Constitutional Development and Making PYQs – Polity, SSC & Railway

Answer: Option 4 — Ireland
The Directive Principles of State Policy in Part IV (Articles 36-51) were taken from the Constitution of Ireland (1937), which itself borrowed the idea from the Spanish Constitution of 1931.
Dr Ambedkar called them the novel feature of the Constitution.
Revision note — Borrowed features of the Indian Constitution
• Ireland: Directive Principles, the method of electing the President (electoral college), and nomination of members to the Rajya Sabha.
• Britain: parliamentary government, rule of law, single citizenship, cabinet system, writs, bicameralism, legislative procedure.
• USA: Fundamental Rights, judicial review, independence of the judiciary, impeachment of the President, removal of judges, the post of Vice-President.
• Canada: federation with a strong Centre, residuary powers with the Centre, appointment of Governors by the Centre, advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
• Germany (Weimar): suspension of Fundamental Rights during an Emergency. France: the ideals of republic, liberty, equality and fraternity in the Preamble.
• Australia: Concurrent List, freedom of trade and commerce (Article 301), joint sitting of the two Houses.
• USSR: Fundamental Duties and the ideal of justice in the Preamble. South Africa: procedure for amendment and election of Rajya Sabha members. Japan: procedure established by law.
• Directive Principles are non-justiciable (Article 37) but fundamental in the governance of the country; Fundamental Rights (Part III) are justiciable.
Do not mix these up
• Ireland vs USA — Ireland gave the Directive Principles; the USA gave the Fundamental Rights.
• Canada vs Australia — Canada gave the strong-Centre federation and residuary powers; Australia gave the Concurrent List and the joint sitting.
Also asked from this topic: the source of the Directive Principles (Ireland); whether DPSPs are justiciable (no, unlike Fundamental Rights); the Article on the Uniform Civil Code (Article 44).

Answer: Option 3 — Rajendra Prasad
The Constituent Assembly first met on 9 December 1946 under the temporary chairmanship of Dr Sachchidananda Sinha, its oldest member.
On 11 December 1946 it elected Dr Rajendra Prasad as its permanent President, and he presided until the Constitution was adopted.
Revision note — The Constituent Assembly of India
• Formed under the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946; elections were held in July-August 1946 by the provincial assemblies through indirect election.
• Original strength 389 (296 from British India, 93 from the princely states); after Partition it fell to 299.
• H.C. Mukherjee was elected Vice-President; Sir B.N. Rau was the Constitutional Adviser.
• Jawaharlal Nehru moved the Objectives Resolution on 13 December 1946, adopted on 22 January 1947; it became the basis of the Preamble.
• The Drafting Committee was set up on 29 August 1947 with Dr B.R. Ambedkar as chairman and seven members.
• The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950; the Assembly took 2 years, 11 months and 18 days over 11 sessions.
• Sardar Patel chaired the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities and the Provincial Constitution Committee; Nehru chaired the Union Powers and Union Constitution committees.
Do not mix these up
• Sachchidananda Sinha vs Rajendra Prasad — Sinha was the temporary president for the first sitting (9 December 1946); Prasad was the elected, permanent President (from 11 December 1946).
• Rajendra Prasad vs B.R. Ambedkar — Prasad presided over the whole Assembly; Ambedkar chaired only its Drafting Committee.
Also asked from this topic: the temporary president of the Constituent Assembly (Dr Sachchidananda Sinha); its Constitutional Adviser (B.N. Rau); the date of its first meeting (9 December 1946).

Answer: Option 1 — British Constitution
The legislative (law-making) procedure, like the parliamentary form of government itself, was borrowed from Britain.
The Westminster Parliament is the model for the three readings, the committee stage and the passage of a bill through two Houses.
Revision note — Sources of the Indian Constitution
• Britain: parliamentary government, rule of law, legislative procedure, single citizenship, cabinet system, prerogative writs, bicameralism, office of Speaker.
• USA: Fundamental Rights, judicial review, independence of the judiciary, impeachment of the President, removal of judges, post of Vice-President, the Preamble.
• Ireland: Directive Principles, nomination of members to the Rajya Sabha, method of election of the President.
• Canada: federation with a strong Centre, residuary powers with the Centre, appointment of Governors by the Centre, advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
• Australia: Concurrent List, freedom of trade and commerce (Article 301), joint sitting of the two Houses.
• Germany (Weimar): suspension of Fundamental Rights during Emergency; USSR: Fundamental Duties; France: republic and liberty-equality-fraternity.
• Japan: procedure established by law; South Africa: amendment procedure and election of Rajya Sabha members.
• The Government of India Act, 1935 is the largest single source — federal scheme, office of Governor, emergency provisions, Public Service Commissions.
Do not mix these up
• Procedure established by law (Japan) vs due process of law (USA) — India adopted the Japanese phrase in Article 21.
• Election of Rajya Sabha members (South Africa) vs nomination to the Rajya Sabha (Ireland) — two different features from two different countries.
Also asked from this topic: the source of single citizenship (British Constitution); the feature NOT borrowed from Britain (appointment of Governors by the Centre — Canada).

