Real CSS Interview Questions + Model Answers
Tailored for Optional Subjects & Psychological Insights
"My success is only by Allah." Surah Hud (11:88)
Prepared for: Misha
Optional Subjects:
- International Relations
- Gender Studies
- Philosophy
- Public Administration
- Indo-Pak History
This guide blends structured answers with reflective wisdom because success in the viva is not just about
facts, but grace, clarity, and poise.
International Relations
Q: What is Pakistans foreign policy based on?
A: Pakistans foreign policy rests on the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, regional peace, and
economic cooperation. For instance, Pakistan's strategic partnership with Chinamanifested in the
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)illustrates economic diplomacy. Yet, its efforts to balance relations
with the US and Gulf states reflect geopolitical pragmatism.
Q: Has Pakistan benefited from CPEC?
A: CPEC has improved infrastructure and energy capacity. Projects like the Sukkur-Multan Motorway are
functional, yet delays in Gwadar development and local discontent (e.g., Haq Do Tehreek protests) highlight
governance gaps. To maximize gains, transparency and local engagement are crucial.
Q: Is the UN still relevant in todays world?
A: Yes, particularly in peacekeeping, development, and climate action. Pakistan, being the 5th largest
contributor to UN peacekeeping forces, showcases its commitment. However, calls to reform the Security
Council (e.g., by India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan) show the UN's structural limitations.
Gender Studies
Q: What is gender mainstreaming?
A: Gender mainstreaming means integrating gender perspectives into policy. A clear example is Punjabs
Women Protection Authority, which introduced women-specific reporting centers. However, true
mainstreaming requires gender-responsive budgeting and representation in decision-making.
Q: Is gender equality achievable in Pakistan?
A: Yes, though gradual. Malala Yousafzai's advocacy and the Sehat Kahani digital healthcare platform (led by
female doctors) show how innovation bridges gaps. However, reforms in inheritance laws and rural education
are essential for structural change.
Philosophy
Q: What is the relevance of philosophy in civil services?
A: Philosophy cultivates moral reasoning and critical analysiskey for public policy. During COVID-19,
governments used utilitarian logic (e.g., lockdowns for majority benefit), yet balanced it with deontological
respect for individual freedoms.
Q: Differentiate between empiricism and rationalism.
A: Empiricism (Locke, Hume) stresses knowledge via sensory experience, used in modern science and AI.
Rationalism (Descartes, Spinoza) values innate reasonevident in constitutional design or ethical lawmaking.
Public Administration
Q: What is good governance?
A: It is participatory, transparent, and accountable governance. Pakistan Citizen Portal is a successful case of
grievance redressal, receiving over 3 million complaints with more than 90% resolvedthough rural outreach
remains limited.
Q: What is the difference between administration and management?
A: Administration sets policies (e.g., Planning Commissions Vision 2025), while management executes them
(e.g., ministries implementing clean water initiatives).
Indo-Pak History
Q: What caused the failure of the Cabinet Mission Plan?
A: Deep mistrust between Congress and Muslim League. Nehrus 1946 press conference rejecting
compulsory grouping and Gandhis ambiguous stance led Jinnah to call for Direct Action Day. Historian
Stanley Wolpert underscores this as a pivotal rupture.
Q: How did the Khilafat Movement influence Pakistans ideology?
A: Though it failed politically, it united Muslims under pan-Islamic sentiment. It laid the groundwork for the
Two-Nation Theory by nurturing Muslim political consciousness and linking faith with identity.
