Gs paper 2

Approach

• Write in brief about the strategic location of Maldives.
• Discuss how geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives affects global trade and energy flows.
• Show how external players like China impact India-Maldives relations.

Introduction

Maldives – a key part of India’s neighbourhood first policy – is strategically located in the Indian Ocean along critical maritime routes, defining Maldives’ geopolitical and geo-strategic importance far beyond its physical size.

Body

Geopolitical and Geostrategic Importance of Maldives:

• Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOCs): The Maldives has two critical SLOCs at its southern and northern ends, vital for maritime trade between the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Hormuz, and the Strait of Malacca.
  • 50% of India's external trade and 80% of its energy imports pass through these SLOCs in the Arabian Sea.
• Indian Ocean as India’s Backyard: The Maldives is crucial for India's role as net security provider in the Indian Ocean due to its strategic location, collaborative defence initiatives, and joint efforts in maritime surveillance and humanitarian assistance.

Impact of Changing India-Maldives Relationship:

In the recent years, there has been a perceived decline in India-Maldives relations:

• Strategic Dynamics: India's limited engagement with the Maldives has enabled China's growing influence through BRI investments, threatening India's control over key maritime routes and its maritime security.
• Economic Competition: Due to comparatively less India’s investment in Maldives, China with its chequebook diplomacy has emerged as a major economic player, directly challenging India's long-standing position as the primary partner in the region.
• Diplomatic Strain: Maldives' balancing strategy, fueled by perceived Indian 'Big Brother syndrome', complicates India's diplomatic efforts and weakens its influence in the Indian Ocean.
• Maritime Security: China's submarine and destroyer deployments, along with new docking facilities in the Maldives and Sri Lanka, pose a direct threat to India's maritime interests.
• Terrorism: Anti-Indian sentiment and Maldives' focus on Islamic values raise concerns about terrorism, potentially destabilising the region and threatening India's security.

Conclusion

Amid rising Chinese influence and anti-India sentiment, strengthening India-Maldives relations is essential for regional stability and mutual prosperity. A harmonious partnership will benefit economic development, security, and cultural ties, fostering a more resilient and prosperous future for both countries.

Approach:

• Define the threat of terrorism using credible sources and outline the role of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee (UNCTC)
• Mention the impact of terrorism, the role and effectiveness of the UNCTC, challenges faced, and suggestions for improvement.
• Conclude with a future-oriented viewpoint.

Introduction:

The Global Terrorism Index 2024 notes a 22% rise in terrorism-related deaths globally, the highest since 2017. In response, the UN Security Council's Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC) plays a vital role in boosting international cooperation to tackle this issue.

Body:

Threat of Terrorism to Global Peace and Security:

• Erosion of State Sovereignty: Weak governments in Afghanistan and Somalia allow the Taliban and Al-Shabaab to thrive.
• Economic Impact: The 9/11 attacks led to USD 40 billion in U.S. losses, while the 2015 Paris attacks harmed European tourism.
• Humanitarian Crises: ISIS and conflicts in Syria and Iraq have caused major refugee crises, straining host countries.
• Political Tensions: Terrorism intensifies geopolitical conflicts, notably between India and Pakistan, exemplified by the 2019 Pulwama attack.

UNSC-CTC and its Effectiveness:

• Established by Resolution 1373 after the 9/11 attacks to combat terrorism.
• It facilitates the implementation of legal frameworks like UNSC Resolutions 1373 and 1540, requiring member states to combat terrorism and prevent weapons proliferation.
• It promotes capacity-building initiatives, fosters international collaboration for intelligence sharing, and addresses challenges like cyber-terrorism and social media recruitment with modern strategies.

Challenges of UNCTC:

• Lack of Universal Definition: Inconsistent definitions of terrorism lead to varied international responses.
• Enforcement Issues: Counter-terrorism efforts in places like Somalia often lack effectiveness due to various physical and governance-related hindrances.
• Political Complexities: Veto power, particularly from China, can obstruct consensus on terrorist designations.
• Evolving Threats: New challenges like cyber-terrorism and lone-wolf attacks are rapidly emerging.

Suggestions for Improvement:

• Create binding counter-terrorism frameworks.
• Enhance real-time information sharing on financing and movement.
• Collaborate with local communities to prevent radicalization.
• Boost financial and technical aid for developing nations.

