Model Answer: 

Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees: Accountability and Effectiveness

Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees (DRSCs) play a crucial role in India’s parliamentary democracy by providing oversight and accountability of the executive branch. These permanent, multi-party committees shadow specific ministries and departments, enhancing legislative scrutiny and executive responsiveness.

DRSCs keep the administration on its toes through:

• Rigorous examination of departmental budgets and demand for grants
• Scrutiny of bills referred by Parliament
• Power to summon officials and ministers for questioning
• Regular reporting on ministry functioning

Examples of their impact include:
– Police reforms recommendations (Home Affairs Committee)
– Shaping GST legislation (Finance Committee)
– Data security report (IT Committee)

DRSCs inspire reverence for parliamentary control by:

• Providing a platform for expert and public opinions on policy matters
• Enhancing bipartisan cooperation on critical issues
• Promoting transparency in governance processes
• Offering in-depth examination of complex policy issues

The Health Committee’s recommendations on the National Medical Commission Bill demonstrate their ability to build consensus on contentious matters.

Evaluation of DRSC functioning:

Strengths:
• Comprehensive policy analysis
• Consensus-building on divisive issues
• Enhanced parliamentary oversight

Challenges:
• Limited acceptance of recommendations by the government
– Low implementation in annual budgets
• Time constraints and heavy workload
• Insufficient research and technical support
• Occasional politicization of proceedings

Despite these challenges, DRSCs have significantly contributed to policy-making and governance. The IT Committee’s report on citizens’ data security and privacy showcases their potential to address emerging issues.

To enhance their effectiveness, potential reforms include:
• Mandatory government responses to committee reports
• Increased research and technical support
• More time allocated for deliberations
• Improved public engagement mechanisms

Conclusion: DRSCs are vital for parliamentary control and executive accountability, but reforms are needed to strengthen their impact and efficiency.

Model Answer: 

Constitutional Provisions, Working, and Status of Legislative Councils

Legislative Councils, the upper houses in some state legislatures, are established under specific constitutional provisions. This answer examines these provisions, reviews their functioning, and assesses their current status.

Constitutional Provisions:

• Article 169 empowers Parliament to create or abolish Legislative Councils in states.
• The process requires a state assembly resolution passed by a special majority.
• Article 171 outlines the composition:
– Total members not exceeding 1/3rd of the assembly strength
– 1/3rd elected by local bodies
– 1/12th by graduates
– 1/12th by teachers
– 1/3rd nominated by the Governor
– Remaining elected by assembly members

Working of Legislative Councils:

• Act as a check on hasty legislation
• Provide a forum for experienced individuals (e.g., Manmohan Singh in Assam)
• Can initiate non-money bills and suggest amendments
• Limited powers:
– Cannot vote on money bills
– Can only delay legislation for a maximum of four months

Current Status and Illustrations:

• Six states currently have Legislative Councils:
– Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh
• Recent developments:
– Jammu and Kashmir’s council abolished in 2019
– West Bengal passed resolution to establish council (2019)
– Andhra Pradesh assembly passed resolution to abolish council (2020)
• Debates on relevance:
– Proponents argue for diverse representation (e.g., experts in education)
– Critics cite additional costs and potential for political maneuvering

Challenges:
• Delayed constitution in some states (e.g., Telangana)
• Concerns about becoming “rehabilitation centers” for politicians
• Questions about effectiveness in improving legislation quality

Conclusion:
Legislative Councils remain a topic of debate, balancing diverse representation against concerns of efficiency and political misuse in India’s federal structure.

Model Answer: 

Equality in US and Indian Constitutions: Distinguishing Features

The concept of equality is fundamental to both the US and Indian Constitutions, yet their approaches differ significantly. This analysis examines the distinguishing features of equality in these two constitutional frameworks.

US Constitution:

• Equality primarily addressed through the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause
• Focus on individual rights and liberties
• Emphasis on equality before the law and equal protection of laws
• Evolved through Supreme Court interpretations (e.g., Brown v. Board of Education)
• Limited provisions for affirmative action, mainly through court decisions

The US approach prioritizes formal equality, aiming to treat all individuals equally under the law regardless of their background or status. This has led to landmark decisions against racial segregation and discrimination but has also limited the scope for positive discrimination.