Answer: Option 2 — Canada
Canada is the federation that keeps residuary powers with the Centre, and India followed it.
Under Article 248 and Entry 97 of the Union List, any subject not found in the three Lists belongs to Parliament — in the USA and Australia the residue rests with the states.
Revision note — Centre-State legislative relations (Part XI, Articles 245-255)
• The Seventh Schedule has three Lists: Union List (100 subjects, originally 97), State List (61, originally 66) and Concurrent List (52, originally 47).
• Article 246 distributes the subjects; Article 248 gives the residuary powers, including residuary taxation, to Parliament.
• Parliament may legislate on a State subject under Art 249 (Rajya Sabha resolution by two-thirds, national interest) and Art 250 (National Emergency).
• Also under Art 252 (request of two or more States), Art 253 (international treaties) and Art 356 (President's Rule).
• Article 254: on a Concurrent subject the Union law prevails, unless the State law was reserved for and received the President's assent.
• The 42nd Amendment (1976) moved education, forests, weights and measures, wild animals and birds, and administration of justice from the State List to the Concurrent List.
• Other Canadian borrowings: federation with a strong Centre, appointment of Governors by the Centre, advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.
Do not mix these up
• Canada vs Australia — Canada gave the strong Centre and residuary powers; Australia gave the Concurrent List itself, freedom of trade and the joint sitting.
• Residuary powers vs nomination to the Rajya Sabha — nomination comes from Ireland, not Canada.
Also asked from this topic: who legislates on residuary subjects (Parliament); the Article letting Parliament legislate on the State List in the national interest (Article 249).

Answer: Option 2 — Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Dr B. R. Ambedkar chaired the seven-member Drafting Committee set up on 29 August 1947 and piloted the draft through the Constituent Assembly.
For that work he is called the chief architect or Father of the Indian Constitution.
Revision note — Making of the Indian Constitution
• The Constituent Assembly was formed under the Cabinet Mission Plan, 1946 and first met on 9 December 1946 with Dr Sachchidananda Sinha, its oldest member, as temporary president.
• Dr Rajendra Prasad was elected its permanent President on 11 December 1946; H. C. Mukherjee was Vice-President.
• The Drafting Committee had seven members, chaired by Ambedkar.
• The other six were Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar, K. M. Munshi, Syed Mohammad Saadulla, N. Madhava Rau and T. T. Krishnamachari.
• Sir B. N. Rau was the Constitutional Adviser and prepared the initial draft after studying other constitutions.
• The Objectives Resolution, moved by Jawaharlal Nehru on 13 December 1946 and adopted on 22 January 1947, became the basis of the Preamble.
• The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950; the Assembly took 2 years, 11 months and 18 days.
• Ambedkar was independent India's first Law Minister and was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1990.
Do not mix these up
• Ambedkar vs Rajendra Prasad — Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee; Rajendra Prasad was President of the Constituent Assembly itself.
• Ambedkar vs B. N. Rau — Rau was the paid Constitutional Adviser who wrote the first draft; Ambedkar's committee shaped and defended it.
Also asked from this topic: the Chairman of the Drafting Committee (Dr B. R. Ambedkar); the Constitutional Adviser (B. N. Rau); the Assembly's first, temporary president (Dr Sachchidananda Sinha).

Answer: Option 1 — British Constitution
India took the whole Westminster parliamentary model from Britain, and with it the office of the Speaker — a presiding officer who is a member of the House, elected by it, and expected to act above party.
Revision note — The Speaker and what India borrowed from Britain
• From the British Constitution India took parliamentary government, the office of Speaker, the rule of law, single citizenship and cabinet responsibility.
• Britain also gave legislative procedure, parliamentary privileges, bicameralism, the prerogative writs and the office of the CAG.
• Article 93 — the Lok Sabha chooses two of its members as Speaker and Deputy Speaker; Article 94 covers vacation and removal of the office.
• The Speaker can be removed only by a resolution passed by an effective majority of the Lok Sabha after 14 days' prior notice, and under Article 96 does not preside while that motion is debated.
• Article 110(3) — the Speaker certifies a Money Bill, and the decision is final and not open to question in any court.
• The Speaker has a casting vote in a tie (Article 100), presides over a joint sitting (Article 108) and decides disqualification for defection under the Tenth Schedule.
• G. V. Mavalankar was the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha and is called the Father of the Lok Sabha; Meira Kumar was the first woman Speaker (2009).
Do not mix these up
• Speaker of Lok Sabha vs Chairman of Rajya Sabha — the Speaker is a member of the House and votes only to break a tie; the Chairman is the Vice-President, who is not a member of the Rajya Sabha.
• Borrowings from Britain vs from the USA — Britain gave the parliamentary system and the Speaker; the USA gave Fundamental Rights, judicial review and impeachment.
• Britain vs Canada vs Ireland — Canada gave the federation with a strong Centre and residuary powers; Ireland gave the Directive Principles and nomination to the Rajya Sabha.
Also asked from this topic: the source of single citizenship and of the CAG (Britain); the feature that is not British (Fundamental Duties); who certifies a Money Bill (the Speaker).

