UPSC Mains 2025: The must-revise polity and governance themes

Srinagar, Aug 05: The UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination is set to begin on August 22. General Studies Paper II can be especially demanding, given its vast and evolving syllabus. With a strong focus on Polity and Governance, staying updated with current developments and linking them back to the syllabus is a crucial—if often overwhelming—task.

In September, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the proposal to conduct simultaneous elections in India, as a high-level committee headed by former President Ram Nath Kovind recommended. This reignited the debate over “One Nation One Election” (ONOE). Some believe that simultaneous elections would benefit the citizens, while others argue that it would undermine the basic structure of the Constitution of India.

To support your preparation, here’s a curated checklist of key current affairs topics in Polity and Governance, paired with insights from previous year questions (PYQs). These connections will help you understand why each topic matters—and whether it's already part of your revision strategy. Below is a curated list of the top most important topics, explained with brief revision notes.

1. One Nation, One Election

This proposal aims to hold Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections simultaneously to reduce costs and improve governance continuity. The practice existed until 1967 but broke down due to early dissolutions. The Kovind Committee has recommended two-phase elections, fixed terms, and common electoral rolls. While it could bring efficiency, critics argue it may affect federalism and accountability.

🧠 PYQ Insight: UPSC 2024 & 2017 papers covered this idea under electoral reforms and accountability.

2. Role of Governor and Centre-State Relations

Frequent controversies over the use of Article 356, delays in assent to bills, and political interference have sparked debates over the role of Governors. The Punchhi Commission recommended clearer guidelines and limits on the Governor's discretion. This topic links directly to federalism and constitutional morality.

3. Right to Information (RTI)

The RTI Act (2005) empowers citizens to access public information. Recent amendments, especially concerning the tenure and service conditions of Information Commissioners, have raised concerns over independence. Also, debates around growing delays in response, misuse, and dilution of RTI need close attention.

4. Electoral Reforms in India

This broad theme covers issues like criminalization of politics, state funding of elections, use of EVMs & VVPATs, and electoral bonds. The Law Commission, Election Commission, and civil society have proposed reforms, many still pending. Understand the challenges to free and fair elections.

5. Role and Reforms in Civil Services

Debates around politicization, lateral entry, capacity building, and Mission Karmayogi make this a key governance topic. UPSC often links administrative reforms to effective service delivery and public accountability.

6. Local Governance and 73rd/74th Amendments

The role of Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies in grassroots democracy is vital. Key issues include lack of funds, functionaries, and devolution of power, especially post-pandemic. Also, look at smart cities, urban planning, and rural decentralization efforts.

7. Separation of Powers and Judicial Activism

Analyze how the judiciary, legislature, and executive interact. With recent SC verdicts on Article 370, electoral bonds, and sedition, judicial activism and constitutional interpretation are in the spotlight. Also, study collegium vs NJAC and delays in appointments.

8. Uniform Civil Code (UCC)

Article 44 talks about a UCC for all citizens. Several states and political groups have raised this demand, citing gender justice and national integration, while others call it an attack on religious freedom and diversity. It’s a hot topic involving constitutional rights and secularism.

9. Caste and Social Justice

There is rising demand for a nationwide caste census to identify and address real inequalities. States like Bihar have released their own caste surveys. The debate ties in with reservation policy, affirmative action, and data-driven governance.

10. Emergency Provisions

Study the 1975 Emergency, SC’s role, and the balance between national security and individual rights.

11. NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission to strengthen cooperative federalism and act as a think tank. Criticisms include lack of financial powers, inadequate state participation, and limited influence on policymaking. Compare its role with the Finance Commission.

12. Digital Governance

The new Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 is key. UPSC may ask about citizen rights in a digital age.

13. Role of NGOs, SHGs, and Civil Society

Their involvement in education, health, disaster relief, and advocacy is growing. Yet, issues like FCRA restrictions, funding transparency, and state surveillance are critical concerns. Be ready to critically evaluate their regulation vs autonomy.

14. Environmental Governance

Governance-related aspects of climate change, like the National Green Tribunal, polluter pays principle, EIA, and climate justice, are frequently asked. Also look at India’s net-zero target, climate finance, and international commitments (e.g., COP summits)