UPSC Prelims 2002 Q140: Indian Polity – Constitutional Framework & Development
The 93rd Constitutional Amendment Bill deals with the
- (a) continuation of reservation for backward classes in government employment
- (b) free and compulsory education for all children between the age of 6 and 14 years
- (c) reservation of 30 per cent posts for women in government recruitments
- (d) allocation of a greater number of parliamentary seats for recently created States
Answer: (b) free and compulsory education for all children between the age of 6 and 14 years
Explanation
Subject of the 93rd Constitutional Amendment Bill
| Option | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 | Yes — the Bill became the 86th Amendment Act, 2002 (Article 21A) |
| Reservation for backward classes in employment | Not this Bill |
| 30 per cent posts for women in recruitment | Not this Bill |
| More parliamentary seats for new States | Not this Bill |
The Bill, introduced as the 93rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, made education a Fundamental Right for children of 6 to 14 years (Article 21A). It was enacted as the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002.
Answer: (b) free and compulsory education for all children between the age of 6 and 14 years.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The Bill did not deal with reservation in employment.
- (b) CORRECT. The Bill dealt with free and compulsory education.
- (c) Incorrect. The Bill did not reserve posts for women.
- (d) Incorrect. The Bill did not change the seats of Parliament.
Key point
86th Amendment (2002): Article 21A (right to education, 6-14), Article 45 changed (early childhood care), Article 51A(k) duty of parents.
Remember
93rd Bill became the 86th Amendment: right to education.
Common mistakes
- Choosing reservation by habit when an amendment is mentioned.
- Not knowing the Bill's numbering changed when it was enacted.
- Confusing it with the 73rd and 74th amendments.
Exam tip
Education Bill in 2001-02 = Article 21A.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 21A
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity