The Cabinet Committees are an integral part of India’s political and administrative structure. They play a pivotal role in assisting the Cabinet in making decisions efficiently and effectively on various national and international matters. For UPSC CSE aspirants, understanding the types, functions, and significance of Cabinet Committees is crucial, as this topic often appears in both Prelims and Mains.
In this post, we bring together a set of comprehensive Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) covering various aspects of Cabinet Committees, such as their constitution, functions, and role in decision-making. Each question is followed by an accurate answer and a detailed explanation, which will not only enhance your knowledge but also help you approach this complex topic with clarity and confidence.
Cabinet Committees MCQs and Answers
1. Cabinet Committees are:
(a) Constitutional bodies mentioned under Article 75.
(b) Statutory bodies created by an Act of Parliament.
(c) Extra-constitutional, non-statutory bodies established by the Prime Minister.
(d) Judicial bodies that advise the government on legal matters.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees are extra-constitutional, meaning they are not mentioned in the Constitution, and non-statutory, meaning they are not created by an Act of Parliament. They are established by the Prime Minister to facilitate the transaction of government business.
2. The primary purpose of forming Cabinet Committees is to:
(a) Advise the President on constitutional matters.
(b) Scrutinize the financial accounts of the government.
(c) Reduce the workload of the Cabinet and ensure in-depth consideration of policy issues.
(d) Conduct elections to various government bodies.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees are formed to streamline the decision-making process by allowing focused discussions and in-depth consideration of specific policy areas, thereby reducing the overall workload of the larger Cabinet.
3. Cabinet Committees are usually chaired by:
(a) The President of India.
(b) The Vice-President of India.
(c) The Prime Minister or a senior Cabinet Minister designated by them.
(d) The Cabinet Secretary.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Typically, the Prime Minister chairs the important Cabinet Committees. However, they can also designate a senior Cabinet Minister to chair a committee, especially if the Prime Minister is heavily occupied or if the committee deals with a specific area where another minister has expertise.
4. The number and composition of Cabinet Committees:
(a) Are fixed by the Constitution.
(b) Are determined by an Act of Parliament.
(c) Vary according to the exigencies of the time and requirements of the situation, decided by the Prime Minister.
(d) Are decided by the Cabinet Secretary in consultation with senior bureaucrats.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The number, nomenclature, composition, and functions of Cabinet Committees are flexible and are decided by the Prime Minister based on the needs of the government and the prevailing circumstances.
5. Which of the following is NOT a typical category of Cabinet Committees?
(a) Committees on Economic Affairs.
(b) Committees on Political Affairs.
(c) Committees on Parliamentary Affairs.
(d) Committees on Judicial Appointments.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: While the government deals with judicial appointments, there isn’t a standing “Cabinet Committee on Judicial Appointments” in the same way as the other functional committees. Judicial appointments are handled through a different mechanism involving the judiciary and the government.
6. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is chaired by the:
(a) Minister of Home Affairs.
(b) Minister of Finance.
(c) Prime Minister.
(d) Cabinet Secretary.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) is a very important committee chaired by the Prime Minister. It decides on appointments to senior posts in the Government of India.
7. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs is primarily concerned with:
(a) Allocation of funds to different ministries.
(b) Maintaining discipline within the ruling party in Parliament.
(c) Progress of legislation and government business in both Houses of Parliament.
(d) Matters related to international treaties and agreements.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs oversees the government’s legislative agenda and strategies for managing business in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.
8. The Cabinet Committee on Security deals with:
(a) Internal security matters only.
(b) External security matters only.
(c) Issues related to the maintenance of law and order in the states.
(d) Matters related to national security, including defense, law and order, and foreign affairs with security implications.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is a very powerful committee that deals with high-level issues related to national security, which encompasses defense, internal security, and foreign policy matters that have a bearing on India’s security.
9. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs is often chaired by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Finance.
(c) Minister of Commerce and Industry.
(d) Deputy Chairman of NITI Aayog.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: While the Minister of Finance plays a crucial role, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) is usually chaired by the Prime Minister, given the overarching importance of economic policy.
10. Which of the following is a function of the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation?
(a) Allotment of government accommodation to Members of Parliament and senior officers.
(b) Matters related to the security arrangements for VIPs.
