Get ready to ace the UPSC CSE Prelims exam with our comprehensive guide to the historical background of the Indian Constitution! Understanding the Constitution’s roots and evolution is crucial for aspirants, and our collection of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with detailed explanations will help you grasp the key concepts. From the Government of India Acts to the Constituent Assembly debates, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated MCQs and answers to boost your preparation and confidence for the exam. Let’s explore the rich history behind India’s supreme law and crack the UPSC CSE Prelims together!
MCQs and Answers on Historical background of Indian Constitution
Consider the following statements regarding the Regulating Act of 1773:
1. It was enacted by the Parliament of Great Britain to regulate the administration of the British East India Company in India.
2. It established the Supreme Court of Judicature at Madras.
3. It designated the Governor of Bengal as the Governor-General of Bengal.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Regulating Act of 1773 was indeed aimed at regulating the East India Company’s administration. It also designated the Governor of Bengal as the Governor-General of Bengal. However, it established the Supreme Court of Judicature at Calcutta, not Madras.
Pitt’s India Act of 1784 introduced which of the following?
(a) Dyarchy in the provinces
(b) A system of double government
(c) Separation of powers between the executive and the legislature
(d) Establishment of a Federal Court
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Pitt’s India Act of 1784 established a system of double government by distinguishing between the commercial and political functions of the East India Company. It created a Board of Control to manage the political affairs and the Court of Directors to manage the commercial affairs.
The Charter Act of 1813 is significant for:
Abolishing the trade monopoly of the East India Company in India.
Granting permission to Christian missionaries to propagate English education in India.
Making the Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1813 ended the Company’s trade monopoly, except for trade in tea and with China, and allowed Christian missionaries to spread their religion. The Governor-General of Bengal was made the Governor-General of India by the Charter Act of 1833, not 1813.
Which Act made the Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India?
(a) Charter Act of 1813
(b) Charter Act of 1833
(c) Pitt’s India Act of 1784
(d) Regulating Act of 1773
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1833 made the Governor-General of Bengal the Governor-General of India. This act also centralized administrative powers in the hands of the Governor-General.
The Charter Act of 1853 introduced which of the following reforms?
1. Separation of legislative and executive functions of the Governor-General’s Council.
2. Introduction of an open competition system for the selection and recruitment of civil servants.
3. Provided for the first time, local representation of Indians in the Indian Legislative Council
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1853 brought about significant changes, including the separation of the legislative and executive functions of the Governor-General’s Council, the introduction of open competition for civil service recruitment, and local representation of Indians in the legislative council.
Which of the following acts is also known as the Act for the Good Government of India?
(a) The Regulating Act of 1773
(b) The Charter Act of 1853
(c) The Government of India Act, 1858
(d) The Indian Councils Act of 1861
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1858, was enacted in the aftermath of the 1857 revolt and transferred the control of Indian administration from the East India Company to the British Crown. It is often referred to as the “Act for the Good Government of India.”
The Government of India Act, 1858, provided for:
1. The abolition of the East India Company.
2. The creation of the office of the Secretary of State for India.
3. The introduction of the principle of separate electorates.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The 1858 Act abolished the East India Company and created the office of the Secretary of State for India. The principle of separate electorates was introduced much later by the Indian Councils Act of 1909 (Morley-Minto Reforms).
Consider the following statements regarding the Indian Councils Act of 1861:
1. It associated Indians with the law-making process for the first time.
2. It introduced the system of dyarchy.
3. It provided for the establishment of a Public Service Commission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Indian Councils Act of 1861 marked the beginning of representative institutions in India by associating Indians with the law-making process. Dyarchy was introduced by the Government of India Act of 1919, and the Public Service Commission was established much later.
Which of the following acts introduced the principle of separate electorates?
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1861
(b) Indian Councils Act of 1892
(c) Indian Councils Act of 1909
(d) Government of India Act, 1919
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Indian Councils Act of 1909, also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, introduced the principle of separate electorates for Muslims.
The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 aimed at:
(a) Granting complete independence to India
(b) Introducing dyarchy in the provinces
(c) Increasing the association of Indians with the administration
(d) Establishing a federal structure in India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 aimed to increase the association of Indians with the administration, though in a limited way. It introduced separate electorates for Muslims, which had long-term implications.
