UPSC Prelims(2026) Practice MCQs (Topic: Judiciary, Education, Constitutional Principles)

 

UPSC Prelims(2026) Practice MCQs

(Topic: Judiciary, Education, Constitutional Principles)

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1. With reference to the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), consider the following statements:

1. It is an autonomous organization under the Ministry of Education.

2. It prepares and publishes school textbooks for the CBSE curriculum.

3. It is responsible for conducting the CBSE board examinations.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

• NCERT is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Education → Correct.

• It prepares model textbooks for schools (especially CBSE) → Correct.

• CBSE conducts board exams, not NCERT → Statement 3 incorrect.

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2. Which of the following functions is performed by the Supreme Court of India?

1. Interpretation of the Constitution

2. Judicial review of laws

3. Advisory opinion to the President

4. Approval of school textbooks

Select the correct answer:

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1, 2 and 3 only

C. 2 and 4 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: B

Explanation:

The Supreme Court can interpret the Constitution, exercise judicial review, and provide advisory opinions (Article 143). It does not approve textbooks.

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3. The power of the Supreme Court of India to examine the constitutional validity of laws passed by the legislature is known as:

A. Judicial activism

B. Judicial review

C. Judicial overreach

D. Curative jurisdiction

Answer: B

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4. Consider the following statements regarding textbook writing and curriculum development in India:

1. School curriculum development involves subject experts and educationists.

2. Curriculum content must align with constitutional values such as equality and secularism.

3. Courts always directly write and approve school textbooks.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

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5. Which of the following constitutional principles is most directly associated with freedom of academic discussion and criticism of institutions?

A. Article 14

B. Article 19

C. Article 21

D. Article 32

Answer: B

Explanation:

Article 19(1)(a) guarantees freedom of speech and expression.

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6. Which of the following best describes judicial overreach?

A. Courts interpreting the Constitution

B. Courts invalidating unconstitutional laws

C. Courts intervening in matters traditionally handled by other branches of government

D. Courts resolving disputes between states

Answer: C

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7. In the Indian constitutional framework, which of the following institutions is primarily responsible for education policy and curriculum guidelines?

A. Election Commission

B. Ministry of Education

C. Finance Commission

D. Union Public Service Commission

Answer: B

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8. Which of the following values are emphasized in democratic education systems?

1. Critical thinking

2. Equality and fairness

3. Peace and harmony

4. Blind acceptance of authority

Select the correct answer:

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1, 2 and 3 only

C. 2 and 4 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: B

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9. Consider the following statements regarding historical interpretation in textbooks:

1. Historical narratives may vary depending on perspective and sources.

2. Objectivity requires examining multiple viewpoints and evidence.

3. History writing should avoid any interpretation.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B

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10. In the context of democratic governance, institutional accountability refers to:

A. Absolute independence of institutions without criticism

B. The ability of institutions to function without laws

C. The responsibility of institutions to remain transparent and answerable to constitutional principles

D. The control of institutions by the executive branch

Answer: C

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