UPSC_CS MAINS 2017 Paper IV

Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustainable. Analyse.

Points to Remember: Definition of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Relationship between CSR and profitability Relationship between CSR and sustainability Evidence supporting and contradicting the statement Potential limitations of CSR initiatives Policy recommendations for promoting effective CSR Introduction: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to a company’s commitment to operate ethically and contribute positively to society. It … Read more

Strength, peace and security are considered to be the pillars of international relations. Elucidate.

Points to Remember: Strength (national power): Military, economic, diplomatic capabilities. Peace: Absence of conflict, peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms. Security: Freedom from threats, both internal and external. Interdependence: States rely on each other economically and politically. International organizations: Role of UN, regional bodies in maintaining peace and security. Introduction: International relations (IR) theory grapples with the … Read more

Discipline generally implies following the order and subordination. However, it may be counter-productive for the organisation. Discuss.

Points to Remember: Discipline’s dual nature: order & subordination vs. counter-productivity. Factors influencing discipline’s effectiveness. Balancing discipline with creativity and autonomy. Potential negative consequences of excessive discipline. Strategies for fostering positive discipline. Introduction: Discipline, in an organizational context, typically refers to a system of rules and regulations designed to ensure order, obedience, and adherence to … Read more

Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when(a) official duties,(b) public interest, and(c) personal interest are taking priority one above the other. How can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.

Points to Remember: Conflict of interest arises when an individual’s personal interests clash with their official duties and the public interest. Transparency, robust ethics codes, and effective enforcement mechanisms are crucial for resolving conflicts of interest. Independent oversight bodies and whistleblower protection are vital for accountability. Introduction: Conflict of interest in the public sector is … Read more

Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (a) Transparency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) Spirit of service

Points to Remember: Transparency: Openness and accessibility of information. Accountability: Answerability for actions and decisions. Fairness and Justice: Impartial treatment and equitable application of laws. Courage of Conviction: Willingness to act on one’s beliefs, even in the face of opposition. Spirit of Service: Dedication to public good and selfless commitment. Introduction: The Indian Civil Service … Read more

One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with reference to a real life example.

Points to Remember: Integrity: Adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; honesty. Compromise: To settle a dispute by mutual concession; to endanger (something valued) by careless or unwise action. Refusal to be compromised: Unyielding adherence to one’s principles, even under pressure. Introduction: Integrity is a cornerstone of ethical conduct, representing the unwavering … Read more

Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward.

Points to Remember: Lack of ethical conduct in politics is a major deterrent for young people. Positive role models and transparent systems are crucial. Empowering youth participation requires structural changes and educational initiatives. Introduction: The declining participation of young people in active politics is a global concern. Many young individuals perceive politics as corrupt, ethically … Read more

How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices?

Points to Remember: Emotional intelligence (EQ) encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Applying EQ in administration improves workplace relationships, decision-making, and overall effectiveness. Challenges exist in implementing EQ, including resistance to change and the need for training. Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand and manage one’s own emotions and the … Read more

Increased national wealth did not result in equitable distribution of its benefits. It has created only some“ enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small minority at the cost of the majority.” Justify.

Points to Remember: Unequal distribution of wealth Enclaves of prosperity vs. widespread poverty Causes of unequal distribution Consequences of inequality Policy recommendations for equitable distribution Introduction: The statement “Increased national wealth did not result in equitable distribution of its benefits. It has created only some ‘enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small minority at … Read more

Without commonly shared and widely entrenched moral values and obligations, neither the law, nor democratic government, nor even the market economy will function properly. What do you understand by this statement? Explain with illustration in the contemporary times.

Points to Remember: The interdependence of morality, law, democracy, and the market economy. The role of shared values in societal cohesion and functionality. The consequences of a moral vacuum on social institutions. Examples of moral decay impacting contemporary society. Suggestions for strengthening moral values. Introduction: The statement “Without commonly shared and widely entrenched moral values … Read more