UPSC_CS MAINS 2019 Paper IV

“Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world.”–A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Points to Remember: The interconnectedness of individual morality, family harmony, national order, and global peace. The importance of righteousness as a foundational element for societal well-being. The cascading effect of positive actions starting at the individual level. Introduction: The quote by former Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam articulates a profound and interconnected vision of peace, … Read more

“A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.”–M. K. Gandhi

Points to Remember: The power of thoughts in shaping one’s life. The interconnectedness of thoughts, actions, and character. The role of self-awareness and conscious thought in personal development. The implications of Gandhi’s quote for individual and societal well-being. Introduction: Mahatma Gandhi’s profound statement, “A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, … Read more

There is a view that the official secrets act is an obstacle to the implementation of Rights to Information act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss

Points to Remember: The Official Secrets Act (OSA) and the Right to Information Act (RTI Act) have conflicting aims. OSA prioritizes state secrecy, while RTI promotes transparency and accountability. The overlap between information covered by OSA and information requested under RTI creates conflict. Exemptions under RTI can be misused to shield information that should be … Read more

What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understanding of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government.

Points to Remember: Probity in governance refers to integrity, uprightness, and honesty in public life. It encompasses transparency, accountability, and adherence to ethical principles. Ensuring probity requires a multi-pronged approach involving legal frameworks, institutional reforms, and ethical training. Introduction: Probity in governance is a cornerstone of good governance and a prerequisite for a just and … Read more

Effective utilization of public finds is crucial to meet development goals. Critically examine the reasons for under-utilization and mis-utilization of public funds and their implications.

Points to Remember: Effective public fund utilization is essential for achieving development goals. Underutilization and misutilization stem from various systemic and individual factors. These issues have significant negative implications for economic growth, social welfare, and governance. Addressing these challenges requires robust institutional reforms, enhanced transparency, and accountability mechanisms. Introduction: Effective utilization of public funds is … Read more

“Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption”. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.

Points to Remember: Definition of corruption and non-performance of duty. Different forms of corruption. The link between non-performance and corruption. Arguments for and against considering non-performance as corruption. The impact of non-performance on public services and governance. Introduction: Corruption, broadly defined, involves the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. This can manifest in various … Read more

What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? How does it manifest in the public domain?

Points to Remember: Definition of “crisis of conscience” Manifestations in the public domain (individual and collective levels) Examples from history and current events Potential consequences and resolutions Introduction: A “crisis of conscience” refers to a period of intense moral conflict within an individual or a group. It arises when deeply held beliefs or values clash … Read more

Explain the basic principles of citizens’ charter movement and bring out its importance.

Points to Remember: Citizen’s Charter: A declaration of commitments made by an organization to its citizens. Principles: Transparency, accountability, participation, user-friendliness, and time-bound delivery. Importance: Improved service delivery, increased citizen satisfaction, enhanced government accountability. Introduction: The Citizen’s Charter movement is a global initiative aimed at improving the quality of public services and strengthening the relationship … Read more

What do you understand by the term‘public servant’? Reflect on the expected role of public servant. (150 words, 10 marks) 2019

Points to Remember: Definition of a public servant. Expected roles and responsibilities. Ethical considerations. Accountability and transparency. Introduction: The term “public servant” refers to individuals employed by the government or public sector organizations to serve the interests of the citizenry. They are entrusted with the responsibility of implementing public policies and delivering essential services. Their … Read more

“Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order in the nation, there is peace in the world.”–A.P.J. Abdul Kalam

Points to Remember: The interconnectedness of individual morality, family harmony, national order, and global peace. The importance of righteousness as a foundational element for societal well-being. The cascading effect of positive actions starting from the individual level. Introduction: The quote by former Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam highlights a profound and interconnected relationship between individual … Read more

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