Mains Practice Questions

Q."The concept of 'development-induced displacement' raises critical questions about the balance between national progress and social justice." Analyze India's rehabilitation and resettlement policies for displaced communities, suggesting improvements to ensure equitable development. (250 words)

Q. Analyze the role of the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Constitution in shaping India's socio-economic policies, and examine their relationship with fundamental rights. (250 words)

Q. How did the experience of World War II reshape the political landscape of India and influence the final phase of the freedom struggle? (150 words)

Q. The development of regional kingdoms in early medieval India led to the flourishing of distinct architectural and artistic traditions. Elaborate with suitable examples. (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. The seed must be buried for the tree to rise.

2. Growth without equity is a house built on sand.

Case Study

In a rural region near the Ganga river basin, the local economy has increasingly become dependent on sand mining for construction purposes. The local government has issued permits for sand mining in limited areas under strict regulations. However, illegal sand mining is rampant in the region, with powerful contractors exploiting local resources and creating environmental degradation. Many contractors extract sand in excess of permitted limits and from non-designated areas, severely affecting the river's flow, local biodiversity, and nearby agricultural lands.

During your inspection visit as a district official, you observe large-scale illegal sand mining activities despite the presence of regulatory bodies. Upon questioning, the workers claim they are employed by a registered contractor operating within the limits. However, you notice heavy machinery being used in restricted areas. Villagers complain that illegal mining is damaging their fields, causing erosion, and affecting water availability. Moreover, you learn that the local administration is allegedly turning a blind eye to the issue due to the involvement of influential political figures.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. Bring out and discuss the ethical issues involved in the above case.

3. What steps would you take to address the situation as a district official?

Q. "Attitude shapes behavior, while aptitude determines capability." Analyze this statement in light of ethical governance. (150 words)

Q. Analyze the concept of "ethical fading" in organizational contexts. How can public institutions guard against this phenomenon and maintain high ethical standards over time? (150 words)

Q. The weaponization of social media for propaganda and recruitment by extremist groups poses a significant threat to internal security. How can India develop a robust strategy to combat digital extremism without compromising democratic values? (250 words)

Q. The introduction of Central Bank Digital Currency by the Reserve Bank of India marks a significant shift in India’s economic landscape. Evaluate the potential impacts of the digital rupee on financial inclusion. (250 words)

Q. "Manual scavenging persists despite legal prohibitions, highlighting the gap between legislation and social realities." Evaluate the effectiveness of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013, and suggest measures for its better implementation. (250 words)

Q. “The use of money bills to pass contentious legislation undermines the bicameral nature of India's parliamentary system”. Analyze this statement in the context of recent legislative practices and their impact on the role of the Rajya Sabha. (250 words)

Q. The traditional Indian family structure has undergone significant transformations in recent decades. Examine the changing nature of the Indian family, with particular emphasis on the impact of urbanization and globalization. (250 words)

Q. Explain the formation of karst landscapes and their characteristic features. Also, discuss their impact on water resources and land use. (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. Freedom is a fragile flower, easily crushed by the winds of oppression

2. The pursuit of wealth can lead to both prosperity and poverty.

Case Study

You are a senior officer in a state government responsible for overseeing appointments to key public positions. Recently, the government has initiated a recruitment process for a high-ranking post in the education department, critical for implementing the state's education reforms. The selection committee has shortlisted two candidates. One is highly qualified with an impeccable track record, but they have been vocal in criticizing some government policies. The second candidate is less experienced but enjoys strong political backing and is perceived as loyal to the ruling party.

You are aware that the first candidate could significantly contribute to the education sector's growth due to his expertise, but his independent stance might lead to friction with the political leadership. On the other hand, selecting the second candidate could ensure smoother relations with the political leadership but may compromise the quality of governance. Your decision will have a lasting impact on the state's education policy and its future outcomes.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What are ethical dilemmas in this case and what principles will guide your decision in this scenario?

3. How would you balance professional competence and political considerations in making a fair and just decision?

Q. Explain the concept of ‘empathy fatigue' in public service. How can administrators maintain empathy while dealing with constant exposure to societal problems? (150 words)

Q. Integrity and transparency are often cited as pillars of good governance. Discuss how these principles can sometimes conflict in real-world scenarios. (150 words)

Q. Assess the impact of drug trafficking on India's internal security, with special reference to the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle routes. What measures can be taken to combat this threat? (250 words)

Q. How does the development of reusable launch vehicles align with the objectives of India's Space Policy 2023? Discuss its implications for the commercialization of India's space sector. (250 words)

Q. Evaluate the strategic importance of India-Singapore relations in the context of India's 'Act East' policy. How has this relationship evolved over the past decade? (150 words)

Q. Analyze the importance of Parliamentary Committees in the Indian legislative process. Suggest measures to enhance their effectiveness in scrutinizing government policies. (250 words)

Q. Evaluate the role of traditional Indian architectural principles in promoting sustainable urban development in modern India. (150 words)

Q. The Chola Empire was a maritime power with a significant influence on Southeast Asia. Discuss the factors that contributed to the Chola Empire's maritime dominance and its impact on regional trade and cultural exchange. (250 words)

Essay Topics

1. Justice and mercy dance on the knife-edge of circumstance.

2. The pursuit of knowledge is a journey to the edge of an expanding circle

Case Study

You are the district collector of a region known for its rich biodiversity and tribal communities. A major pharmaceutical company has approached the government with a proposal to establish a research facility in your district. The company claims they have discovered a rare plant species in the local forest that could potentially lead to a breakthrough in cancer treatment. They are offering significant economic benefits, including job creation and infrastructure development. However, the proposed location for the facility would require clearing a portion of the forest that is considered sacred by the local tribal community and is home to several endangered species.

The tribal leaders have expressed strong opposition to the project, citing their ancestral rights and the cultural significance of the land. Environmental activists are also protesting, warning about the potential ecological damage. On the other hand, many locals see this as an opportunity for employment and development in the economically backward region. As the district collector, you must decide whether to recommend approval for the project or reject it. Your decision will have far-reaching consequences for the local economy, environment, and cultural heritage of the tribal community.

1. What are the stakeholders involved in this situation?

2. What ethical dilemmas do you face as the district collector in deciding whether to approve or reject the pharmaceutical company’s proposal?

3. What approach would you take to resolve this conflict, considering the competing interests of economic development, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation?

Q. "Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference in ethical leadership." Comment on this statement in the context of public administration. (150 words)

Q. Discuss the concept of moral particularism. How does it challenge traditional rule-based ethical frameworks? (150 words)

Q. The concept of 'nature-based solutions' is gaining traction globally. Discuss how India can effectively incorporate this approach in its environmental policy and biodiversity conservation efforts. (150 words)

Q. India's GDP growth rate has shown resilience amidst global economic challenges. Analyze the factors contributing to this growth and discuss the potential risks that could impact India's economic trajectory in the near future. (250 words)