Conclusion

While the CTC has advanced in countering terrorism, a proactive approach is vital. Strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing intelligence sharing, and fostering community initiatives will better prepare the international community to tackle evolving threats and bolster global security.

Approach:

• Define e-governance and introduce the concept of the interactive service model.
• In Body evaluate the role of Interactive Service Model in ensuring transparency and accountability.
• In conclusion, emphasise the need for continuous improvements and adaptations to meet the evolving needs of citizens.

Introduction:

E-governance is the use of digital technology by governments to provide services to citizens. E.g. DigiLocker, Jeevan Pramaan, Mobile Seva.

The interactive service model of e-governance transforms one-way service delivery into a dialogue, allowing citizens to voice concerns and participate in decision-making.

Body:

Role of Interactive Service Model(ISM) in Ensuring Transparency and Accountability:

• Two-way Communication: Initiatives like the MyGov platform in India enable direct dialogue between citizens and the government, fostering engagement and feedback.
• Access to Information: Portals such as the Right to Information mechanism and the National Portal of India provide citizens with comprehensive updates and information.
• Grievance Redressal: Systems like the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) allow citizens to report issues and receive prompt responses.
• Citizen Engagement: Programs like “Bhagidari” promote active citizen participation in governance, reinforcing a partnership between the public and government.
• Feedback Mechanisms: Projects like Karnataka’s Bhoomi enable real-time citizen feedback on digitised land records, enhancing responsiveness in service delivery.
• Ensuring Transparency: Initiatives such as social audits, with Meghalaya being the first state to pass social audit legislation, enhance openness in government processes, and build public trust.

Although the Interactive Service Model is crucial, its implementation faces challenges such as unequal access to technology, with urban areas having 67% internet penetration compared to just 31% in rural areas, bureaucratic resistance to adopting new systems, and concerns over data privacy that may limit citizen participation.

Conclusion:

To tackle the challenges of the Interactive Service Model of e-governance, the government must bridge the digital divide with rural connectivity and promote digital literacy, while ensuring data privacy and encouraging bureaucratic reform. This will enhance e-transparency and empower citizens through the effective use of electronic platforms and social media, making services clear and accessible to all.

Approach 

• Introduction: Start with the current state and valuation of India's healthcare sector, highlighting the concerns of marketization. 
• Body: Discuss the role of the state in addressing marketization through regulation, provision of services, and community-focused initiatives to enhance public health access.
• Conclusion: Emphasise the need for the state to uphold the right to health and ensure equitable access in light of market pressures.

Introduction 

India's healthcare sector reached USD 372 billion in 2023, with the private sector dominating secondary and tertiary care (major concentration in metros, tier-I, and tier-II cities). The increasing marketization raises concerns by viewing health as a commodity, prioritising profits over patient welfare, potentially compromising care quality and exacerbating healthcare access inequalities.

Body 

Role of the State in Containing the Adverse Impact of Marketization of the Healthcare System: 

• Right to Health: Article 21 of the Constitution includes the right to health, requiring the state to protect this right amid marketization pressures that may lead to inequality and service degradation. 
• State as a Benefactor: Ensures healthcare services are available to all, especially vulnerable groups, through public hospitals and subsidized care schemes like the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).  
  • Establishes quality standards and patient satisfaction measures, maintaining dignity and rights. 
• State as a Regulator: Through the Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 the state sets norms to prevent profit-driven service degradation and protect citizens. 
• State as a Facilitator: Facilitate PPP to enhance service delivery serving underserved areas. It mobilises funds for equitable healthcare financing. 

Measures to Enhance Public Healthcare Reach at the Grassroots Level: 

• The state should train community health workers (ASHAs, ANMs) to act as bridges between the healthcare system and the community, facilitating health education and early disease detection.  
• Expand the operationalization of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres to ensure comprehensive primary healthcare services, including preventive, promotive, and curative care. 
  • Utilise the 15th Finance Commission's grants to strengthen local health systems and enhance community-specific health initiatives. 
• Implement  initiatives like Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyay Maha Abhiyaan to target low immunisation coverage areas, especially in tribal and hard-to-reach regions, ensuring effective prevention. 
• Additionally, establishing new medical colleges in aspirational districts, using Rural Health Statistics for data-driven decisions, and integrating telehealth services will further enhance healthcare accessibility and effectiveness. 

Conclusion  

The state should utilise marketization to enhance competition and deliver affordable, high-quality healthcare, prioritising patient welfare and improving access for vulnerable populations.