Indian Constitution:

• Equality enshrined in Articles 14-18
• Broader scope encompassing social and economic equality
• Explicit provisions for affirmative action (reservations) for disadvantaged groups
• Emphasis on both “equality of opportunity” and “equality of outcomes”
• Recognition of group rights alongside individual rights

India’s constitution takes a more comprehensive approach, acknowledging historical inequalities and providing for measures to address them. This includes reservations in education and government jobs for historically marginalized communities (e.g., Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes).

Comparative Analysis:

• Historical context: US shaped by civil rights movement; India influenced by caste system and colonial legacy
• Individual vs. group rights: US focuses on individual protections; India recognizes group-based disparities
• Scope of equality: US primarily legal equality; India includes social and economic dimensions
• Role of judiciary: Both countries’ courts have expanded equality concepts, but Indian courts have been more proactive in supporting affirmative action

The US model prioritizes non-discrimination and equal treatment, while the Indian approach actively promotes measures to achieve substantive equality. This difference is evident in policies like reservations in India (e.g., 27% OBC quota) versus the ongoing debates over affirmative action in US universities.

Conclusion: Both constitutions enshrine equality, but India’s approach is more expansive, addressing historical inequalities through affirmative action, while the US focuses on individual legal equality.

Model Answer: 

Human Rights Commissions in India: Limitations and Remedial Measures

Human Rights Commissions in India, established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, have played a crucial role in safeguarding citizens’ rights. However, their effectiveness in challenging powerful entities has been limited due to structural and practical constraints.

Contributions:
• Investigating human rights violations (e.g., custodial deaths, police brutality)
• Raising awareness through education and outreach programs
• Recommending policy changes and legislative reforms
• Providing a platform for marginalized groups to seek justice

Limitations in asserting against the powerful:

• Inability to effectively challenge government decisions (e.g., AFSPA in conflict zones)
• Limited success in holding influential private entities accountable (e.g., corporate environmental violations)
• Struggles in addressing systemic issues like caste discrimination

Structural limitations:
• Lack of binding powers; recommendations are often ignored
• Appointment process susceptible to political influence
• Inadequate diversity in commission composition
• Limited jurisdiction over armed forces

Practical limitations:
• Understaffing and resource constraints
• Huge backlog of cases leading to delays
• Limited public awareness about the commission’s role
• Inadequate follow-up mechanisms for implemented recommendations

Remedial measures:

1. Strengthening legal framework:
• Grant binding powers to commission recommendations
• Expand jurisdiction to include private sector and armed forces
• Establish transparent appointment processes

2. Enhancing operational capacity:
• Increase budgetary allocations and staffing
• Implement modern case management systems
• Establish regional offices for better accessibility

3. Improving accountability:
• Mandatory periodic reviews of commission performance
• Regular public reporting on the status of recommendations
• Strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations

4. Boosting public engagement:
• Launch comprehensive awareness campaigns
• Simplify complaint filing procedures
• Encourage academic research on human rights issues

Conclusion: Empowering Human Rights Commissions through structural reforms and practical enhancements is crucial for ensuring effective rights protection in India.

Model Answer: 

CBI Jurisdiction, State Consent, and Federal Character of India

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), India’s premier investigative agency, has recently faced challenges regarding its jurisdiction in various states. This controversy stems from the requirement of state consent for CBI investigations under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946.

CBI Jurisdiction and State Consent:

• CBI’s authority is derived from the DSPE Act, 1946
• Section 6 of the Act requires state government consent for CBI investigations
• Several states (e.g., West Bengal, Maharashtra) have withdrawn general consent

Reasons for Questioning CBI’s Jurisdiction:
• Concerns about misuse of central agencies for political purposes
• Perceived interference in state matters and federal structure
• Allegations of selective investigations (e.g., opposition-ruled states)

Limitations on States’ Power to Withhold Consent:

Despite states’ ability to withhold consent, this power is not absolute. CBI can still investigate in certain scenarios:

1. Supreme Court or High Court ordered investigations
• Overrides requirement for state consent
• Ensures investigation of serious crimes and corruption

2. Cases transferred by one state to another through Section 6 of DSPE Act
• Allows for inter-state coordination
• Useful in cases spanning multiple jurisdictions