Consider the following statements regarding the Government of India Act, 1919:
1. It introduced dyarchy in the provinces.
2. It established a bicameral legislature at the Centre.
3. It provided for the reservation of seats for women in the legislatures.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1919, introduced dyarchy in the provinces and established a bicameral legislature at the Centre. It did not provide for the reservation of seats for women in the legislatures.
Dyarchy, as introduced by the Government of India Act, 1919, refers to:
(a) Dual government at the Centre
(b) Division of subjects between the Centre and the provinces
(c) Division of subjects between reserved and transferred lists in the provinces
(d) Representation of two communities in the legislature
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Dyarchy, introduced by the 1919 Act, refers to the division of provincial subjects into “reserved” subjects (under the Governor’s direct control) and “transferred” subjects (administered by ministers responsible to the provincial legislature).
The Simon Commission, appointed in 1927, was boycotted because:
(a) It recommended the abolition of dyarchy
(b) It did not include any Indian member
(c) It proposed the partition of India
(d) It advocated for complete independence
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Simon Commission was boycotted by Indian political parties because it did not include any Indian member, which was seen as a grave insult and a denial of India’s right to self-determination.
The Nehru Report of 1928 proposed:
(a) Complete independence for India
(b) Dominion status for India
(c) Separate electorates for minorities
(d) The partition of India
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Nehru Report of 1928, drafted by a committee headed by Motilal Nehru, proposed dominion status for India within the British Empire.
The Government of India Act, 1935, is significant because:
1. It provided for an All-India Federation.
2. It abolished dyarchy in the provinces.
3. It established a Federal Court.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1935, was a landmark act that provided for an All-India Federation, abolished dyarchy in the provinces (and introduced provincial autonomy), and established a Federal Court.
Which of the following features of the Indian Constitution is/are directly derived from the Government of India Act, 1935?
1. Federal Scheme
2. Parliamentary System
3. Office of Governor
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Federal Scheme and the Office of Governor are directly derived from the Government of India Act, 1935. While the Parliamentary System is a key feature of the Indian Constitution, its roots are in the broader British constitutional tradition, though the 1935 Act contributed to its development in India.
The concept of provincial autonomy was introduced by which of the following acts?
(a) The Indian Councils Act of 1909
(b) The Government of India Act, 1919
(c) The Government of India Act, 1935
(d) The Indian Independence Act, 1947
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The concept of provincial autonomy, which meant that provinces were given more autonomy in their administration, was a key feature of the Government of India Act, 1935.
The Cripps Mission of 1942 proposed:
(a) Complete independence for India immediately after the war
(b) Dominion status for India after the war
(c) The partition of India into two separate states
(d) The establishment of a Constituent Assembly with immediate effect
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Cripps Mission of 1942, led by Sir Stafford Cripps, offered dominion status to India after the end of World War II. The mission failed due to disagreements on various issues, including the immediate transfer of power.
Which of the following was a key proposal of the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946?
(a) Immediate and complete independence for India
(b) The partition of India into India and Pakistan
(c) The formation of a Constituent Assembly to frame the Constitution
(d) The establishment of an interim government headed by the Muslim League
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946 aimed to facilitate the transfer of power from the British to Indian leaders. A key proposal was the formation of a Constituent Assembly to frame a new Constitution for India.
The Constituent Assembly of India was constituted under the:
(a) Cripps Mission Plan of 1942
(b) Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946
(c) Mountbatten Plan of 1947
(d) August Offer of 1940
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Constituent Assembly of India was formed in November 1946 under the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946.
Who among the following was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution?
(a) Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Rajendra Prasad
(c) B.R. Ambedkar
(d) B.N. Rau
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution. He is widely regarded as the “Father of the Indian Constitution.”
The objective of the Government of India Act of 1858 was to:
(a) Introduce separate electorates
(b) Establish a diarchy in the provinces
(c) Transfer the governance of India from the East India Company to the Crown
(d) Grant dominion status to India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The primary objective of the Government of India Act of 1858 was to transfer the governance of India from the East India Company to the British Crown, following the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.
Which of the following acts provided for the establishment of a Supreme Court at Calcutta?
(a) Pitt’s India Act
(b) Regulating Act of 1773
(c) Charter Act of 1833
(d) Government of India Act of 1935
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Regulating Act of 1773 provided for the establishment of a Supreme Court at Calcutta (now Kolkata) in 1774.
