Insight Gs Paper II (Q& A) - 2014

INSIGHTS
http://insightsonindia.com
PART - ONE
[INSIGHTS SECURE Q&A

COMPILATION GENERAL STUDIES
PAPER - 2]
COMPILATION FROM OCTOBER – 2013 TO AUGUST- 2014
Table of Contents
Historical underpinnings & evolution .............................................................................................. 1
Q. Critically comment on the Indra Sawhney judgment of 1992. Do you think the judgement needs
revision? Substantiate. ..................................................................................................................... 1
Q:Is Article 370 a source of gender bias in disqualifying women from the State of property rights? (150
Words) ............................................................................................................................................... 1
Q:Critically evaluate the role played by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence or Panchsheel
principles in improving India and China‘s relationship. Examine if these principles are still relevant
today. ................................................................................................................................................. 1
Q:Critically examine the birth of collegium system in India and its merits and demerits. ... 2
Ans: .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure ..................................................... 3
Question - How bills are usually passed in the Parliament? Do you think the process requires any
modification, especially in bringing more transparency and inclusiveness? Analyze. (200 Words)
(features and amendments constitution) ...................................................................................... 3
Question - ―India‘s Parliaments have been rendered non-functional — not by rowdy MPs but by the
executive which has concentrated total power in its hands.‖ Critically comment. ................ 3
Q:― Re-empowering national democracies places the world economy on a stronger footing.‖ Elaborate.
............................................................................................................................................................ 4
Q:Why is there a demand for decriminalising attempt to commit suicide in India? Critically examine the
merits and demerits of existing law of criminalising suicide. .................................................. 4
Q:Right to seek mercy under Article 72/161 is a constitutional right and it is not at the discretion or
whims of the executive.‖ Elaborate. (200 Words)........................................................................ 5
Q:―The right to life and dignity are the most important of all human rights … and this must be
demonstrated by the state in everything it does, including the way it punishes criminals.‖ Do you agree
with this view? Comment. (200 Words) ....................................................................................... 6
Q:Critically comment on the relevance of Article 370 of the Constitution of India. .............. 6
Q:Can freedom of speech be absolute? Comment. (150 Words) ............................................... 6
Q: Do you think Khap panchayats function within the ambit of the Constitution? If not, what measures
have states taken to curb their continued functioning? Critically comment on their unconstitutional
nature. (250 Words) ......................................................................................................................... 6
Q--Critically comment on how freedom of expression in India has been used, misused and curtailed post
Independence.................................................................................................................................... 6
Q--Do you agree with the view that the Section 66-A of the Information Technology Act is
unconstitutional? Critically comment. .......................................................................................... 7
Q---Why does the Constitution of India make provisions regarding ineligibility of certain categories for
further employment under the government of India? With examples, critically comment. 8
Does India need Uniform Civil Code? Critically comment. ...................................................... 8
Significance of 118th amendment bill to the Constitution (50 Words) ..................................... 9
Briefly explain the constitutional and legislative procedure involved in formation of a new state. (150
Words) ............................................................................................................................................... 9
Do you think the concept of Privy Purses and special privileges, which were abolished by a
constitutional amendment, were incompatible with an ―egalitarian social order‖ ? Comment. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 10
Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues and challenges of federal structure 10
INSIGHTS SECURE Q&A COMPILATION GENERAL STUDIES PAPER - 2
Question - ―The unprecedented nature of the rejection of the Bill by the Andhra Pradesh Assembly
requires the legal interpretation of Article 3 be reconsidered.‖ Critically analyze. (200 Words) (Question
relates to Andhra Pradesh reorganization bill).......................................................................... 10
Question - ―The proposed the Prevention of Communal Violence (Access to Justice and Reparations) Bill,
2014 violates the spirit of federalism.‖ Examine. (200 Words) ................................................ 11
Question. Write a critical note on the nature of relationship within federal framework between Delhi
state and the Union government. (200 Words) .......................................................................... 11
Question - ―There are no costs involved in moving towards a more federalist structure called the United
States of India — only benefits.‖ Critically analyze. (200 Words) .......................................... 12
Q:What are the grievances of riparian states of Cauvery river regarding sharing of its waters? Explain the
recent awards of the tribunal set up for addressing disputes between these states. (200 Words) 13
Q:The Supreme Court directed the government to constitute a tribunal and refer all disputes to it. Like
that Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) is constituted in 1990. ................................ 13
Q:Should state governments be allowed to influence foreign policy decisions of the union government?
Critically comment. (200 Words) ................................................................................................. 14
Q:Do you think division of Andhra Pradesh by the Union government without the consent of the
concerned state legislature, would make India a more unitary state? Examine the implications of such
measure on the federalism ............................................................................................................ 14
Q:Critically examine the various factors that have led the creation of new states in last 25 years. Explain if
the creation of new states has met its objectives ........................................................................ 15
Q:Critically examine the issues involved in Sardar Sarovar Project....................................... 15
Q:Discuss the language related problems which erupted soon after independence in the country and
explain how they were resolved. ................................................................................................. 16
Q:In the light of recent news reports, critically examine the controversy behind the Kashmiri Pandits
issue.................................................................................................................................................. 17
Q:Briefly explain the causes for the demand of Gorkhaland. Do you think formation of a separate state
would fulfill the demand of the agitating people? Comment. (200 Words) .......................... 17
Q---Critically comment on the constitutional provisions and the actual procedures adopted for the
appointment and removal of Governors in India. Also explain the opinion of the Supreme Court in this
matter. .............................................................................................................................................. 17
Write a critical note on the financial relations between Union government and states in India. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 18
What aspects of centre-state relations are at conflict in the case of implementation of recommendations
of High-Level Working Group (HLWG) on Western Ghats (headed by Kasturirangan) by the state
governments? Explain. (150 Words)............................................................................................ 19
―The Supreme Court‘s 2006 verdict in the Prakash Singh vs. Union of India case was a landmark
judgement. But political class has failed it.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words) .................... 19
Do you think the Supreme Court‘s recent verdict on insulating officers from political interference is an
act of judicial overreach? Comment. (150 Words)..................................................................... 20
―A range of reforms — legal, judicial and institutional — needs to be initiated for dealing with delays
and ensuring access to justice.‖ Elaborate. (200 Words) .......................................................... 20
Critically examine the working of tribunals in India. (250 Words) ........................................ 21
It is not easy to implement either Supreme Court‘s instructions or recommendations of various
committees on civil service reforms. Why? Analyze. (250 Words) ......................................... 21
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What are the functions of Law Commission? (150 Words) ...................................................... 21

What are Lok Adalats? Explain the importance of National Lok Adalats disputes redressal. (150 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 21
Ministries and Departments ............................................................................................................. 22
Critically examine the recommendations of Justice Mukul Mudgal committee set up by the Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting to suggest legislative framework in the wake of series f bans on movies by
the state governments. (150 Words) ............................................................................................ 22
Devolution of powers and finances to local levels; challenges therein ...................................... 22
Q-Comment on the provisions and the importance of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act,
1996................................................................................................................................................... 22
What do you understand by democratic decentralization? What are the likely challenges to be faced in its
proper implementation in Indian villages? Critically examine. .............................................. 23
Examine why Kerala has a more successful Panchayat Raj system compared to other states. (200 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 24
Do you agree with the view that giving more powers to Gram Sabha hinders economic growth in the
tribal regions? Comment. (150 Words) ....................................................................................... 24
Q-‖In the new land acquisition act, Gram Sabha and Basti Sabha don‘t have legal right to decide the
nature of public purpose.‖ Critically examine the role of Gram Sabha in ensuring fair acquisition of land
by the government ......................................................................................................................... 24
‖Democratic decentralisation cannot be misunderstood to mean communitarian anarchy.‖
Comment. (150 Words) ................................................................................................................. 25
Separation of Powers (between different organs, dispute redressal mechanisms, institutions)25
Evaluate the performance of National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission in its mission. (150
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 25
Q. ―Separation of powers is indispensable because under the Constitution, power divides itself so that
reason can rule.‖ In the light of recent tussle between various organs of the state, critically comment on
the statement. .................................................................................................................................. 26
Q. Analyze the factors which have contributed towards high voter turnouts during recent elections. 26
Q. Why is the Supreme Court‘s judgement in S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India case significant? Comment
with suitable examples. ................................................................................................................. 27
Q. Critically comment on the existing barriers to deepen Indian democracy further. In your opinion,
what reforms are needed to deepen it further? Comment. ...................................................... 27
Q. Do you support the idea of making voting in elections compulsory? Substantiate........ 28
With examples examine various factors that affect institutional ............................................ 29
Q. Discuss the evolution of India‘s patent laws since independence. Are they compliant with
international agreements? Examine. ........................................................................................... 29
What is the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) type of election system? Explain the ....................... 30
8. What is the Proportional Representation (PR) system of elections? Does it suit India? Why has not
India adopted this system? Explain its merits and demerits. .................................................. 31
―The domestic origins of India‘s economic problems lie in the clash between democracy and capitalism.‖
Comment. (200 Words) ................................................................................................................. 33
Should political parties be brought under the ambit of RTI act? Explain why. (200 Words)33

Question - Are the powers of pardon vested in the President and the Governors under Articles 72 and
161 of the Constitution amenable to judicial review? Critically comment in the light of recent verdict by
the Supreme Court. (200 Words) (separation of power between executive and Judiciary) 34
Write a note on the role of SEBI with special reference to its role in ensuring corporate governance. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 34
Write a critical note on the National Green Tribunal as an effective grievances redressal forum. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 34
.Examine how the Constitution of India strives to maintain balance of power between the judiciary and
the executive? Has this balance been maintained? Critically comment. ................................ 35
Q-Write a critical note on the Mullaperiyar dam controversy. ............................................... 36
Q--Explain the rationale behind constituting Polavaram Project Authority (PPA). Comment on the
controversy related to the project. ............................................................................................... 37
Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries' ....................................... 37
Q. . Discuss the importance of opposition party in a parliamentary democracy. ................ 37
What is ‗caretaker government‘ in the context of Bangladesh politics? Does India have such a system? If
it has, explain the differences with examples. (200 Words) ..................................................... 38
Compare and contrast India‘s Rajya Sabha and UK‘s House of Lords in their composition, functions and
importance to their respective countries. (200 Words) ............................................................. 38
Do you observe any fundamental differences in how elected representatives in India and39
Compare and contrast the situation of government shutdown in USA when the .............. 39
.Critically comment on the Constitutional provisions that enable the Parliament to create new states. 39
Critically examine the main concerns of coastal Andhra and Rayalseema people against the formation of
Telangana state. .............................................................................................................................. 40
Q--Compare and contrast the grounds and procedure involved in the impeachment of the Presidents of
USA and India respectively. ......................................................................................................... 41
Union and State Legislatures (structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges; issues
therein)................................................................................................................................................. 41
Q-On what grounds Members of Parliament can be disqualified from the membership of the Parliament?
Explain. (200 Words) ..................................................................................................................... 41
Question - Write a note on the importance of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
(Amendment) Bill, 2011. (100 Words) (Any bill made could be put in Union or state legislature functions,
although it directly does not connote the relation, but indirectly they are linked) .............. 42
―Issues such as criminalisation of politics need to be addressed through legislation rather than the
judicial process.‖ Elaborate........................................................................................................... 42
8) Write a note on the importance of the Question Hour in the Parliament.......................... 43
What is dissolution of parliament in India? What would be its implications? Under what circumstances
usually dissolution takes place? Explain. (200 Words) ............................................................. 43
What is the composition and function of delimitation commission? Why is delimitation done? (200
Words)The Hindu .......................................................................................................................... 43
While drafting policies for the people, the concerns of citizens should be addressed by the government,
not excluded.‖ Critically examine the statement in the light of West Bengal government‘s ban on cycles
on certain roads in Kolkatta. Suggest measures to accommodate slow moving vehicles on busy Indian
roads.(250 Words) .......................................................................................................................... 44

―The fair play of the functioning of Parliament can be ensured only if the government willingly subjects
itself to legislative scrutiny.‖ Critically analyze.(250 Words) .................................................. 44
Q--Critically analyze various formulae put forward by many stakeholders to resolve the Kashmir
problem............................................................................................................................................ 46
Q--Discuss the procedure involved in selecting the Leader of the Opposition Lok Sabha. Also examine
his/her position an duties in Loksabha. .................................................................................... 47
Executive (structure, organisation, functioning) ........................................................................... 47
Q. . Do you think the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) can audit accounts of private firms?
Critically comment oh his duties and responsibilities. ............................................................. 47
Q. Do you think the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) can audit accounts of private firms?
Critically comment oh his duties and responsibilities. ............................................................. 48
Question – ―The third space in Indian politics is the largest and the most diverse, and yet the ‗third
alternative‘ has remained an unfulfilled experiment.‖ Comment. (200 Words)................... 48
Write a note on the composition and functions Expenditure Management Commission (EMC) 48
Critically comment on the issue of appointment and dismissal of Governor posts in India.49
Write a critical note on the relationship between the office of the President of India and the Governors of
states................................................................................................................................................. 49
Critically analyze the role of Governor in the development of states in India and his relationship with the
Union Government. ....................................................................................................................... 49
Critically examine the role of Prime Minister as envisaged in the Constitution of India and how the post
has been used by its occupants over the years since Independence to strengthen or weaken federalism.
.......................................................................................................................................................... 50
Q---Critically comment on how the role of the Prime Minister‘s Office has changed during past twenty
years. ................................................................................................................................................ 50
Q--Examine the functions of the Prime Minister‘s Office. Do you think a powerful PMO diminishes the
role of cabinet and cabinet ministries? Comment. .................................................................... 51
Q---Critically comment on the relationship between the President and the Prime Minister as envisaged in
the Constitution. ............................................................................................................................. 52
Q--A recognised leader of the opposition (LoP) is necessary for the proper and harmonious functioning
of Parliament and for the working of several of the recently enacted laws. In the light of the
statement critically comment on the selection procedure of LoP and the importance of this position in the
Parliament and outside. ................................................................................................................ 52
What are quasi judicial bodies and how different are they from judicial bodies such as High courts? Do
you think that the increased number of these bodies have diminished the function, structure and
importance of courts? Discuss. (200 Words) .............................................................................. 52
Question- ―It is only when we have a highly efficient and time-bound justice delivery mechanism that we
can proceed to judge the merits of death penalty.‖ Comment. (200 Words) ........................ 53
Suggest measures to address the issue of large number of pendency of cases in the Indian courts. 53
The independence of the judiciary is part of the basic structure of the Constitution. In the light of recent
developments, analyse if this basic structure has been disturbed. ......................................... 53
Critically comment on the various criticisms expressed against the proposed National Judicial
Appointments Commission. ......................................................................................................... 54

Write a critical note on the highlights and importance of the the 99th Constitution Amendment Bill that
was recently passed by the Lok Sabha. ....................................................................................... 55
―With a proactive role based on the power of judicial review, the higher judiciary in India has attained an
unprecedented significance. However, in the areas of judicial management and appointments, there is
little scope for euphoria.‖ Comment. (200 Words).................................................................... 55
The Hindu ....................................................................................................................................... 55
Do you support abolition of the capital punishment? Explain why. (200 Words) ............... 56
Comment on the shortcomings of criminal justice system t in India. (200 Words)The Indian Express 56
Critically examine why there is a consensus for replacing the present system of appointment of judges to
superior courts by a collegium of Supreme Court judges? Explain. ...................................... 57
At present how is the judge of a supreme court appointed ? Do you think it is a fair system ? 58
Write a critical note on the role of judiciary in ensuring social justice in India. (200 Words)58
―In India a staggering 30 million cases are said to be pending in the country‘s courts today. And to tackle
this intimidating problem requires comprehensive judicial reform, more judges of quality and
improvement of the judicial infrastructure.‖ Critically comment on the need for judicial reforms in the
context of low conviction rates in serious crimes committed against vulnerable sections of the society.
(250 Words) ..................................................................................................................................... 59
―The Constitution (120th Amendment) Bill, 2013 in its present form is a threat to judicial independence.‖
―Nothing can make for a more powerful case to abolish the retributive practice of death sentences than
the reformation of individuals convicted of heinous crimes.‖ Critically evaluate. (250 Words) 59
Do you think recent judgement by the Supreme Court removing the immunity for convicted MPs and
MLAs will help clean up politics and strengthen democracy in India? Comment .............. 60
In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in murder cases awarding of the death penalty61
In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in murder cases awarding of the death penalty is an exception
and life sentence is the rule, lower courts are increasingly giving death sentences owing to some
unwarranted external factors.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words) .......................................... 61
In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in murder cases awarding of the death penalty is an exception
and life sentence is the rule, lower courts are increasingly giving death sentences owing to some
unwarranted external factors.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words) .......................................... 61
.Critically evaluate merit and functioning of the collegium system in India. Do you think this system
either needs reform or replacement with a different system? Critically examine. ............... 62
Critically comment on the reforms needed in Indian judiciary .............................................. 62
It is observed that the media and the collective public sentiment are increasingly influencing the outcome
of court judgements. Is natural justice a victim here? Does this affect certain class of society? Critically
analyze. (250 Words) ..................................................................................................................... 63
―The Supreme Court has categorically laid down that bandh/hartal is unconstitutional and the State has
the obligation to protect the citizen against it.‖ Despite SC‘s framing guidelines in 2009 to recover costs
from bandhorganizers, neither the States nor the Central government have taken any action to put in
place a legislation, or fast track mechanism consistent with the guidelines. Comment on the
unconstitutional nature of bandhs and inaction of governments in implementing court order. (200 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 63

