (2017)
(a) The Preamble
(b) The Fundamental Rights
(c) The Directive Principles of State Policy
(d) The Fundamental Duties
Answer- Option A
EXPLANATION
The Preamble encapsulates the fundamental principles and core values, both political and moral, upon which the Constitution is built. It encapsulates the lofty vision of the Constituent Assembly and mirrors the hopes and ambitions of the Constitution’s framers. As expressed by Sir Alladi Krishnaswami Iyer, a prominent figure in the Constituent Assembly’s proceedings, the Preamble reflects the long-held thoughts and aspirations of the nation.
Learn about important constitutional bodies for UPSC.
Q- Which one of the following objectives is not embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India? (2017)
(a) Liberty of thought
(b) Economic liberty
(c) Liberty of expression
(d) Liberty of belief
Answer- Option B
The Indian Constitution’s Preamble outlines the liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship but does not specifically mention economic liberty. It declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, aiming to secure justice, liberty, equality for all citizens, and foster fraternity to uphold national unity and integrity.
Q- ‘Economic Justice’ the objectives of Constitution has been as one of the Indian provided in (2015)
(a) the Preamble and Fundamental Rights
(b) the Preamble and the Directive Principles of State Policy
(c) the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy
(d) None of the above
Answer- Option B
EXPLANATION
Both the preamble and the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) highlight economic justice as one of the objectives of the Indian constitution. The preamble explicitly mentions economic justice, which was reinforced by the addition of the term “socialist” through the 42nd Amendment in 1976. However, even before this amendment, the Constitution contained socialist principles within certain Directive Principles of State Policy. In this context, “socialist” refers to democratic socialism, which aims to achieve socialist goals through democratic, evolutionary, and non-violent means.
Several provisions of the DPSP emphasize economic justice. These include measures to prevent the concentration of wealth and means of production in a few hands, ensuring that ownership and control of material resources are distributed to serve the common good. Additionally, the DPSP calls for the state to guarantee a living wage and suitable working conditions for workers, as well as striving to provide the right to work, among other initiatives.
Read about UPSC PYQ on Constitutional Amendments.