The Indian Councils Act of 1909 is also known as:
(a) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms
(b) Morley-Minto Reforms
(c) Simon Commission Report
(d) Cripps Proposals
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Indian Councils Act of 1909 is also known as the Morley-Minto Reforms, named after the then Secretary of State for India, John Morley, and the Viceroy of India, Lord Minto.
What was the primary reason for the enactment of the Regulating Act of 1773?
(a) To grant more autonomy to the Indian provinces
(b) To regulate the affairs of the East India Company
(c) To introduce separate electorates for Muslims
(d) To establish a federal court in India
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Regulating Act of 1773 was primarily enacted to regulate the affairs of the East India Company, which was facing severe administrative and financial difficulties.
Under which act was the Governor-General of Bengal given the power of superintendence over the governments of Madras and Bombay?
(a) Charter Act of 1813
(b) Pitt’s India Act of 1784
(c) Regulating Act of 1773
(d) Government of India Act of 1833
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Regulating Act of 1773 gave the Governor-General of Bengal the power of superintendence over the governments of Madras and Bombay.
The introduction of the office of the Secretary of State for India was a provision of the:
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1861
(b) Government of India Act of 1919
(c) Government of India Act of 1858
(d) Charter Act of 1853
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The office of the Secretary of State for India was created by the Government of India Act of 1858, following the transfer of control from the East India Company to the British Crown.
Which act first introduced the concept of election in India?
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1861
(b) Indian Councils Act of 1892
(c) Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909
(d) Government of India Act of 1919
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Indian Councils Act of 1892 introduced the concept of election for the first time, though it was indirect and limited.
The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms led to the enactment of the:
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1909
(b) Government of India Act of 1919
(c) Government of India Act of 1935
(d) Indian Independence Act of 1947
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, proposed in 1918, led to the enactment of the Government of India Act of 1919.
Which of the following acts provided for the establishment of an All-India Federation?
(a) Government of India Act of 1919
(b) Government of India Act of 1935
(c) Indian Independence Act of 1947
(d) The Regulating Act of 1773
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Government of India Act of 1935 provided for the establishment of an All-India Federation, though it never fully materialized.
The proposal for a Constituent Assembly to frame the Constitution for India was first made by:
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru
(c) M.N. Roy
(d) B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The idea of a Constituent Assembly was first proposed by M.N. Roy, a pioneer of the communist movement in India.
Who among the following was the interim President of the Constituent Assembly?
(a) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
(b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(c) Sachchidananda Sinha
(d) Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Sachchidananda Sinha was the first (interim) President of the Constituent Assembly. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was later elected as the permanent President.
The ‘Objectives Resolution,’ which laid down the aims and objectives of the Constitution, was moved by:
(a) B.R. Ambedkar
(b) Rajendra Prasad
(c) Jawaharlal Nehru
(d) Mahatma Gandhi
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The ‘Objectives Resolution’ was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly on December 13, 1946.
Which of the following committees was responsible for drafting the Indian Constitution?
(a) Union Powers Committee
(b) Provincial Constitution Committee
(c) Drafting Committee
(d) Steering Committee
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Drafting Committee, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, was responsible for drafting the Indian Constitution.
The Indian Independence Act of 1947 provided for:
1. The creation of two new dominions: India and Pakistan.
2. The transfer of power to the Constituent Assemblies of the two dominions.
3. The immediate grant of complete independence to both dominions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Indian Independence Act of 1947 provided for the creation of India and Pakistan and the transfer of power to their respective Constituent Assemblies. It granted them dominion status, not complete independence, immediately.
Which of the following is/are a feature of the Government of India Act, 1935?
1. Provincial Autonomy
2. Dyarchy at the center
3. Bicameral Legislature
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1935 introduced Provincial Autonomy, Dyarchy at the center, and a Bicameral Legislature.
The concept of a ‘Federation’ in the Indian Constitution is derived from the:
(a) US Constitution
(b) Canadian Constitution
(c) Australian Constitution
(d) Government of India Act, 1935
Answer: (d)
Explanation: While the idea of federalism exists in other constitutions, the specific structure and features of the ‘Federation’ in the Indian Constitution, with a strong central government, are largely derived from the Government of India Act, 1935.
Which Act abolished the Council of the Secretary of State for India?
(a) Indian Independence Act, 1947
(b) Government of India Act, 1935
(c) Indian Council Act, 1909
(d) Government of India Act, 1919
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Indian Independence Act, 1947 abolished the office of the Secretary of State for India, as it marked the end of British rule and the transfer of power to the newly independent dominions of India and Pakistan.