What is judicial overreach? Does the SC order on Aadhar scheme putting critical restrictions against the
use and distribution of UID numbers encroaches upon the executive decision making authority? What is
the opinion of SC on the issue of judicial overreach? Explain. (250 Words) ......................... 64
Analyze the ethical issues involved in clinical trials involving human volunteers. What is the present
status of clinical trial rules in India. Explain in the light of recent Supreme Court verdict. (200 Words) 64
Q-Do you think the appointment of the Chief Justice of India should be solely based on seniority alone?
Critically comment......................................................................................................................... 65
Critically comment on the nature of tribunals, their composition and their relationship with the executive
and judiciary. .................................................................................................................................. 66
Q--What were the highlights of the lapsed Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill? Why was the bill
introduced? Explain. ...................................................................................................................... 66
Q--Critically comment on Supreme Court‘s decision to set-up committees headed by its judges to look
into matters beyond its jurisdiction. Do you think proactive and overreaching judiciary is necessary to
India? Comment. ............................................................................................................................ 67
Business Standard .......................................................................................................................... 67
Q--Critically comment the reasons behind the increasing pendency of cases in Indian law courts. How
this problem can be solved? Suggest measures. ........................................................................ 68
Q-Critically comment on the existence of Sharia courts in the country and the opinion of the Supreme
Court on their rulings. ................................................................................................................... 69
Q---Critically examine the linkage between resource allocation for the judiciary by the government and
the pendency of cases in India. .................................................................................................... 69
Q--Examine how the collegium system to choose new judges works in India. In the light of recent
controversy over the appointment of a judge to the Supreme Court, critically comment on the political,
constitutional and moral issues arising out of the controversy............................................... 70
Q-―The contemporary practice of Public Interest Litigation (PILs) has atrophied and morphed into a
format that has lost sight of this original political and constitutional justification.‖ Critically comment.
.......................................................................................................................................................... 70
Q-Critically comment on Supreme Court‘s ruling that the Section 6A of the Delhi Special Police
Establishment Act as unconstitutional and examine the implications of this ruling. .......... 71
Ministries and Departments (of Union and State govts.) ............................................................. 72
What are the functions and responsibilities of the Ministry of Statistics, government of India? Examine.
.......................................................................................................................................................... 72
Pressure Groups & Formal, Informal associations (and their role in the polity) ...................... 72
Q-Do you support regulation of media in India by the government? Justify your answer and also suggest
alternate measures. (200 Words) .................................................................................................. 72
-- ‗Evolving editorial code and having internal ombudsman will help raise standards‘ .... 72
Q. Should armed forces be allowed to vote in general elections as general voters in peace stations?
Examine the problems associated with such a move and offer solutions.............................. 73
Critically evaluate various women rights movements that have taken place since Independence. Also
examine the role played by women organisations in these movements................................ 73
Q---Critically comment on the creative and commercial challenges that the news industry faces in India ,
across TV, print, radio or online. ................................................................................................. 73
Salient features of the Representation of People‘s Act. ................................................................ 74

Q-What is your opinion on Opinion Polls? Should they be conducted or not? Substantiate. (150 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 74
Rule 49-O of the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 (50 Words) (NOT part of RPA)............. 75
What is the intention behind declaration of assets by candidates contesting elections? Has it made any
positive impact? Comment. (150 Words).................................................................................... 75
Answer) ........................................................................................................................................... 75
Highlight recent Supreme Court judgments that are related to the conduct of elections and electoral
reforms. (200 Words) ..................................................................................................................... 76
―In recent years the Representation of the People Act has become the victim of tug of war between the
judiciary and executive.‖ Elucidate. (200 Words) ..................................................................... 76
Question - ―Indian elections are a ritualistic, five-yearly obeisance to democracy that hides the appalling
state of the country‘s institutions, in particular Parliament which today resembles a wrestling arena.‖
Question - ―India‘s future is imperilled if its Parliament is imperilled.‖ Do you agree with77
Question - ―To restore India as a liberal democratic nation, it will require more than a mere conduct of
regular, supposedly free and fair, elections.‖ Comment. ......................................................... 77
Examine the grounds on which a sitting member of legislature and a cabinet minister in the government
can be disqualified. Explain the opinion of the apex court on this issue. .............................. 78
Write a critical note on the need, principle behind its functioning and drawbacks of EVMs. (200 Words)
.......................................................................................................................................................... 78
What do you understand by electoral reforms? What were the recommendations of the Election
Commission on electoral reforms? Analyze. (200 Words) ....................................................... 79
Critically analyse the nature of voter behaviour in recent elections to state assemblies and to the
Parliament. ...................................................................................................................................... 79
Do you think regulation of poll campaign activities of political parties on internet by the Election
Commission is a right step? Substantiate. (150 Words) ............................................................ 80
.Compare and contrast the merits and demerits of adopting proportional representation system 80
in Indian elections vis a vis first-past-the-post system. ............................................................ 80
Q--What are the criticisms against the first-past-the-post system of elections in India? Do you think India
should adopt proportional representation system? Explain why........................................... 81
Appointment to various Constitutional posts ............................................................................... 81
Explain the procedure laid out in the Constitution on the appointment and removal of Governor of a
State in India. Do you think these procedures are strictly followed? Critically comment. . 81
Constitutional Bodies (powers, functions and responsibilities) .................................................. 82
Q-Explain the role of Finance Commission. Do you think Finance Commissions act as complimentary to
Planning Commission? Explain. (200 Words)............................................................................ 82
What are Autonomous District Councils in India? Critically analyze their role and performance over the
year. (200 Words) ........................................................................................................................... 82
―The Shunglu Committee had suggested structural changes in CAG by making it a multi-member body.‖
What is the rationale behind such a recommendation? Analyze.(200 Words) ..................... 83
Question. Write a note on the composition and functions of UPSC. Also critically examine its relationship
with the government at the centre and states. (200 Words) ..................................................... 83

Question - What measures has the Election Commission taken to bring electoral reforms in India in last
twenty years? Examine. (200 Words) .......................................................................................... 84
Question - ―Civil Services Examination reform ought to have been an easy enough place to begin the
arduous task of administrative reform.‖ Comment on the statement in the light of recent changes
introduced by the UPSC and the government to the examination and eligibility criteria respectively. (200
Words) ............................................................................................................................................. 84
Question - What are the major factors behind high voters turn-out in recent elections in India? Examine
the role of the Election Commission in detail. (200 Words) ..................................................... 85
In the light of past few years‘ developments, critically comment on the role of institutions in
strengthening democracy.............................................................................................................. 85
Write a critical note on the functioning of the speaker in Lok-Sabha and state assemblies. (200 Words) 86
Q3-Critically analyze the roles and responsibilities of CAG in India. (200 Words) ............. 86
Q---In the light of the Supreme Court order in the ―Association of Unified Telecom Service Providers
and Others vs Union of India‖ case, critically examine the concerns expressed by............. 87
Q--Is UPSC civil service exam‘s CSAT paper discriminatory? Critically comment. ............ 87
Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies .......................................................................... 88
Explain the composition and mandate of CBI. Comment on the recent verdict of Guwahati High Court
questioning the very existence and legality of CBI. (200 Words)............................................ 88
Do you think total autonomy to CBI would hurt criminal justice system? Comment. (150 Words) 88
Q. Critically comment on the role and importance of the Prime Minister‘s Office in India.89
Q. A key determinant of the role of the states in a federal polity is their participation in the formulation
and implementation of critical economic plans. Do you think India‘s Planning Commission is truly
federal in its nature and functioning? Examine what needs to be done. ............................... 90
What are the major inter-state river water disputes between riparian states in the peninsular India?
Explain the role of Tribunals in resolving these disputes. (250 Words) ................................. 90
Write a note on Mahadayi River Water Dispute. (200 Words) ................................................ 91
Critically examine the ideas and motivations that helped India to adopt economic planning for the
development of country after Independence. ............................................................................ 91
―…what India needs is not a new Planning Commission, not a new think tank, but a state-building
commission. ‖ In the light of arguments that state machineries need to be strengthened to bring growth
and development, critically analyse the statement. .................................................................. 92
―The body that replaces the Planning Commission should not be old wine in a new bottle.‖ In your
opinion, what should be the ideal composition and functions of new body that replaces the Planning
Commission? Comment. ............................................................................................................... 92
Write a note on SEBI‘s recent launch of Real Estate and Infrastructure Investment Trusts.93
Examine why there is a demand for amending the Consumer Protection Act, 1986? Comment on its
present provisions .......................................................................................................................... 94
―Human rights commissions are powerless to render any ―real service‖ to human rights.‖ Critically
comment. ......................................................................................................................................... 94
Does DRDO need a separate commission like Atomic Energy Commission and Space Commission to
make its laboratories more efficient and autonomous? Examine. (200 Words) .................... 95
Write a note on the need and highlights of draft Regulatory Reforms Bill, 2013. (200 Words) 95

The Indian competition enforcement system has been wisely designed, keeping in mind both the
―deterrence‖ and the ―compensation‖ goals of competition law.‖ Comment. ..................... 96
―The new Drug Price Control Order (DPCO) that prescribes a ceiling price on several essential medicines
is boon to patients but pain to chemists.‖ Comment.(200 Words).......................................... 97
Q--Do you agree with the view that the Planning Commission is redundant and should be wound up? In
the light of its present functions, critically comment. ............................................................... 97
Q--Why was the Planning Commission set up? Critically comment on its evolution since independence.
.......................................................................................................................................................... 98
Q---Critically comment on the relevance of the institution of Planning Commission in the context of a
rapidly changing Indian economy and society.......................................................................... 99
Q---Critically evaluate the role played by the Competition Commission of India in upholding its
mandate. .......................................................................................................................................... 99
Q--Write a note on the composition, necessity, role and mandate of the Law Commission of India. 100
Government Policies & Interventions for development of various sectors (issues in their design,
implementation) ............................................................................................................................... 101
Q-―Most government schemes fail not because they are inherently defective, but because many a times
on the ground the necessary infrastructure is non-existent.‖ Comment (150 Words) ....... 101
―In India, the functioning of democratic institutions and the deepening of the democratic process along
with the efforts to implement constitutional mandates for affirmative action have induced higher levels
of political mobilization.‖ Do you agree with this view? Elaborate. (200 Words).............. 101
Do you think AFSPA is anti-constitutional? Substantiate. (150 Words) .............................. 102
Critically assess the role of MGNREGA in empowering rural women in India. (200 Words) 102
Has MGNREGA benefited Indian farmer? Comment. (150 Words) .................................... 103
The anti-poverty programmes are leaky and inefficient, unable to lift Indians out of poverty.‖ Comment.
(150 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 103
Q. In India, the National Design Policy, announced in 2007, has not sufficiently focussed on socially
useful products. Identify the areas where creative, affordable, enduring and useful public structures are
much needed in India and comment on the existing architecture built by government funds in rural and
urban regions. ............................................................................................................................... 104
Q10. Do you think India‘s early childhood programs have succeeded in their mission? Critically examine
their functioning and need for reforms. If possible cite any example from other countries that can be
implemented in India. (250 Words) (Hint: talk about ICDS, anganwadi system, malnutrition, IMR, creche
system under NREGA etc) .......................................................................................................... 104
Question - Write a note on Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan. ....................................................... 105
Question - Is Aadhar initiative a failure? Critically comment. (200 Words) ....................... 105
Question - Write a note on the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme of the Indian government.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 106
In our rural and urban areas both water and sanitation are closely linked and hence the two should go
hand in hand. Comment on the statement in the light of continuing practice of open defecation by large
number of Indians and government‘s efforts to bring sanitation from past 65 years. (200 Words) 106
Write a note on the National Nutrition Mission (200 Words) ............................................... 107
Write a note on PURA model. (200 Words) ............................................................................. 108

Write a note on the objectives and components of National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 108
Has the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission programme succeeded in its mission?
Evaluate. (200 Words).................................................................................................................. 109
―The systems and strategies put in place to reach every child in every part of the country with lifesaving
polio vaccines can be used to save millions of children from other preventable diseases.‖ Elaborate. (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 109
Analyze the measures needed to be taken to move towards sustainable solutions to urban water and
waste management. (200 Words) ............................................................................................... 111
Examine the merits and demerits of raising FDI in the insurance sector from 26 to 49 per cent. 111
Examine the criticisms against the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition,
Resettlement and Rehabilitation Act, which was notified in December 2013. .................... 112
Write a note on union government‘s new scheme – Financial Inclusion Mission.............. 113
Highlight the sociocultural importance of rural and traditional sports in India. What measures can
government take to protect waning traditional sports in India? (200 Words) .................... 114
The passage of the long-pending Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) Bill
confers several benefits to the organised pension sector.‖ Critically examine. (250 Words)115
Rampant encroachment and the misuse and usurpation of wakf assets representing Islamic religious
endowments is the reality across India.‖ Throw light on different measures taken by the government to
bring transparent administration and to stop illegal encroachments of wakf assets . (200 Words) 115
How can India allay the fears of nuclear suppliers about India‘s nuclear liability law without amending
it? (150 Words) .............................................................................................................................. 115
What is distress migration? Explain with examples which factors lead to this type of migration in India.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 115
Why did India enact a nuclear liability law? What are the concerns of nuclear suppliers regarding this
law? Do you think this law adversely affects India‘s energy security? Analyze ................ 116
The emphasis of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) Bill should be to ensure that the benefits of
surrogacy are most beneficial to those who are weakest in the supply chain – the surrogates.‖ Elaborate
........................................................................................................................................................ 116
What are the highlights of India‘s Whistleblower‘s Bill 2011? Analyze its drawbacks and suggest
improvements. (200 Words) ....................................................................................................... 117
Critically examine India‘s record in handling various refugee related problems since independence. 117
.Why the Bill on Women‘s Reservation in Parliament is not yet passed? What are the issues surrounding
it? Examine. ................................................................................................................................... 118
‖The Companies Act 2013 is in many parts a shabbily drafted law, defined not by clear principles but by
an enormous and unwieldy edifice of myriad central government rules.‖ Critically analyse. 118
Q1 )There is a need to revisit India‘s entire policy on identification and registration so that the twin
objectives of knowing who a citizen is and ensuring effective delivery of services are not undermined.‖
Examine ......................................................................................................................................... 119
Suggest some measures to tackle the problem of power theft in India? .............................. 120
In the light of increasing health risks associated with consumption of tobacco products, critically
comment on government‘s policy on tobacco cultivation and its products. ....................... 120
Critically comment on Road safety issues & measure taken by govt. to address these issues in India. 121