Approach:

• Write a brief introduction about the Citizen's Charter and its significance.
• Discuss the factors hindering the full realisation of the Citizen's Charter.
• Propose actionable measures to overcome these hindrances.
• Conclude with the importance of reforms and emphasise the potential of the Citizen's Charter in improving governance.

Introduction

The Citizen's Charter is a key initiative aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery. The task of coordination, formulation, and operationalization of citizen’s charters are done by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).

Body

• Factors/Challenges Hindering the Realization of Citizen Charters:
  • Many citizens are unaware of the existence of the Citizen’s Charter or the rights it grants them and fail to hold public authorities accountable.
  • While the Citizen's Charter specifies service standards, there are limited enforcement mechanisms to penalize non-compliance by government officials.
  • Some departments are not revising their charters regularly. This led to inconsistency and unequal service delivery.
  • Many officials perceive the Citizen's Charter as an additional burden and show reluctance in adhering to its standards.
  • Insufficient training of public officials in citizen-centric service delivery and a lack of understanding of the Citizen's Charter hinder its effective implementation.
• Measures to Overcome the Challenges:
  • The Second Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC) proposed several recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of Citizen’s Charters:
    • Implementing punitive measures for non-compliance, such as financial penalties or disciplinary action against officials, can improve accountability.
    • Charters should prioritize a limited number of achievable commitments instead of presenting an extensive list of unfulfilled promises.
    • Uniform charters across organizations can undermine the effectiveness of service delivery; therefore, it is essential to develop charter that are tailored to local contexts and specific organizational needs.
    • Officers should be held accountable when commitments made in the Citizen's Charters are not met, ensuring that they uphold their responsibilities and maintain public trust.
    • Citizen’s Charters should undergo frequent reviews and revisions to ensure they remain relevant, effective, and aligned with changing needs and expectations of the public.
    • Before creating a charter, the organization should reorganize its structure and processes to ensure effective implementation.

Conclusion

The Citizen's Charter has the potential to revolutionize governance by enhancing transparency, efficiency, and a focus on citizens. However, realizing this potential requires tackling implementation challenges through increased awareness, improved accountability, effective training, and fostering a culture centered on citizen needs.

Approach:

• Introduce the concept of secularism, highlighting its significance in both India and the United States.
• Give key features of Indian Secularism
• Compare key aspects of secularism in India and the US, focusing on constitutional basis, state involvement in religion, and recent legal challenges.
• Conclude by highlighting the importance of upholding constitutional principles in both countries.

Introduction:

The concept of secularism in India and the United States differs significantly in both theory and practice.

• India embodies a positive concept of secularism, giving equal respect to all religions regardless of their size or influence.
• In contrast, the Western concept, exemplified by the US, connotes a complete separation between religion and state.

Body

India as a Secular State:

Comparative Analysis of Secularism in India and United States:

Conclusion:

Both India and the US encounter challenges in managing the interplay between religious influence in politics and safeguarding individual rights. Ultimately, the success of secularism in promoting harmony and democracy relies on the steadfast commitment to uphold constitutional principles in both countries.

Approach:

• Introduce by defining Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
• Mention about the growth of PIL in India and the resulting emergence of the Supreme Court as the world's most powerful judiciary
• Conclude suitably

Introduction:

A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) is a legal action initiated in a court of law to protect the interests of the public or a specific group, rather than individual rights.

• Justice Krishna Iyer pioneered the concept of PIL in India in the case of Mumbai Kamagar Sabha vs. Abdul Thai (1976).
• It is not defined in any statutory law rather originated in India from the power of judicial review.

Body

Reasons for the Growth of PILs:

• Constitutional Framework: Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles provide the basis for PILs, promoting social justice.
• Relaxation of Locus Standi: The courts relaxed this principle for PILs, allowing concerned citizens or organisations to file petitions on behalf of the marginalised groups.
• Judicial Activism: The judiciary has played a proactive role in expanding the scope of PILs, particularly where the executive has failed to deliver justice.
  • Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. Union of India (1984) set the precedent for liberalising access to the courts for social justice causes.
• Inaction of Government Authorities: Growth of PILs can be attributed to the failure of government agencies to address public grievances effectively (bureaucratic delays, corruption etc), leading citizens to approach courts through PILs.