Answer: Option 4 — United States Constitution
Judicial review — the power of courts to test a law against the Constitution and declare it void — is borrowed from the United States.
Revision note — Judicial review and the borrowed features
• In the USA judicial review is judge-made, laid down in Marbury v. Madison (1803). In India it is written into the Constitution itself.
• Its textual base is Article 13 — any law inconsistent with the Fundamental Rights is void. It is enforced through Article 32 (Supreme Court) and Article 226 (High Courts).
• Judicial review is part of the basic structure — Kesavananda Bharati (1973), Minerva Mills (1980), L. Chandra Kumar (1997).
• It is what makes the Supreme Court the guardian of the Constitution.
• Also from the USA: Fundamental Rights, the Preamble, impeachment of the President, the office of Vice-President, independence of the judiciary.
• From the UK: parliamentary government, rule of law, the legislative procedure, single citizenship, the cabinet system, writs, the office of the Speaker.
• From Ireland: Directive Principles, nomination to the Rajya Sabha, the method of electing the President. From France: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.
• From Canada: a quasi-federal structure with a strong Centre and residuary powers with the Union. From Australia: the Concurrent List and freedom of trade and commerce.
Do not mix these up
• Judicial review vs judicial activism — review tests the constitutionality of a law; activism is the court's expansive role through PIL, traced to the mid-1970s.
• Article 13 vs Article 32 — Article 13 supplies the ground (void laws); Article 32 supplies the remedy (writs).
• USA vs UK borrowings — Fundamental Rights and judicial review came from the USA; the writs and parliamentary government came from the UK.
Also asked from this topic: the Article that forms the basis of judicial review (Article 13); the guardian of the Constitution (the Supreme Court);
the case recognising judicial review as basic structure (Kesavananda Bharati); when judicial activism began (mid-1970s).

Preamble of Indian Constitution
The Preamble is based on theObjectives Resolution
drafted byPandit Jawaharlal Nehru.
Key Facts:
• Presented on13 December 1946in Constituent Assembly
• Laid down fundamental principles and objectives
• Became the foundation of the Constitution's Preamble
Answer: Option 2 → Objectives Resolution

Topic: Constitutional Borrowings
The phrase'Social, Economic and Political Justice'in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution is inspired by theRussian Revolution (1917).
The Russian Revolution emphasized socialist ideals including social equality, economic redistribution, and political rights for all classes.
India adopted these principles to ensure comprehensive justice beyond just legal/political aspects.
Answer: Option 4 → Russian Revolution

Topic: Constitutional History of India
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is based on theObjectives Resolution.
Key Facts:
• Drafted and moved byPandit Jawaharlal Nehruon December 13, 1946
• Adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947
• Laid down the fundamental principles and philosophy of the Constitution
• Declared India as Independent, Sovereign, Republic with justice, equality, and fraternity
Answer: Option 1 → Objectives Resolution

Constitutional Borrowings from UK:
1.Bicameral Parliament→ Borrowed from UK (Lords + Commons)
2.Speaker of Lok Sabha→ Borrowed from UK (Speaker of Commons)
3.Single Citizenship→ Borrowed from UK
Appointment of State Governors:
Governors appointed by President (Centre) is anIndian feature.
UK has no such provision as it's a unitary system.
This reflects India's federal structure with central oversight.
Answer: Option 4 → Appointment of state governors by the Centre

Correct Answer: Preamble of the Constitution — Option (c)
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is borrowed from the United States of America (USA). Features borrowed from the USA for Indian Constitution: Preamble — the concept of a written preamble beginning with 'We, the People' was inspired by the US Constitution's preamble; Fundamental Rights (Part III) — the concept and structure of enforceable fundamental rights was influenced by the US Bill of Rights; Judicial Review — power of courts to review constitutionality of laws, borrowed from US; Independence of Judiciary — separation of judiciary from executive; Impeachment of the President — procedure for removal of constitutional functionaries; Vice-President's role as ex-officio Chairperson of the Upper House; Sources of other borrowed features: Fundamental Duties: Borrowed from the USSR (Soviet Union) Constitution — added by 42nd Amendment, 1976; Concept of Republic: While India is a republic (not a monarchy), the formal concept as presented in the Preamble was influenced by France (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity) and the USA; Freedom of Trade, Commerce and Intercourse: Borrowed from the Australian Constitution (Article 301-307); Cabinet System of Government: Borrowed from the British (Westminster) model; Directive Principles of State Policy: Borrowed from the Irish Constitution; Emergency Provisions: Borrowed from the German (Weimar Republic) Constitution.
Option (a) Fundamental Duties — Incorrect: Fundamental Duties (Article 51-A) were added to the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Amendment (1976) — they were borrowed from the Constitution of the USSR (Soviet Union), NOT from the USA; the US Constitution does not have a specific list of fundamental duties.
Option (b) Concept of 'Republic' — Incorrect: While the USA is also a republic, the 'Republic' concept in the Indian Preamble is associated more with the French Revolution (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity — borrowed from France) than solely from the USA; moreover, the specific feature borrowed from the USA for the Preamble is its format and 'We, the People' concept.
Option (d) Freedom of Trade and Commerce — Incorrect: The provisions relating to Freedom of Trade, Commerce and Intercourse (Articles 301-307 of the Indian Constitution) were borrowed from the Australian Constitution — NOT from the USA.

