Discretionary Powers — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

Focus on memorizing specific Article numbers (163, 200, 356) and their exact provisions. Create a clear distinction chart between discretionary and constitutional powers with specific examples. Memorize landmark case names, years, and key principles: S.

R. Bommai (1994) - judicial review of discretionary powers, Rameshwar Prasad (2006) - assembly dissolution principles, Nabam Rebia (2016) - legislative autonomy limits. Practice elimination techniques by identifying constitutional vs political considerations in MCQ options.

Pay special attention to recent current affairs involving Governors, particularly bill delays, university appointments, and assembly proceedings. Use acronyms for remembering discretionary power categories: CABAR (Chief Minister Appointment, Assembly Dissolution, Bill Reservation, Article 356 Recommendation).

Focus on constitutional provisions rather than political commentary, as UPSC tests legal framework over political opinions.

Also build Paper II skills

Dense constitutional and IR passages mirror CSAT-style comprehension and argument evaluation—build those skills in parallel. CSAT hub.

• Valid & invalid arguments
• Syllogisms
• Critical reasoning