Growth of PILs Making the SC the World’s Most Powerful Judiciary:

• Power to Strike Down Laws:
  • In 2021, the Supreme Court declared the NJAC Act and the 99^th Constitutional Amendment unconstitutional and void (PIL challenging NJAC Act filed in 2015).
• Addressing Government Inaction via Judicial Review:
  • In M.C. Mehta v. Union of India (1988), the court issued directives to control pollution and improve Ganga's water quality.
  • In the NEET 2024 paper leak case, the SC denied a retest due to insufficient evidence of compromised exam integrity and expanded the Centre-appointed panel’s scope to review NTA's functioning and recommend reforms.
• Wider Interpretation of Rights:
  • The SC held the right to privacy as an intrinsic part of the right to life and personal libe rty under Article 21 (Puttaswamy case 2017).
  • The SC recognised the rights of sex workers to dignity and expanded the interpretation of the right to life and dignity under Article 21 (Budhadev Karmaskar case 2022).
• Sou Motu Powers:
  • After the poor handling of the Kolkata Muder-Rape case 2024 by the state govt, the SC took the suo motu cognisance of the incident.
• Judicial Activism and Overreach:
  • Overturning a colonial-era law by decriminalising homosexuality (Navtej Singh Johar case) and declaring triple talaq as unconstitutional and invalid, upholding gender equality and personal rights (Shayara Bano case 2017).
  • To curb road accidents, the SC ordered a ban on liquor sales within 500 m of highways (2017).

Though PILs have expanded the ambit of judicial review and have contributed in making the SC one of the world’s most powerful judiciary – judicial overreach has often been criticised by various stakeholders as excessively interfering in the legislative and executive domains; a practice witnessed seldom in more advanced nations like the US and Australia who also have similar systems in place. ‘Separation of powers’ must be respected to maintain the spirit of democracy.

Approach

• Introduce the topic of Centre-State relations and related constitutional provisions.
• Give a description of recent changes brought by the Union Government in centre-state relations at political, administrative and financial levels.
• Suggest measures that can be adopted for better centre-state relations.
• Provide a suitable conclusion.

Introduction

Centre-state relations in India involve the distribution of powers and responsibilities between central and state governments, forming the backbone of Indian democracy. This framework is outlined in Part XI of the Constitution.

Body

Recent Changes in the Centre-State Relations:

• At Administrative Level:
  • In 2014, the Union government replaced the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog to enhance cooperative federalism.
• At Legislative Level:
  • The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 facilitated the full integration of J&K in the Union of India.
  • In 2024, the Cabinet approved the “one nation, one election” report, advocating for synchronised elections.
• At Financial Level:
  • The Goods and Services Tax (GST) represents a major reform in fiscal federalism, though it has led to a loss of fiscal autonomy as rates are determined by the GST council.

Concerns:

• Administrative concerns: Misuse of Article 356 (deployment of Central forces without state consent, and the role of Governors).
  • Allocations for Centrally Sponsored Schemes have significantly increased, limiting States' ability to address their own priorities.
• Legislative: Encroachment of the Center into state-list subjects and delays in obtaining assents for state bills.
  • Example: Invocation of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, during the COVID-19 pandemic imposed binding Central guidelines on states, despite public health being a state subject.
• Financial issues: Centralisation of powers in resource mobilisation, allocation, and economic decision-making.

Building the Trust between Centre and the States:

• Strengthening dialogue and decision-making between the Centre and states is essential, primarily by empowering the Inter-State Council (Sarkaria Commission in 1983).
• Second ARC Report (1969) Recommendations for cooperative federalism:
  • Establishment of an Inter-state Council.
  • Delegation of powers to the maximum extent to the states.
  • Augmenting financial resources of the states through fiscal transfers from the centre.
  • Appointment of non-partisan persons having long experience in public life and administration as Governor of a state.
• The Centre should limit its use of Articles 355 and 356 to ensure state autonomy.

Conclusion

Strengthening federalism needs better dialogue through the Inter-State Council, timely legislation, and increased fiscal autonomy for states.

Approach

• Give a brief introduction about the Right to Privacy and Article 21.
• Explain the right to Privacy as intrinsic to Life and Liberty.
• Mention law for DNA testing to establish paternity.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction:

The Right to Privacy is intrinsic to the concepts of life and personal liberty under Article 21.