The system of separate electorates was initially introduced in India by the:
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1892
(b) Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909
(c) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919
(d) Government of India Act of 1935
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The system of separate electorates was introduced by the Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act of 1909), primarily for Muslims.
Consider the following statements regarding the Charter Act of 1833:
1. It ended the commercial activities of the East India Company.
2. It made the Governor-General of Bengal as the Governor-General of India.
3. It introduced an element of election in the legislative council.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1833 ended the commercial activities of the East India Company, making it a purely administrative body. It also elevated the Governor-General of Bengal to the Governor-General of India. The element of election was not introduced by this Act.
The ‘Doctrine of Lapse’ was introduced by:
(a) Lord Curzon
(b) Lord Dalhousie
(c) Lord Wellesley
(d) Lord Hastings
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Doctrine of Lapse’ was introduced by Lord Dalhousie, the Governor-General of India from 1848 to 1856.
Which of the following acts provided for the establishment of a Federal Court in India?
(a) Regulating Act of 1773
(b) Pitt’s India Act of 1784
(c) Government of India Act, 1919
(d) Government of India Act, 1935
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1935 provided for the establishment of a Federal Court in India, which was established in 1937.
The demand for a Constituent Assembly was officially accepted by the British government in the:
(a) Cripps Offer of 1942
(b) August Offer of 1940
(c) Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946
(d) Government of India Act, 1935
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The demand for a Constituent Assembly was officially accepted by the British government in the August Offer of 1940.
Who among the following was the Constitutional Advisor to the Constituent Assembly?
(a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
(c) B.N. Rau
(d) K.M. Munshi
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Sir B.N. Rau was the Constitutional Advisor to the Constituent Assembly. He played a crucial role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
Which of the following statements about the Indian Independence Act, 1947 is/are correct?
1. It created the dominions of India and Pakistan.
2. It granted complete independence to both dominions with immediate effect.
3. It provided for the partition of Bengal and Punjab.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Indian Independence Act, 1947, created the dominions of India and Pakistan and provided for the partition of Bengal and Punjab. However, it granted them dominion status, not complete independence, immediately.
The concept of ‘Rule of Law’ in the Indian Constitution is significantly influenced by:
(a) The US Constitution
(b) The British Constitution
(c) The French Constitution
(d) The Weimar Constitution of Germany
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The concept of ‘Rule of Law’ in the Indian Constitution is significantly influenced by the British Constitution.
Which of the following acts empowered the Governor-General to promulgate ordinances?
(a) The Regulating Act of 1773
(b) The Charter Act of 1833
(c) The Indian Councils Act of 1861
(d) The Government of India Act, 1935
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Indian Councils Act of 1861 empowered the Governor-General to promulgate ordinances in times of emergency.
The first attempt to codify Indian laws was made through which of the following acts?
(a) Regulating Act of 1773
(b) Charter Act of 1813
(c) Charter Act of 1833
(d) Government of India Act, 1858
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The first attempt to codify Indian laws was made through the Charter Act of 1833, which led to the establishment of the Law Commission.
Which of the following acts introduced the system of ‘communal representation’ in India?
(a) Indian Councils Act of 1892
(b) Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909
(c) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919
(d) Government of India Act, 1935
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The system of ‘communal representation’ was introduced by the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909, which provided for separate electorates for Muslims.
The proposal for ‘Dominion Status’ for India was associated with:
(a) The Simon Commission
(b) The Cripps Mission
(c) The Cabinet Mission
(d) The Wavell Plan
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The proposal for ‘Dominion Status’ for India was a key feature of the Cripps Mission of 1942.
The demand for the ‘Partition of India’ was first officially raised by:
(a) The Indian National Congress
(b) The Muslim League
(c) The Hindu Mahasabha
(d) The Sikh League
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The demand for the ‘Partition of India’ was first officially raised by the Muslim League in the Lahore Resolution of 1940.
Which of the following acts abolished the ‘diarchy’ in the provinces?
(a) Government of India Act, 1919
(b) Government of India Act, 1935
(c) Indian Independence Act, 1947
(d) Indian Councils Act, 1909
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1935 abolished ‘diarchy’ in the provinces and introduced ‘provincial autonomy.’