3. Matters concerning central government employees or Union Territories
• Falls under direct purview of CBI
• No state consent required

Federal Character and CBI Jurisdiction:

India’s federal structure necessitates a delicate balance between central authority and state autonomy. The CBI jurisdiction issue highlights this tension:

• States argue for preserving their law and order powers
• Center emphasizes need for a national agency to tackle serious crimes
• Balancing act required to maintain cooperative federalism

The CBI jurisdiction debate reflects broader challenges in India’s federal system:

• Distribution of power between center and states
• Need for cooperation in law enforcement
• Importance of checks and balances in a diverse democracy

Conclusion: A balanced approach respecting federal principles and ensuring effective investigation of serious crimes is crucial for resolving the CBI jurisdiction debate.

Model Answer: 

USA’s Existential Threat: China vs Soviet Union

The USA faces an existential threat from China that surpasses the challenge posed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War. This comparison can be analyzed through several key aspects:

Economic Power and Global Influence:

• China: Second-largest economy, extensive global trade networks
• Soviet Union: Centrally planned economy, limited global economic impact
• China’s advantage: Belt and Road Initiative, economic interdependence with the US

Technological Advancements:

• China: Leading in 5G, AI, quantum computing
• Soviet Union: Focused mainly on military and space technology
• Current scenario: Broader technological competition across multiple domains

Military Capabilities:

• China: Rapidly modernizing military, expanding naval presence (South China Sea)
• Soviet Union: Nuclear arms race, conventional military standoff
• China’s approach: Asymmetric warfare capabilities, cyber warfare

Ideological Challenge:
• China: Authoritarian capitalism, “socialism with Chinese characteristics”
• Soviet Union: Communist ideology, clear ideological divide
• China’s model: More appealing to developing nations (e.g., Ethiopia, Pakistan)

Global Governance:
• China: Increasing influence in international institutions (UN, WTO)
• Soviet Union: Parallel systems, limited engagement with Western-led institutions
• China’s strategy: Reshaping global norms from within existing frameworks

Soft Power Projection:
• China: Cultural exports, educational programs (Confucius Institutes)
• Soviet Union: Limited cultural appeal beyond communist states
• China’s reach: Broader global audience, leveraging economic ties

Conclusion: China’s multifaceted challenge, intertwined with the global economy and institutions, presents a more complex existential threat to the USA than the Soviet Union did.

Model Answer: 

India’s Growing Influence in Africa: Examining Recent Years

India’s influence in Africa has grown significantly in recent years, aligning with the continent’s emerging prominence on the global stage. This influence spans multiple domains:

Economic Cooperation:

• Bilateral trade has surged, reaching $88 billion in 2021-22
• Indian investments in Africa have diversified, covering sectors like:
– Telecommunications (Airtel in 14 countries)
– Pharmaceuticals (Cipla in South Africa)
– Agriculture (Karuturi Global in Ethiopia)
• India has extended over $12 billion in lines of credit since 2008

Diplomatic Engagement:

• The India-Africa Forum Summit, held triennially since 2008, has strengthened ties
• India supports African nations in international forums, advocating for:
– UN Security Council reforms
– Climate change mitigation funds
– Fair trade practices

Capacity Building:

• The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program has trained thousands of African professionals
• Scholarships for African students have increased, with over 50,000 studying in India

Security Cooperation:

• India is a major contributor to UN peacekeeping missions in Africa
• Maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region has intensified

Cultural and Diaspora Connections:

• Bollywood’s popularity and yoga promotion enhance India’s soft power
• The 3-million-strong Indian diaspora in Africa acts as a bridge between cultures

Challenges remain, particularly in competing with China’s massive investments. However, India’s approach, focusing on capacity building and mutual growth, presents unique opportunities for deepening engagement.

Conclusion: India’s multifaceted influence in Africa reflects a growing partnership, poised for mutual benefit and shared prosperity in coming decades.

