UPSC Essentials is launching a series of daily quizzes focused on various subjects, aimed at helping candidates review crucial topics from the static segment of the UPSC syllabus. Today, participants can engage in a quiz centered on Polity and Governance to evaluate their understanding and progress.

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In relation to the concept of a ‘distinguished jurist’, consider the following assertions:

1. Article 124 of the Indian Constitution provides for the appointment of a “distinguished jurist” to the Supreme Court.
2. To date, India has seen only three jurists appointed to the Supreme Court.

Which of these statements is/are accurate?

This topic is significant for the UPSC Prelims as it pertains to judicial appointments, the interpretation of the Constitution, and the independence of the judiciary. Such specific provisions are crucial for answering statement-based questions in the exam.

During the 13th convocation of the LL.M. programs at National Law University Delhi on August 30, Supreme Court Justice Ujjal Bhuyan highlighted that Article 124(3), which permits the appointment of a “distinguished jurist” to the Supreme Court, remains an “unused mandate” of the Constitution deserving of attention. Thus, the first statement is correct.

He noted that despite the Constitution being in effect for over 76 years, no jurist has yet been appointed to the Supreme Court. Therefore, the second statement is incorrect.

Article 124 outlines the composition of the Supreme Court, with Article 124(3) specifying the qualifications for appointment: a citizen of India who has served as a High Court judge for five years, practiced as an advocate for ten years, or is deemed a distinguished jurist by the President.

The first two pathways for appointments have always been utilized: most judges are elevated from High Courts, while fewer are appointed directly from the Bar. The latest appointment was Justice V Mohana, recommended by the collegium in May 2026. The provision for distinguished jurists, however, has not been utilized at all.

Consequently, option (a) is the correct choice.

Turning to the Sardar Patel National Unity Award, consider the following statements:

1. This award was introduced in 2019, yet no winners have been announced to date.
2. The award is regarded as equivalent to the Padma Shree.
3. The committee responsible for the award will be formed by the President of India.
4. The award does not include any monetary or cash prize.

How many of the above statements are accurate?

This topic is pertinent for UPSC Prelims as it discusses the Sardar Patel National Unity Award, its establishment, and essential provisions. Current affairs-related factual questions are critical for narrowing down options in the Prelims.

After seven years since its establishment by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the inaugural Sardar Patel National Unity Award is anticipated to be announced on October 31 this year. While the award was established in September 2019, reports indicate that over one hundred nominations have been submitted annually, but none have been deemed “deserving.” Therefore, the first statement is correct.

Insiders suggest that the award will be rated equivalent to the Padma Vibhushan, with two or three recipients expected this time. Hence, the second statement is incorrect.

Nominations were accepted from June 1 to July 31 this year, with over 150 names reportedly submitted. Prior to opening nominations to the public, the MHA had reached out to all state chief secretaries and Union secretaries to solicit nominations.

The 2019 notification outlining the award states that candidates must have made significant contributions to advancing national unity and integrity, serving as an inspiration for others to foster a strong and united India.

Additionally, the notification specifies that the award committee will be established by the Prime Minister and will include the Cabinet Secretary, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Secretary to the President, Home Secretary, and three to four distinguished individuals chosen by the Prime Minister. Consequently, the third statement is incorrect.

The award will consist of a medal and a citation, but will not include any cash grant. Reports indicate that the award will not be conferred posthumously, except in very rare circumstances. The medal will be designed as a lotus leaf made of gold and silver, featuring Patel’s portrait on one side and the national emblem on the other. Thus, the fourth statement is correct.

Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

Which of the following expenses will be charged to the Consolidated Fund of India?

1. The salary, allowances, and pension of the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India.
2. Any amounts required to fulfill the judgement, decree, or award of any court or arbitration tribunal.
3. The salaries, allowances, and pensions of Supreme Court Judges.
4. The salaries and allowances of the Prime Minister and Union Ministers.
5. The salaries and allowances of High Court judges.

Select the correct answer using the codes provided below:

(b) 1, 3, 4, and 5 only.

This topic is essential for UPSC Prelims as it examines constitutional provisions related to the Consolidated Fund of India.