UPSC Prelims 2024 Q66: Indian Polity – Constitutional Framework & Development
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Article 368 - Amendment Procedure of the Constitution
Article 368 of the Constitution of India states:
'Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, Parliament may in exercise of its constituent power amend by way of addition, variation or repeal any provision of this Constitution in accordance with the procedure laid down in this article.'
All three modes are explicitly mentioned in Article 368:
| Mode | What it means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Addition | Adding new provisions | Adding new Articles, Schedules, or entries in Lists |
| Variation | Modifying existing provisions | Changing word limits, age limits, percentages in existing Articles |
| Repeal | Removing existing provisions | Deleting an Article or Schedule entirely |
Note: The amendment procedure requires:
- Special majority in Parliament (2/3 of members present and voting + majority of total membership)
- Ratification by state legislatures (only for certain provisions affecting federal structure)
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Article 368 explicitly includes all three modes. 'Addition and Variation only' would exclude Repeal, but the Article clearly states 'addition, variation or repeal.'
- (b) Incorrect. 'Variation and Repeal only' would exclude Addition - but the Article explicitly lists Addition as the first mode of amendment.
- (c) Incorrect. 'Addition and Repeal only' would exclude Variation - but Variation (modification of existing provisions) is explicitly listed in Article 368.
- (d) CORRECT. Article 368 explicitly mentions all three: 'Parliament may amend by way of addition, variation or repeal any provision of this Constitution.' All three modes are available.
Key point
Article 368 allows Parliament to amend the Constitution by Addition, Variation, AND Repeal - all three modes. This is explicitly stated in the text of Article 368 itself.
Remember
Article 368 allows Parliament to amend the Constitution by way of Addition, Variation, or Repeal - all three modes are explicitly stated in the Article.
Common mistakes
- Thinking Repeal is not allowed under Article 368 - the Constitution can be amended by removing provisions entirely, not just modifying them.
- Confusing the amendment procedure (HOW to amend - special majority etc.) with the modes of amendment (WHAT can be done - add, vary, repeal).
- Not knowing the exact language of Article 368 - 'addition, variation or repeal' appears verbatim in the constitutional text.
Exam tip
Article 368 = A V R = Addition, Variation, Repeal. All three are allowed. The amendment procedure requires special majority. Some amendments also need state ratification. Remember: Parliament's constituent power is wide - it can add, modify, or remove anything.
Sources
- Constitution of India - Article 368 (full text)
- NCERT Class 11 Political Science - Chapter 9: Constitution as a Living Document