UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 28

Correct answer: Option B. The Government of India Act, 1919 introduced dyarchy in the provinces and more clearly demarcated the functions of the central and provincial governments. It therefore dealt with the distribution or jurisdiction of governmental powers between the two levels. The other options do not describe the principal constitutional change being tested. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “The separation of power between the judiciary and the legislature” 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 B: “The jurisdiction of the central and provincial governments” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option C: “The powers of the Secretary of State for India and Viceroy” 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 of the above” 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.