GS3

General Studies-III: Technology, Economic Development, Bio diversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

Government Budgeting — UPSC Questions

Government Budgeting.

Previous year questions and Mains practice questions on this exact syllabus topic, collected from every GainingSun analysis mapped to it. Each question links back to the analysis it came from, so you can read the material behind the answer.

Previous year questions (from 2 analyses)

Questions UPSC has set on this syllabus topic, as cited in our analyses.

Comment on the important changes introduced in respect of the Long term Capital Gains Tax (LCGT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Budget for 2018-2019. (UPSC Mains GS3, 2018)
From Capital Gains Tax Explained: Why Dollar Returns Matter for Foreign Investors
In what way could replacement of price subsidy with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss. (UPSC Mains GS3, 2015)
What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the national and state levels? Critically analyse the agriculture subsidy regime with reference to the distortions created by it. (UPSC Mains GS3, 2013)
From Fertiliser Subsidy Burden Set to Double: Hormuz Crisis, Urea Imports & NBS Explained

Mains practice questions (from 6 analyses)

Practice questions written for this topic, each tied to the current affairs that would answer it.

Currency movements can make the rupee gains of foreign investors differ substantially from their foreign-currency returns. Examine the case for reforming capital gains taxation while balancing investment incentives, fiscal revenue and tax equity. (250 words, 15 marks)
From Capital Gains Tax Explained: Why Dollar Returns Matter for Foreign Investors
India's fertiliser subsidy regime, while ensuring affordability for farmers, has created fiscal and agronomic distortions and exposed the country to global supply shocks. Critically examine, with reference to recent disruptions in global fertiliser supply chains. (250 words, 15 marks)
From Fertiliser Subsidy Burden Set to Double: Hormuz Crisis, Urea Imports & NBS Explained
Examine the rationale behind the government’s decision to simultaneously reduce excise duty on domestic petrol and diesel while imposing export levies on diesel and ATF in the context of geopolitical disruptions in West Asia, and discuss its implications for consumer protection, fiscal revenue and energy security in India.
From India Cuts Excise Duty on Petrol and Diesel by Rs 10 per Litre and Imposes Export Levy on Diesel and ATF to Protect Consumers Amid West Asia Crisis
Examine the implications of rising global public debt on fiscal policy choices for emerging economies like India, and suggest measures to achieve sustainable debt levels while supporting inclusive growth.
From Global Public Debt Surge: IMF Projects Over 100% of GDP by 2029, Sparking Worries for Governments and Taxpayers
Discuss the implications of rising public debt on India's federal fiscal structure and suggest measures for improving fiscal discipline at the state level. (250 words)
From Understanding Indian States' Fiscal Problems: Public Debt Triples in 10 Years – CAG Report Insights
Analyse how India’s latest GST reforms are designed to stimulate domestic consumption while balancing fiscal sustainability and market confidence, particularly in the backdrop of rising global trade challenges.
From India Unveils New GST Reforms to Boost Consumption and Growth