Body:

The Right to Privacy is Intrinsic to Life and Liberty

• The Right to Privacy (Article 21), empowers individuals to make personal choices without state interference, thereby promoting freedom and autonomy.
  • It includes the ability to make decisions about one’s body, health, and reproductive matters free from coercion, as well as the right to manage personal data to prevent unauthorised collection or use.
• It also safeguards the confidentiality of personal communications, such as phone calls, emails, and letters, protecting individuals from unwarranted surveillance.
  • This multifaceted right underscores the importance of personal dignity and autonomy.

Laws for DNA Testing for Paternity

• Right to Privacy:
  • The Puttaswamy judgment (2017) established that any intrusion into privacy, including DNA testing, must meet the criteria of legality, necessity, and proportionality, respecting the privacy of the woman and unborn child.
• Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (Section 116):
  • Presumes a child born in wedlock is legitimate. DNA tests may be ordered when prima facie evidence questions paternity, as seen in Nandlal Wasudeo Case, 2014, where DNA can override this presumption.
• Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994:
  • Regulates prenatal diagnostic tests, including DNA testing, to prevent misuse and gender-based discrimination, except for legitimate medical reasons.
• DNA Technology Regulation Bill, 2019:
  • Requires consent for DNA tests and allows court intervention for legal disputes. The Bill protects privacy and penalizes misuse of DNA data.
• Judicial Observations:
  • Aparna Ajinkya Firodia Case, 2023: DNA tests in matrimonial disputes should be ordered only with sufficient prima facie evidence, considering the impact on children.

Conclusion:

While DNA testing for paternity can be allowed, it must adhere to privacy rights, legal safeguards, and medical ethics. Courts must carefully balance these competing rights based on the circumstances, ensuring privacy and justice.

Approach

• Introduce the answer by briefly mentioning about the act, 2024, and its significance.
• In body, outline aims like preventing unfair practices, enhancing transparency, and establishing a legal framework.
• Give suitable provisions of the act to support your arguments.
• Confirm the Act applies to university and state education board examinations.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

In order to combat the rising incidents of question paper leaks and malpractices in public examinations and to enhance the integrity, transparency, and credibility of the examination system across India, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, has been passed by the Parliament.

Body

Aims and Objectives of the Act

• The act aims to deter unfair means in public examinations by addressing organized cheating and malpractices.
  • It defines unfair practices for profit, like leaking question papers and unauthorized OMR sheet possession.
• The Act introduces guidelines and strict penalties to restore public trust in the examination system.
  • Unfair practices include tampering with documents and creating fake websites; all offenses are cognizable and non-bailable.
• By implementing strong measures, the act boosts candidates' confidence in fair results.
  • It enforces three to five years in prison and fines up to Rs.10 lakh, with investigations by Deputy Superintendent or Assistant Commissioner rank officers.
• The legislation establishes a framework to address examination integrity offenses.
  • A High-Level National Technical Committee will develop protocols for securing digital platforms and robust IT security systems.

Coverage of Examinations

• Broad Definition of Public Examination: Public examinations are conducted by specified authorities under the Act, including the UPSC, SSC etc.
  • The Act defines "institution" as any agency or organization, excluding public examination authorities and their service providers.
• Inclusion of Universities and State Boards: While university and state education board exams are not explicitly listed, the central government can notify additional authorities under the Bill.
  • However, the Bill also serves as a model for states to adopt, aiding in preventing criminal disruptions in state-level public examinations.

Conclusion

The Public Examinations Act, 2024, strengthens the integrity of public exams in India by promoting transparency and accountability, combating corruption, and ensuring fairness for all candidates.

Approach:

• Write a brief introduction on the evolution of diplomatic, economic and strategic relations between India and Central Asian Republics (CARs).
• Discuss various initiatives in the field of diplomatic, economic and strategic relations.
• Show how despite various initiatives, India has reaped limited benefits.

Introduction

India has significantly increased its diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with Central Asian Republics (CARs) for serving its interest in central Asia.

Body

Evolution of India-CARs Relations:

• Diplomatic Engagements:
  • "Connect Central Asia" Initiative (2012) was launched to strengthen ties and re-energize India's efforts in Central Asia.
  • India-Central Asia Summit and Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) highlights India’s enhanced ties with CARs.
• Economic Relations:
  • TAPI pipeline and Ashgabat Agreement shows India’s enhanced access to CARs.
  • Chabahar Port allows India to facilitate trade through Iran to the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and wider Eurasia.
• Strategic Relations:
  • CARs share borders with Afghanistan, a major source of religious extremism.
  • India maintains military bases in Tajikistan and conducts joint exercises with Uzbekistan.

