UPSC Mains 2022 GS2 Q14 — Comparative Constitution
Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Critically examine
- Scope keywords
- proceduresPresidents of IndiaFranceelected
- Implicit sub-parts
- Comparison of the electoral colleges (Indirect vs Direct systems).
- Comparison of voting methodologies (Proportional Representation vs Two-round runoff system).
- Critical analysis of the roles of federalism in India versus centralism/popular mandate in France.
- Evaluation of the 'Head of State' vs 'Executive Head' distinction arising from their election methods.
- Common pitfalls
- Writing a generic description of powers and functions instead of focusing strictly on the election 'procedure'.
- Failing to explain the French 'Two-Round System' and how it differs from India's single transferable vote.
- Ignoring the 'Critically' aspect by not discussing why these different procedures are suited to their respective parliamentary and semi-presidential systems.
- Neglecting the weightage of votes (Value of MPs/MLAs) which is unique to the Indian federal context.
- Dimensions required
- ConstitutionalComparative PoliticsFederalismDemocratic LegitimacyProcedural Mechanics
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 50-60 words for the Indian electoral college and value of votes. Dedicate 50-60 words to the French direct universal suffrage and two-round system. Spend the remaining 130 words on a critical comparison of legitimacy, federal balance, and how these procedures reflect their respective political systems.
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