UPSC Prelims 2001 Q91: Indian Polity – Constitutional Framework & Development
Which one of the following statements correctly describes the Fourth Schedule of the
Constitution of India?
- (a) It lists the distribution of power between the Union and the States
- (b) It contains the languages listed in the Constitution
- (c) It contains the provisions regarding the administration of tribal areas
- (d) It allocates seats in the Council of States
Answer: (d) It allocates seats in the Council of States
Explanation
What the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution contains
| Schedule | Contents |
|---|---|
| Fourth Schedule | Allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) to States and UTs |
| Seventh Schedule | Distribution of powers — Union, State and Concurrent Lists |
| Eighth Schedule | Languages — now 22 |
| Fifth and Sixth Schedules | Administration of Scheduled Areas and tribal areas of the North-East |
The Fourth Schedule lists how many seats each State and Union Territory has in the Council of States. Seats are given roughly by population.
Answer: (d) It allocates seats in the Council of States.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Distribution of powers is in the Seventh Schedule.
- (b) Incorrect. Languages are in the Eighth Schedule.
- (c) Incorrect. Tribal areas are dealt with in the Fifth and Sixth Schedules.
- (d) CORRECT. The Fourth Schedule allocates Rajya Sabha seats.
Key point
Rajya Sabha: up to 250 members — 238 elected by States/UTs plus 12 nominated; Uttar Pradesh has the most seats (31).
Remember
Fourth Schedule = Rajya Sabha seats.
Common mistakes
- Mixing up the Fourth and Seventh Schedules.
- Thinking the Fourth Schedule lists languages.
- Confusing Council of States with State legislatures.
Exam tip
Learn the Schedules as a list of 12; Fourth = Rajya Sabha seats.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Fourth Schedule and Article 80
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity, chapter 'Schedules of the Constitution'