UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Model Answer

Q. The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strenght and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario.

Q. The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strenght and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

AUKUS Partnership: Strength, Impact, and Regional Dynamics in the Indo-Pacific

AUKUS, formed in September 2021, is a trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It aims to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. While AUKUS is significant, it is unlikely to supersede existing partnerships but rather complement them.

AUKUS and Existing Partnerships:

• AUKUS coexists with other regional alliances like the Quad (US, India, Japan, Australia) and Five Eyes (US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand).
• It enhances, rather than replaces, these partnerships by focusing on specific technological and military cooperation.
• Example: Quad’s vaccine diplomacy, AUKUS’s submarine technology.

Strengths of AUKUS:

• Advanced technology sharing:
– Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence
– Nuclear propulsion technology for submarines
• Combined military expertise of three powerful nations
• Strategic depth in the Indo-Pacific region

Impact in the Present Scenario:

• Geopolitical implications:
– Strengthens deterrence against Chinese aggression
– Alters regional power dynamics (e.g., South China Sea)
• Increased regional tensions:
– China’s strong opposition and countermeasures
– Concerns from some ASEAN nations
• Effects on allies:
– Strained relations with France (cancelled submarine deal)
– Closer alignment of other US allies in the region

Challenges:

• Potential escalation of regional arms race
• Balancing act for countries caught between US and China
• Long-term commitment and resource allocation issues

AUKUS has significantly impacted the Indo-Pacific security landscape, demonstrating its strength through:
1. Enhanced deterrence capabilities
2. Advanced technology cooperation
3. Unified stance against regional threats

However, its effectiveness will depend on:
• Successful implementation of planned initiatives
• Managing diplomatic fallout (e.g., with France)
• Balancing cooperation with other regional partnerships

Conclusion: AUKUS strengthens Indo-Pacific security architecture, complementing existing alliances while presenting new challenges in regional power dynamics.

Q. The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strenght and impact of AUKUS in the present scenario. Read More »

Q. Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. what importance does it hold for India.

Q. Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. what importance does it hold for India.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

SCO Aims, Objectives, and Importance for India

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), founded in 2001, is a Eurasian alliance with ambitious aims in security, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange. Its primary objectives include:

• Combating the “Three Evils” – terrorism, separatism, and extremism
• Promoting economic cooperation and trade
• Fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding
• Enhancing regional stability and development

SCO’s security initiatives, such as joint military exercises like the “Peace Mission” drills and intelligence sharing, have seen some success. However, persistent challenges in regions like Afghanistan and Xinjiang highlight the limitations of this approach.

In the economic sphere, SCO aims to boost trade, investment, and infrastructure development. The Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies this goal, yet the organization has struggled to achieve significant economic integration. China’s dominant economic position within the group often overshadows other members’ interests, leading to an imbalanced partnership.

SCO’s cultural exchange programs have fostered greater understanding among member states, but deep-seated historical tensions and cultural differences continue to pose challenges. The organization’s role as a multilateral dialogue platform contributes to regional stability, though its effectiveness in resolving major conflicts remains limited.

For India, SCO holds strategic importance by providing:

• A platform to engage with Central Asia
• Opportunities to balance China’s growing influence
• Economic prospects through expanded market access
• Cooperation on security issues, including counter-terrorism

However, India’s participation in SCO requires a delicate diplomatic balancing act. It must manage its relationships with China and Pakistan within the organization while aligning its SCO membership with other international commitments, such as the Quad.

Critics argue that SCO risks becoming a China-Russia dominated bloc, potentially drawing India into an axis that may not align with its broader foreign policy objectives. Nevertheless, the organization provides a valuable forum for India to engage with key regional players and advance its interests in Eurasia.

In conclusion, SCO offers India a complex mix of strategic opportunities and challenges, demanding astute diplomacy to maximize benefits while protecting national interests.

Q. Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. what importance does it hold for India. Read More »

Q. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen. Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.

Q. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen. Discuss the challenges of this alternative model.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

Civil society and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have emerged as potential alternatives to traditional public service delivery models, offering innovative approaches to benefit citizens. This alternative model presents both opportunities and challenges in addressing public needs.

Alternative Model of Public Service Delivery:

• Civil society and NGOs can provide services in areas where government reach is limited or ineffective. For example:
– Education: Rural literacy programs
– Healthcare: Mobile health clinics
– Sanitation: Community-led toilet construction

• Benefits of this model include:
– Increased efficiency due to reduced bureaucracy
– Better reach to marginalized communities
– Flexibility to adapt to local needs
– Innovation in service delivery methods

• Successful interventions have been seen in various sectors, such as microfinance initiatives (e.g., Grameen Bank) and disaster relief efforts (e.g., Goonj’s cloth for work program).

Challenges of the Alternative Model:

• Limited resources and funding constraints:
– Dependence on donations and grants
– Difficulty in sustaining long-term projects

• Lack of coordination with government agencies:
– Potential duplication of efforts
– Inconsistent service quality across regions

• Sustainability and scalability issues:
– Challenges in replicating successful small-scale models
– Difficulty in maintaining continuity of services

• Accountability and transparency concerns:
– Limited oversight mechanisms
– Potential for misuse of funds

• Resistance from existing bureaucratic structures:
– Reluctance to share responsibilities
– Conflicting approaches to problem-solving

• Limited capacity to handle complex, large-scale projects:
– Inadequate technical expertise
– Insufficient infrastructure

Conclusion:
The alternative model offers innovative solutions but requires addressing challenges to effectively complement government efforts in public service delivery.

