UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 51

Correct answer: Option A. The Cabinet Mission of 1946 proposed a constitutional framework involving a Union handling limited subjects while provinces retained substantial autonomy, along with a grouping scheme. It did not enlarge the powers of Indian courts in the way stated and did not provide the specific ICS reform described in statement 3. Hence only statement 1 is correct. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “1 only” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option B: “2 and 3” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option C: “1 and 3” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option D: “None” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Prelims takeaway: Focus on the precise institutional role, constitutional provision, geographical association, or technical definition being tested. UPSC questions often place a broadly familiar fact beside a narrowly incorrect qualifier; identifying that qualifier is essential for elimination.