The ‘Quit India Movement’ was launched in response to:
(a) The Simon Commission Report
(b) The Cripps Offer
(c) The Cabinet Mission Plan
(d) The Wavell Plan
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Quit India Movement’ was launched in 1942 in response to the failure of the Cripps Offer, which did not meet the Indian National Congress’s demand for immediate and complete independence.
Who among the following advocated for a ‘Constituent Assembly’ based on adult suffrage?
(a) Mahatma Gandhi
(b) Jawaharlal Nehru
(c) C. Rajagopalachari
(d) B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: (c)
Explanation: C. Rajagopalachari voiced the demand for a Constituent Assembly based on adult suffrage in 1939.
The ‘Instrument of Instructions’ in the Government of India Act, 1935 is analogous to which of the following in the Indian Constitution?
(a) Fundamental Rights
(b) Directive Principles of State Policy
(c) Fundamental Duties
(d) Preamble
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Instrument of Instructions’ in the Government of India Act, 1935, which laid down guidelines for the Governors, is analogous to the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution.
Which of the following acts provided for the establishment of a ‘Council of States’ and a ‘Legislative Assembly’ at the center?
(a) Indian Councils Act, 1909
(b) Government of India Act, 1919
(c) Government of India Act, 1935
(d) Indian Independence Act, 1947
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Government of India Act, 1919, established a bicameral legislature at the center, comprising the ‘Council of States’ (Upper House) and the ‘Legislative Assembly’ (Lower House).
The ‘Federal Court’ established under the Government of India Act, 1935 had the jurisdiction to resolve disputes between:
1. The Center and the provinces.
2. The provinces inter se.
3. Princely states and the federation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Federal Court had the jurisdiction to resolve disputes between the Center and the provinces, between the provinces themselves, and between the princely states and the federation.
The ‘Indian Independence Act, 1947’ was based on the:
(a) Cripps Mission Plan
(b) Cabinet Mission Plan
(c) Mountbatten Plan
(d) Wavell Plan
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The ‘Indian Independence Act, 1947’ was based on the Mountbatten Plan, which outlined the partition of India and the transfer of power.
Which of the following committees recommended the inclusion of ‘Fundamental Duties’ in the Indian Constitution?
(a) Swaran Singh Committee
(b) Ashok Mehta Committee
(c) Balwant Rai Mehta Committee
(d) J.S. Verma Committee
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Swaran Singh Committee recommended the inclusion of ‘Fundamental Duties’ in the Indian Constitution, which were added by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976.
The term ‘Dominion Status’ implies:
(a) Complete independence from foreign rule
(b) Autonomous status within the British Commonwealth
(c) A form of government with a hereditary head
(d) A system of government with a written constitution
Answer: (b)
Explanation: ‘Dominion Status’ implied an autonomous status within the British Commonwealth, where the dominion was self-governing but still acknowledged the British Crown.
Which of the following acts provided for the establishment of a ‘Board of Control’?
(a) Regulating Act of 1773
(b) Pitt’s India Act of 1784
(c) Charter Act of 1813
(d) Government of India Act, 1858
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Pitt’s India Act of 1784 established the ‘Board of Control’ to manage the political affairs of the East India Company.
The ‘Subsidiary Alliance’ system was introduced by:
(a) Lord Cornwallis
(b) Lord Wellesley
(c) Lord Dalhousie
(d) Lord Canning
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Subsidiary Alliance’ system was introduced by Lord Wellesley.
Which of the following acts made English the medium of instruction in India?
(a) Charter Act of 1813
(b) Charter Act of 1833
(c) Macaulay’s Minute of 1835
(d) Wood’s Dispatch of 1854
Answer: (c)
Explanation: While the Charter Act of 1813 provided for spending on education, it was Macaulay’s Minute of 1835 that advocated for English as the medium of instruction.
The ‘Ryotwari System’ of land revenue was introduced in:
(a) Bengal
(b) Madras and Bombay
(c) Punjab
(d) United Provinces
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Ryotwari System’ of land revenue was introduced in Madras and Bombay presidencies.
Which of the following acts provided for the appointment of Indians to the covenanted civil services?
(a) Charter Act of 1813
(b) Charter Act of 1833
(c) Charter Act of 1853
(d) Government of India Act, 1858
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Charter Act of 1853 provided for the appointment of Indians to the covenanted civil services through an open competition system.