Model Answer: 

Microfinancing Women’s SHGs to Address Gender Inequality, Poverty, and Malnutrition

The vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty, and malnutrition is deeply entrenched in many societies. Microfinancing of women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) offers a potential solution to break this cycle. Here’s how:

Addressing Gender Inequality:

• Microfinancing provides women access to credit, enabling economic empowerment.
• As women contribute to household income, their decision-making power increases.
• This leads to improved social status and independence.
Example: SEWA Bank in Gujarat

Poverty Reduction:

• SHGs facilitate collective savings and provide loans for income-generating activities.
• Increased earnings allow women to invest in productive assets.
• This creates a sustainable path out of poverty.
Example: Kudumbashree program in Kerala

Improving Nutrition:

• Higher incomes lead to better food availability and quality.
• Empowered women are more likely to seek healthcare for themselves and their children.
• SHGs serve as platforms for disseminating nutrition information.
Example: CARE India’s interventions in Bihar

Challenges and Limitations:
• High interest rates and potential debt traps
• Uneven access to markets and skills
• Need for complementary measures in education and healthcare

Despite these challenges, microfinancing of women’s SHGs has shown significant potential in breaking the cycle. Success stories from various states (e.g., Jeevika in Bihar) demonstrate its effectiveness when implemented alongside broader development initiatives.

Conclusion: Microfinancing women’s SHGs can break the cycle by addressing economic, social, and health aspects simultaneously, but must be part of a comprehensive strategy.

Model Answer: 

Strengthening ‘Earn While You Learn’ for Meaningful Vocational Education

The ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme, which combines practical work experience with theoretical education, is crucial for bridging the skill gap in India’s workforce. However, to make vocational education and skill training truly meaningful, this scheme needs significant strengthening.

Current challenges hindering the scheme’s effectiveness include:
• Limited industry participation
• Lack of standardized curriculum
• Insufficient awareness among potential beneficiaries
• Inadequate infrastructure in many vocational training institutes

To strengthen the scheme and enhance its impact, the following measures are essential:

1. Increase industry-academia collaboration:
• Develop industry-relevant curricula
• Facilitate regular industry visits (e.g., factory tours, job shadowing)
• Encourage industry experts as guest lecturers

2. Standardize curriculum and assessment:
• Align with National Skills Qualifications Framework
• Implement uniform evaluation methods across institutes

3. Improve training quality:
• Upgrade infrastructure (e.g., modern labs, equipment)
• Enhance trainer skills through regular upskilling programs

4. Boost awareness and participation:
• Launch targeted outreach campaigns
• Provide incentives for both learners and employers (e.g., tax benefits, stipends)

5. Leverage technology:
• Implement online learning modules
• Use data analytics for better monitoring and evaluation

6. Ensure proper certification:
• Recognize prior learning
• Offer industry-endorsed certificates

By strengthening the ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme, we can:
• Improve youth employability
• Better align workforce skills with industry needs
• Contribute to economic growth through increased productivity
• Reduce unemployment and underemployment

Conclusion: Strengthening the ‘Earn while you learn’ scheme is crucial for creating a skilled workforce, boosting employability, and driving economic growth in India.

Model Answer: 

Primary Health Structure: Moral Imperative and Pre-condition for Sustainable Development

Primary health structure forms the foundation of a nation’s healthcare system, providing essential services to all citizens. It serves as both a moral imperative for a Welfare State and a crucial prerequisite for sustainable development.

As a moral imperative:
• It upholds the right to health as a fundamental human right
• Ensures equitable access to healthcare (e.g., rural health centers)
• Reflects the state’s commitment to citizens’ well-being

Primary health structure as a pre-condition for sustainable development:

• Promotes a healthy, productive workforce
• Contributes to human capital development
• Supports achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3

Key impacts on sustainable development:
• Economic growth: A healthy population drives economic productivity
• Poverty reduction: Prevents health-related financial catastrophes
• Education: Healthy children perform better academically (e.g., school health programs)
• Gender equality: Improves maternal health and women’s participation in the workforce

Challenges:
• Resource constraints in developing countries
• Rural-urban disparities in healthcare access
• Shortage of trained healthcare professionals

Way forward:
• Increase public health expenditure
• Strengthen rural health infrastructure
• Implement comprehensive health policies (e.g., Ayushman Bharat in India)
• Foster public-private partnerships in healthcare delivery

Conclusion: Primary health structure is indispensable for societal welfare and sustainable growth, necessitating robust implementation and continuous improvement.