Why even so called developed states in India have large number of children suffering from malnutrition?
Examine the plausible factors behind this anomaly. (150 Words) ........................................ 123
Comment how far Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1972 has been successful in preventing
non-institutional abortions and explain the factors responsible for the rise in such non-institutional
abortions. (250 Words) ................................................................................................................ 123
In your opinion, what should be governments‘s priorities in the health sector? Critically examine the
roadblocks involved in bringing universal healthcare system in India. .............................. 124
‗Foreign education is both a vital ‗export‘ service that earns sizable revenue, and a powerful connector
between countries and peoples.‘ In the light of the statement, examine how India can build good
relationships with foreign countries by attracting their students to the country. .............. 125
Analyze the factors that have led to large scale migration of people from Kerala to Middle East countries.
........................................................................................................................................................ 125
====Analyze the factors that have led to large scale migration of people from Kerala to Middle East
countries. ....................................................................................................................................... 125
Haryana has one of the lowest sex ratio in the country. What are the factors responsible for this and what
implications does low sex ratio has on the society? Critically analyze. (200 Words) ......... 126
Explain how MNREGA scheme works. Critically comment on its design especially with reference to
transparency and accountability measures. ............................................................................. 126
Q--What improvements would you suggest to the MGNREGA scheme and why? Elucidate. 127
Q-In the light of India‘s regulatory mechanism and university system, critically comment on major
problems faced by higher education system. ........................................................................... 127
Q--Do you think Right Education Act needed constitutional status? Critically comment, especially
keeping in mind objections raised by unaided private schools. ........................................... 128
Q--―A uniform policy at the central level should focus on access to higher education and not on any
―right‖ to education. The rights-based narrative should be confined to universal primary education
alone, a fundamental right.‖ Comment. ................................................................................... 129
Q-Critically comment on the rights issue involved in Supreme Court‘s recent judgement upholding the
constitutional validity of the provision in the Right to Education Act reserving 25 percent seats in private
schools for economically disadvantaged students. ................................................................. 130
Q---‗The controversy over the Four Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) raises several important
issues on university autonomy, academic freedom, the regulatory powers of the University Grants
Commission and the power of the Central government to interfere in higher education in the country.‘
Critically analyse. ......................................................................................................................... 131
Q---Examine why right to education was not made a fundamental right by the Constituent Assembly
when it drafted the Constitution of India? ............................................................................... 132
Q--Critically evaluate the steps taken during the Eleventh Five year plan to boost higher education
sector. ............................................................................................................................................. 132
Q--Critically examine the arguments in favour of privatisation of higher education in India. Do you
think higher education should be completely privatised? Comment. ................................. 133
The Hindu ..................................................................................................................................... 133
Q--What do you understand by broad based education system? What are its benefits? .. 134
Q--Critically examine the benefits of reservation in higher education. ............................... 135
Q-Comment on recent controversy over the Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa)
rankings about learning levels around the world. .................................................................. 136
Q-Write a critical note on Kerala government‘s Kudumbashree scheme. ........................... 137

Q--Critically comment on the type of development India needs considering its social and economic
realities and requirements. ......................................................................................................... 138
Q--Critically comment on the causes behind rise in drug abuse cases in Punjab. .............. 140
Q--Critically comment on government‘s taxation policy on tobacco products in India.... 140
India‘s high smoking rate causes alarming health and economic costs. One of the most effective ways to
reduce tobacco use in India is to raise the price of tobacco products through increase in excise tax. Higher
prices discourage youth from initiating cigarette smoking and encourage current smokers to quit.
Raising tax not only saves lives but also increases the government revenue. .................... 140
Development Processes & Development industry (role of NGOs, SHGs, groups & associations, donors,
charities, institutional and other stakeholders) ........................................................................... 141
Question - ―We need an effective international organisation that supports the rights of the world‘s most
vulnerable people i.e. people with disabilities.‖ Comment. (200 Words) (the question has 2 dimensions –
1st vulnerable section and 2nd different organizations that help them) ................................ 141
In the light of questions raised on their autonomy and integrity, critically comment on the mandate and
role of various human rights institutions in India and the part played by governments in upholding
their independence. ..................................................................................................................... 141
In the light of recent reports on the activities of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), critically
comment on their role in development and strengthening of economy and democracy. 142
Discuss how and in what ways private sector can play an important role in rural development. 142
Q role of SHGs in development ................................................................................................. 143
Q--Critically comment on the role of NGOs in the development process and development industry in the
country. .......................................................................................................................................... 143
Welfare Schemes (centre, states; performance, mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for
protection of vulnerable sections) .................................................................................................. 144
What are the obstacles faced being by governments in developing tribal areas across the country? Do you
think present schemes implemented by the Union government for the welfare of tribal areas are yielding
results? Explain why. (250 Words) ............................................................................................ 144
Q. A recent study (India Human Development Survey (IHDS) of 2004-05) has found that the
implementation of RTE and NRHM schemes have actually reversed the objectives of both the schemes.
Critically comment on the reasons behind this reversal. ....................................................... 145
Q. In the light of recent Supreme Court judgement, critically analyse all the positive and negative
criticisms against Aadhar project............................................................................................... 145
Highlight the important features of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2013. (200 Words) 146
Highlight the important features of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2013. (200 Words) 146
Question - ―Societally sanctioned rape and sexual assault is not new in India.‖ Critically comment. (200
Words) topic - (protection of vulnerable sections – women) ................................................. 146
Question - Should the current caste-based reservation system be replaced with an economic criteria-
based regime? Critically comment. (200 Words) ..................................................................... 146
Question - What measures has Indian taken to stop child abuse and to ensure protection of children in
line with the UN guidelines? Explain. (200 Words) ................................................................ 147
Question - Analyze the important provisions of the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and
Regulation of Street Vending) Bill, 2014 . (200 Words) ........................................................... 147

Critically comment on the objectives of and challenges likely to be faced by the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan
Yojana. ........................................................................................................................................... 148
Critically examine the problems faced by farmers in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. What measures
have been taken to address their problems by the state and the union government? Explain. 148
Write a critical note on the Transplantation of Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011 . (200 Words) 149
Write a note on the important recommendations of the Mihir Shah Task Force Committee on
Comprehensive National Social Assistance Program (Pension). (200 Words) .................... 149
Critically evaluate India‘s strategy and efforts to combat AIDS. (200 Words) ................... 150
―The new disabilities bill could help enshrine a more modern understanding of the issue.‖ Elaborate.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 151
Do you think the idea of imparting of education being treated as a trade is wrong? Critically comment in
the light of the issue of collection of capitation fee in private educational institutes in India. 152
Some argue that Indian youth, especially vast majority of engineering graduates lack necessary skills to
work in innovation industries. Do you agree with the view? Substantiate. (200 Words) . 153
Do you support the establishment of branches of foreign universities in India? Substantiate. (200 Words)
........................................................................................................................................................ 153
Critically examine the loopholes that exist in both the public and private health sectors in India. Explain
in what ways private medical practices can be regulated to ensure affordable and quality healthcare to
the people. ..................................................................................................................................... 154
What are the objectives of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)? Do we need two separate
schemes for rural and urban population? Comment. (200 Words) ...................................... 154
―The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) has served as the
major catalyst in the global movement from viewing persons with disabilities as objects of charity,
medical treatment and social protection towards viewing them as full and equal members of society,
with human rights.‖ Critically analyze in the context of India‘s efforts at passing a legislation for disabled
persons on the line of above mentioned convention. (200 Words) ....................................... 155
Critically evaluate the NRLM and its objectives. (200 Words)The Hindu........................... 157
What is social audit? How effective is social audit in effective implementation of many government
schemes? Explain with examples. (200 Words) ....................................................................... 158
Critically evaluate the programme design and the performance of NREGA ..................... 158
What are the functions of the National Skill Development Corporation? Write a note on its importance
and performance in recent years. ............................................................................................... 158
With examples, illustrate the importance of social audit in evaluating the implementation and progress
of government schemes. .............................................................................................................. 159
What are the economic, cultural and sociological reasons behind lack of proper toilets in the majority
households in India? Do you think ‗Nirmal Bharat Abhiyaan (NBA) Scheme‘ would eradicate the open
defecation practice? Comment. (200 Words)............................................................................ 160
What were the important findings and recommendations of Sachar committee report? (200 Words) 160
Write a critical note on the importance and methods of evaluating government schemes that are funded
by the taxpayers‘ money. ............................................................................................................ 161
―Aadhaar is the biggest anti-corruption platform.‖ Do you agree with this view? Substantiate. (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 161

How can India eliminate the practice of open defecation in India? Suggest measures and give examples
of any existing successful models. (200 words) ....................................................................... 161
What are the important features of Forest Rights Act 2006? Bring out the criticisms against the bill. (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 162
Q7. Analyze what systemic factors are responsible for the poor quality of higher education in India. (200
Words). .......................................................................................................................................... 162
What are the main objectives of Direct Benefit Transfer program launched by the government of India?
What are the drawbacks of the program? Comment. ............................................................. 163
Question - ―The critical issue in India, where the pentavalent vaccine is being rolled out, is raising the
coverage levels of immunization.‖ Elucidate. (200 Words) ................................................... 163
Question - ―The Global Burden of Disease Study 2010 has established that indoor air pollution from cook
stoves is a primary cause of disease and death in South Asia. ‖ Elaborate. (200 Words) (topics are health
and pollution) ............................................................................................................................... 164
Question - What are autoimmune diseases and how they are caused? Examine the magnitude of its
presence in India‘s population. (200 Words)............................................................................ 164
Question - What is Option B Plus under AIDS treatment? Explain its advantages. (200 Words) 165
Question - India accounts for an astounding 29 per cent of the global deaths of newborns on their very
first day of birth. What measures has government taken to address this problem? Has it been successful?
Examine. (200 Words).................................................................................................................. 165
Critically discuss India‘s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) and its success. ..... 165
Examine how India managed to eradicate polio in the country. (200 Words) .................... 166
What are the causes of high infant mortality rate (IMR) in India? Examine the measures taken by the
government in reducing IMR. (200 Words) ............................................................................. 167
―Overcrowding in hospitals, malnutrition, unhygienic tropical environs heighten problem of fungal
infection in India.‖ Highlight the magnitude of the problem, its causes and measures that need to be
taken to improve the situation. (200 Words) ............................................................................ 167
Analyze why India needs a comprehensive new disability rights legislation. (200 Words)168
In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of direct cash transfer to beneficiaries of
various schemes? Should PDS continue in its present form? Explain why. (200 Words) . 168
Write a note on Integrated Program for Older Persons (IPOP) scheme. (200 Words) ....... 169
Write a critical note on the role of bureaucracy in improving the education outcomes in Indian schools.
(200 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 169
―India‘s curriculum outpaces what pupils can realistically learn and achieve in the time given‖.
Comment on the statement in the light of recent findings by various reports about the poor quality of
education in India. ....................................................................................................................... 170
What are deemed universities and why were they conferred that status? Comment on the state of higher
education in India in the light of controversy surrounding these deemed universities. (200 Words)The
Hindu ............................................................................................................................................. 170
―The UGC is not able to do justice to its mandate in light of ‗massification‘ of higher education‖.
Critically comment....................................................................................................................... 171
Critically comment on the recent controversy over introduction of four year degree course by some
Universities in India..................................................................................................................... 171

A strong policy on early childhood care and education was long overdue because of the poor
performance of ICDS in many states.‖ Critically examine the key provisions of draft National Early
Childhood Care and Education policy (ECCE) in the light of the given statement. (200 Words) 171
Explain the importance of providing three percent reservations to disabled persons in government job.
(150 Words) ................................................................................................................................... 172
It is not enough to talk about pursuing excellence; to establish and build world-class universities of
excellence, the ecosystem of higher education has to change dramatically. ‖ In the light of the statement,
critically discuss which are all the changes that need to be brought in the higher education sector. 172
― .Critically examine the various problems that a small and marginal farmer faces in India despite good
monsoon and implementation of myriad farm related schemes. ......................................... 172
‖In the Indian context, building more and more toilets alone would not end open defecation in rural
areas.‖ In the light of the statements, critically comment on the fundamental reasons behind the practice
of open defecation in India and the policies needed to end this practice. ........................... 173
What is ‗sex education‘? What are its objectives? Do you think it is necessary to enforce it in schools as
part of curriculum? Critically comment. .................................................................................. 173
.In your opinion, should obesity be treated as disability? Critically comment. .................. 174
Q--Critically comment on the Social Progress Imperative and explain how is it different from other
indices that strive to measure development. ........................................................................... 174
Q--Examine the leading causes of high infant and maternal mortality rates in India. What steps need to
be taken and what is the cost of neglecting interventions to reduce these rates? Analyse.175
Q--What is Green Tobacco Sickness? Examine its causes, symptoms and prevalence in . 176
Q-Critically evaluate how and with what results the fight against AIDS was carried out by UN and the
global community with special reference to India. ................................................................. 176
Q---Critically examine the reforms needed to make healthcare affordable and universal in India. 176
Q--How is the Human Development Index calculated? Critically analyse India‘s ranking in the 2014 HDI
report.............................................................................................................................................. 178
Q--Why do close to 70 per cent of India‘s sick, mostly belonging to the poor or lower middle class, choose
to go to the private sector when there is ostensibly free healthcare in the public system? Critically
comment. ....................................................................................................................................... 178
Q--- Examine the causes of obesity around the world. Discuss its effect on health. .......... 178
Q--Write a note on the mechanism of AIDS virus infection in humans. Explain the latest breakthroughs
in AIDS treatment. ....................................................................................................................... 180
Q---According to reports and various opinions, the declining standards of medical education coupled
with poor health service delivery continue to be major national concerns. Discuss the reforms needed in
the health sector to improve the standards of medical education and health delivery. .... 181
Q-Critically comment on the design and implementation of the Rashtriya Ucchatar Shiksha Abhiyan
(RUSA) scheme. ........................................................................................................................... 182
Q) Do you think a repeal and re-enactment of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act,
2000 (the JJ Act), the country‘s primary law dealing with children in conflict with the law and children in
need of care is needed? Explain why. ....................................................................................... 182
Poverty and hunger issues.............................................................................................................. 183
Q. According to WHO, Vector-borne diseases are adding to the vicious cycle of poverty and have a
significant impact of socio-economic status of communities. Which are those diseases? How do they
exacerbate poverty? Comment. .................................................................................................. 183
Q. The recently-concluded India Human Development Survey (IHDS) seems to suggest that the
inclusive growth policy implemented during the 11th Five Year Plan may have been working. How?
Examine. ........................................................................................................................................ 184
Q. It is found that certain cancers are affected by the socio-economic status of individuals in India.
Elaborate with examples. ............................................................................................................ 185
Q. What measures can government take to stop the spread of cancer in India? Examine.185
Q. Comment on the nature and magnitude of drinking water problem in India. What measures would
you suggest to overcome these problems? ............................................................................... 186
1. ―Childhood obesity has become the most serious health concern – even in our part of the world, where
malnutrition is a big concern. ‖ Critically comment on the reasons behind this paradox.186
Q. Explain how technology can be harnessed to bring sanitation to Indian villages and cities 188
Q. Critically examine the problems being faced by the state and central governments in properly
implementing welfare schemes.................................................................................................. 188
Q. ―To improve overall health, the public health sector will have to coordinate and collaborate with other
sectors, nationally and regionally, and with several stakeholders.‖ In the light of the statement, critically
comment on the role of the governments, political parties in reforming this sector.......... 189
Q. Explain how technology can be harnessed to bring sanitation to Indian villages and cities. 190
Despite sufficient food production, India faces food insecurity problem. Critically examine the important
reasons behind this insecurity and throw light on upcoming challenges if this insecurity continues to
persist. ............................................................................................................................................ 191
Critically comment on the approach taken by the Rangarajan committee to measure poverty in India.
........................................................................................................................................................ 192
Critically examine India‘s achievements in meeting the targets of the Millennium Development Goals.
........................................................................................................................................................ 193
―It is imperative that the government reviews the methods of gathering data on poverty estimates
without further delay and significantly retool its development schemes.‖ Comment. (200 Words) 194
Q---―When it comes to economic matters, the government is an enabler and facilitator. Its primary job is
to develop and maintain a system in which people – the rich and the poor – can take steps by themselves
to better their lives. ‖ In the light of the statement, critically examine the nature of poverty removal
programmes in India. .................................................................................................................. 195
Q-Explain the importance of minimally invasive education concept and its application in India.(200
words) ............................................................................................................................................ 196
Q- Critically analyze the role of ASHAs as an interface between the community and the public health
system. Have they been successful in their mission? Give your views. (200 Words) ....... 196
Q-Comment on the recommendations of High Level Expert Group on Universal Health Coverage of the
Planning Commission. (150 Words) .......................................................................................... 197
Q-Critically examine India‘s Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP) (200 Words) 198
Q-Critically evaluate Brazil‘s Bolsa Familia program in eradicating poverty. Examine in which schemes
this program can be adopted in India successfully. (200 Words) ......................................... 199
Q-Bring out the importance of social prescribing in providing a healthcare solution to patients suffering
from mental health problems. (150 Words).............................................................................. 199
Q- Critically examine the steps taken by the government in ensuring safe institutional delivery for
pregnant women in India. (200 Words) ................................................................................... 200