Correct Answer: Government of India Act, 1935 — Option (c)
The Government of India Act, 1935 is often called the 'blueprint' (or 'parent document') of the Indian Constitution because a very large number of its provisions were directly incorporated into the Indian Constitution (1950). Key provisions of the Government of India Act, 1935 incorporated into the Indian Constitution: Federal structure with division of powers between Centre and States (Union List, State List, Concurrent List — the basis of India's 7th Schedule); Bicameral legislature at the Centre; Provincial autonomy; Emergency provisions; Public Service Commissions (UPSC, SPSCs); Federal Court (which became the Supreme Court of India); Governor's role and powers; Fundamental Rights framework; Administrative provisions and bureaucracy structure. Historical context: The Act was passed by the British Parliament; it was originally meant to establish a federation of British India and princely states (the federation part never came into effect); it gave significant autonomy to provinces (Provincial Autonomy from April 1937); Dr. B.R. Ambedkar acknowledged that many provisions of the Indian Constitution were drawn from the 1935 Act.
Option (a) Morley-Minto Reforms (1909) — Incorrect: The Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act, 1909) introduced separate electorates for Muslims and increased the size of legislative councils; while significant in Indian constitutional history, it is NOT called the blueprint of the Indian Constitution.
Option (b) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) — Incorrect: The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (Government of India Act, 1919) introduced the concept of 'Dyarchy' in provinces and expanded legislative councils; while important, it is NOT called the blueprint of the Indian Constitution — the 1935 Act holds that distinction.
Option (d) Indian Independence Act, 1947 — Incorrect: The Indian Independence Act, 1947 legally transferred power from Britain to the two new dominions of India and Pakistan; while historically crucial, it is NOT called the blueprint of the Indian Constitution — that distinction belongs to the Government of India Act, 1935.

Correct Answer: Ireland — Option (d)
The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), enshrined in Part IV (Articles 36–51) of the Indian Constitution, were borrowed from the Constitution of Ireland ( Bunreacht na hÉireann , 1937). The concept was first developed in the Spanish Constitution of 1931 and then adopted by Ireland in 1937. India's framers, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, incorporated this concept to lay down socio-economic goals for the state. DPSPs are non-justiciable (cannot be enforced in a court of law) but are fundamental in governance and serve as guidelines for the state while making laws and policies.
Option (a) United Kingdom — Incorrect: From the UK, India borrowed the Parliamentary system of government, Rule of Law, bicameral legislature, and the Cabinet system — not DPSP.
Option (b) Canada — Incorrect: From Canada, India borrowed the federal system with a strong centre , residuary powers with the Union, and the appointment of State Governors by the Centre.
Option (c) United States of America — Incorrect: From the USA, India borrowed Fundamental Rights, judicial review, independence of judiciary, impeachment of the President, and the preamble's idea — not DPSP.

Correct Answer: B.N. Rau — Option (a)
Sir Benegal Narsing Rau (B.N. Rau) served as the Constitutional Adviser to the Constituent Assembly of India. He played an indispensable role in drafting India's Constitution. Key contributions of B.N. Rau: He prepared the initial draft of the Indian Constitution based on his comparative study of constitutions of several countries; He traveled to the USA, UK, Ireland, and Canada to study various constitutional models and consult legal experts; He met eminent constitutional experts including US Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter; His initial draft served as the working paper for the Drafting Committee headed by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar; He later served as India's representative to the United Nations Security Council (1950-52); He also served as a judge of the International Court of Justice. B.N. Rau was a distinguished civil servant of the Indian Civil Service (ICS) and is remembered as the 'Architect of the Indian Constitution's framework'.
Option (b) Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar — Incorrect: Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar was a prominent member of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly and made significant contributions; however, he served as a member, not as the Constitutional Adviser — that position was held by B.N. Rau.
Option (c) T.T. Krishnamachari — Incorrect: T.T. Krishnamachari (T.T.K.) was a member of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly who replaced B.L. Mitter; he later served as Finance Minister of India; he was not the Constitutional Adviser.
Option (d) K.M. Munshi — Incorrect: K.M. Munshi (Kanhaiyalal Maneklal Munshi) was a prominent member of the Constituent Assembly and the Drafting Committee, known for drafting important articles; however, he was a member, not the Constitutional Adviser — B.N. Rau held that specific role.

The concept of 'Single citizenship' in the Indian Constitution is adopted from the British Constitution.
India, being a former British colony, incorporated many such features from the British system.
Unlike the US which has separate state citizenships, India follows single citizenship for the entire country.
Thus, the provision is drawn directly from the British constitutional framework.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution and is widely regarded as its chief architect. He was also a pioneering social reformer who fought against caste discrimination and dedicated his life to the upliftment of Dalits and marginalized communities.
(1) Mahatma Gandhi led the independence movement but was not the drafter of the Constitution.
(2) Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India and President of the Constituent Assembly, not its chief drafter.
(4) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel is known for integrating princely states into India, not for Constitution drafting.

