Functions and Powers — Prelims Strategy

Prelims Strategy

For Prelims, a strong factual foundation regarding the NCW is essential. Aspirants should focus on: 1. Nature of the Body: Remember it's a *statutory* body, not constitutional. 2. Establishing Act: National Commission for Women Act, 1990.

3. Key Sections: Section 10 (Functions) and Section 12 (Powers of a Civil Court) are critical. Memorize the core aspects of these sections. 4. Powers: Understand what 'quasi-judicial' means in this context – it has civil court powers for investigation (summoning, document production) but *no punitive powers*.

5. Functions: Be able to identify its various roles: investigative, advisory, legislative review, monitoring, research, suo motu cognizance, inspection of custodial homes, funding litigation. 6. Reports: It submits annual reports to the Central Government.

7. Distinctions: Clearly differentiate NCW from State Women Commissions (jurisdiction, reporting) and NHRC (scope of mandate). 8. Current Affairs: Keep track of recent high-profile interventions, new initiatives (e.

g., Digital Shakti), or policy recommendations by NCW. Use mnemonics like Vyyuha's FAIR-COPS to quickly recall its functions. Practice MCQs that test factual recall and conceptual clarity, especially those designed to trap aspirants on the 'binding nature' of its recommendations or its 'punitive powers'.