Indian Polity, Constitution and Governance
What this domain tests
This section tests the Constitution's sources, Preamble, fundamental rights and duties, Directive Principles, federal structure, Parliament, state executive, judiciary, local government, amendments and emergency provisions. AP-specific governance, the Assembly and the Legislative Council are also fair game.
Core rules
- Fundamental Rights are justiciable; Directive Principles are non-justiciable but guide policy.
- The Preamble is not enforceable but is used for interpretation.
- A Money Bill is defined under Article 110 and is certified by the Speaker; the Rajya Sabha can only recommend changes within 14 days.
- The Governor is appointed by the President and acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in limited discretionary situations.
- AP has a 175-member Legislative Assembly; its Legislative Council was abolished in 1985 and revived in 2007.
Worked example
A bill contains only provisions for imposing a new tax. Is it a Money Bill? Reasoning: Article 110 treats taxes as a Money Bill subject, but the Speaker's certification is decisive. The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject it; it must return it within 14 days, and the Lok Sabha may accept or reject the recommendations.
Traps that cost marks
Do not say the Preamble is a source of enforceable rights; do not confuse a Finance Bill with a Money Bill; and do not assume the Governor can routinely override ministerial advice. Read whether the question asks about 'shall' or 'may'.