(c) Planning and development of government infrastructure projects.
(d) Resolving inter-ministerial disputes.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Accommodation deals with the rules and regulations regarding the allotment of government housing to Members of Parliament, senior government officials, and other eligible individuals.
11. Cabinet Committees can be broadly classified into:
(a) Standing and Ad-hoc Committees.
(b) Economic and Political Committees.
(c) Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Committees.
(d) Domestic and Foreign Affairs Committees.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees are generally categorized into Standing Committees, which are of a permanent nature and deal with specific functional areas, and Ad-hoc Committees, which are set up for a temporary period to deal with specific issues.
12. The recommendations of Cabinet Committees are:
(a) Binding on the Cabinet.
(b) Usually considered and approved by the Cabinet.
(c) Directly implemented by the concerned ministries.
(d) Subject to judicial review by the Supreme Court.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees deliberate on issues and formulate recommendations, which are then typically presented to the larger Cabinet for discussion and final approval.
13. Which of the following committees plays a significant role in disinvestment of government holdings in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)?
(a) Cabinet Committee on Security.
(b) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
(c) Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs.
(d) Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) is the primary committee that considers and decides on matters related to the disinvestment of government stakes in PSUs.
14. The Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth is concerned with:
(a) Matters related to internal security and intelligence.
(b) Policies and strategies to promote investment and economic growth.
(c) Issues related to the welfare of government employees.
(d) Planning and execution of major infrastructure projects.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth focuses on formulating policies and strategies aimed at boosting investment in various sectors of the economy and accelerating overall economic growth.
15. The composition of a Cabinet Committee typically includes:
(a) Only Cabinet Ministers.
(b) Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and sometimes other Ministers of State.
(c) Members of Parliament from both Houses.
(d) Senior bureaucrats and domain experts.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees usually comprise Cabinet Ministers who are most relevant to the subject matter of the committee. Ministers of State with Independent Charge may also be members, and sometimes other Ministers of State are included depending on the issue.
16. The Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship focuses on:
(a) Matters related to the welfare and pension of government employees.
(b) Policies and programs aimed at enhancing skills and promoting entrepreneurship.
(c) Issues related to the functioning of Public Sector Undertakings.
(d) Strategies for improving India’s standing in international trade.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is specifically tasked with formulating policies and initiatives to improve the skill levels of the population and foster a culture of entrepreneurship across the country.
17. The Cabinet Committee on Employment and Skill Development was reconstituted as:
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
(b) Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth.
(c) Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
(d) Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Over time, the names and mandates of Cabinet Committees can evolve. The Cabinet Committee on Employment and Skill Development was indeed reconstituted and is now known as the Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, reflecting a broader focus.
18. The Cabinet Committee on Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare deals with:
(a) Policies related to industrial growth and manufacturing.
(b) Matters concerning the welfare of armed forces personnel.
(c) Issues related to agricultural policies, farmer welfare, and irrigation.
(d) Strategies for improving the transport infrastructure in the country.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: This committee is specifically focused on addressing issues related to the agriculture sector, the welfare of farmers, and matters concerning irrigation and rural development.
19. The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure is concerned with:
(a) Matters related to internal security infrastructure.
(b) Policies and planning for major infrastructure projects like roads, railways, and ports.
(c) The organizational structure and functioning of government ministries.
(d) India’s strategic interests in outer space.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure plays a crucial role in guiding the development of major infrastructure projects that are vital for the country’s economic growth and connectivity.
20. The Cabinet Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment deals with:
(a) Policies related to foreign affairs and diplomatic relations.
(b) Matters concerning the welfare of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, and other marginalized groups.
(c) Issues related to environmental protection and climate change.
(d) Strategies for promoting cultural exchange and tourism.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on policies and programs aimed at promoting social justice and empowering various marginalized sections of society.
21. The functioning of Cabinet Committees reflects the principle of:
(a) Centralized decision-making by the Prime Minister.
(b) Decentralized decision-making by individual ministries.
(c) Collective decision-making within a smaller, focused group of ministers.
(d) Decision-making based solely on bureaucratic recommendations.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Cabinet Committees embody the principle of collective decision-making but within a smaller group of relevant ministers, allowing for more detailed discussions and focused recommendations before issues are brought to the larger Cabinet.