The correct answer is (a) Dec 9, 1946.
The Constituent Assembly of India held its first meeting on December 9, 1946, in the Constitution Hall (now Parliament House). Dr. Sachidananda Sinha was elected as the temporary Chairman. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was later elected as the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly.
(b) Aug 9, 1946: August 9 is associated with the Quit India Movement (1942); not the date of the Constituent Assembly's first meeting.
(c) July 9, 1946: Not associated with the Constituent Assembly's first meeting; the elections to the Constituent Assembly were held in July 1946, but the first meeting was in December 1946.
(d) Nov 26, 1949: This is Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) — the date when the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution; not the date of the first meeting.

The correct answer is (a) 389.
The Indian Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 and initially had 389 members — 292 from British India provinces, 4 from Chief Commissioner's Provinces, and 93 from Princely States. After the partition of India in 1947, members from the areas now in Pakistan left, reducing the membership to 299.
(b) 390, (c) 391, (d) 392: These are all incorrect numbers; the initial strength of the Constituent Assembly was specifically 389 members.

The correct answer is (a) Rajendra Prasad.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad served as the President (Chairman) of the Constituent Assembly of India from December 9, 1946 until it completed the Constitution on November 26, 1949. He then became the first President of independent India (1950-1962), serving two terms.
(b) B.R. Ambedkar: Chaired the Drafting Committee of the Constitution (not the Constituent Assembly itself); known as the Father of the Indian Constitution; became India's first Law Minister.
(c) Jawaharlal Nehru: Became India's first Prime Minister; moved the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly; not the Assembly's president.
(d) Sardar Patel: Served as India's first Home Minister and played a crucial role in integration of princely states; not the Constituent Assembly's president.

The correct answer is (c) J.B. Kripalani.
J.B. Kripalani (Jivatram Bhagwandas Kripalani, also known as Acharya Kripalani) served as the chairman of the Constituent Assembly's Fundamental Rights Sub-Committee. This sub-committee was responsible for drafting the fundamental rights provisions that became Part III of the Indian Constitution.
(a) H.C. Mookherjee : Served as Vice-President of the Constituent Assembly; not the chairman of the Fundamental Rights Sub-Committee.
(b) G.V. Mavalankar : First Speaker of the Lok Sabha; not directly associated with the Fundamental Rights Sub-Committee chairmanship.
(d) A.V. Thakkar: Also known as Thakkar Bapa; a social worker active in tribal welfare; not the chairman of this committee.

The concept of Fundamental Duties (Part IV-A, Article 51A), added to the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Amendment (1976) based on the Swaran Singh Committee recommendations, was borrowed from the Constitution of the USSR (Soviet Union). The Soviet Constitution listed duties of citizens alongside their rights.
(a) Incorrect: Germany is the source of Fundamental Rights provisions in some aspects; Fundamental Duties were borrowed from USSR.
(b) Incorrect: Canada contributed the concept of a strong Centre and distribution of residual powers in the Indian Constitution, not Fundamental Duties.
(c) Incorrect: 'Other' is not applicable; the correct source country is the USSR.

The concept of single citizenship (where all residents are citizens of India only, not of individual states) was borrowed from the British (UK) Constitution. In Britain, there is one common citizenship for the entire nation, unlike the US federal system where citizens have both state and national citizenship.
(a) Incorrect: USSR contributed the concept of Fundamental Duties to the Indian Constitution, not single citizenship.
(b) Incorrect: Canada contributed the concept of a strong Central government and distribution of residual powers, not single citizenship.
(c) Incorrect: France contributed the ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity; single citizenship was borrowed from Britain.

The system of election to the Rajya Sabha on the basis of proportional representation through single transferable vote was sourced from the South African Constitution. South Africa's legislative model influenced the method of electing upper house members proportionally.
(a) Incorrect: USSR contributed the concept of Fundamental Duties; it is not the source for proportional representation in Rajya Sabha elections.
(b) Incorrect: France contributed Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity ideals; it did not contribute the proportional representation system for the Rajya Sabha.
(c) Incorrect: Canada contributed the concept of a strong Centre; it is not the source for Rajya Sabha election by proportional representation.

Fundamental Duties were incorporated through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment in 1976 and were inspired by the Soviet (USSR) constitution, not the British system. Features like Parliamentary government, Rule of Law, and Cabinet responsibility are all borrowed from Britain.
(a) Incorrect: Parliamentary government (Cabinet system with PM as head) is indeed borrowed from Britain.
(b) Incorrect: Rule of Law is a concept taken from the British constitution and Dicey's writings.
(c) Incorrect: Cabinet responsibility (collective responsibility to Parliament) is borrowed from the British system.