The ‘Ilbert Bill’ controversy occurred during the viceroyalty of:
(a) Lord Lytton
(b) Lord Ripon
(c) Lord Curzon
(d) Lord Irwin
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Ilbert Bill’ controversy occurred during the viceroyalty of Lord Ripon.
Which of the following organizations was established by Jyotirao Phule?
(a) Prarthana Samaj
(b) Arya Samaj
(c) Satyashodhak Samaj
(d) Ramakrishna Mission
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Jyotirao Phule established the Satyashodhak Samaj.
The ‘Young Bengal Movement’ was led by:
(a) Debendranath Tagore
(b) Henry Louis Vivian Derozio
(c) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
(d) Raja Ram Mohan Roy
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Young Bengal Movement’ was led by Henry Louis Vivian Derozio.
Which of the following acts is associated with the ‘Wood’s Dispatch’?
(a) Charter Act of 1813
(b) Charter Act of 1833
(c) Charter Act of 1853
(d) Government of India Act, 1858
Answer: (c)
Explanation: ‘Wood’s Dispatch’ of 1854 is related to educational reforms and is associated with the Charter Act of 1853.
The ‘Drain of Wealth’ theory was propounded by:
(a) Dadabhai Naoroji
(b) M.G. Ranade
(c) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
(d) R.C. Dutt
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The ‘Drain of Wealth’ theory was propounded by Dadabhai Naoroji.
Which of the following events is considered the ‘turning point’ in the Indian nationalist movement?
(a) The Revolt of 1857
(b) The Partition of Bengal
(c) The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
(d) The launch of the Quit India Movement
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Partition of Bengal in 1905 is often considered a ‘turning point’ in the Indian nationalist movement.
The ‘Swadeshi Movement’ was launched in response to:
(a) The Simon Commission
(b) The Partition of Bengal
(c) The Rowlatt Act
(d) The Cripps Mission
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Swadeshi Movement’ was launched in response to the Partition of Bengal in 1905.
Who among the following is known as the ‘Father of Indian Unrest’?
(a) Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(b) Lala Lajpat Rai
(c) Bipin Chandra Pal
(d) Aurobindo Ghosh
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Bal Gangadhar Tilak is known as the ‘Father of Indian Unrest.’
The ‘Ghadar Party’ was founded at:
(a) Bombay
(b) Calcutta
(c) San Francisco
(d) London
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The ‘Ghadar Party’ was founded in San Francisco.
The ‘Home Rule League’ was started by:
(a) Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak
(c) Bipin Chandra Pal and Aurobindo Ghosh
(d) Lala Lajpat Rai and Sardar Patel
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Home Rule League’ was started by Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
The ‘Jallianwala Bagh Massacre’ took place in which city?
(a) Lahore
(b) Amritsar
(c) Delhi
(d) Calcutta
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Jallianwala Bagh Massacre’ took place in Amritsar.
The ‘Non-Cooperation Movement’ was launched in the year:
(a) 1919
(b) 1920
(c) 1922
(d) 1924
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Non-Cooperation Movement’ was launched in 1920.
The ‘Civil Disobedience Movement’ was launched with the:
(a) Dandi March
(b) Quit India Resolution
(c) Simon Commission Boycott
(d) Round Table Conference
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The ‘Civil Disobedience Movement’ was launched with the Dandi March in 1930.
The ‘Quit India Resolution’ was passed in:
(a) Lahore Session of Congress
(b) Bombay Session of Congress
(c) Calcutta Session of Congress
(d) Delhi Session of Congress
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Quit India Resolution’ was passed in the Bombay Session of the Indian National Congress in 1942.
Who among the following is known as the ‘Iron Man of India’?
(a) Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Mahatma Gandhi
(c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
(d) Subhas Chandra Bose
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is known as the ‘Iron Man of India.’
The ‘Poona Pact’ was signed between:
(a) Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru
(b) Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar
(c) Jawaharlal Nehru and B.R. Ambedkar
(d) Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Poona Pact’ was signed between Mahatma Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar.
The ‘Cabinet Mission’ arrived in India in the year:
(a) 1942
(b) 1945
(c) 1946
(d) 1947
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The ‘Cabinet Mission’ arrived in India in 1946.
Who among the following was the last Governor-General of British India?
(a) Lord Wavell
(b) Lord Mountbatten
(c) Clement Attlee
(d) Sir Stafford Cripps
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Lord Mountbatten was the last Governor-General of British India.
