UPSC Prelims Practice Questions — Cabinet approves continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) for expeditious trial of cases of rape and POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) Act for a further perio...

Q1. With reference to the working of a Centrally Sponsored Scheme such as the scheme for Fast Track Special Courts, consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. The scheme is executed by the Union through its own field establishments, with the States merely contributing their share of funds.
  2. A State that has joined the scheme may later withdraw from it, so that the scheme's coverage depends on State consent.
  3. A special category State bears a smaller proportion of the scheme's cost than a general category State.
  • A. 2 and 3 only
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 1 and 2 only
  • D. 1, 2 and 3

Q2. Consider the following facts about the Fast Track Special Courts scheme for 2026–31: the total outlay is Rs 3,788.04 crore, of which the Central share is Rs 2,353.15 crore (about 62 per cent); costs are shared 60:40 between the Centre and States, and 90:10 for special category States. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above?

  1. Some part of the scheme's expenditure is being shared on a pattern more favourable to the States than 60:40.
  2. The greater part of the scheme's expenditure is being incurred in special category States.
  3. The Centre's proportionate share in the scheme has risen in comparison with its earlier cycles.
  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 1 and 3 only
  • C. 1 only
  • D. 2 and 3 only

Q3. Consider the following assertion: The Fast Track Special Courts scheme illustrates how judicial directions can shape the design of executive schemes. Which of the statements given below support/supports the above assertion?

  1. In a 2019 suo motu writ, the Supreme Court directed the setting up of exclusive POCSO courts, and the scheme cites that order as one of its legal bases.
  2. The scheme was also launched pursuant to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018 enacted by Parliament.
  3. The Court's order tied exclusive POCSO courts to districts with heavy pendency of POCSO cases, and the scheme allocates courts on the basis of pendency.
  • A. 1 and 2 only
  • B. 1 only
  • C. 1, 2 and 3
  • D. 1 and 3 only

Q4. With reference to the constitutional framework for courts below the High Court, in which Fast Track Special Courts function, consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. The constitution and organisation of courts other than the Supreme Court and the High Courts is a subject in the Concurrent List.
  2. District judges are appointed by the Governor of the State in consultation with the High Court.
  3. A person not already in the service of the Union or the State can be appointed a district judge only if recommended by the High Court.
  • A. 1 and 3 only
  • B. 1, 2 and 3
  • C. 2 and 3 only
  • D. 1 and 2 only