UPSC_CS MAINS 2016 Paper II

“The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote international trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing countries.” Discuss in the Indian perspective.

Points to Remember: WTO’s aims and objectives. Doha Round negotiations and its failure. Developed vs. Developing country differences. Indian perspective on the WTO and Doha Round. Potential solutions and way forward. Introduction: The World Trade Organization (WTO), established in 1995, is an intergovernmental organization regulating international trade. Its primary objective is to liberalize trade through … Read more

What are the aims and objectives of the McBride Commission of the UNESCO? What is India’s position on these?

Points to Remember: Aims and objectives of the McBride Commission. India’s stance on the Commission’s recommendations. The context of the New World Information and Communication Order (NWICO). Introduction: The McBride Commission, officially known as the International Commission for the Study of Communication Problems, was established by UNESCO in 1977. Its mandate was to investigate the … Read more

Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario.

Points to Remember: India’s Look East Policy (LEP) aims to strengthen economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific Rim. Post-Cold War scenario saw a shift in global power dynamics, creating opportunities and challenges for India. Economic dimensions focus on trade, investment, and regional economic integration. Strategic dimensions involve security cooperation, … Read more

The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.

Points to Remember: India’s energy security is crucial for its economic growth. West Asian countries are major energy suppliers to India. Cooperation involves diverse areas like oil & gas imports, investments, and technology transfer. Challenges include geopolitical instability, price volatility, and diversification needs. Future cooperation needs to focus on long-term strategic partnerships and renewable energy. … Read more

“Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in the internal affairs of member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).” Explain with suitable examples.

Points to Remember: SAARC’s objectives and functioning. Pakistan’s role in regional instability. Cross-border terrorism and its impact on SAARC. Interference in internal affairs of member states. Alternatives and future prospects for regional cooperation. Introduction: The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), established in 1985, aims to promote economic and social development, peace, and security … Read more

Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of primary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve their status and performance?

Points to Remember: Amartya Sen’s emphasis on capabilities and human development. Importance of access, quality, and equity in primary education and healthcare. Need for holistic and integrated approach. Role of government, civil society, and communities. Introduction: Professor Amartya Sen, a Nobel laureate in Economics, has consistently championed the crucial role of primary education and primary … Read more

“Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative.” What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable?

Points to Remember: Demographic dividend: The economic growth potential that can result from shifts in a population’s age structure, mainly a rising share of working-age people. India’s demographic dividend: India is experiencing a period where a large proportion of its population is of working age. Realizing this potential requires a skilled and productive workforce. Government … Read more

Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the status of its implementation.

Points to Remember: Key provisions of the National Child Policy (NCP). Mechanisms for implementation of the NCP. Successes and shortcomings in implementation. Challenges in achieving NCP goals. Suggestions for improved implementation. Introduction: The National Child Policy (NCP), adopted in 1974 and revised in 1992, is a comprehensive framework aimed at ensuring the well-being and development … Read more

“Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India.” Comment.

Points to Remember: Traditional bureaucratic structure in India. Its impact on socio-economic development. Cultural aspects influencing bureaucracy. Examples of bureaucratic hurdles. Suggestions for reform. Introduction: The statement “Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of socio-economic development in India” requires an analytical approach. India’s post-independence development trajectory has been significantly influenced by its … Read more

“Effectiveness of the government system at various levels and people’s participation in the governance system are inter-dependent/” Discuss their relationship in the context of India.

Points to Remember: Effectiveness of governance hinges on both robust governmental systems and active citizen participation. Various levels of government in India (Central, State, Local) interact differently with citizens. People’s participation can range from voting to direct engagement in policy-making. Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles, lack of awareness, and unequal access to participation. Strengthening participatory mechanisms … Read more