Q-In your opinion why India has high rate of MMR? (150 Words) ..................................... 200
Q-Has affirmative action affected wellbeing of people belonging to forward classes? Critically comment
if there is need to introduce the policy of affirmative action in favor of forward classes too. (200 Words)
........................................................................................................................................................ 201
Q-Do you agree with the view that Karnataka‘s Shaadi Bhagya scheme is unconstitutional?
Substantiate. (150 Words) ........................................................................................................... 201
Q-Comment on India‘s efforts to protect children under five from deaths caused by preventable
diseases. (200 Words)................................................................................................................... 201
Q-Do you support more government spending on social sectors schemes? Analyze the benefits or
drawbacks of such spendings taking cue from past and present performances of many high budget social
sector schemes. (200 Words) ....................................................................................................... 202
Q-Salinet features of Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) (100 Words) ........... 202
Q-What are the important schemes undertaken by the government to improve the socio-economic
condition of the tribal population in India? Do you think those schemes have made positive impact?
Examine. (250 Words).................................................................................................................. 202
Important aspects of governance ................................................................................................... 203
Discuss community policing as a tool for better policing. (150 words) ............................... 203
What is a Cabinet Committee? What is the composition and functions of Cabinet Committee on
Economic Affairs (CCEA)? (200 Words) ................................................................................... 203
With an example, examine how corruption can be reduced in government sponsored schemes. 204
―The quality and volume of public goods and services supplied by the government as well as the
effectiveness and efficiency of welfare transfers determine the voter behaviour in India.‖ Analyze. (200
Words) ........................................................................................................................................... 204
Analyze the important provisions of the draft Right of Citizens for Time Bound Delivery of Goods and
Services and Redressal of their Grievances Bill, 2011. (200 Words)...................................... 205
―…governance cannot simply mean growth any more but means the way it contributes through a
discourse of accountability, institutional procedures and transparency to widening economic
opportunities and a more inclusive democratic order.‖ Elaborate. (200 Words)The Hindu206
―Populist anarchy cannot be a substitute for governance. ―Comment in the light of recent political
developments in the country. (200 Words) .............................................................................. 206
‖The lack of involvement of beneficiaries, who are systematically dis-empowered and discouraged from
questioning service delivery and holding implementing agencies accountable, is one of the key reasons
for implementation failure of various government schemes.‖ Elaborate highlighting the importance of
social audits. (200 Words) ........................................................................................................... 207
What do you understand by governance? Discuss its relationship with economic growth.208
―Key to sustaining economic growth and promoting development is good governance and quality
decision-making.‖ Examine the factors that affect good governance and ethical decision making in the
higher echelons of government. (200 Words) .......................................................................... 209
.Examine what measures were recommended by the Second Administrative Reforms Commission to
bring speed and efficiency in governance. ............................................................................... 210
.Examine in what ways India can do away with unwanted archaic laws. .......................... 210
Analyse the lacunae observed in urban governance in India. ............................................... 210

Do you agree with the view that centralisation of decision-making powers and concentration of more
powers with the Prime Minister would eventually lead to an authoritarian system of governance? In the
context of India, critically comment. ......................................................................................... 211
Q--India‘s inability to provide public services to its masses is hindering its growth. Why do you think
India is unable to deliver public services efficiently to all its citizens? ................................ 212
Q--In your opinion, what are the major reasons behind delays in project clearances in India and what are
its consequences? Critically examine. ....................................................................................... 213
Q---Write a note on ‗Mee Seva‘ project of Andhra Pradesh government. ........................... 214
Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other measures) .................................... 214
Comment on the Section 8(1)(i) of the Right to Information Act (100 WORDS) ................. 214
Do you think Indian media needs regulation? Comment why? (200 Words) ..................... 215
Why some Sections of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act were recently in news?215
―The provision of negative voting would be in the interests of promoting democracy and is a giant step
forward in push for more electoral reforms.‖ Critically analyse. (250 Words) ................... 215
What is the principle behind introducing None Of The Above (NOTA) in the Electronic Voting Machines
and ballot papers? Is it enough to radical reforms in the electoral system? Analyze. ....... 216
―The recent controversies involving sports administrative bodies in India calls for integrity and
transparency in their decision making process and overall functioning.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words)
........................................................................................................................................................ 216
Q--Comment on the highlights of the Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2011 ....................... 217
Q--Which two colonial era laws would you like to see repealed or replaced and why? Critically
comment. ....................................................................................................................................... 218
E-Governance (applications, models, successes, limitations, potential) .................................. 218
Write a note on the National Population Register (NPR) scheme. ...................................... 218
Write a note on Mobile Seva initiative of the government of India. ..................................... 219
Role of Civil Services in a democracy. .......................................................................................... 219
‖ Fixed minimum tenure would not only enable the civil servants to achieve their professional targets,
but also help them to function as effective instruments of public policy.‖ Critically evaluate. (200 Words)
........................................................................................................................................................ 219
What are the objectives of civil service reforms in India? Critically examine the various steps taken by the
government and judiciary in bringing civil service reforms in India. .................................. 220
Critically comment the role of media in influencing the public opinion, especially in India. Is it good for
the country? Explain. (200 Words) ............................................................................................ 220

can acquire any property in the state.

However, the J&K High Court Order of 2002 held
that daughter of Permanent Resident of J&K will
Historical underpinnings & evolution not lose her Permanent Resident status on
marrying a person outside the state and will have
all rights including property rights
Q. Critically comment on the Indra Sawhney
judgment of 1992. Do you think the judgement
needs revision? Substantiate.
Q:Critically evaluate the role played by the Five
Principles of Peaceful Coexistence or
Panchsheel principles in improving India and
 The Mandal commission was formed to
China‘s relationship. Examine if these
identify the social and the educationally
principles are still relevant today.
backward and to provide for the
reservations to remove the discrimination.
 The recommendation of the commission
provided for the 27 percent reservation for
Panchsheel Agreement was signed between India
the backward class. This was further
and China in 1954. Its Five principles include:
increased by 10 percent to incorporate the
1. Peaceful co-existence
socially and the educationally backward.
2. Non-interference in internal affairs
 At this juncture, Judiciary has to intervene
3. Non-aggression
and in its judgment it provided for the
4. Mutual respect for each other‘s territorial
caste to be included as a criteria for
integrity
determining backwardness.
5. Equality and mutual benefit
 The judgment also put a cap on the Role played
reservation to 50 percent and prohibited 1. It helped to reduce tensions between the two
the reservation in the promotions. countries which might have arisen due to the
 It allowed the executive to make Cold War against the backdrop of which it was
provisions for the reservations within the conceived
restrictions made. 2. Post 1962, by applying these principles, co-
 Hence in this judgement caste as the main operation between the two Countries increased
factor for reservation was taken. by leaps and bounds.
a. High bilateral trade
b. No bloddshed at LAC after 1962
Q:Is Article 370 a source of gender bias in c. Commitment to resolve border dispute by
disqualifying women from the State of property negotiations
rights? (150 Words) Relevance
1. Today India and China are emerging
Ans. Article 370 provides for a separate economies. For development they need a just
constitution of the state with separate provision world economic, political and security order.
including those relating to status as Permanent They need to increase their co-operation in
Resident. In the separate constitution, the various for a like BRICS, WTO, UN climate
definition of Permanent Resident was based on change.
notification issued by Maharaja of J&K in 1927 2. Both are threatened by terrorism within their
and 1932. The notification states that women of borders from the same neoghbourhood
the state shall continue to be Permanent Resident 3. Both share the dream of rising in the world
of the state, as long as they reside in the state and order for which they need to engage on
do not leave the state. This gave rise to Panchsheel lines and remove mutual distrust
apprehensions that there was gender bias in giving way to co-operation
disqualifying women from State of property
rights since only Permanent Resident of the state

Hence, for our shared goals, not only ‗peaceful *there are not any time schedules in selection
co-existence‘ but also ‗mutual respect‘ is process.
necessary *allegations of bias, nepotism and yielding to
political pressures have surfaced eroding the
credibility of process.
Q:Critically examine the birth of collegium *increasing incidences of misconduct of judges
system in India and its merits and demerits. raises doubts about quality of appointments
made.
Ans: *the process is also criticised for being an
armchair exercise as collegium members
Overt interference by government in appointment primarily from SC do not have adequate
of CJIs in 1973 and 1977 by overlooking seniority firsthand information regarding credentials of
principle raised concerns about politicisation of candidates.
judiciary. This concern was later deliberated upon Due to these reasons clamour for replacement of
by SC in a series of three cases, regarding collegium by JAC has increased. However, an
appointment of judges in supreme court and high institution (with or without executive
courts, as follows: participation) by itself is not panacea rather it is
1)First Judges case(1982) upheld primacy of only the extent of transparency and
executive in appointment of judges. accountability of procedure which can redeem the
2)Second Judges case1993 changed the meaning process of judicial appointments.
of ―consultation‖ in art 124 and 217 to mean
effectively ―concurrence‖ with CJI.Thus was
borne the idea of participative consultation Collegium system is a unique contribution of
through collegium system for appointment of Indian judiciary that has no parallel in the world.
judges. It implies that judges appoint their brother judges
3) Third Judgescase 1998 gave concrete shape to without executive interference.
collegium directing that CJI must consult his four Evolution of collegium system has it roots in
seniormost colleagues in case of selecting SC emergency period when the concept of commited
judges and two seniormost colleagues in case of judiciary evolved. Judges not toeing the executive
HC judges. line were discriminated in appointments and
Thus collegium system curtailed executives role promotions. To correct this malise in the ‗Second
to mere consultation. Judge Case‘ Justice J S Verma put collegium
Proponents of this mechanism cite many sytem of appointment of judges. The collegium
advantages like: consisting of two senior most judges of Supreme
* it has checked politicisation of judiciary and court and Cheif justice of India who‘s role was
helped maintain its independence from executive primal without executive interference. The ‗Third
. Judge Case‘ expanded collegium to have plurality
*it has provided an institutional mechanism to of 4 senior most judges along with Cheif Justice of
appoint judges and minimise arbitrariness of India. President was reduced as a mere approver.
process.Also the mechanism says that even if two The collegium system restored the independence
judges oppose any candidate that name should of judiciary. It insulated judiciary from executive
not be recommended. intrusion. Plurality insured objectivity in
*Moreover, collegium comprising of judges can selection.This was necessary to restore the health
better evaluate a candidate‘s knowledge than of democracy.
layman executive. The collegium system is vehemently debated on
But an analysis of functioning of collegium the issues of lack of transparency and
system has exposed its faults too like: accountability. Collegium system is insulated
*the selection process is not transparent with no from RTI. Thus, rarely anything is know about
information on criteria adopted and reasons for such a vital organ of democracy. Complete
choice in the public domain. exclusion of executive has purged any
accountability in the process. P D Dinakaran and

Soumitra Sen appointment and elevation has must be made public with a brief justification for
corraborated the claims of lack of transparency. such legislation, broad financial implications and
Recently, revelations by Justice Katju and effect on fundamental rights, lives and
removal of Gopal Subramaniam has brought fore livelihoods of affected people. Once this is
the covert intrusion and pressure casted by changes are made the bill will not face opposition
executives. Thus collegium is failing the basic in the later stage as bills which garner public
purpose of its creation. consensus will only be tabled.
Independence of judiciary is vital for democracy
and is also a basic structure of Constitution. The
present state of malise in executive machinery
demands continuation of collegium system. To Question - ―India‘s Parliaments have been
bring accountability Collegium process should be rendered non-functional — not by rowdy MPs
brought under the ambit of RTI. This will but by the executive which has concentrated
preserve the integrity of the institution. total power in its hands.‖ Critically comment.
Answer - The Parliament is the fountainhead of

India‘s democracy. The essence of democracy is
debate among the elected representatives to
dissect the merit of a legislative proposal on the
Features, amendments, significant national interest and public welfare.
provisions, basic structure The recent frequent disruption confounded by
reprehensible incidents such as use of chemical,
tearing of papers, throwing of furniture and
Question - How bills are usually passed in the blocking introduction by thronging well have
Parliament? Do you think the process requires rendered the Parliament non-functional.
any modification, especially in bringing more The issue however must be analysed whether it is
transparency and inclusiveness? Analyze. (200
a manifestation of rowdy MPs or the executive
Words) (features and amendments constitution)
concentration of power. In this respect, it has to
be seen in light of the fractured mandate
Answer - We have come to see that there has been
characterising coalition polity of today,
much uproar regarding the bills introduced by
criminalization of politics and thirdly, populism
the government from inside and outside of the
and short-termism approach of government.
parliament. This uproar has been mostly at the
First the rise of regional parties as well as rising
later stage of the bill processing when the bill is
media glare has led to a fractured mandate
placed before the house and the bill becomes
coming out of elections. The coalition polity
public. This has resulted into delay in passage of
which results is usually found pulling on separate
bill.
interests concerning them. Although Anti-
These foggy conditions surrounding the bill are defection has helped curb the instability but still it
due to the drafting process. The drafted bill is not has led to increased violence and dissent
always placed before the public for feedback. The expressed in form of protests and shouting by
draft bill only moves in the corridors of ministry, MPs for a legislation which transgresses their
standing committee and parliament this just does regional interests. This is not related to executive
not take into account the demands and concentration of power but a lack of it. Second
aspirations of the public as well as the opposition. issue is the criminalization of politics whereby the
So this colonial setup must be changed to become muscle and money power have come to rule
more inclusive. particularly in hinterlands and the political
parties give ticket to such candidates based on
The committee of secretaries & the national
winnability factor. It follows that such candidates
advisory council has proposed some changes so
if elected, not based on credentials and public will
that the bill becomes more inclusive. Some of
but by manipulative coercion, will definitely
these recommendations are that the draft bill
impact the quality of debate in Parliament.

Finally, the populism and short-termism of people. This can be seen in the Budget process
government is evident more so in an election year where the policies determines not only the future
to hurriedly pass through critical bills without a of big corporate but also the MSME and cottage
proper debate or scrutiny. Such legislation is industries.
maneuvered by backchannel debates among the
major political parties based on electoral For a stronger world economy trade is vital. A
calculations and the result id passing of bills y country which can assimilate the different
voice vote. interests of its society and progresses keeping all
It is essential that the sanctity of Parliament must sections in mind will be in a better position to
be maintained as it is exemplary to the promote trade and assimilate the world into itself.
democratic virtues which guide the nation.
Electoral reforms notwithstanding, an Another advantage with democracy is it offers
enlightened citizenry shall be developed by peace better than any other form. To a great
encouraging debate and dissent voices not stifling peaceful countries in the world are democracies.
them. Peace is a precondition for a booming economy.
A world economy would be on strong

foundations if all sections of the world are taken
Q:― Re-empowering national democracies places
into confidence and nobody is benefitted at the
the world economy on a stronger footing.‖
cost of others. Democracies in countries demand
Elaborate.
more from their govt. this will make the govt.
protect its interests in the world economy.
Democracy hives freedom to unleash our