22. The Cabinet Committee on External Affairs is concerned with:
(a) Matters related to internal security and border management.
(b) Policies and strategies related to India’s foreign policy and relations with other countries.
(c) Issues concerning the welfare of Non-Resident Indians.
(d) Promotion of Indian culture abroad.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee plays a key role in shaping India’s foreign policy, managing diplomatic relations, and addressing issues related to international affairs.
23. The Cabinet Committee on Disaster Management deals with:
(a) Policies related to industrial safety and hazard control.
(b) Strategies and preparedness for natural and man-made disasters.
(c) Issues concerning cyber security.
(d) Management of border disputes with neighboring countries.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is responsible for formulating and overseeing policies and strategies related to disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation.
24. The Cabinet Committee on Science and Technology deals with:
(a) Policies related to defense research and development.
(b) Strategies for promoting scientific research, innovation, and technological advancement.
(c) Issues concerning the management of water resources.
(d) Promotion of renewable energy sources.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on fostering scientific research, encouraging innovation, and promoting the development and application of technology across various sectors.
25. The Cabinet Committee on Welfare of Other Backward Classes deals with:
(a) Policies related to the welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
(b) Matters concerning the welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
(c) Issues related to minority affairs.
(d) Strategies for promoting gender equality.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is specifically focused on addressing issues and formulating policies related to the welfare and empowerment of Other Backward Classes.
26. The Cabinet Committee on Minority Affairs deals with:
(a) Policies related to the welfare of religious and linguistic minorities.
(b) Matters concerning the welfare of ex-servicemen.
(c) Issues related to the protection of human rights.
(d) Strategies for promoting social harmony.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: This committee is concerned with the formulation of policies and programs for the welfare and empowerment of religious and linguistic minorities in India.
27. The Cabinet Committee on Food and Public Distribution deals with:
(a) Policies related to agricultural production and marketing.
(b) Matters concerning the procurement, storage, and distribution of food grains and other essential commodities.
(c) Issues related to consumer protection.
(d) Strategies for promoting food processing industries.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is responsible for overseeing the public distribution system, ensuring food security, and managing the procurement and storage of food grains.
28. The Cabinet Committee on Housing deals with:
(a) Policies related to urban development and planning.
(b) Matters concerning the provision of housing for all, particularly the economically weaker sections.
(c) Issues related to environmental clearances for construction projects.
(d) Strategies for promoting real estate investment.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on policies and programs aimed at providing housing for all segments of the population, with a particular emphasis on affordable housing.
29. The Cabinet Committee on Water Resources deals with:
(a) Policies related to ocean development and management.
(b) Matters concerning the management, conservation, and equitable distribution of water resources.
(c) Issues related to flood control and irrigation projects.
(d) Strategies for promoting water sports and tourism.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is responsible for formulating policies and strategies related to the sustainable management and use of India’s water resources.
30. The Cabinet Committee on Chemicals and Fertilizers deals with:
(a) Policies related to the pharmaceutical industry.
(b) Matters concerning the production, pricing, and distribution of chemicals and fertilizers.
(c) Issues related to environmental regulations for chemical industries.
(d) Strategies for promoting the export of chemical products.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on the policies and issues related to the production, availability, and pricing of chemicals and fertilizers, which are crucial for various sectors, including agriculture.
31. The Cabinet Committee on Textiles deals with:
(a) Policies related to the leather industry.
(b) Matters concerning the production, promotion, and export of textiles and garments.
(c) Issues related to the jute industry.
(d) Strategies for promoting handloom and handicrafts.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is responsible for formulating policies and strategies aimed at the growth and development of the textile and garment industry in India.
32. The Cabinet Committee on Mines deals with:
(a) Policies related to oil and natural gas exploration.
(b) Matters concerning the regulation and development of the mining sector.
(c) Issues related to environmental impact assessment of mining projects.
(d) Strategies for promoting the export of minerals.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on the policies and regulations governing the mining sector, including exploration, extraction, and management of mineral resources.
33. The Cabinet Committee on Steel deals with:
(a) Policies related to the aluminum industry.
(b) Matters concerning the production, pricing, and distribution of steel.
(c) Issues related to the import of steel products.
(d) Strategies for promoting the use of steel in infrastructure projects.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is responsible for addressing issues and formulating policies related to the steel industry in India.