The office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India was borrowed from Britain. The CAG is the supreme audit institution of India, responsible for auditing the accounts of the Union and State governments.
(b) Incorrect: Australia contributed features like the Concurrent List; the CAG model came from Britain.
(c) Incorrect: Canada contributed the concept of a strong Centre with residuary powers, not the CAG office.
(d) Incorrect: The USA contributed features like fundamental rights and judicial review; the CAG concept is British.

The correct answer is Jawaharlal Nehru (Option 1).
The Objectives Resolution was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly on December 13, 1946. This resolution laid down the fundamental principles and philosophy of the Indian Constitution, declaring India as an Independent Sovereign Republic.
Option 2 - Vallabhbhai Patel: Patel chaired the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities; he did not move the Objectives Resolution.
Option 3 - B.R. Ambedkar: Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution; he did not move the Objectives Resolution.
Option 4 - Rajendra Prasad: Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly; he did not move the Objectives Resolution.

The correct answer is Sachidanand Sinha (Option 2).
Sachidanand Sinha served as the temporary (pro tem ) chairman of the Constituent Assembly when it first met on December 9, 1946. He was the eldest member of the Assembly and thus presided over the initial proceedings until a permanent President was elected.
Option 1 - B.N. Rau: B.N. Rau served as the Constitutional Adviser to the Constituent Assembly and prepared the initial draft of the Constitution; he was not the temporary chairman.
Option 3 - Dr. Rajendra Prasad: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly on December 11, 1946; he was not the temporary chairman.
Option 4 - H.C. Mukherjee: H.C. Mukherjee served as the Vice President of the Constituent Assembly; he was not the temporary chairman.

The correct answer is Fundamental Rights (Option 1).
The concept of Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution is borrowed from the Bill of Rights of the United States Constitution. These rights guarantee basic civil liberties and freedoms to Indian citizens, protecting them from arbitrary government action.
Option 2 - Emergency provisions: Emergency provisions in the Indian Constitution are primarily borrowed from the Weimar Constitution of Germany.
Option 3 - Directive Principles: The Directive Principles of State Policy are borrowed from the Constitution of Ireland (Eire).
Option 4 - Parliamentary system: The Parliamentary system of government is borrowed from the British Constitution (Westminster model).

The correct answer is 26th November 1949 (Option 2).
The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26th November 1949. This day is celebrated as Constitution Day ( Samvidhan Diwas). The Constitution came into effect on 26th January 1950, which is celebrated as Republic Day.
Option 1 - 15th August 1947: This is India's Independence Day, when India became free from British rule.
Option 3 - 9th December 1946: This was the date of the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly, not the adoption of the Constitution.
Option 4 - 26th January 1950: This is Republic Day, when the Constitution came into force, not when it was adopted.

Mahatma Gandhi was NOT a member of the Constituent Assembly of India. Gandhi was the guiding spirit of the independence movement and Father of the Nation, but he deliberately stayed away from the Constituent Assembly, believing his role was more that of a moral guide than a constitution-drafter. Option 3 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar WAS a member of the Constituent Assembly and served as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee — he is considered the principal architect of the Indian Constitution.
Option 2 is wrong: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel WAS a prominent member of the Constituent Assembly and played a key role in integrating princely states and shaping the Constitution's federal structure.
Option 4 is wrong: Jawaharlal Nehru WAS a leading member of the Constituent Assembly. He moved the Objectives Resolution in December 1946, which formed the philosophical basis of the Indian Constitution.

The Constitution of India was put into force (came into effect) on 26 January 1950, which is celebrated as Republic Day. Although the Constitution was adopted and signed on 26 November 1949 (celebrated as Constitution Day/ Samvidhan Divas), it formally came into force on 26 January 1950. Option 2 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: 15 August 1947 is India's Independence Day — the date India became independent from British rule; the Constitution had not yet been drafted on this date.
Option 3 is wrong: 26 November 1949 is when the Constituent Assembly adopted and signed the Constitution (Constitution Day); however, most of its provisions came into force on 26 January 1950, not 26 November 1949.
Option 4 is wrong: 30 January 1950 has no constitutional significance; the Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950, not 30 January.

The concept of Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) was borrowed from the Irish Constitution of 1937 ( Bunreacht na hEireann ), which itself drew from the Spanish Constitution of 1931. The DPSPs are contained in Part IV (Articles 36-51) of the Indian Constitution and represent socio-economic goals that the state should strive to achieve. Option 4 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: From Canada, India borrowed the concept of a strong central government, residual powers vested in the Centre, and the appointment of Governors by the Centre — not the DPSPs.
Option 2 is wrong: From the United States, India borrowed the concept of fundamental rights, independent judiciary, judicial review, and the Preamble's 'We the People' opening — not the DPSPs.
Option 3 is wrong: From the United Kingdom, India borrowed the parliamentary form of government, the concept of the rule of law, single citizenship, and the legislative procedure — not the DPSPs.

Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha was the first and temporary (provisional) president of the Constituent Assembly of India when it first met on December 9, 1946. He was the oldest member of the Assembly and served as the temporary president until Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the permanent president on December 11, 1946. Option 3 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: B.N. Rau (Sir Benegal Narsing Rau) was the Constitutional Advisor to the Constituent Assembly who helped draft the initial draft of the Constitution; he was not the temporary president.
Option 2 is wrong: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee and is considered the principal architect of the Indian Constitution; he was not the temporary president of the Constituent Assembly.
Option 4 is wrong: H.V.R. Iyengar was a senior ICS officer and later served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India; he had no role as the president of the Constituent Assembly.