Globalized economy need empowered democracy
creativity and promotes innovation,
for the following reasons
entrepreneurship. All preconditions for a strong
economy.
1. More Choices: The people are free to choose
and hence it gives a boost to global economy. This
All countries in Europe are democracies.
leads to more consumption driven economy.
European Union is the most assimilated regional
2. More entrepreneurship: More and More people
group. But, such cohesion could not be possible
can take risk, innovate and make their fortune in
else where. That is because democracy is not so
not only their own nation but abroad to, on the
widespread elsewhere.
other hand a communist or authoritarian regime
doesn‘t give this freedom.
Q:Why is there a demand for decriminalising
3. More investment: The people can invest their
attempt to commit suicide in India? Critically
money in other countries leads to all round
examine the merits and demerits of existing law
development
of criminalising suicide.
4. Knowledge and Technology Sharing: People
get the choice to study and gain knowledge in
As the Law Commissions repeatedly pointed out,
which ever place they want too. Some of the
S.309 IPC is inhuman, whether constitutional or not.
biggest global companies like Facebook emerged
Suicide attempt needs psychiatric attention, not jail-
due to freedom provided to innovate in a global
time. It is the only law where you are punished for
institute. This also, leads to technology transfer
failing in the attempt. If you succeed, you are
and more innovation.
unreachable for mundane law. This is
irrational.Therefore the demand to efface this law.
The above arguments it‘s clear that not only re
This law doubly punishes an already troubled
empowered national democracies leads to
individual. It serves no purpose: Retributive justice is
stronger world economy but it is true vice versa
a prerogative of society. It is indisputable that life is
also, a stronger globalized economy needs a truly
more important to the person than society. It is ‗a
representative, strong Government to protect the
strange paradox that in the age of votaries of
euthanasia, suicide should be criminally and Governors .However a long delay in deciding
punishable‘(Delhi HC). upon the mercy petitions have been seen in the past.
Its only merit that it helps the govt. to forestall a law- There is no time frame given in the constitution to
and-order problem that may arise if an Irom Sharmila decide upon the mercy petitions because constitution
or Anna Hazare starves himself to death. It can also be maker did not wanted to bind such a high executive
argued, that law prescribes only an upper limit and post within time limit but , the procedural delays like
most cases do not result any severe delays in sending the concerned documents to the
punishment(imprisonment till court adjourns is the respective authorities have often led pending of mercy
norm). Also, scrapping this may debase S.306 which petitions for years. These long delays have often
criminalizes abetting suicide. But, that is unfounded resulted in having a adverse impact on the petitioner
alarmism. which can be in form of mental trauma, illness,
This law is a joke, and a cruel joke at that. It has to go, negligence by jail authorities leading the petitioners
for good. living in insanitary conditions which violates article 21
which gives the right to live till last breath
One more
The Apex court recently commutes death sentence of
―Article 21 which gives right to life and liberty have 15 persons to life imprisonment citing inordinate
implicit meaning of right to die and right to die with delays in deciding mercy petitions.SC said that delays
dignity ‖ is the interpretation of some individuals and have resulted in the disposal of pleas and psychiatric
organisation who are demanding the conditions developed during incarceration are ground
decriminalisation of attempt to commit suicide (which for clemency.
is criminalised u. section 309 of IPC). Judicial guidance will humanise the process
Merits of criminalisation of suicide:
1.Historically laws against suicide have developed It reminds jail authorities of the bar on keeping death
from religious doctrine, for example, the claim that row convicts in solitary confinement before the
only God has the right to determine when a person rejection of their mercy pleas; it lists mental illnesses
will die. But this cant be the reason for the and solitary confinement as new grounds for
continuation of an archaic law. commutation. It further mandates legal aid for
2. there is debate that if the attempt to commit suicide convicts in drafting mercy petitions and exploring
is decriminalised ,the provision can be misused .But judicial remedies.
this also cant become the rationale for repealing the Apparently taking note of the secret execution of Afzal
law either Guru, the court has crafted a new rule that families of
Demerits of criminalisation of suicide: convicts ought to be informed in writing as soon as
1.The person who gets success in suicide cant be their mercy petitions are rejected. It bars execution for
punished by the law ( )! the next 14 days so that they have the consolation of a
2.Euthenasia cant be practiced. As the persons who final reunion. Speaking with moral clarity, the court
are tied to bed from 10-15 years and are showing no has gathered the best of its extant jurisprudence on the
improvements with existing medical support ,don‘t subject and added nuggets of humaneness to elevate
have any other option left. the existing body of law, as it were, to a higher
The law is a ruthless and archaic one and should not humanitarian plane. That those who benefit from this
find a place in our world!! judgment are guilty of heinous offences should not
cast a shadow on the moral foundation on which the
verdict stands. The principle that is reaffirmed is that
Q:Right to seek mercy under Article 72/161 is a be they terrorists or murderers, their fundamental
constitutional right and it is not at the discretion rights are not extinguished upon conviction. The
or whims of the executive.‖ Elaborate. (200 message that the executive should deal expeditiously
Words) with mercy petitions should, however, not propel
authorities to the other extreme — making hasty
decisions without considering relevant factors just to
Article 72 and 161 gives the right to convict to seek quicken the process. Constitutional functionaries face
mercy petitions on his death penalty from President a dilemma in considering clemency for convicts who

have caused multiple deaths or displayed great • They consist of only male representatives and
cruelty. Judicial guidance will humanise the process, rule on issues ranging from marriage, social
but the real solution lies in abolishing the cruel and norms, dressing habits to even carrying mobile
inhuman penalty of death. phones. They effective violate Art. 19 and Art. 21.
All of their decisions reflect of paternalism which
is against egalitarianism as given in Art.14
Q:―The right to life and dignity are the most
important of all human rights … and this must • Indian government is yet to come out with a
be demonstrated by the state in everything it policy on khaps. While politicians do not back
does, including the way it punishes criminals.‖ them publicly, there have been no concrete steps
Do you agree with this view? Comment. (200 to check them. Judiciary has taken a lead and SC
Words) has declared them illegal.
• But these are long entrenched institution of our

society. They cannot be flicked away
immediately. What is needed is to bring them up
Q:Critically comment on the relevance of Article
370 of the Constitution of India. to speed by meriting the advantages of an
egalitarian community. They should be used in
the social justice process by expunging them of
their adverse functions. Effective laws should be
framed to prevent their misuse and their
Q:Can freedom of speech be absolute?
Comment. (150 Words) participation should be made more equitable and
egalitarian.
Q--Critically comment on how freedom of

expression in India has been used, misused and
Q: Do you think Khap panchayats function
curtailed post Independence.
within the ambit of the Constitution? If not,
what measures have states taken to curb their
continued functioning? Critically comment on Freedom of expression is the life blood for any
their unconstitutional nature. (250 Words) democracy . In the view of this founding principle
of a democracy , the founding fathers of the
Khap Panchayet refers to a conglomeration of constitution of India made the freedom of
village elders which claim to exercise various expression as a fundamental right as mandated
functions for the betterment of village. They have by the article 19(1)(a) of the constitution . The use
no legal status and they have increasingly of this freedom is clearly visible in the form of a
resorted to exercising judicial functions and proliferating media (89000 newspapers) . The
implementing them. presence to a varied range of literature from
extreme right(religious organization) to extreme
• Article 50 vests the judicial functions in left(communists) is also proof of the same fact.
judiciary, separate from executive and as such
khap Panchayats are extra-constitutional and But to preserve the unity , integrity ,harmony and
illegal. Rights of liberty, dignity, freedom to security of the nation this right was not made
choose own life partner are jeopardised. Their absolute. There have been implementation of
medieval laws on socialising, marriage and several laws for the same . The most important
employment are against the right of an individual being IT Act and Section 153 and 295 of the IPC
and so rule of men and not rule of law prevails. act . Though limitation to the freedom of
While social solidarity is always welcomed but expression was put with a benign intention , but
khaps have refused to modernise themselves. the following incidence shows that it is not
They favour retrograde steps and refuse social always so :
upliftment. 1. India was the first nation to ban Salman
Rushdie‘s ‗Satanic verses‘.

2. M.F Hussein was forced to live in exile because national emergency during 1975-77. This resulted
of opposition of his paintings by some religious into a heavy blow to Indian democratic
fanatics. governance.
3. Arrest of the two young girls,under IT Act, in Today, when internet has become a raison d‘etre
Palghar because they made a comment in social of freedom of speech, Section 66A of Indian IT act
media about some leader. has been used by the state to amass draconian
powers and is not healthy for democracy. Though
4. Arrest of a cartoonist because of his alleged important to have control over hate messages
disrespect to the constitution. over the internet, it is not advisable to use the
powers of the state in a biased manner.
5. Withdrawal of Wendy Dognier book because of
alleged hurt of religious sentiments. Freedom of expression is very important for
healthy human development. It strengthens the
The above incidents and many more like them
roots of democracy and enables minorities to feel
have made the liberals to term the respective laws
safe in any nation. Given the diversity of India,
as draconian . But this is one side of the story , on
freedom of expression is extremely important.
the other side there has been gross misuse of the
The state must therefore use its powers to
freedom of expression to perpetuate the feeling of
strengthen democracy.
fear ,hatred and estrangement among the masses.
Mass exodus of the north eastern people from Q--Do you agree with the view that the Section
bangalore in 2012 showed the potential of the 66-A of the Information Technology Act is
internet to spread unrest in the country. unconstitutional? Critically comment.
Various hate speeches given by the politicians to Section 66A of the Information Technology
incite religious ,regional , and caste sentiments . (Amendment) Act, 2008 prohibits the sending of
offensive messages though a communication
The above points show that the laws like IT Act device (i.e. through an online medium). The
,or section 153 and 295 of the IPC are not only section has come to much focus to its misuse
relevant but in fact needed . But more often than recently on citizens like, a cartoonist, two girls
not these laws are used to suppress right and a professor for expressing their views on
expressions and fail to fulfill their mandate . Thus social media.
it is up to judiciary to make proper distinction
between use and misuse of free speech, and fulfill Constitutionality of the act:
its constitutional mandate of the ultimate
protectors of the fundamental rights (in this case Many terms in part (a) of Section 66A like
article 19(1)). ―grossly offensive‖ or ―menacing‖ are ambiguous
and open to interpretation. The term ―offensive‖
is also cast so wide that it can snare almost
anything. It clearly much more than the
But the constitution also mentions that these reasonable restrictions imposed on freedom of
rights are subject to restrictions that threaten the expression under Article 19(2) of the Constitution.
security of the nation.This is an important clause
as absolute freedom in a diverse society divided Secondly part (b) makes no distinction being
on lines of caste, class and religion can be made between messages that cause annoyance,
harmful. This has been manifested in a number of inconvenience which are surely not necessarily
communal riots the nation has seen both during criminal in nature with those that cause injury,
and post independence. danger, criminal intimidation or enmity which in
any case are covered under the Indian Penal Code
The constitution also went to the extent of (IPC)).
granting power to the state to restrict the freedom
of expression in case of national emergency. This
was done in a non democratic manner during the
The crime under the act is made cognisable, non- officeholders to work independently from the
bailable, and the police have power to arrest executive and act in an impartial manner.
without a warrant and the punishment of
imprisonment(upto 3 years) cannot be toned However, sometimes these restrictions causes the
down, even by the court. country to forego the service of excellent public
officials who can work more towards the
betterment of the nation through the skills that
they have acquired while in office. A long term in
What one can say in defence of the Section is that a public office bring enriching experience and all
the anonymity of the online world necessitates this goes waste since they are not allowed to
some form of checks. Also the words ―persistent‖ work further in the service of Govt. of India.
and ―intended‖ to cause insults as contained in
the Section are important and usually get But when seen in a broader context, the
overlooked when criticising the provision. advantages of having restrictions on further
public employment far outweighs their
However the real devil lies in its implementation. disadvantages in terms of maintaining the office
Most arrests under section 66(a) have been free from undue fear or favor and hence this
politically motivated and stink of system is necessary for the democratic machinery
highhandedness. Moreover despite numerous to work in an efficient and impartial manner.
examples of the utterances of leaders of political However, some relaxation can be made where the
parties and vigilante groups that spewed hatred, service of such individuals can be taken as
it has been difficult, almost impossible, to actually advisor to the Government or in some exceptional
prosecute them. cases, even for an executive post under the Govt.
The provisions in the section need to be toned
downed but the real remedy lies elsewhere- Independence and fairness are the hall marks of
reforms in police and criminal justice system. As an effective and efficient Bureaucracy . Whether
Google chairman Eric Schimdt once observed, the its in providing free and fair advice without fear
answer to ―bad‖ speech, Schmidt said, was more to the political executive for policy formulation or
speech, not a ban on speech altogether. for effective policy implementation .
Q---Why does the Constitution of India make This also help in maintaining an inflow of new
provisions regarding ineligibility of certain talent into the bureaucracy and maintains the
categories for further employment under the innovativeness required for policy formulation in
government of India? With examples, critically an complex and ever changing realities .
comment.
The only loss that accrues from this is the loss of
Ans. Independence and impartiality are two the vast experience and expertness in
major requirements of any important public office administration of these seasoned bureaucrats .
and to uphold these values, the Constitution of For minimizing such losses these bureaucrats can
India provides for some restrictions on the further be made part of think tanks which assists the
employment of these officeholders after Government in its capacity of a staff agency .
completing their term in the office. Thus effectively balancing the bureaucracy‘s
independence with the utilization of the ex
There are offices like the Comptroller and bureaucrats experience .
Auditor General of India, Chairman and
members of UPSC, Election Commission which Does India need Uniform Civil Code? Critically
plays in an important role upholding public trust comment.
in democratic values of the country and hence it
is essential that the incumbent in these offices • uniform civil code means one national civil
work without any fear or favour. A restriction on code will be applicable to all the citizens
further public employment will enable the irrespective of their religion

• it is based on the premise that there is • Politicization

necessarily no connection between religion and
personal law in a civilized society Due to these, UCC has become next to impossible
• Covers areas like marriage, divorce, Way forward

maintenance, inheritance, adoption. These
• We should ask all communities to suggest
matters are of secular nature and hence can be
reforms within personal laws on modern and
regulated by a uniform law
liberal lines
Arguments in favour
• Communities should be convinced that UCC is
• It will enhance the status of women and so- to bring reforms not suppress them
called lower castes as many personal laws are
• May be a piecemeal reform rather than a
biased against them
holistic reform starting with what minorities are
• Many provisions are violations of human rights most comfortable of doing away with
• Article 25 and 26 guarantee freedom of religion

and UCC is not opposed to secularism
Significance of 118th amendment bill to the
• Modern, liberal and gender-sensitive civil code Constitution (50 Words)
is need of the hour
Now it has been passed as 98th Amendment Act,
• A sign that the Nation has moved away from 2013
caste and religion considerations
To amend article 371 to bring 371-J.
• Will help in reducing vote bank politics that
most political parties indulge in during elections Article 371 J gave special status to six backward
districts (Gulbarga, Yadgir, Bellary, Bidar,
• Will help in National integration Raichur and Koppal) of Hyderabad-Karnataka.
Arguments against To provide an Institutional framework to reduce
the inter-district disparity and the economic
• Change in laws in favour of women like Hindu
backwardness of Hyderabad Karnataka regions =
inheritance Act has neither brought about any
establishing the Hyderabad- Karnataka region
change in the percentage of property held by
development board,2013, is to ensure equitable
women nor in their status
allocation of funds from state budget and various
• Some sections in Minorities claim it is a way of central ministries for upliftment of region.
imposing majority views on them
Governor, who will play more active role, can
Hurdles in implementation provide for local reservations in Educational
institutions & Public employment.
• Lack of political will
Briefly explain the constitutional and legislative
• Complexity and sensitivity of the issue procedure involved in formation of a new state.
(150 Words)
• Misinformation about UCC
• Content of UCC has not been spelt out leading Article 3 authorizes the parliament to
minorities to believe that it is a way of Hinduise
1)form new states
them
2)alter the boundary of any state
• Different religious communities have different
personal laws

