UPSC CARE Mains Practice 12th February 2026
Mains Practice Questions for the Day
- Discuss the constitutional procedure for removal of the Lok Sabha Speaker. Examine how the Constitution balances accountability with independence of the office. (GS Paper – 2: Parliament, State Legislature, Executive, Representation of People’s Act)
- India’s aviation sector has emerged as the world’s third-largest domestic market, yet recent operational failures expose deep structural vulnerabilities. Examine the systemic challenges facing India’s aviation sector and suggest reforms to ensure safety, competition and sustainable growth. (GS Paper III (Infrastructure, Transport, Economic Development, Regulatory Framework)
Discuss the constitutional procedure for removal of the Lok Sabha Speaker. Examine how the Constitution balances accountability with independence of the office. (GS Paper – 2: Parliament, State Legislature, Executive, Representation of People’s Act)
Introduction:
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha occupies a pivotal constitutional position as the presiding officer and guardian of parliamentary procedures. While the office demands neutrality and independence, the Constitution also provides a mechanism for removal to ensure accountability.
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Constitutional Basis
- Governed by Article 94 of the Constitution of India.
- The Speaker vacates office if:
- He/she ceases to be a Member of Lok Sabha.
- Resigns by writing to the Deputy Speaker.
- Is removed by a resolution passed by a majority of all the then members (effective majority).
Procedure for Removal
- Notice: Minimum 14 days’ prior notice.
- Initiation: Motion moved by Members of Lok Sabha.
- Support Condition: At least 50 Members must support the motion for it to be admitted.
- Debate: Discussion confined strictly to charges.
- Voting: Requires effective majority (majority of total membership excluding vacancies).
Safeguards for Independence
- Security of tenure.
- Salary charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.
- Conduct cannot be discussed except through a substantive motion.
- Decisions on procedural matters are generally immune from judicial interference.
- Votes only in case of a tie (casting vote).
Significance
The high threshold for removal prevents frequent political misuse while ensuring that the Speaker remains accountable to the House. Historically, although motions have been moved, no Speaker has been removed, reflecting institutional stability.
Conclusion:
The removal mechanism under Article 94 represents a constitutional balance between accountability and autonomy. It preserves the dignity and neutrality of the Speaker while upholding parliamentary supremacy.
India–Greece relations have gained renewed momentum in recent years, particularly in defence and maritime cooperation. Examine the strategic significance of this partnership and discuss the challenges that may limit its full potential. GS Paper II – International Relations
Introduction:
India and Greece elevated their ties to a Strategic Partnership in 2023. The recent signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) on defence industrial cooperation marks a shift toward structured, long-term engagement. The partnership reflects growing convergence between two maritime democracies positioned at opposite ends of the Indo-Pacific–Mediterranean arc.
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Strategic Significance
First, defence industrial cooperation aligns India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat with Greece’s defence reforms under Agenda 2030, enabling co-development, diversification of defence suppliers, and long-term military collaboration.
Second, maritime security cooperation has deepened with Greece posting a liaison officer at IFC-IOR, strengthening Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). Both countries support a rules-based order and freedom of navigation.
Third, Greece serves as a gateway to Europe, especially under the proposed India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Its strategic location and strong shipping sector enhance connectivity and trade prospects.
Fourth, the partnership has geopolitical value, providing India strategic leverage amid the Turkey–Pakistan axis and expanding its presence in the Mediterranean.
Challenges
Despite potential, bilateral trade remains modest (~USD 2 billion) and lacks diversification. Connectivity gaps, absence of direct shipping links, and China’s control of Piraeus port pose strategic concerns. Institutional mechanisms such as a 2+2 dialogue are yet to be formalised.
Conclusion:
India–Greece ties are transitioning from symbolic goodwill to structured strategic cooperation. With improved connectivity, economic diversification, and institutional depth, this partnership can become a vital bridge linking the Indo-Pacific and Europe.