Critical Analysis:

• An unstable Afghanistan and difficult India-Pakistan relations obstruct direct connectivity.
• India's trade with Central Asia is approximately USD 2 billion (China-Central Asia: USD 100 billion).
• India's strategy has been influenced by its policies toward Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, as well as by Russian and US designs.

Conclusion

India should maintain proactive diplomatic engagements with Central Asian nations to ensure political, economic, and security cooperation through the India–Central Asia Dialogue. As a full SCO member, India should enhance its role in regional security and economic dialogues.

Approach:

• Briefly introduce China's increasing global influence.
• Mention how the strategic shift is taking place in the current multipolar world, substantiate with examples.
• Conclude with a forward-looking approach.

Introduction

As China's economic dominance and assertive expansionist policies rise, the West is adopting a ‘China+1’ strategy, looking for alternatives with India as a key option.

Body

This strategic shift unfolds in following areas:

• Reducing Dependence on China’s Supply Chain:
  • US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies aims to boost collaboration in fields like semiconductor ecosystem, AI, defence cooperation etc. to reduce reliance on Chinese technology.
  • The EU's free trade agreement talks with India aim to strengthen economic ties and reduce tariffs.
  • By expanding their base in India, companies like Apple and Samsung are reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains and leverage India's consumer market.
• India as a Strategic Ally Against China’s Dominance:
  • The proposed India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is viewed as a potential counter to China's BRI in Eurasia, helping balance China's expanding economic and political influence.
  • The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) enhances Indo-Pacific stability through security, economic, and environmental collaboration.
  • India’s 2+2 Dialogues with the US, Japan & Australia and joint exercises like Malabar and RIMPAC enhance interoperability and collective security.
  • The US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) collaborates with India to tackle economic challenges and counter China's influence through trade cooperation.

Conclusion

Looking forward, India has the potential to emerge as a key player in global supply chains, provided it addresses internal challenges like infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. By capitalising on this partnership, India can not only bolster its economy but also contribute to a more balanced global order.

Approach:

• Start by defining the doctrine of democratic governance.
• Elaborate how the doctrine of democratic governance makes it necessary that the public perception of the integrity and commitments of civil servants become absolutely positive.
• In conclusion, emphasise the multi-faceted approach required to tackle the challenges and implement effective strategies.

Introduction:

The doctrine of democratic governance is a system where government institutions operate based on democratic processes, rules, and norms, fostering trust between the people and those who govern.

Body:

Democratic governance necessitates certain standards from civil servants for positive public perception:

• Accountability: Taking responsibility for their actions and being answerable to the public. E.g. Social Audit.
• Fairness: Treating all citizens equally and without bias, ensuring justice in service delivery. E.g. Values of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas
• Transparency: Providing clear and accessible information about processes, decisions, and policies. E.g. Right to Information Act.
• Responsiveness: Being attentive and quick to address citizen needs, concerns, and feedback. E.g. Citizen-Charter
• Ethical Conduct: Adhering to a strict code of ethics and avoiding corruption or misuse of power. E.g. Code of Conduct.
• Professionalism: Demonstrating competence, dedication, and respect in their roles. Successful COVID-19 vaccination drive.
• Empathy: Understanding and valuing the diverse needs and perspectives of the community. E.g. Addressing the needs of the specially-abled.
• Collaboration: Working with various stakeholders, including citizens, to enhance governance. E.g. Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan.
• Commitment to Public Service: Prioritizing the well-being of the community and striving to improve public welfare.

However, challenges like corruption, bureaucratic inertia, lack of transparency, and ineffective communication can lead to erosion of public trust.

Conclusion:

Achieving a positive public perception of civil servants' integrity and commitment requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the root causes of public distrust and the strategies to enhance it. Only through sustained efforts to uphold principles of good governance, accountability, and transparency governments can ensure the legitimacy and effectiveness of democratic institutions.

Approach:

• Briefly Introduce poverty and malnutrition and its vicious cycle and impact on human capital formation.
• Discuss steps to break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition.
• Conclude the answer by emphasising the importance of achieving SDG for healthy individuals and effective human capital formation.

Introduction:

Human capital refers to the skills and knowledge of individuals that enhance productivity. Poverty and malnutrition hinder human capital formation by causing poor education outcomes, health issues, and limited opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of intergenerational poverty and reduced economic potential.