3)increase or diminish the area of state provided mass poverty and India was striving to have food
the same security. Nevertheless the legal battle on this
issue had dented the values of commitment that
For formation of new state :- India has been know from its very existence.
lastly this is an issue of bygone era and we must
1) Prior approval of the president before
not dig graves when present India faces some
issuing the bill.
other problems.
2) The concerned state legislature needs to
be informed about the bill.
President or parliament can go ahead with the

formation of the state whether the concerned state Functions & responsibilities of the Union
legislature approves it or not within the specified and the States; issues and challenges of
time. federal structure
Hence the constitution authorizes the parliament

to alter the political map of the union without the Question - ―The unprecedented nature of the
consent of the states.so the territorial integrity of rejection of the Bill by the Andhra Pradesh
the states is not guaranteed by the constitution. Assembly requires the legal interpretation of
Article 3 be reconsidered.‖ Critically analyze.
This is why India is rightly described as (200 Words) (Question relates to Andhra
indestructible union of the destructible states. Pradesh reorganization bill)
Do you think the concept of Privy Purses and Answer- Article 3 of the Constitution vests
special privileges, which were abolished by a Parliament with the power to form a new State
constitutional amendment, were incompatible irrespective of the State Assembly‘s opinion so
with an ―egalitarian social order‖ ? Comment. that no single State could hold up the process of
(200 Words) reorganization.
Privy purse and special privileges was need of This centralizing tendency in India‘s federal
the time when India got independence but structure was adopted at a time when it was
geographically 48 5 of India was under princely necessary to weld India‘s disparate elements
control. the task of uniting India into a single together into a nation that required a supporting
country was on the task of the then home minister constitutional architecture. Hence central
Sardar Patel. hegemony was felt necessary.
The unprecedented rejection of the Telangana Bill
He negotiated with all the 555 ruler to surrender by the Andhra Pradesh Assembly is evidence of a
their territory, wealth, mostly everything in dramatically changed time. For the legal
return of an yearly privy purse and special interpretation of Article 3 to ignore such change
privilege. economically it was not a costly deal would be an anachronism.
becuse the total yearly cost was equal to the
revenue government received from Madhya This does not in any way mean that the Andhra
bharat area. Pradesh Assembly‘s views on the Telangana Bill
should be the last word on the matter. Such an
But as time rolled there was demands from all inference would be plainly unconstitutional.
quarters that a socialist national like India with However, it is necessary that the Central
aim of economic, social justice must not give government be required in law to adequately take
undue economical grants to the Kings who once into consideration the reasons why the Andhra
used to rule India. Pradesh Assembly rejected the Telangana Bill.
This bill overwhelmingly rejected, if passed,
This was correct in terms of forming an would seriously lack legitimacy and be
egalitarian society where during 1970 there was

inconsonant with the dynamic federal spirit of the with an aim to prevent violence between the
Constitution. communities, provide redressal mechanisms and
compensation for the victims of such violence.
In the current scenario, to respect the sentiments
The Bill has been opposed by several states like
and agreeably meaningful demands of both the
Gujarat,tamilnadu,Orissa saying that the
regions and to arrive at a logically acceptable
parliament has no legal competence to enact such
solution, reconsideration of Article 3 becomes
a law as the law and order is a state subject. The
necessary.
parliament may not have the legal competence
but the intent with which the law has been
brought should be considered. Recent riots at
Question - ―The proposed the Prevention of muzzafarnagar, gujarat riots in 2002, delayed and
Communal Violence (Access to Justice and inadequate compensation for the Gujarat riot
Reparations) Bill, 2014 violates the spirit of victims has made the law necessary to protect the
federalism.‖ Examine. (200 Words) rights of all the communities. Muzzafarnagar
communal riots show the failure of the states to
Answer - Communal violence (Access to Justice prevent the communal violence and safeguard
and Reparations) Bill, 2014 is aimed to provide the interests of all groups. Also, the riots are
central government an authority to intervene and fanned by political parties and it has become
act during communal violence in any part of more than a law and order problem. Centre has
India, with consent and cooperation of state. the responsibility to prevent such violence when
Communal Violence, of course is a law and order the state fails or state is a party to it. The
issue which comes under state subject. polarization caused by the riots and subsequent
The protestors of the bill term it against the spirit difficulty in rehabilitation, compensation for the
of federalism which provides respective state to victims has necessitated the centre to provide a
decide and regulate upon items under state proper redressal mechanism and national
subject, including law and order issue. Centre standards set for providing compensation for the
cannot legislate on state subjects. victims.
The Bill gives the National Human Rights
The protagonist of the bill varies in the opinion. Commission the power to investigate and
According to them when communal violence is monitor communal, caste violence only with the
state sponsored, as alleged time and again, it is state consent and the centre is left with the
the duty of Union government to intervene and coordinating role. However, some of the
safeguards the life and human rights of the provisions are worded vaguely and might be
citizens. It is also an issue of ethnic and national subjected to different interpretation and thereby
integration. encroaching upon state‘s jurisdiction. In the
It should also be noticed that riots, especially absence of specific clauses, the law might be
communal, stirs the political and communal misused by law enforcers. While the need for a
sentiments of whole nation defying the state and national law cannot be questioned, the centre
federal boundaries. History is witness to it. should have wider consultation with all the
Spilling effects of ethnic and communal violence stakeholders including all political parties, police,
to other states is common phenomena. In those and security agencies to prevent communal
crisis hours, a multi-state and multi-pronged violence and preserve national harmony.
approach is needed to stem it. This bill will be
stepping stone in that regard, with investing
power with centre to take immediate and Question. Write a critical note on the nature of
comprehensive action, of course with state relationship within federal framework between
consent. Delhi state and the Union government. (200
And one more good answer – Words)
The Government has introduced the communal

violence(Access to justice and reparations) bill

Answer – The National Capital Territory of Delhi, With in federal framework the relation is more
( NCTD ), Delhi state as a political subunit in unitary in favour of centre(this is heart in my
Indian union, has hybrid relationship with Union, view if i had to write)
combining the features of both state and union 1)Law & order – recent AAP govt protest
territories. 2)Legislative independence – State enjoy
considerable independence & whole motive of
Despite the status as Union territory, NCT of
having independent legislature is lost when LG
Delhi shows certain characterstics of state. While,
enjoys overriding power or when centre can
states deriver their political existence from Part-
enforce legislation(Lokpal controversy)
VI of constitution, the NCT of delhi derives its
3)Financial provision – Though with in federal
existence from 69th Constiutional amendment act
nature delhi is more dependent on centre & less
1991 under article 243. Like any other state, the
independent.
NCT of Delhi is endowed with a lestislature and
4)Functioning of governance – Day to day
executive , however it is barred from legislation
functioning is seriously troubled if the ruling
in public order, land and police, which are
political party are different & as state hv defined
subjects of state list. These three subjects are
right, delhi often suffers.
legislated by Parliament and implmented by
5)Thus relation within federal framework is more
Union.
vulnerable & require a positive change. However
Unlike other states, the NCT of Delhi exhibits being capital & the international importance of it
features of Union territory. The Chief minister is centre can hv certain well defined provision
appointed by President instead of Leuitant under it. But rest relation demands delhi to be
Governor and other ministers are appointed by granted more federal rights.
President on the advise of Chief minister. The
ministers can resign by addressing to the
President. Similarly, the LG can‘t progmulgate
ordinances without prior permission of president.
Question - ―There are no costs involved in
A controvery has arised regarding the Lokpal
moving towards a more federalist structure
prepared by government. The LG sough the
called the United States of India — only
opinion of SG, accoridng to which – the Delhi
benefits.‖ Critically analyze. (200 Words)
government need to take prior permission from
ministry of home affairs to introduce the bill. This
Answer - The Constitution of India provides for a
is refuted by the CM of Delhi.
federal system of government in the country.
Thus, unlike other political units, the NCT of However, there is a certain bias towards the
Delhi exhibits a special relationship with the union government particularly in the economic
Union government, in federal scheme of India. dependence of sates on the centre. Though
1 more point: the police, land , public order are Finance Commission which deals with the
assigned to Union. As Union is obliged under distribution of taxes between centre and states is
various international treties to protect the foregin a Constitutional body, the emergence of Planning
embassies and deplomats. Secondly, if land is Commission, a non-statutory and a non-
under state governmetn, state governmetn can Constitutional body disturbed the fiscal
ask for land tax from Union governmetn, which is federalism. The union also involves in the
not a good practice. political activities of the states through governor.
However, after the Bommai judgement, the
interference has decreased to a large extent.
Criticism of above answer - U hv answered to As the successive commissions appointed such as
compare federal relation of delhi & centre with Sarkaria and Punchhi have recommended, there
that of state & centre. is a need for further devolution of powers.
Leave all these article number & year stuff come Certain recommendations such as appointment
to core. and fixed term of governors, broader agreement
between Centre and states while legislating in
Concurrent list, more involvement of states in the meeting the need for consumption of water for
functions of Finance Commission, greater irrigation purposes
devolution of financial resources… must be
implemented. The interference of Planning STATE OF KARNATAKA
Commission in the development of states must be
It has been pleaded that from the rainfall studies
minimized to allow states to decide their
it shall appear that Karnataka suffers most,
development strategies as per their needs.
having large cultivable areas with inadequate
But, complete devolution as in the case of USA is rainfall. It has been pointed out that although in
not good for India. Politically still there are the hilly regions forming part of the Western
certain centrifugal tendencies in states such as Ghat system in Karnataka receive very heavy
those in North East. Also dealing with problems rainfall, yet other parts of the districts of Mysore,
such as communal violence requires a strong Mandya, Hassan, Tumkur, Bangalore and Kolar
Centre. Economically, Centre‘s role in fostering a are severely plagued by successive droughts.
balanced regional development is very much There is an imperative need to give relief to such
necessary. areas by providing proper irrigation facilities. The
State has to depend on surface water allocation in
India is unique in its problems and diversities.
the Cauvery basin because of uncertain ground
Any decision regarding more devolution must be
water resources due to reduced recharge, general
taken by weighing costs against benefits.
deep water table and low storage in the aquifer.
For this, the water from Cauvery is necessary.
STATE OF TAMIL NADU
Q:What are the grievances of riparian states of According to Tamil Nadu, it had to depend on
Cauvery river regarding sharing of its waters? the flows of river Cauvery due to less rainfall but
Explain the recent awards of the tribunal set up the State of Karnataka has constructed Kabini
for addressing disputes between these states. Reservoir, Hemavathy Reservoir, Harangi
(200 Words) Reservoir, Suvarnavathy Reservoir and other
projects for storing water of river Cauvery much
The sharing of Cauveri river is main problem more beyond the limit stipulated in the
between Tamil-nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, agreement of the year 1924 which has resulted
Pondicherry The grievances of riparian states of materially in diminishing the supply of waters of
Cauvery river regarding sharing of its waters. Cauvery to Tamil Nadu. This has adversely
affected the Ayacutdars in Tamil Nadu, who had
STATE OF KERALA been dependent on the water of river Cauvery for
centuries.
According to the State of Kerala river It has been
asserted that Kerala‘s contribution to the total UNION TERRITORY OF PONDICHERRY
run-off amounts to 20%, but the said State lags
behind the others so far utilisation of the waters According to the Union Territory of Pondicherry,
of the Cauvery are concerned. and ultimately the even under the French Administration, it had
State of Kerala had to be dependent on single riparian rights in Cauvery waters The water
crop of paddy. There is much scope for raising supplied to Karaikal region in Pondicherry from
second or even third crop with availability of river Cauvery is for both the irrigation and
irrigation facilities from the water available in drainage channels in the Karaikal area.
Cauvery basin. Because of the special
topographical feature of the Cauvery basin in the
State of Kerala, the diversion of the water from
Cauvery basin offers the scope for development Q:The Supreme Court directed the government
of the cheap hydroelectric power in addition to to constitute a tribunal and refer all disputes to
it. Like that Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal
(CWDT) is constituted in 1990.

On 20 February 2013, based on the directions of on the issue in future. Similarly, the recent, issue
the Supreme Court, the Indian Government has where Tamil Nadu Government wants non
notified the final award of the Cauvery Water participation of PM in CGOM meet in Sri Lanka.
Disputes Tribunal (CWDT) on sharing the waters The rational given does not hold much ground
of the Cauvery system among the basin States of and is bound to affect the much achieved
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala and Union cooperation of Sri Lanka . Pushing Sri Lanka
territory of Puducherry. The Tribunal, in a away would have negative consequences on
unanimous decision in 2007, determined the total other fronts for India.
availability of water in the Cauvery basin at 740 Hence such concerns are highly situational and
thousand million cubic (tmc) feet, including 14 subjective. They have to be seen under broad
tmcft for environmental protection and seepage contours of nation. But banning concerns of state
into the sea. The final award makes an annual governments should also be avoided.
allocation of 419 tmcft to Tamil Nadu in the entire
Cauvery basin, 270 tmcft to Karnataka, 30 tmcft to
Kerala and 7 tmcft to Puducherry.
==== . Assam-Immigration from the Bangla and
communal conflict between Bodos and
Immigrant.
2.If the state interest is accommodated then not
Q:Should state governments be allowed to much problem.This can be substantiated with
influence foreign policy decisions of the union respect to India voting infavour the UNHRC
government? Critically comment. (200 Words) related to SL issue last year.That time also due to
Answer: political compulsion and India did that way. But
In a federal polity, the power of foreign policy it didnt affect much wrt to India -SL relation.
rests with Union government. Foreign policy is a 3.India went for Look East policy because it will
holistic and long term vision, which is designed definitely improve the situation with the NE
keeping the larger interest of wider interests of all states of India.It means that in this policy the NE
citizens of the country. The influencing of foreign states concern is also involved.. Andi u now Look
policy decisions due to state governments is an east policy has yielded good results.
unhealthy practice. The interests of state
governments should also be taken into account
but they should not overweight the larger
interests of nation.
The answer to whether such practice be allowed
or not is out of context. Since a Union comprise of Q:Do you think division of Andhra Pradesh by
the States, hence Union cannot neglect the voices the Union government without the consent of
the concerned state legislature, would make
of a state. For instance, when Tamils were given
India a more unitary state? Examine the
harsh treatment by Sri Lankan government, it
implications of such measure on the federalism
was imperative for the Union to consider the
matter in its decisions regarding Sri-Lanka.
Similarly, on the matter of infiltration and cross
border terrorism, it is the duty of Union to
consider the grievances of Jammu and Kashmir
Government, while engaging with Pakistan. Examine the challenges that face the newly
But there are instances such as the recent one of formed state of Telangana. Do you think
engagement with Bangladesh on Teesta river. formation of small states is panacea for
Coming under pressure from coalition partner, development woes? Critically comment.
which was also in power in West Bengal, the
foreign policy decision was deferred by the Union =====Challenges for Telangana—
Government. This had undue consequences, as • Water sharing with border states.
Bangladesh shied away from further negotiation • Lack of administrative infrastructure.

• Higher aspiration of people of the region years. Explain if the creation of new states has
without having been able to accommodate these met its objectives
due to lack of appropriate financial resources,
infrastructural resources and human skill
resources. The States Reorganization Committee of 1956 had
• Keeping the corruption level down, as changed the boundaries of the then existing states
influential people from Telangana which was on linguistic basis. New states were formed and
relatively less developed would try to overpower boundaries were re-drawn from the old states
weaker section, this would increase inequality in based on the language spoken by the majority.
the reason. So this has to be checked by effective But, the last two decades or so had seen the rise of
governance. a new factor – Development. The new states
Smaller states are effectively managebale and which were formed after 1990 were so made due
local concerns can be easily addressed. But to administrational and developmental reasons.
smaller states are not the panacea and it is not Uttarakhand, was carved out of Uttar Pradesh for
important condition for good governance. As in administrational reasons. It was the only hilly
case of Jharkhand and Uttrakhand. Smaller states region which had different priorities. It needed
can help in providing good governance if more autonomy as it was a little different from
problems of the reason has been effectively the rest of the state. So, it was formed thinking
addressed and political stability is maintained. that it would enhance the tourism and the
ecological scenario. But, as we have seen in the
====Few of the challenges which the newly Alakananda floods earlier this year, this was not
formed state faces are: to be.
• Naxalism in notorious Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and Chattisgarh had different reasons
Maharashtra boundary for their bifurcation. The tribal population and
• Power and water sharing other backward people were concentrated in
• Administrative infrastructure building these areas. Their specific development needed
• Setting up of capital more autonomy. Also, the main base of Naxalites
• Setting up industrial bases and trade centres to is also concentrated in these states. So, a separate
boost economy administrational region would ensure a more
• Alleviating economic and social problems effective control. On top this, the main natural
which has fuelled the genesis of the state resources of this country are found in here. The
In past few small states like Chhattisgarh has famous iron ores and coal fields are concentrated
performed well in administration and to curb the here. To, utilize these, the bifurcation of Bihar and
problem of regional disparity. But it is not always Madhya Pradesh was done. But, the difficulties
the case (states like Jharkhand and Uttarakhand still persist.
are facing huge administrative and political The demand for a separate state of Telangana has
problems). A state has to be economically viable been going on for over 5 decades. The people of
as well. Power generation, water resources, food Telangana claim that their region is backward
production, industrial base and other revenue due to the Andhrans and they are not represented
generation capabilities are required for self- properly in the state government, both in politics
sustenance of a state. Also small states at times and in administration. So, the demand for this
possess regional aspirations and political parties state is also based on development. The language
encash this and this result in poor and inefficient factor is not important anymore.
administration.
Q:Critically examine the issues involved in

Sardar Sarovar Project.
Q:Critically examine the various factors that
have led the creation of new states in last 25 The Hindu

