Mains Practice Questions

Q.Discuss the key drivers and challenges in India's innovation ecosystem. Suggest measures to enhance the growth of the Innovation ecosystem in India. (250 words)

Q. A Universal Basic Income in India could provide a foundation for social security while reducing the complexity of the welfare state. Critically Examine. (250 words)

Q.How does the concept of United Nations (UN) peacekeeping as a "necessary but imperfect tool" reflect its role in maintaining the global peace order? What role has India played in supporting these missions? (250 words)

Q. Discuss the significance and challenges of Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) in India. What measures can be adopted to enhance the effectiveness of CSR in India? (250 words)

Q. "The rise of the app-based gig economy has created new forms of social stratification in urban India." Analyze this statement in the context of emerging class structures. (150 words)

Q. "Integration of princely states under Sardar Patel offers lessons for modern India's federal challenges." Analyze this statement in context of recent issues arising out of demand for regional autonomy. (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. To live is to suffer, to survive is to find meaning in the suffering.

2. The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.

Priya Singh is an IAS officer serving as District Collector in a politically sensitive district. During a severe pandemic outbreak, her district receives a limited supply of life-saving vaccines. The official guidelines mandate prioritizing healthcare workers and elderly citizens for vaccination.

However, the local MLA, who belongs to the ruling party, demands that 40% of vaccines be diverted to his constituency for "priority distribution." He threatens to file false corruption charges against Priya if she doesn't comply. Additionally, Priya's spouse works as the MLA's personal secretary, placing her in a challenging personal situation as the MLA has been threatening her husband's job.

The dilemma intensifies when she discovers that the MLA plans to use these vaccines for political gain by distributing them only to his party workers and supporters, potentially denying access to more vulnerable citizens in other areas.

1. Identify the stakeholders involved.

2. Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case.

3. What options are available to Priya and how should she navigate the situation?

Q. "Family remains the first school of ethics, but its role is increasingly being challenged by other social institutions." Examine the changing dynamics of moral education in contemporary society. (150 words)

Q. "Tolerance without compassion can lead to indifference." Examine this statement in the context of civil servants' responsibility towards weaker sections of society. (150 words)

Q. "Private sector participation is crucial for strengthening India's cybersecurity architecture." Analyze this statement with reference to recent initiatives and challenges. (150 words)

Q. "Urban biodiversity management is as crucial as protecting wilderness areas." In light of this statement, evaluate India's initiatives to preserve biodiversity in metropolitan areas. Cite successful examples. (250 words)

Q. How has the Red Sea crisis impacted global trade and India's maritime interests? Examine. (150 words)

Q. Examine the role of Competition Commission of India in promoting economic democracy. What challenges does it face in regulating digital markets? (250 words)

Q. "The stupa architecture of ancient India reflects not just religious beliefs but also the political and social dynamics of its time." Discuss with special reference to the stupas of Sanchi. (150 words)

Q. Explain the process of weathering. How do different weathering processes contribute to the formation of various landscapes and soil types? (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. To stand still is to move backwards.

2. A mountain peak is shaped by both the climb and the erosion.

Case Study

Priya, a dedicated IPS officer known for her integrity, is appointed as the Superintendent of Police in a district with a high crime rate and significant political interference. Despite facing frequent transfers, she uncovers evidence of the local MLA’s involvement in a human trafficking ring. The MLA has strong ties with the state's Home Minister, complicating her efforts to act without political pressure.

A senior journalist offers Priya additional incriminating information and proposes publishing an exposé if she confirms the investigation. He hints that it could boost her career and secure a prestigious posting. However, Priya is wary of potential professional retaliation, the journalist's motives, and the risk of compromising the investigation by leaking details prematurely. She faces a dilemma between taking bold action or protecting the integrity of the investigation.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in the situation?

2. What are the ethical dilemmas in front of Priya?

3. As a principled police officer, what options are available to Priya in this situation, and which course of action would be the most appropriate?

Q. Probity and integrity are often used interchangeably in public service discourse. Examine the subtle differences between these concepts and their implications for ethical governance. (150 words)

Q. The principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' is deeply rooted in Indian philosophy. Examine its relevance and ethical implications in shaping India's foreign policy in an era of increasing global polarization. (150 words)

Q. Explain the concept of synthetic biology. How might it revolutionize medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation, and what ethical concerns does it raise? (150 words)

Q. Evaluate the performance of India's Manufacturing sector under the 'Production Linked Incentive' initiative. What challenges need to be addressed to boost manufacturing growth? (250 words)

Q.Discuss the persistence of manual scavenging in India. How does the NAMASTE scheme contribute to its eradication? (250 words)

Q. The Indian judiciary is vital to safeguarding democracy yet faces significant systemic challenges. Propose judicial reforms that can address these challenges and enhance the efficiency and transparency of the judicial system. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the impact of the Bengal School of Art on the development of modern Indian painting.

Q. Analyze the role of education in addressing social inequalities in India. Has the Right to Education Act achieved its objectives?

Essay Topics

1. A tree grows not just by reaching upward, but by deepening its roots.

2. Change whispers in the winds long before it shouts in the storm.

Case Study

Dr. Sharma, a senior scientist at a renowned biotechnology company, leads a research team developing a drug to treat a rapidly spreading variant of a new viral infectious disease. With cases increasing worldwide and in India, there's immense pressure on Dr. Sharma's team to expedite the drug trials. The company seeks to capitalize on the significant market potential and gain a first-mover advantage.

During a team meeting, senior members propose shortcuts to accelerate the clinical trials and secure quick approvals. These include manipulating data to exclude negative outcomes and selectively report positive results, bypassing informed consent procedures, and using patented compounds from a rival company instead of developing their own. Dr. Sharma feels uncomfortable with these shortcuts but realizes that meeting the targets is impossible without employing such means. She now faces a difficult decision that pits scientific integrity and patient safety against market pressures and the urgent need for a treatment.

1. Who are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What are the ethical dilemmas faced by Dr. Sharma?

3. What course of action should Dr. Sharma take in this scenario?

Q. Discuss the concept of ethical blindness and its potential impact on public service delivery. How can organizations foster ethical awareness to prevent such blindness? (150 words)

Q. Discuss the ethical implications of social media on individual privacy and public accountability. (150 words)