Body:

Steps to Break the Vicious Cycle

• Capacity Development Approach: Enhancing the skills (vocational) and knowledge of individuals and communities for better livelihoods.
  • Building the capacity of local institutions fosters effective governance and accountability by engaging communities in decision-making processes. Eg. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY).
• Consumption Approach: Enhancing the purchasing power of low-income households through direct income transfers and subsidies. Eg. PM-KISAN, PM Garib Kalyan Yojana.
• Generational Poverty Alleviation Approach: Helping people learn additional skills and develop their capacity beyond their regular professions, allowing them to supplement their income and safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. Eg. SHG.
• Educational and Awareness: Promoting awareness and access to healthy, nutritious food resources, instead of fast food driven by hyper-consumerism, is essential for encouraging informed dietary choices.

Conclusion

Breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and malnutrition is essential for achieving SDG-2 and 3 related to poverty and hunger. Ensuring healthy individuals through targeted interventions will foster effective human capital formation, ultimately driving long-term national prosperity.

Approach:

• Start with briefly Introducing Public Charitable Trusts and their focus areas.
• Mention the ways in which they can make India's development more inclusive.
• Conclude with challenges faced by them along with a solution based approach.

Introduction:

Public charitable trusts (PCTs) are non-profit entities established under the Indian Trusts Act of 1982 to serve the public good, addressing various socio-economic issues like healthcare, education, poverty alleviation, disaster relief, and environmental conservation.

Body:

PCTs can make India's development more inclusive by:

• Filling Gaps in Governance: PCTs complement government efforts by addressing social issues, like Tata Trusts and the Azim Premji Foundation in education and healthcare.
• Empowering Marginalized Communities: PCTs work with vulnerable groups to improve livelihoods, such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in maternal health and gender equality.
• Environmental Conservation: PCTs like the Bombay Natural History Society focus on biodiversity and wildlife protection.
• Advocacy and Awareness: PCTs such as All India Nethaji Social Welfare Movement advocate for policy changes on gender equality and human rights.
• Disaster Relief: PCTs provide swift relief during crises, like the All India Doctor Abdul Kalam Welfare Trust provide relief to facilitate swift and effective aid.

Conclusion:

Limited funding, bureaucratic hurdles, and reliance on donors can hinder charitable trusts' impact. Enhancing regulations and transparency, along with increased government collaboration, can boost their effectiveness in promoting inclusive growth and empowering marginalized communities.

Approach 

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the constitutional framework for local self-governance. 
• Body: Discuss the role of local bodies in good governance. Analyze the pros and cons of merging rural and urban local bodies. 
• Conclusion: Summarise the potential benefits of merging local bodies for efficiency while emphasising the need to preserve local identity. 

Introduction 

The Constitution of India establishes local self-governance through the 73^rd and 74^th Amendments (1992), creating Panchayats for rural areas and Municipalities for urban areas, including Village, Intermediate, and District Panchayats, along with Municipal Corporations and Municipalities.

Body 

Role of local bodies in Good Governance: 

• Local bodies, as recommended by committees like the Balwant Rai Mehta (1957) and Ashok Mehta (1977), are crucial for planning and implementing development projects that address local needs, promoting decentralized governance.  
• They also benefit from financial resources allocated through the recommendations of 15th Finance Commission for water supply and sanitation, functioning as local 'public utilities.'  
• Local bodies ensure representation of marginalised groups with reserved seats and encourage participatory democracy through Gram Sabhas and Ward Committees. 

Merging the Rural Local Bodies with the ULBs:

Conclusion  

While merging local bodies can improve efficiency, it risks diminishing local identity. Engaging all stakeholders in decision-making is crucial for balanced governance.

Approach:

• Write a brief introduction about the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG).
• Mention the CAG’s role to ensure the legality of expenditure and to ensure propriety.
• Write a holistic Conclusion.

Introduction

The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is a constitutional authority under Article 148 of the Constitution tasked with auditing the accounts of the Union and State governments, ensuring public funds are used efficiently and legally.