There are many river disputes all over India but in confidence and think for the benefit of the poor
the Sardar Sarovar Project dispute has been masses instead of only small group of people.
controversial from decades. The sustained
campaign launched by the Narmada Bachao
Andolan in the past decade and half has brought
this in the eye of the whole world. Q:Discuss the language related problems which
The Sardar Sarovar Dam is a gravity dam on the erupted soon after independence in the country
Narmada River near Navagam, Gujarat in India. and explain how they were resolved.
It is the largest dam and part of the Narmada
Valley Project. It has a proposed final height of The Hindu
163 m from foundation. The project is expected to The constitution of India declared that Hindi as
serve the drought prone areas of Kutch and well as English will be the official language of
Saurashtra. India and in next 15 years English will be phased
There have been controversies over inter-State out and Hindi will be the only official language.
rivalry, conflicting claims over its irrigation, The choice of Hindi over other languages was
water and power benefits, ‗inadequate‘ because it was the language of majority of Indian
rehabilitation package, uncertain funding and English was seen as the symbol of slavery, as
arrangement and doubts about the feasibility of a symbol of English rule. The Hindi was to be
high dam. promoted in this 15 year period in all non-Hindi
The World Bank was initially a funder of this speaking states.
Dam, but withdrew in 1994 due to continued In a country like India where people of many
protests from many groups against the SSD. Main culture and many language leaves, enforcing one
leaders of the Narmada Bachao Aandolan are language over others was always to be
Medha Patkar and Arundhati Roy who led to problematic. This does not seem right as well, as
many protests against this project over people are proud of their languages and it makes
unsustainability of the Big Dam projects and non-Hindi speaking people in a disadvantaged
inadequate rehabilitation of the affected people. because people whose mother tongue is Hindi
Sardar Sarovar takes up over 80% of Gujarat‘s will need not learn it whereas other needs to.
irrigation budget but has only 1.6% of cultivable The Hindi promotion events in the first fifteen
land in Kutch, 9% of cultivable land in Saurashtra years did not fare well. Few days before 26
and 20% cultivable land in North Gujarat in its January 1965 when Hindi was supposed to be
command area. Thhese indicators suggest that made only official language massive protest
these needy areas are never going to benefit from erupted in Madras which was led by Dravida
the Sardar Sarovar Project. Munnetra Kajhagam(DMK).
Despite popular protest, in 2003, the Supreme In 1965 , via a presidential notification ,Hindi was
Court gave clearance for the height to be declared as only means in civil services
increased to 121.92 m, but in the same judgment, examinations . This announcement resulted in a
it gave directions to the Grievance Redressal violent protest in Southern states claiming many
Authorities that before further construction lives . The situation was resolved via an
begins, they should allocate suitable vacant land amendment in the official language act (1967) and
for rehabilitating the affected people. removing ‗may‘ word.
Recently in June 2014, Narmada Control
Authority gave the final clearance to raise the Anti Hindi protests were taking place all across
height from 121.92 m (400.0 ft) metres to 138.68 m Tamilnadu. In Northern India Pro-Hindi protests
(455.0 ft). This decision may have adverse impacts were organised. Finally a compromised was
on the many people living in the area. worked out that Hindi will not become the
There is need for better implementation of the official language of Indian Union until all states
rehabilitation programs as per the New Land agree to it.
Acquisition Act, 2013 and greater scientific The compromise was in the form of Three
research on the feasibility of the height of the Language Formula in the education. Non Hindi
Dam. For this Govt. need to take all stakeholders Speakers were to be learn regional Language,
Hindi and English whereas Hindi Speakers had government not making great efforts to prevent
to learn Hindi,English and any other language. the Pandit exodus.
This curriculum was not seriously imposed in The reality is probably a combination of all these
Northern India. The DMK govt. cried foul and elements.
abolished Hindi from all its curriculum.
Q:Briefly explain the causes for the demand of

Gorkhaland. Do you think formation of a
separate state would fulfill the demand of the
Q:In the light of recent news reports, critically agitating people? Comment. (200 Words)
examine the controversy behind the Kashmiri
Pandits issue. Link
Link
Kashmiri Pandits were aboriginal inhabitants of
Kashmir region, who had to leave due to rise of
extremism in valley and targeted killings during
1990′s on them. This resulted in plight of
Kashmiri‘ Pandits‘ who became refugee in their Q---Critically comment on the constitutional
own country. provisions and the actual procedures adopted
Recently, talks are being going on for safe return for the appointment and removal of Governors
of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland and in India. Also explain the opinion of the
ancestral properties. But, the major issue is still Supreme Court in this matter.
the safety concern of these families. Kashmir
problem is still not solved and their are several Removal of Governors: What does the law say?
cases of terrorism still happening there.
Government of Kashmir (state) is welcoming and
want‘s the Kashmiri pandit‘s to return and so is In the last few weeks, after the 16th Lok Sabha
GOI and prime minister. election, there has been some debate around
powers of the central government to remove
several separatist leaders have claimed that it was Governors. News reports have suggested that the
the Indian state, working through its governor in central government is seeking resignations of
Jammu and Kashmir at the time, Jagmohan, that Governors, who were appointed by the previous
engineered the departures of the Hindus so as to central government. In this blog, we briefly look
leave the government a free hand to deal with at the key constitutional provisions, the law laid
Muslim militants. The government, and down by the Supreme Court, and some
Jagmohan himself, have denied this. recommendations made by different commissions
governor Jagmohan made several that have examined this issue.
announcements that reassured Pandits that if What does the Constitution say?
they did decide to leave, refugee settlement As per Article 155 and Article 156 of the
camps had been set up for them and also that Constitution, a Governor of a state is an
departing civil servants among the Pandits would appointee of the President, and he or she holds
continue to be paid their salaries. The political office ―during the pleasure of the President‖. If a
scientist, Sumit Ganguly, adds another important Governor continues to enjoy the ―pleasure of the
factor - that Jagmohan had also announced that President‖, he or she can be in office for a term of
his government would not be able to guarantee five years. Because the President is bound to
their safety, if Pandits decided to remain in the act on the aid and advice of the Council of
valley. Ministers under Article 74 of the Constitution, in
effect it is the central government that appoints
Although not an indication of a coordinated and removes the Governors. ―Pleasure of the
government policy to engineer the departure of President‖ merely refers to this will and wish of
the Pandits, these were signs certainly of a the central government.
The Supreme Court‘s interpretation and compelling circumstances. This was meant
In 2010, a constitutional bench of the Supreme to provide Governors with a measure of security
Court interpreted these provisions and laid down of tenure, so that they could carry out their duties
some binding principles (B.P. Singhal v. Union of without fear or favour. If such rare and
India). In this case, the newly elected central compelling circumstances did exist, the
government had removed the Governors of Uttar Commission said that the procedure of removal
Pradesh, Gujarat, Haryana and Goa in July, 2004 must allow the Governors an opportunity to
after the 14th Lok Sabha election. When these explain their conduct, and the central government
removals were challenged, the Supreme Court must give fair consideration to such
held: explanation. It was further recommended that
1. The President, in effect the central Governors should be informed of the grounds of
government, has the power to remove a their removal.
Governor at any time without giving him or The Venkatachaliah Commission (2002) similarly
her any reason, and without granting an recommended that ordinarily Governors should
opportunity to be heard. be allowed to complete their five year term. If
2. However, this power cannot be exercised in they have to be removed before completion of
an arbitrary, capricious or unreasonable their term, the central government should do so
manner. The power of removing Governors only after consultation with the Chief Minister.
should only be exercised in rare and The Punchhi Commission (2010) suggested that
exceptional circumstances for valid and the phrase ―during the pleasure of the President‖
compelling reasons. should be deleted from the Constitution, because
3. The mere reason that a Governor is at a Governor should not be removed at the will of
variance with the policies and ideologies of the central government; instead he or she should
the central government, or that the central be removed only by a resolution of the state
government has lost confidence in him or legislature.
her, is not sufficient to remove a The above recommendations however were never
Governor. Thus, a change in central made into law by Parliament. Therefore, they are
government cannot be a ground for removal not binding on the central government.
of Governors, or to appoint more favourable
persons to this post.
4. A decision to remove a Governor can be Write a critical note on the financial relations
challenged in a court of law. In such cases, between Union government and states in
first the petitioner will have to make a India. (200 Words)
prima facie case of arbitrariness or bad faith
on part of the central government. If a The constitution of India, being federal in
prima facie case is established, the court can structure,divides financial powers between the
require the central government to produce centre and states. In regard to financial relations
the materials on the basis of which the between the Union and states, one can find
decision was made in order to verify the general tendency of Indian federalism for
presence of compelling reasons. centralisation. These are the provisions dealing
In summary, this means that the central with the subject;
government enjoys the power to remove 1. Allocation of taxing powers:
Governors of the different states, as long as it
The parliament has exclusive power to levy taxes
does not act arbitrarily, without reason, or in bad on Union List whereas the state Legislature on
faith. state list.
Recommendations of Various Commissions Further there is constitutional restrictions on
Three important commissions have examined this taxing powers of the states such as, imposing
issue. taxes on professions, trades,sale & purchase of
The Sarkaria Commission (1988) recommended goods
that Governors must not be removed before
completion of their five year tenure, except in rare

2. Distribution of tax revenues The HLWG constituted by MoEF under the

80th Amendment of 2000, 88th Amendment of Dr.Kasturirangan to study the report of
2003 were enacted to give effect to WGEEP(Gadgils report) made its
recommendations of 10th Finance commission recommendations & the ministry has accepted the
and to deal with Service Tax respectively. report ―in principle‖ subject to certain conditions.
Constitution envisages the Finance Commission
as the balancing wheel of fiscal federalism in
1.The HLWG has identified approx. 37% of WGs
India.
as ecologically sensitive.They cover almost 60000
Besides sharing taxes between the centre & the
sq.km of natural landscape .It extends in.all the 6
states, the constitution provides for grants-in-aid
states including Protected areas and UNESCO
to the states from central resources.
sites.
To protect the interests of states in financial
matters, constitution lays that the bills related to-
any taxes of states, varies agriculture income, 2.It recommends for banning on Mining,
affects distribution of money to states, can only be Quarrying & sand mining as also thermal plants
introduces in parliament on recommendations of ,Red category industries as classified by SPCBs.
President. If the state governments decide to implement the
report, all the industries identified for banning
3. Borrowing by the Centre and states are part of States subject and there will be a loss
Central govt can make loans to any states and can of revenue to the states due to same. But ,by
give guarantee in respect of raised loans by declaring only 37% as ESA the committee has
states,whereas a state govt can borrow within opened up the 63% area for further development
India upon the security of Consolidated fund of which were not allowed till.
the state. Also the hydro power projects and wind power
projects are allowed in ESA ,the state govts
4. Inter-governmental Tax communities should now realize the potential for harnessing
The property of the centre is exempted from all these powers to combat the power deficit.Thus
taxes imposed by states, however the state governments should adopt the report and
corporations of centre are not immune from state try to balance development and environmental
taxation. similarly the property of a state is protection.
exempted from central taxation.
5. Financial Emergency
According to Article 352, president can modify ―The Supreme Court‘s 2006 verdict in the
constitutional distribution of revenues between Prakash Singh vs. Union of India case was a
centre and states.While according to article 360, landmark judgement. But political class has
centre can give directions to reduce salaries and failed it.‖ Critically comment. (200 Words)
allowances of persons serving in state.
The union may be financially more powerful but Answer)
country‘s overall growth of economy needs
harmony in financial relations especially after The Supreme Court‘s 2006 verdict in the Prakash
liberalization era of 1990. Singh vs. Union of India case was a landmark
judgment which had two main objectives
What aspects of centre-state relations are at
conflict in the case of implementation -- for having functional autonomy for the police
of recommendations of High-Level Working through security of tenure, streamlined
Group (HLWG) on Western Ghats (headed by appointment and transfer processes and creation
Kasturirangan) by the state governments? of a ―buffer body‖ between the police and the
Explain. (150 Words) government; and

-- enhanced police accountability, both for --The draft bills are already in circulation.
organizational performance and individual
misconduct. -- Law making is domain of Legislature.
Seven years later, only some States have -- AIS is under control of Central government, SC
implemented directions in part. The court should not intrude domain of excutives and
reminded states of the need for compliance earlier should respect Separtion of power under Article-
this year. 50.
Political class is responsible for poor governance

in our country as it is never punished for its
misdeeds due to prevailing loopholes in the law. ―A range of reforms — legal, judicial and
institutional — needs to be initiated for dealing
For any transformation in India, change in the with delays and ensuring access to justice.‖
mindset of political class is essential that Elaborate. (200 Words)
considers itself to be above the ambit of law and
enriches itself at the expense of common man.
Ad mist desperation and utter hopelessness The Preamble to the Constitution of India lays
generated by the venal functioning of current emphasis on justice in all its forms: Social,
politics our political class must learn from Economic and Political. An effective justice
freedom fighters about morality and ethics. delivery system must be affordable and on time
delivery. For this reforms are needed.
Media and public must keep an eye on the
bureaucracy which is the day- to- day interface of
the State with the citizens as well as the elected Legal reforms:- the number of appeals must be
politicians and parliament which represent reduced to 3 as it was thought in Code of Civil
various interest groups. Procedure Amendment Act, 2002 which was
never implemented. There must be an uniform
civil code as said in DPSP. Further the criminal
cases although the fast track courts have helped
Do you think the Supreme Court‘s recent but still the problems of delay, and high costs
verdict on insulating officers from political persist in the criminal justice system.
interference is an act of judicial overreach?
Comment. (150 Words)
Judicial reforms:- with the area of judiciary
Positive becoming ever changing the like IPR, taxation,
child protection laws, cases regarding to
--It is case of Judicial Activism & not overreach. agreements‘ signed by India in international
forum. The lawyers who are an integral part of
--SC gave this direction, after taking judicial note
the judicial mechanism must be a socially
of the various official reports and studies in this
sensitive lawyer of conscience, for whom justice
regard, whose recommendations are
delayed, is not a commercial opportunity but a
pending.(Hotha, Santham, ARC,etc). The failure
blemish on one‘s professional integrity.
of the executive to frame a legislative framework
to address these key concerns has forced the court
to step in. Institutional reforms :- more number of high
court benches must be setup so that they become
-- The reality is that the phenomenon of the
accessible, ADR bodies like lok Adalats and gram
‗politician-bureaucrat-industrialist‘ nexus is so
nayalayas must be preferred in small cases as the
entrenched that it requires a sustained systemic
case pendency is least in these courts. Like the
effort to cleanse the administrative system.
present national law schools we needed more
Negative
such educational institutions for more competent Instead of creating tribunals, it is better to set up
lawyers. separate benches having jurisdiction in high
courts.that will serve better the purpose
Critically examine the working of tribunals in
India. (250 Words) It is not easy to implement either Supreme
Court‘s instructions or recommendations of
In the era of delayed trails by courts, tribunals are various committees on civil service reforms.
set up for speedy disposal of cases in matters of Why? Analyze. (250 Words)
urgency.Tribunals are the bodies of
administrative character having judicial or quasi Answer) http://www.thehindu.com/todays-
judicial functions. paper/tp-opinion/a-question-of-
accountability/article5353222.ece
Originally there was no provision of tribunals in

the constitution.It was introduced by forty second
amendment adding articles 323A and323B in part What are the functions of Law Commission?
XIVA. (150 Words)
The other side of motive of their formation is to Law Commission of India is an ad hoc body. It is
implement administrative law in india and setup time to time by the Government to
undermine the independence of judiciary. They recommend legal reforms. There term of
follow the principle of natural justice instead of reference are decided by the government. They
indian evidence act 1872 that is followed by members are usually from legal background. The
courts. chairman is a retired judge of Supreme court or
High court.
These tribunals are depending on their Law Commission is mandated to review the
sponsoring departments for resources to working of judicial administration. Its role is
functions. Therefore they are compromising on recommend measures for different ministries so
impartiality, capability,& fairness in decision as to dispense better justice by the courts. It seeks
making. to ensure that the judicial process is working
effectively and fair and without arbitrariness. Its
purpose is to recommend simplification of rules,
Since tribunals are created by transferring certain procedures and methodologies present in the
jurisdiction of the courts, the composition, status government.
and capability should be matched with such
courts.but it is not happening in India. Hence Law Commission is mandated to look into
different aspects of legal reforms and recommend
Political masters making them homes for retired standards and changes. Till now 20 Law
loyal bureaucrats and technicians. But the task of commissions have been formed. Recently 21st
judgement could be done well by judge of law Law Commission has been setup under former
background. Delhi HC Chief Justice AP Shah.
Through the tribunals the judicial activities are

