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Topic Secularism
Asked 7 times across 2 UPSC exams over 41 years (1979–2020), peaking in 1979.
Key insights
- Most tested in CSE — 4 of 7 PYQs
- Most asked in 1979
- Recurs across 7 years (1979–2020)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CSE 1979 → CDS 2015
How the concept evolved
Long-running — most appearances (5 of 7) predate 2016, and it still returns.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2020
Which one among the following is not a character of a secular State?
- A It refuses theocracy.
- B It separates religion from the State.
- C A State in order to be secular must be democratic. ✓
- D It must prevent religious conflict and promote religious harmony.
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Polity & Governance › Political Theory & Jurisprudence
CDS2017
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
- The Directive Principles of State Policy are meant for promoting social and economic democracy in India
- The Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III of the Constitution of India are ordinarily subject to reasonable restrictions
- Secularism is one of the basic features of Constitution of any country
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- A 1 only
- B 2 only
- C 1 and 2 only ✓
- D 1, 2 and 3
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Polity & Governance › FR/DPSP/Duties
CDS2015
Which of the following is/are central tenet(s) of the Constitution of India?
- Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion
- Gives official status to certain religions
- Provides freedom to profess any religion
- Ensures equality of all citizens within religious communities
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- A 1, 2 and 3
- B 3 and 4 only
- C 2, 3 and 4
- D 2 only ✓
✓ Correct answer: (D)
Polity & Governance › FR/DPSP/Duties
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