UPSC_CS MAINS 2019 Paper II

‘In the context of neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level planning is expected to make operations cost effective and remove many implementation blockages.’-Discuss.

Points to Remember: Neo-liberal paradigm of development Multi-level planning Cost-effectiveness Implementation blockages Advantages and disadvantages Introduction: The question explores the relationship between the neo-liberal paradigm of development planning and multi-level planning. The neo-liberal approach emphasizes market liberalization, privatization, and deregulation, aiming for efficient resource allocation and economic growth. Multi-level planning, conversely, involves decentralizing planning authority … Read more

‘Too little cash, too much politics, leaves UNESCO fighting for life.’ Discuss the statement in the light of US’ withdrawal and its accusation of the cultural body as being ‘anti-Israel bias’.

Keywords: UNESCO, US withdrawal, anti-Israel bias, funding crisis, politics. Required Approach: Primarily analytical, with elements of factual reporting. Points to Remember: UNESCO’s funding structure and dependence on major contributors. The nature of the US accusations of anti-Israel bias. The impact of the US withdrawal on UNESCO’s financial stability and operational capacity. The role of politics … Read more

‘The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary relationship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great significance for Asia and the world as a whole.’ Comment.

Keywords: India, Japan, contemporary relationship, global and strategic partnership, Asia, world significance. Required Approach: Analytical, with elements of factual support. Points to Remember: Historical context of India-Japan relations. Shared strategic interests and concerns. Areas of cooperation (economic, security, technology). Challenges and limitations to the partnership. Potential benefits for Asia and the world. Introduction: The statement … Read more

“The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging global order” Elaborate.

Points to Remember: India’s historical role as a champion of oppressed nations. India’s evolving global role and its implications. Balancing national interests with international commitments. The impact of economic growth and strategic partnerships on India’s foreign policy. Maintaining a consistent moral compass in international relations. Introduction: India’s post-independence foreign policy was largely defined by its … Read more

“What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions” Explain with suitable examples.

Points to Remember: India-US relations are complex and multifaceted. Mutual strategic interests exist alongside differing national priorities. India’s desire for strategic autonomy clashes with US expectations of alignment. Addressing India’s national self-esteem and ambitions is crucial for stronger ties. Introduction: The relationship between India and the United States, while increasingly strategic, faces friction stemming from … Read more

“The Central Administration Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain.

Points to Remember: The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) was established to provide an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for central government employees. Its jurisdiction and powers have expanded over time, leading to debates about its role and independence. Concerns exist regarding its judicial independence and potential for bias. The balance between administrative efficiency and judicial fairness … Read more

On what grounds a people’s representative can be disqualified under the Representation of People Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification.

Keywords: Representation of People Act, 1951, disqualification of people’s representative, remedies. Required Approach: Primarily factual and analytical, drawing upon the provisions of the Representation of People Act, 1951 and relevant case law. Points to Remember: Grounds for disqualification under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Election petitions and their role in challenging disqualification. Remedies … Read more

“The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India.” Discuss.

Points to Remember: Role of the Attorney General of India (AGI) Powers and functions of the AGI Relationship with the Government Independence and impartiality of the AGI Comparison with other countries’ chief legal advisors Introduction: The statement “The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India” accurately reflects the primary … Read more

What are the methods used by the Farmers organizations to influence the policy-makers in India and how effective are these methods?

Points to Remember: Methods used by farmer organizations to influence policymakers. Effectiveness of these methods. Strengths and weaknesses of each method. Suggestions for improvement. Introduction: Farmer organizations in India play a crucial role in advocating for the interests of the agricultural community. Their influence on policymakers is vital for shaping agricultural policies that impact food … Read more

Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national lawmaker is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss.

Points to Remember: Diminishing influence of individual parliamentarians. Deteriorating quality of parliamentary debates. Impact on legislative outcomes. Underlying causes: party discipline, executive dominance, lack of resources for MPs. Potential solutions: reforms to enhance individual MP roles, strengthening parliamentary committees, promoting transparency. Introduction: The role of individual parliamentarians as national lawmakers is a cornerstone of representative … Read more