The provision for the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India was borrowed from the United Kingdom (British system). Under the British system, the Comptroller and Auditor General audits government accounts and reports to Parliament. Similarly, in India, the CAG (Article 148 of the Constitution) is an independent constitutional authority who audits the accounts of the Union and State governments and submits reports to Parliament/State Legislature. The CAG is not subject to the executive's control.
Option 1 is incorrect: Australia's Auditor-General is modelled after the British system but the direct source for India's CAG provision is the UK.
Option 3 is incorrect: Canada has an Auditor General's office also derived from the British Westminster system; however, India specifically borrowed this provision from the UK model.
Option 4 is incorrect: The United States has a Comptroller General heading the GAO (Government Accountability Office), but India's CAG was modelled after the British, not American, system.

India borrowed the provision for suspension of Fundamental Rights during a National Emergency from the Weimar Constitution of Germany. Articles 358 and 359 of the Indian Constitution, which deal with the suspension of Fundamental Rights during emergencies, were inspired by this German constitutional provision.
Option (a) is incorrect: From Canada, India borrowed the concept of a strong Centre (Quasi-federal structure) and the idea of residuary powers with the Centre.
Option (c) is incorrect: From France, India borrowed the concept of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity (from the French Revolution) and the concept of Republic.
Option (d) is incorrect: From the USA, India borrowed the concepts of Fundamental Rights, independence of judiciary, judicial review, and the Preamble's idea.

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) in the Indian Constitution were inspired by the Irish Constitution (1937) . The idea itself can be traced back to the Spanish Constitution of 1931 , but India directly borrowed it from Ireland. DPSPs are guidelines for governance , aimed at ensuring social and economic democracy. They are non-justiciable (not legally enforceable in courts) but are fundamental in the governance of the country. Examples include principles related to equal pay for equal work, promotion of welfare of people, and organisation of village panchayats.

The correct answer is Dr. B. R. Ambedkar , who was appointed as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly on 29 August 1947 . The Drafting Committee had 7 members, and its main responsibility was to prepare the draft of the Indian Constitution. Dr. Ambedkar is often called the “Chief Architect of the Indian Constitution” because of his pivotal role in framing, defending, and finalising the provisions of the Constitution. On the other hand, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly, Jawaharlal Nehru moved the Objectives Resolution, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a major role in the integration of princely states.

India borrowed many constitutional features from different countries while framing the Constitution. From the Australian Constitution , two major provisions were adopted:1. Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse (Article 301–307): This ensures free trade and commerce throughout the territory of India without unnecessary restrictions, a principle drawn from Australia.2. Joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament (Article 108): In case of a deadlock between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, both Houses sit together for a joint session. This practice too is inspired by the Australian parliamentary system.Other features like a federal structure with a strong centre come from Canada, while the advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court is taken from the Government of India Act, 1935. Thus, the correct answer is: A and B both (Option 4).

The correct answer is option 3. In the Constituent Assembly, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights, Minorities, and Tribal and Excluded Areas . This committee was extremely important as it dealt with sensitive issues like fundamental rights for citizens, safeguards for minorities, and the administration of tribal and excluded areas. The committee’s recommendations laid the foundation for key constitutional provisions related to fundamental rights and minority protections. While Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee , and Jawaharlal Nehru led the Union Powers Committee , Patel’s role as the chairman of the Advisory Committee highlighted his statesmanship and balancing approach in handling diverse interests.

G.V. Mavalankar , who later became the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha, was indeed the Chairman of the Committee on the Functions of the Constituent Assembly . This committee was responsible for defining how the Assembly would conduct its work until the Constitution was completed. Other roles were different: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee ; K.M. Munshi was a key member of the Drafting Committee but not the leader of the Fundamental Rights Committee (that role was played by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel initially, with contributions from others); and N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar chaired the Rules of Procedure and Order of Business Committee . Therefore, the correct match is with G.V. Mavalankar.

The correct answer is Alladi Krishnaswamy Aiyar . He was a distinguished lawyer and an important member of the Constituent Assembly. As the head of the Credentials Committee , he verified the credentials of members before they took their seats. His role was crucial in ensuring the legitimacy of the Constituent Assembly’s composition.

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Fundamental duties
The concept of Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution was borrowed from the USSR (Soviet Union). They were added by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 (Article 51A). The Soviet Constitution had a detailed list of duties of citizens.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 (Residuary powers with Centre): Borrowed from Canada.
Option 3 (Preamble): Inspired by the USA's Constitution.
Option 4 (Centre appoints Governors): This is an original feature of the Indian Constitution based on the Government of India Act 1935; not borrowed from USSR.

