UPSC_CS MAINS 2020 Paper II

Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Points to Remember: WHO’s mandate and responsibilities regarding global health security. WHO’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic: successes and failures. Criticisms leveled against WHO’s handling of the pandemic. Reforms needed to strengthen WHO’s role in future pandemics. The importance of international cooperation in global health security. Introduction: The World Health Organization (WHO), a specialized agency … Read more

‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries’. Comment with examples.

Points to Remember: The significant influence of the Indian diaspora on the political and economic landscapes of the US and Europe. Examples of diaspora contributions in both spheres. Challenges and limitations faced by the diaspora in exerting influence. The potential for increased engagement and its implications. Introduction: The Indian diaspora, encompassing individuals of Indian origin … Read more

What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Points to Remember: Shifting geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific. Technological advancements and military capabilities of the US and Russia. India’s strategic autonomy and diversification of defence partnerships. Impact of defence deals on regional stability and power dynamics. Economic considerations and implications of defence deals. Introduction: The Indo-Pacific region is witnessing a significant shift in power … Read more

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue(Quad)’ is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times–Discuss.

Points to Remember: The Quad’s primary focus has been on security cooperation. Recent initiatives suggest a shift towards economic cooperation. The transformation is not complete; military cooperation remains central. Challenges to economic integration within the Quad exist. Success depends on overcoming geopolitical complexities and member nation interests. Introduction: The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprising the … Read more

“Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss.

Points to Remember: The Right to Information Act (RTI) aims to empower citizens by providing access to government information. The Information Commission plays a crucial role in enforcing the RTI Act. Recent amendments to the RTI Act have raised concerns about the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission. The discussion should analyze the impact … Read more

Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons.

Points to Remember: Constitutionalization involves granting a body constitutional status, typically through a constitutional amendment. This grants the body greater autonomy, security of tenure, and enhanced powers. The National Commission for Women (NCW) currently operates under a statutory framework. Gender justice and empowerment require a multi-pronged approach beyond just constitutional status. Introduction: The question explores … Read more

“There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”. Comment.

Points to Remember: The Representation of the People Act (RPA) and its provisions on disqualification for corrupt practices. The current procedure for disqualification under the RPA. Arguments for simplification of the disqualification procedure. Arguments against simplification and potential drawbacks. Suggestions for reform and a balanced approach. Introduction: The Representation of the People Act (RPA), enacted … Read more

‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India?

Keywords: Speaker of Lok Sabha, objectivity, parliamentary business, “Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker,” implications. Required Approach: Primarily analytical, with elements of opinion-based assessment. Points to Remember: The role of the Speaker in maintaining objectivity and order in Parliament. Potential benefits and drawbacks of the “Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker” practice. Impact on parliamentary … Read more

Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless stepney tyre to supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas which this transformation could be visible.

Points to Remember: Transformation of Rajya Sabha: From a largely ineffective body to a more influential one. Factors contributing to the transformation: Changes in political dynamics, increased representation, enhanced legislative role. Areas where transformation is visible: Legislative debates, scrutiny of government policies, amendments to bills. Introduction: The Rajya Sabha, the Council of States in India’s … Read more

The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.

Points to Remember: Convergence: Areas where Indian and UK judicial systems are becoming similar (e.g., use of technology, judicial review). Divergence: Areas where differences remain significant (e.g., judicial appointments, role of the judiciary in policymaking). Comparative Analysis: Focus on comparing and contrasting specific aspects of the two systems. Introduction: The Indian and UK judicial systems, … Read more