UPSC_CS MAINS 2016 Paper II

“In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only marginal.” Critically examine this statement.

Points to Remember: The increasing influence of Non-State Actors (NSAs) in India. The diverse nature of NSAs – NGOs, civil society organizations, private sector, media, etc. The legal framework governing NSAs’ interaction with the state. The challenges and opportunities presented by the growing role of NSAs. The need for a balanced approach to regulate and … Read more

Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands of Liberalization,Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the government do to be responsive to this important change?

Points to Remember: The impact of Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG) on India since 1991. The Indian government’s response to LPG – successes and failures. Areas requiring further government action to effectively manage the ongoing effects of LPG. Introduction: The year 1991 marked a watershed moment in India’s economic history with the initiation of LPG … Read more

“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 Development Round’s goals. Differences between developed and developing countries hindering the Doha Round. The Indian perspective on the WTO and the Doha Round. Potential solutions and a way forward. Introduction: The World Trade Organization (WTO), established in 1995, is an intergovernmental organization regulating international trade. Its overarching … 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

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 economic growth. West Asian countries are major energy suppliers to India. Cooperation involves diverse aspects: oil & gas imports, investments, technology transfer, and diplomatic ties. Challenges include geopolitical instability, price volatility, and diversification needs. Introduction: India’s energy security is inextricably linked to its economic progress. Rapid … 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 enhance 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

“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 challenges. Pakistan’s role in regional instability. Cross-border terrorism’s impact on SAARC. The need for regional cooperation despite challenges. Introduction: The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), established in 1985, aims to promote economic and social development, peace, and security in South Asia. However, its effectiveness has been consistently … Read more

What is quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples.

Points to Remember: Definition of a quasi-judicial body. Distinguishing features of quasi-judicial bodies. Powers and functions of quasi-judicial bodies. Examples of quasi-judicial bodies. Limitations and criticisms of quasi-judicial bodies. Introduction: A quasi-judicial body is an entity or organization that performs functions that are similar to those of a court of law but is not a … Read more

Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.

Points to Remember: Article 149 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) to audit the accounts of the Union and the States. The CAG’s role is primarily focused on financial audit, ensuring regularity, propriety, and efficiency in government spending. The question revolves around the boundary between auditing financial accounts and evaluating … Read more

“The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss.

Points to Remember: Evolution of Indian party system from single dominant party to multi-party system. Rise of regional parties and their influence. Challenges of coalition governments and their impact on policy-making. Role of money and muscle power in elections. Need for electoral reforms and strengthening of internal democracy within parties. Introduction: India’s party system, once … Read more