Vladimir Putin

a. served in the Soviet Army and was stationed in East Germany until the collapse of communism there.
b. was born in Siberia

Devolution is often associated with the famous "Contract with America."

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Which of the following does NOT characterize the Indian policy-making process?

a. When the prime minister's party or bloc of parties controls the legislature, the passage of most legislation is ensured except in very controversial manners. b. Well-designed national policies are often not implemented because they face resistance from vested interests at all levels, and these interests may simply drag their feet or even actively sabotage the implementation process. c. In order to get some major controversial legislation passed, the government often has to compromise and modify its position. d. Civil servants, both in individual ministries and in cross-ministry offices, play a major role in presenting alternative solutions to political leaders. e. Of the two legislative chambers, the Rajya Sabha can act as the major roadblock in the policy-making process, because its assent is required in the passage of all legislative bills.