UPSC_CS MAINS 2015 Paper II

Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UNSC.

Points to Remember: Geopolitical realities: India’s bid is hampered by existing power dynamics and veto-wielding permanent members’ resistance. Regional rivalries: Tensions with Pakistan and China significantly impact India’s international standing. Reform of the UNSC: The process itself is slow and complex, lacking a clear consensus on expansion criteria. Internal factors: India’s own foreign policy approach … Read more

Project âMausamâ is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of Indian government to improve relationship with its neighbours. Does the project have a strategic dimension? Discuss.

Points to Remember: Project Mausam: India’s initiative to foster maritime cooperation with neighboring countries. Strategic Dimension: The extent to which Mausam contributes to India’s geopolitical goals and national interests. Neighboring Countries: Focus on the relationships with countries in India’s immediate vicinity. Multifaceted Approach: Analysis of economic, cultural, and security aspects of the project. Introduction: Project … Read more

Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded IndiaâPakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchange could help generate goodwill between the two countries. Discuss with suitable examples.

Points to Remember: India-Pakistan relations are severely strained due to terrorism and mutual distrust. Soft power, encompassing sports and cultural exchanges, can foster goodwill. Success depends on sincerity, mutual respect, and sustained efforts from both sides. Limitations exist, as deep-seated political issues remain. Introduction: India and Pakistan, two nuclear-armed South Asian neighbors, share a history … Read more

The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss.

Points to Remember: Current state of higher education in India. Potential benefits of foreign educational institutions. Potential challenges and drawbacks. Necessary regulatory framework and safeguards. Holistic approach to improving higher education. Introduction: The quality of higher education in India faces significant challenges in achieving international competitiveness. While India boasts a large number of higher education … Read more

Public health system has limitation in providing universal health coverage. Do you think that private sector can help in bridging the gap? What other viable alternatives do you suggest?

Points to Remember: Limitations of public health systems in achieving universal health coverage (UHC). Role of the private sector in supplementing public health efforts. Alternative strategies for achieving UHC beyond public and private sector involvement. Balancing the need for equitable access with the potential for market failures in healthcare. Introduction: Universal Health Coverage (UHC), defined … Read more

In the light of Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in the corporate governance to ensure transparency and accountability.

Points to Remember: The Satyam Scandal and its impact. Key changes in corporate governance post-Satyam. Enhanced transparency and accountability mechanisms. Ongoing challenges and future improvements. Introduction: The Satyam Computer Services scandal of 2009, involving a massive accounting fraud perpetrated by its founder B. Ramalinga Raju, sent shockwaves through the Indian corporate world and globally. It … Read more

Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indicate reduction in poverty over time. Do you agree. Critically examine with reference to urban and rural poverty indicators.

Points to Remember: Different methodologies for estimating poverty in India. Trends in poverty reduction in both urban and rural areas. Limitations of poverty estimates and data collection. Disparities within poverty reduction across different groups. Policy implications for future poverty reduction strategies. Introduction: The question of poverty reduction in India is complex, with various estimates and … Read more

The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Program (SBLP), which is Indiaâs own innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and women empowerment programme. Elucidate.

Points to Remember: SBLP’s core function: Providing microcredit to SHGs, predominantly women’s groups. Poverty alleviation: How SBLP improves livelihoods and reduces poverty. Women empowerment: How SBLP enhances women’s economic independence and social standing. Challenges and limitations: Addressing the shortcomings and areas for improvement. Success stories and impact: Highlighting the positive outcomes and measurable achievements. Introduction: … Read more

How can be the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works relating to protection of the Environment? Discuss throwing light on the major constraints.

Points to Remember: NGOs’ crucial role in environmental protection in India. Major constraints faced by NGOs in India. Strategies to strengthen NGOs’ role. Importance of collaboration and sustainable practices. Introduction: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a vital role in India’s development, particularly in environmental protection. Their grassroots presence, specialized expertise, and ability to reach marginalized communities … Read more

Examine critically the recent changes in the rule governing foreign funding of NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976.

Points to Remember: FCRA amendments of 2020 Restrictions on foreign funding for NGOs Impact on NGO operations and civil society Compliance challenges and concerns Constitutional implications and debates Introduction: The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976, governs the acceptance and utilization of foreign funds by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in India. Recent amendments, primarily those enacted … Read more