Q. Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen. Discuss the challenges of this alternative model. Read More »

Q. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?

Q. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu?

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

Interventions to Change Patriarchal Social Attitudes in Post-Independent India

Despite women’s remarkable achievements in post-Independent India, the prevailing social attitude remains largely patriarchal. While education and empowerment schemes are crucial, additional interventions are necessary to transform this deeply ingrained mindset:

Legal and Policy Reforms:

• Strengthen existing laws and ensure their effective implementation, e.g., stricter enforcement of anti-dowry laws.
• Introduce gender-sensitive policymaking across all sectors, such as gender budgeting in economic policies.
• Enact new legislation to address emerging issues like workplace harassment and cyber crimes against women.

Media and Cultural Interventions:

• Promote positive and diverse representation of women in media, moving beyond stereotypical portrayals.
• Encourage gender-sensitive content in entertainment and advertising industries.
• Support and showcase women-centric narratives in literature, cinema, and art (e.g., women-led film productions).

Institutional Changes:

• Increase women’s representation in decision-making bodies, including parliaments and corporate boards.
• Implement mandatory gender sensitization training for law enforcement, judiciary, and public officials.
• Establish gender equality cells in educational institutions and workplaces to address discrimination.

Economic Measures:

• Promote women’s participation in the workforce through incentives for companies hiring women.
• Ensure equal pay and opportunities across all sectors (e.g., equal pay audits).
• Support women entrepreneurs through targeted financial schemes and mentorship programs.

Social and Community-based Interventions:

• Engage men and boys in gender equality initiatives, fostering allyship and shared responsibility.
• Support grassroots movements and community-led programs addressing gender issues.
• Organize awareness campaigns targeting harmful social practices (e.g., campaigns against child marriage).

Technological Interventions:

• Leverage technology to enhance women’s safety, such as SOS apps and smart surveillance.
• Promote digital literacy among women to bridge the gender digital divide.
• Use social media platforms to amplify women’s voices and experiences.

Conclusion: A multi-faceted approach combining policy, social, and cultural interventions is essential to dismantle patriarchal attitudes and foster genuine gender equality in India.

Q. “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchal.” Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what interventions can help change this milieu? Read More »

Q. Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, couple with lack of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.

Q. Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, couple with lack of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

Model Answer: 

Digital Illiteracy and ICT Accessibility: Hindrances to Rural Socio-Economic Development

Digital illiteracy and limited Information and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility, particularly in rural areas, have indeed hindered socio-economic development in India. This digital divide has created significant barriers to progress and inclusive growth.

Rural Digital Illiteracy:

• Widespread lack of digital skills in villages
• Limited exposure to technology and internet
• Inadequate digital education infrastructure
These factors contribute to a significant portion of the rural population being unable to effectively use digital tools and services.

ICT Accessibility Challenges:

• Poor connectivity in remote areas
• High cost of devices and internet services
• Lack of localized content and language barriers
• Inconsistent electricity supply (e.g., frequent power cuts)
These issues restrict access to essential online resources and services for rural communities.

Impact on Socio-Economic Development:

1. Education: Limited access to online learning resources and e-learning platforms
2. Employment: Reduced job opportunities in the digital economy
3. Governance: Difficulty in accessing e-governance services (e.g., land records, welfare schemes)
4. Financial Inclusion: Barriers to digital banking and online transactions
5. Healthcare: Inability to utilize telemedicine and health information services
6. Agriculture: Reduced access to market information and modern farming techniques

Examples of impact:
• Farmers unable to check market prices
• Students missing online classes
• Villagers struggling with digital payments

Government Initiatives:
• Digital India: Aims to improve digital infrastructure and literacy
• BharatNet: Working to provide broadband connectivity to all Gram Panchayats
• Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA): Focuses on digital literacy in rural areas

However, these initiatives face implementation challenges and have not yet fully bridged the digital divide.

Way Forward:
1. Strengthen digital infrastructure in rural areas
2. Invest in comprehensive digital literacy programs
3. Promote affordable access to devices and internet services
4. Develop localized content and applications
5. Encourage public-private partnerships for digital inclusion

Conclusion: Addressing digital illiteracy and improving ICT accessibility in rural areas is crucial for inclusive socio-economic development and bridging the urban-rural divide.

Q. Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, couple with lack of Information and Communication Technology(ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic development? Examine with justification. Read More »

Q. Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples.

Q. Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

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.

Q. Do Department -related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples. Read More »

Q. Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations.

Q. Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

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.

Q. Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. Read More »

Q. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.

Q. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

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.

Q. Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. Read More »

Q. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.

Q. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

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.

Q. Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. Read More »

Q. The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States. However, the power of States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India.

Q. The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States. However, the power of States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India.

Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS2 Paper

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.

Q. The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular state is being questioned by various States. However, the power of States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. Read More »