The concept of Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution is borrowed from the United States of America (specifically from the Bill of Rights). These rights are justiciable and enforceable in a court of law. Why other options are wrong: Option 2 - Centrifugal federalism ( centre stronger than states): Borrowed from Canada, not the USA. Option 3 - Concurrent List: Borrowed from Australia. Option 4 - Single citizenship: Borrowed from the United Kingdom (Britain).

Correct Answer: Concept of "procedure established by Law" (Option 1)
The concept of 'procedure established by law' under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution is borrowed from Japan's Meiji Constitution. It means that a person's life and liberty can be restricted only by a procedure laid down by a validly enacted law.
Why others are wrong:
Option 2 - Advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme Court: Borrowed from Canada.
Option 3 - Judicial review: Borrowed from the United States of America.
Option 4 - Impeachment of the President: Borrowed from the United States of America.

Correct Answer: B.N. Rau (Option 1)
Sir Benegal Narsing Rau (B.N. Rau) served as the Constitutional Advisor to the Constituent Assembly of India. He was a distinguished civil servant and jurist who played a crucial role in drafting the Indian Constitution. He prepared the initial draft of the Constitution and also advised on its provisions.
Why others are wrong:
Option 2 - Dr. Rajendra Prasad: He was the President of the Constituent Assembly, not the Constitutional Advisor.
Option 3 - Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: He was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution, often called the 'Father of the Indian Constitution', but not the Constitutional Advisor.
Option 4 - Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru: He was the first Prime Minister of India and submitted the Objectives Resolution to the Constituent Assembly, but not the Constitutional Advisor.

Correct Answer: Concept of Concurrent list (Option 1)
The concept of the Concurrent List in the Indian Constitution is borrowed from the Australian Constitution. The Concurrent List (List III of the Seventh Schedule) contains subjects on which both the Union and State governments can legislate.
Why others are wrong:
Option 2 - Amendment of the Constitution: The procedure for amendment (Article 368) is borrowed from South Africa.
Option 3 - Advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme court: This feature is borrowed from Canada.
Option 4 - Removal of Supreme Court and High court judges: This feature is also primarily influenced by the British/Parliamentary model.

Correct Answer: Election of members of the Rajya Sabha (Option 4)
Features borrowed from Australia in the Indian Constitution include:
1. Concept of the Concurrent List
2. Joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament
3. Freedom of trade, commerce and intercourse
The election of members of the Rajya Sabha (by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies) is NOT a feature borrowed from Australia. This method of indirect election is drawn from the concept of a federal upper house, with its closest parallel in the original US Senate system. It is not an Australian borrowing.

The Government of India Act, 1935 introduced a federal structure with provincial autonomy in India.
Fundamental Duties were added in 1976 by the 42nd Amendment; Universal Adult Franchise was an Indian Constitution feature.
Hence the correct answer is Federal structure with Provincial Autonomy.

Correct Answer: Option 1 – Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly of India on August 29, 1947. He is revered as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. The Drafting Committee had 7 members and was tasked with preparing the draft constitution. Dr. Ambedkar submitted the final draft on February 21, 1948. The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949 and came into force on January 26, 1950.
Option 2 (Jawaharlal Nehru): Nehru chaired the Objectives Resolution and the Union Powers Committee; he was India's first Prime Minister but not the chairman of the Drafting Committee.
Option 3 (Dr. K. M. Munshi): K. M. Munshi was a member of the Drafting Committee, not its chairman.
Option 4 (Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel): Patel chaired the Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights and Minorities; he was not the Drafting Committee chairman.

Correct Answer: Option 3 – B. R. Ambedkar
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is universally regarded as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. He was the Chairman of the Constitution Drafting Committee (appointed August 29, 1947) and played the most central role in drafting, debating, and finalising the Constitution. His vast knowledge of law, comparative constitutional systems, and his vision for a just, equitable society shaped the Constitution's provisions on fundamental rights, constitutional remedies, reservation for SCs/STs, and the structure of government. The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949.
Option 1 (Mahatma Gandhi): Gandhi was the Father of the Nation; he did not directly participate in the Constituent Assembly's drafting process and died in January 1948 before the Constitution was completed.
Option 2 (Jawaharlal Nehru): Nehru moved the Objectives Resolution and chaired the Union Powers Committee; he was India's first PM but Ambedkar was the Drafting Committee chairman and chief architect.
Option 4 (Rajendra Prasad): Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly and India's first President; he presided over the Assembly sessions but Ambedkar was the chief drafter.

Correct Answer: Option 2 – 1950
The Constitution of India came into effect (was enacted/enforced) on January 26, 1950 — celebrated as Republic Day. The Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949 (celebrated as Constitution Day/ Samvidhan Diwas), but it was formally enacted on January 26, 1950 to coincide with the anniversary of Purna Swaraj Day (January 26, 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared complete independence as its goal). Dr. Rajendra Prasad became the first President of India on the same day.
Option 1 (1947): India gained independence on August 15, 1947; the Constitution was not yet drafted or in effect.
Option 3 (1949): The Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, but did NOT come into effect until January 26, 1950.
Option 4 (1952): India held its first General Elections in 1951–52; the Constitution was already in effect since 1950.