Body

• CAG’s Role in Ensuring the legality of expenditure:
  • This involves checking whether the financial transactions are in accordance with the laws, rules, and regulations.
  • The CAG ensures that funds are used for the intended purposes and that there is no misappropriation.
  • The CAG certifies the accounts of the Union and State governments, ensuring that they present a true and fair view of the financial position. This certification is crucial for maintaining the legality and accuracy of financial statements.
• CAG’s Role in Ensuring Propriety:
  • The CAG conducts propriety audits to assess the prudence, integrity, and justification of government expenditures.
    • Justification for expenditure: Whether the purpose of the expenditure serves the public interest or if it is excessive.
    • Efficiency: Whether the allocated resources have been used efficiently or whether there has been any wasteful expenditure.
    • Public interest: Whether the expenditure aligns with broader societal goals, fairness, and equity.
  • The CAG’s audits of the Commonwealth Games and coal block allocations exposed significant irregularities and losses, leading to public outcry, debate, and legal actions.

Conclusion

The CAG improves transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing public finances, helping to uphold government integrity and build public trust in how resources are handled.

Approach:

• Introduce the answer by discussing the growth of the cabinet system in India.
• Present arguments on how this growth has marginalised parliamentary supremacy
• Conclude by reinforcing the importance of parliamentary supremacy.

Introduction:

The cabinet system in India has evolved significantly, emphasising collective responsibility and the Prime Minister as "first among equals." However, despite not being explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, this evolution has sometimes marginalised Parliamentary supremacy.

Body:

• Concentration of Power in the Executive: The cabinet centralises power in the hands of the Prime Minister and key ministers. Justice Nagarathna's 2023 dissent highlighted the unlawfulness of demonetisation without Parliament's approval.
• Reduced Parliamentary Scrutiny: The cabinet often controls the legislative agenda, diminishing parliamentary oversight, as seen with the criticism of the 2020 Farm Laws for lacking proper debate.
• Ordinances: The cabinet can bypass legislative oversight through ordinances, like the 2023 ordinance on Delhi's administrative control, which was initially enacted without debate.
• Parliamentary Committee Limitations: Recommendations from committees are not binding, allowing the cabinet to ignore them. Only 25% of bills were referred to committees in the 16th Lok Sabha, compared to 71% in the 15th.

Conclusion:

While the cabinet system has changed power dynamics, parliamentary supremacy is constitutionally protected with Parliament retaining essential powers like no-confidence motions (Article 75). The repeal of farm laws in 2021 shows that Parliament can effectively check executive power, highlighting the need for balance between governance and oversight.

Approach:

• Introduce the answer by defining Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunal.
• Write a proper differentiation between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals as per the question's requirement.
• Conclude Suitably.

Introduction:

• Lok Adalats are statutory forums under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, functioning as part of the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism.
• Arbitral Tribunals, established by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, consist of arbitrators who resolve disputes outside of courts.

Body:

Difference Between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals

Types of Disputes:

• Lok Adalats: It addresses both civil and criminal cases but has no jurisdiction over non-compoundable offences.
• Arbitration Tribunals: Covers civil matters, including domestic and international commercial disputes, and does not handle criminal cases.

Conclusion

• Lok Adalats focus on amicable settlements for civil and compoundable criminal cases, while Arbitration Tribunals handle civil matters like commercial disputes. Both can deliver timely justice and ease the judicial burden. However, better institutional support and resources are needed to enhance their effectiveness

Approach

• Introduce electoral reforms as well as “one nation – one election” (ONOE).
• Cite the recommendations of important committees established for one nation – one election.
• Describe the significance of ONOE.
• Provide a suitable conclusion.

Introduction

“One Nation – One Election (ONOE)” advocates for simultaneous elections across the country to improve governance and reduce the frequent disruptions caused by repeated elections.

Body

ONOE was supported by:

• The Election Commission in its First Annual Report (1983) proposed simultaneous elections citing several reasons including:
  • Reduction in the official expenditure of the government, parties and candidates.
  • Reduced burden on administrative machinery and security forces by reducing frequent election duties.
  • Mitigation of governance issues arising from short-term political agendas.
• The Law commission in its 170^th report supported this idea recommending one election every five years.
• The Parliamentary Standing Committee in 2015 supported ONOE citing "long-term good governance”.

Concerns Raised Against ONOE:

• Conducting simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and all State assemblies would result in national issues overshadowing regional and State specific issues.
• National political parties would have a significant advantage over regional parties undermining federalism.
• It would also require major amendments to the Constitution, RPA 1951 and Rules of Procedure in LS and State legislative assemblies.

Conclusion

While “ONOE” offers several benefits, its implementation would require constitutional amendments and procedural changes. A phased approach, as suggested by Kovind Panel Report (2023), offers a practical solution, but its success depends on consensus and careful execution.