34. The Cabinet Committee on Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises deals with:
(a) Policies related to small-scale industries.
(b) Matters concerning the functioning and reform of heavy industries and Public Sector Enterprises.
(c) Issues related to industrial pollution.
(d) Strategies for promoting foreign direct investment in manufacturing.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee focuses on the performance, efficiency, and strategic direction of heavy industries and Public Sector Enterprises in India.
35. The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Parliamentary Affairs.
(c) Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
(d) Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: While the Prime Minister can chair any committee, the Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs is typically headed by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, who is responsible for coordinating government business in Parliament.
36. The Cabinet Committee on Accommodation is usually headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.
(c) Minister of Home Affairs.
(d) Minister of Parliamentary Affairs.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Cabinet Committee on Accommodation, which deals with the allotment of government housing, is usually chaired by the Minister of Home Affairs.
37. The Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Finance.
(c) Minister of Commerce and Industry.
(d) Deputy Chairman of NITI Aayog.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Given its importance for the overall economy, the Cabinet Committee on Investment and Growth is usually chaired by the Prime Minister.
38. The Cabinet Committee on Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
(c) Minister of Education.
(d) Minister of Labour and Employment.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Due to the high priority given to skill development and entrepreneurship, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister to ensure effective coordination and implementation.
39. The Cabinet Committee on Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
(c) Minister of Rural Development.
(d) Minister of Food Processing Industries.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Given the critical importance of agriculture, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister to provide overall guidance and ensure effective policy implementation.
40. The Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Road Transport and Highways.
(c) Minister of Railways.
(d) Minister of Finance.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Due to the overarching impact of infrastructure on economic development, this key committee is usually chaired by the Prime Minister.
41. The Cabinet Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
(c) Minister of Tribal Affairs.
(d) Minister of Minority Affairs.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Recognizing the importance of social justice, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister to ensure a focused and coordinated approach.
42. The Cabinet Committee on External Affairs is invariably headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of External Affairs.
(c) Minister of Defence.
(d) National Security Advisor.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Given the strategic importance of foreign policy, the Cabinet Committee on External Affairs is almost always chaired by the Prime Minister.
43. The Cabinet Committee on Disaster Management is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Home Affairs.
(c) Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
(d) Minister of Earth Sciences.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: As disaster management involves internal security and coordination across various agencies, this committee is usually headed by the Minister of Home Affairs.
44. The Cabinet Committee on Science and Technology is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Science and Technology.
(c) Minister of Education.
(d) Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Recognizing the importance of science and technology for national development, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister.
45. The Cabinet Committee on Welfare of Other Backward Classes is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment.
(c) Minister of Minority Affairs.
(d) Minister of Rural Development.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: To ensure focused attention on the welfare of OBCs, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister.
46. The Cabinet Committee on Minority Affairs is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Minority Affairs.
(c) Minister of Home Affairs.
(d) Minister of External Affairs.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Given the sensitive nature of minority affairs, this committee is often chaired by the Prime Minister to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach.
47. The Cabinet Committee on Food and Public Distribution is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
(c) Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
(d) Minister of Commerce and Industry.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is usually headed by the Minister directly in charge of the Department of Food and Public Distribution.
48. The Cabinet Committee on Housing is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.
(c) Minister of Finance.
(d) Minister of Rural Development.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is usually headed by the Minister directly responsible for housing and urban development.
49. The Cabinet Committee on Water Resources is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Jal Shakti.
(c) Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
(d) Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is usually headed by the Minister in charge of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which is specifically dedicated to water resources.
50. The Cabinet Committee on Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises is often headed by the:
(a) Prime Minister.
(b) Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.
(c) Minister of Finance.
(d) Minister of Commerce and Industry.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: This committee is usually headed by the Minister directly responsible for the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.
Cabinet Committees are central to the smooth functioning of the Indian government, making them an important area for your UPSC CSE and other competitive exams. By understanding the structure and roles of these committees, you can improve your chances of scoring well in the Polity section of your exams.
We hope this collection of MCQs with detailed explanations has helped you strengthen your grasp of this topic. Regular practice and thorough revision will ensure you are well-prepared for any question that comes your way. Don’t forget to explore more such posts on essential UPSC topics, and keep revising!