The ‘Mountbatten Plan’ proposed:
(a) Complete independence for India
(b) Dominion status for India
(c) The partition of India
(d) The establishment of a Constituent Assembly
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The ‘Mountbatten Plan’ proposed the partition of India into India and Pakistan.
The Indian Constitution was adopted on:
(a) 26th January 1950
(b) 15th August 1947
(c) 26th November 1949
(d) 2nd October 1947
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949.
The Indian Constitution came into force on:
(a) 26th January 1950
(b) 15th August 1947
(c) 26th November 1949
(d) 2nd October 1947
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Indian Constitution came into force on 26th January 1950.
The Constituent Assembly took how long to frame the Indian Constitution?
(a) 2 years, 11 months and 18 days
(b) 3 years and 6 months
(c) 2 years and 9 months
(d) 3 years
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Constituent Assembly took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to frame the Indian Constitution.
The total number of members in the Constituent Assembly was:
(a) 389
(b) 300
(c) 299
(d) 320
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The total number of members in the Constituent Assembly was initially 389, but it was reduced to 299 after the partition of India.
Who among the following was not a member of the Drafting Committee?
(a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
(b) K.M. Munshi
(c) Jawaharlal Nehru
(d) N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Jawaharlal Nehru was not a member of the Drafting Committee.
The concept of ‘judicial review’ in the Indian Constitution is taken from:
(a) The British Constitution
(b) The US Constitution
(c) The Canadian Constitution
(d) The Irish Constitution
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The concept of ‘judicial review’ in the Indian Constitution is taken from the US Constitution.
Which of the following features of the Indian Constitution is/are borrowed from the British Constitution?
1. Parliamentary Government
2. Rule of Law
3. Directive Principles of State Policy
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Parliamentary Government and Rule of Law are borrowed from the British Constitution. Directive Principles of State Policy are taken from the Irish Constitution.
The idea of ‘Concurrent List’ in the Indian Constitution is taken from the Constitution of:
(a) Canada
(b) Australia
(c) USA
(d) Ireland
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The idea of the ‘Concurrent List’ in the Indian Constitution is taken from the Australian Constitution.
Which of the following schedules of the Indian Constitution deals with the allocation of seats in the Council of States?
(a) Fourth Schedule
(b) Fifth Schedule
(c) Sixth Schedule
(d) Seventh Schedule
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Fourth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the allocation of seats in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha).
The ‘Preamble’ of the Indian Constitution is based on:
(a) The Objectives Resolution
(b) The Nehru Report
(c) The Government of India Act, 1935
(d) The Indian Independence Act, 1947
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The ‘Preamble’ of the Indian Constitution is based on the Objectives Resolution, which was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly.
Which of the following amendments is known as the ‘Mini Constitution’?
(a) 42nd Amendment
(b) 44th Amendment
(c) 73rd Amendment
(d) 86th Amendment
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 is known as the ‘Mini Constitution’ due to the large number of changes it made to the Constitution.
The concept of ‘Fundamental Duties’ was added to the Indian Constitution by which amendment?
(a) 42nd Amendment
(b) 44th Amendment
(c) 73rd Amendment
(d) 86th Amendment
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The concept of ‘Fundamental Duties’ was added to the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976.
Which part of the Indian Constitution deals with the ‘Directive Principles of State Policy’?
(a) Part III
(b) Part IV
(c) Part IVA
(d) Part V
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Part IV of the Indian Constitution deals with the ‘Directive Principles of State Policy.’
The ‘Right to Property’ was removed from the list of Fundamental Rights by which amendment?
(a) 42nd Amendment
(b) 44th Amendment
(c) 73rd Amendment
(d) 86th Amendment
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The ‘Right to Property’ was removed from the list of Fundamental Rights by the 44th Amendment Act of 1978.
Which of the following articles of the Indian Constitution deals with the ‘Abolition of Untouchability’?
(a) Article 14
(b) Article 17
(c) Article 19
(d) Article 21
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 17 of the Indian Constitution deals with the ‘Abolition of Untouchability.’
The ‘Right to Education’ was added as a Fundamental Right by which amendment?
(a) 42nd Amendment
(b) 44th Amendment
(c) 73rd Amendment
(d) 86th Amendment
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The ‘Right to Education’ was added as a Fundamental Right by the 86th Amendment Act of 2002.