What are Lok Adalats? Explain the importance
interpreted by executive violating the principle of
of National Lok Adalats disputes redressal. (150
division of powers provided by constitution.in
Words)
long it thretens the national and public interest.
Lok Adalats are alternate dispute redressal
platforms to the courts of India. They are manned
by legal experts, retired judges, civil servants,

civil society members and other proficient people. -- For certification, the committee has adopted
The main function of Lok Adalats is to redress the two guiding principles — ―protection of artistic and
minor disputes with mutual compromise. They creative freedom,” and remaining ―socially
function on the principles of Mahatma Gandhi. responsible and sensitive to values and standards of
society.‖
Lok Adalats can be setup by state authorities or
legal service committees. They generally convene -- It recommends a new procedure for
on matters related to civil suits, land disputes, appointments to advisory panels which actually
marriage conflicts, bank frauds, property feuds view films. And on the basis of their
etc. They act as a civil court and the verdict is recommendation the board issues certification.
binding on the two parties which accept it. It
--Such orders are justified only in the situation of
cannot be appealed further in any other court of
threats to public order and not merely peace.
India.
National Lok Adalat Dispute Redressal is started
by Supreme Court‘s National Legal Service Criticism:
Authority(NALSA). It seeks to lighten the burden
of Judicial pending cases by 21 lakhs. Such petty -- Didn‘t include advertisements;
cases should be resolved by mutual consensus
and compromises and Lok Adalats allow a
perfect platform for the same.
Ministries and Departments Devolution of powers and finances to local

levels; challenges therein
Critically examine the recommendations
of Justice Mukul Mudgal committee set up
by the Ministry of Information and Q-Comment on the provisions and the
Broadcasting to suggest legislative framework importance of the Panchayats (Extension to
in the wake of series f bans on movies by the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996.
state governments. (150 Words)
It was enacted to enable Gram Sabhas to self
Answer) govern their natural resources. Other than
Recommendations: extending the three tier Panchayathi Raj system to
fifth schedule areas, it contained two very
important provisions:
--Expanded the definition of ―film‖ – Including 1. State legislations on resource management
songs and lyrics; ( to control item songs ) which are applicable to the area, should take care
--Increasing the jurisdiction of Appellate board, of prevailing customs and religious practices.
should be first appellate; 2. Any mining license will need mandatory
-- Non-political elements in screening panel approval of gramsabha.
recommended
-- state governments should not ban the screening These provisions have legitimized the claim of the
because of sentiments, disturbance of peace; local populace on the resources in its patrimonial
-- Only Union government is empowered with lands. This provision empowers the tribes and is
suspending screening of film cleared by CBFC, a genuine attempt at mainstreaming them. It
that to only after the film is released. emphasizes that the right of a community cannot
--Change the certification – include 12+, 15+ – be trampled over in the name of ‗greater good‘.
international standards This is one of those laws that makes this nation
proud and renders its democracy meaningful.

This act helped the indigenous people to fight for to be faced in its proper implementation in
their rights in the Vedanta and Posco mining Indian villages? Critically examine.
cases. This law has demonstrated Indian
government‘s sincere commitment to an inclusive
governance that co-opts the tribes. Thus, it has
significantly contributed to the fight against Democratic decentralisation means taking
Maoist Insurgency by debasing its popular democracy to the grassroots level. It is in line
support. with the Gandhian idea of ―swaraj‖.
Decentralisation implies transfer of authority
…. from higher to lower levels. Democracy is
involving all sections in decision making.
PESA extends part 9 of the constitution to the Democratic decentralisation incorporates both
schedule V areas and thus is a vehicle for decentralisation and democracy.
democratic decentralisation Challenges
Provisions and Importance 1) complex social structure – sociological factors
1. Increased accountability of gram panchayats: such as caste, class, religion are a major challenge
As gram Sabhas need to issue utilisation in involving all sections of the society. Providing
certificates to panchayat thus increasing financial reservation in local bodies has to an extent led to
accountability. increased awareness and voice of lower strata.
2. Protection to traditional customs, laws 2) Elections – Money and muscle power in local
regulating moneylending: level elections have a great influence. Stringent
Star legislatures should ensure that gram sabhas measures by election commission and proactive
are competent to safeguard traditional customs, role by media can solve this menace.
practices. This will safeguard the unique cultural 3) Lack of awareness – Gram sabha are not aware
identity of tribes. of the powers they have. Very rarely met. People
3. Compulsory reservations : for ST both as do not know what to expect from their
members and as chairpersons at all levels of representatives. Role of NGOs, media and the state
panchayat will help safeguard their interests. government is needed. Citizen charters for all local
4. Obligations on states: level bodies would help.
Unlike part 9 , state legislatures are to specifically 4) Accountability – complete lack of transparency
confer powers that give panchayats or gram and accountability of local bodies. Social audit and
sabhas right to ownership of minor forest produce, e-services are needed.
their mandatory nod for granting clearance as well 5) reluctance of higher authorities to devolve
as concessions for mining of minor minerals, power – Very little responsibility and resources are
compulsory consultation with regard to land provided to local bodies. Principle of subsidiaries
acquisitions etc. thus clearly making the 3rd tier of should be followed by all bodies, provided
govt. more empowered. accountability and transparency is built into the
However by leaving out major minerals from their local bodies.
mandatory nod for mining clearance, the law 6) Vague distribution of powers – Most of the local
leaves the scope for their exploitation by mining bodies have very little financial sources.
lobbies. Also in case of land acquisition, they Dependent on state. Distribution of powers not
remain vulnerable to exploitation from land sharks clear. Frequent trespassing of state government
, for which adequate safeguards must be present. into their functions. Constitutional or legal
Nevertheless, Strict implementation of FRA where protection and devolution of powers to local
applicable along with PESA can go a long way in bodies is needed and they should be allowed to
ensuring welfare of schedule castes and tribes raise finance. The 13th finance commissions
suggestion of direct transfer of funds to local
bodies rather than via state has to be implemented.
What do you understand by democratic

decentralization? What are the likely challenges

Examine why Kerala has a more successful areas, where cultural and superstitious beliefs
Panchayat Raj system compared to other states. mobilize the villagers.
(200 Words) The economic growth of the country is necessary.
But the concerns of locals should also be heard.
Kerala has been most successful state as far This is the basis of principle of subsidiarity, i.e.
implementation of Panchayat Raj system is empowering them in decision making.
concerned. It has been ranked among top two The recent tribal protests against Aluminium
states multiple times by Ministry of Panchayati extraction from NiyamGiri hills sighting it their
Raj GOI. Kerala has shown exemplary cultural sacred place has come under scanner.
development especially in the field of public Such issues definitely hinder the economic
health and rural development with the help of process of the country. But since the constitution
PRIs. gives cultural and equality rights to all citizens
and minorities, such concerns cannot be ridiculed
The reasons behind this success can be attributed and ignored.
to many factors. High illiteracy , especially among The best possible solution is the hold negotiations
women helped them take leadership roles unlike and making them aware of the benefits of such
another states. Progressive political environment, economic activity. The country‘s aspirations
despite male domination has also played should be brought before them. Nevertheless
significant factor. Women empowerment due to such impediments should not stop the devolution
early lead of women in the state in the education, of powers and functions citing such fears. Hence,
health and social welfare sector played important a balance between both should be maintained
role success of SHGs.
Government must also be complimented for it‘s

eagerness to contribute. It reserved 30-40% of the
funds under 9th plan outlay for projects and
programs to be implemented by local governing Q-‖In the new land acquisition act, Gram Sabha
bodies. Massive devolution of decision making and Basti Sabha don‘t have legal right to decide
authority and 50 % reservation for women for the the nature of public purpose.‖ Critically
post of presidents and vice-presidents in the local examine the role of Gram Sabha in ensuring fair
acquisition of land by the government
bodies were landmark moves.
Gram Sabhas are the most decentralised
The government has constituted accounts wings
institutions of PRIs and play an important role in
in all village panchayats for greater accountability
portraying aspirations of Rural India &
and has also initiated a new project, with World
vulnerable sections like SCs, STs and Women.
Bank support, to strengthen account keeping,
capacity building, improvement of data base and Under Right to FCT-LAAR Act, rehabilitation and
to strengthen institutionalization. resettlement have been linked to acquisition make
the law more human. The definition of ‗Public
Do you agree with the view that giving more purpose‘ includes an expanded list of linear
powers to Gram Sabha hinders economic projects like Highways, Other Roads, Irrigation,
growth in the tribal regions? Comment. (150 Power lines, Ports etc. These doesn‘t require
Words) assent of Gram Sabha. These infrastructural assets
will help in development of physical &
Answer: consequential social infrastructure, thus
Gram Sabha function as village parliaments transforming villages as centre of sustainable
comprising of representatives from all families of development by increasing literacy rate, health
a village. The more devolution of power to Gram services and employment opportunities.
Sabha has been seen as impediment to economic
Delegation of power is important but matters in
growth. The rational given is the short terms and
which power is decentralised in important. Gram
illogical concerns of Gram Sabha. Especially tribal

Sabha certainly has a fair say in LA process & SIA But they are just concentrating on the negative
(Social Impact assessment) of Projects with side and trying to negate the spirit of
monitoring from district and state authorities. decentralization as it is not the motive of
decentralization to vest the people with all the
The recent cases of Dongri Kondh tribes in Orissa
powers to make new laws and legislate they just
giving a strong ‗no‘ to Bauxite mining by Vedanta
have to be strong enough to implement the
testimonies the role of Gram Sabha in LA process.
existing programmes and redress the problems of
Panchayat (Extension to scheduled areas) Act, locals. so in that context it is not true to say that
1996 and Forest Right Acts underlines the demo decentralization means communitarian
positive & significant contribution of Gram Sabha anarchy.
in giving Justice: social, economic and cultural to
local populace. The Gram Sabhs are guardians of
traditional & customary rights. Separation of Powers (between different
organs, dispute redressal mechanisms,
The Gram Sabhas though have no role in
technical definition of ‗Public Purpose‘; they are institutions)
completely at helm when it comes to securing
rights for local rural and tribal population
upholding pristine constitutional principles of a Evaluate the performance of National Consumer
Disputes Redressal Commission in its
‗Socialist State‘.
mission. (150 Words)
Answer)
‖Democratic decentralisation cannot be
misunderstood to mean communitarian The National Consumer Disputes Redressal
anarchy.‖ Comment. (150 Words) Commission (NCDRC), India is a quasi-
judicial commission in India which was set up in
Answer) 1988 under the Consumer Protection Act of 1986.
Its head office is in New Delhi. The commission is
Democratic decentralization which is a rooted headed by a sitting or retired judge of
idea in the philosophy of Gandhi ji and also got the Supreme Court of India.
mentioned by eminent planner and political
scientist like Jay Prakash Narayan in his people‘s Consumer protection is always a matter of great
plan and also in plan like Sarvodhya e is not all concern. From the analysis of performance with
new in itself regard to the disposal rate of cases of various
Consumer Disputes Redressal Agencies in India,
.As the Aam aadmi party is the new proprietor of it is found that the agencies at the district level
the tenet of democratic decentralization and has are on the top followed by national level and state
included the issues related to it and corruption in level it is observed that district level agencies are
their election manifesto and has been gaining working efficiently than the national and state
wide support from the public. level agencies. There is still need of agencies
functioning at state and national level to dispose
Certainly it will be a healthy development but of the pending cases as early as possible by
unfortunately it has not been interpreted rightly creating supplementary benches as per the
by some sections and they are taking it synonym provisions of Consumer Protection Act, 1986.
to oligarchy or polyarchy and defending their
position by stating some examples where in the SUGGESTIONS
decisions taken at the local level have yielded
false results ,according to them giving more  Establish relations through
power to take decision at grass root level could Universities, Schools, etc to highlight
result in conflict of interests and hence anarchy. the requirement of consumer
education in the program of study

 Encourage and support universal chief to step down is criticized to be an act of

alertness of the rights of the consumer judicial overreach.
by cheering consumer education
 Motivational campains for prospective Legislature and Executive
customers both in urban and rural
areas should be performed. Though the separation is partial between
 Arrange seminars and workshops and legislature and executives in parliamentary
offer a proposal for worn argument of democracy yet the vested interest of electoral
the issues and develop suitable politicking by providing reservations to
corrective action. backward community like Jat, TN government‘s
decision to release prisoners, etc. might provide
short term electoral victory but has long term
eroding consequences.
Q. ―Separation of powers is indispensable
because under the Constitution, power divides
itself so that reason can rule.‖ In the light of Q. Analyze the factors which have contributed
recent tussle between various organs of the towards high voter turnouts
state, critically comment on the statement. during recent elections.
 Voter participation is the reflection of the

The theory of separation of powers between the extent of penetration of democracy among
three organs of the Government is considered as the population. India‘s electorate
the basic structure of Constitution where each comprises of 81.5 crore voters for General
organ acts independently of one other. elections. It has been increasing which
today is 5 times what it was when it
Judiciary and Legislature emerged as a democracy.The different
contributing factors can be summarised as
SC has held that Parliament had no legislative following-
competence to enact Section 8(4) of RPA
underlining the increasing criminalization of • The efficiency of the Election Commission
politics. But Cabinet through ordinance (EC) is credited for this achievement. It
attempted to protect convicted MPs and MLAs focused on increasing voter registration and
from facing immediate disqualification negating preparing better quality of electoral rolls by
the SC order. The unilateral judicial solution weeding out the names of ghost voters and
undermines the importance of solutions based on increasing awareness. The EC‘s new initiative,
compromise and consensus. SC judgment in the ―Systematic Voters‘ Education and
declaring Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code as Electoral Participation‖ has helped in finding
unconstitutional has belittled the right of LGBT to the difficulties faced by voters and in
live with dignity instead of protecting them. addressing their issues.
• The rise in awareness about the governance

Judiciary and Executive
system due to development of
communication media putting forth the
The judicial solutions have curtailed the exclusive
discontent and expectations of the masses also
power of executives evident from SC judgement
influenced the public trust in the governance
on establishing Civil Service Board, fixing tenure
system.
of civil servants, etc aimed to protect officers from
wrongful pressure from their superiors, political  The realization of the fact that the quality
masters. SC in Shatrughan Chauhan Case has of life depends largely on the elected
overstepped the exclusive constitutional power of government has increased interest of
clemency of President providing humane voters in the political-electoral process
treatment of convict. But the SC‘s order to BCCI

The increasing mobilisation by political  S.R Bommai case vs Union of India case
parties has led to increased turn-out. 1994 is significant in terms of preventing
misuse of article 356 by centre. Prior to
 Also the demographic dividend of the bommai case , this article was used by
country with large population turning 18 ruling party at centre against opposition
has furthered the voter turn-out. party leading state goverment with gross
 EC made a bid to voo Young voters by misuse.
extensive use of Social media over It had reiterated that only ground for
internet. This has also proved to be a imposition of article 356 is breakdown of
game changer. constitutional machinery of state , it is not
 The turnout is increasing since the Anna being run with the constitutional spirit.
Hazare led movement against corruption Such proclaimation is being made by
two years ago. High voter turnout has president on the basis of governor‘s report ,
been associated with dissatisfaction with and is subjected to judicial review for
the existing government, an anti verifying any malafide intention.
incumbency wave in some states while No dissolution of assembly till such
pro- incumbency and satisfaction in other proclaimation is ratified by both houses of
states. parliament. Further, if there is malafide
action , then state assembly is restored ,
NOTA option- facilitates voting option to
suspension is lifted.
people who don‘t have faith for any
This judement has significance as it has
candidate.
strengthed the federal, secular values of the
 9) NGOs and watchdog organizations constitution. This is seen from different
have been motivating people to exercise verdicts of courts.
their voting right to demand their 1) it has made that state following non
fundamental rights by electing better govt. secular policy, is breach of constitutional
Higher no. of film , TV actors, sport policy , can be dismissed. This is related
players are urging people to vote this with upholding the dismissal of 4 states
time. aftermath of babri mosque demolition.
 10) Ease of voting- increased safety at poll  This instance shows that it effectively acted
booth, as check on misuse of article 356 ,
highlighted that governor in its report must
 Increase in voting by women is also one of
asses the state conditions in objective
the factors.
manner as he/she is not the political agent
 Aadarsh booth, and easy access due to
of centre but the executive head of
increased transport facilities. Raising
government as well representative of
voting timings till 6pm, online grievances
president. Also it has isrtumental to
Redressal mechanism and information
maintain fine balance between center state
dissemination by election commission
relations.
(EC) also contribute to this phenomenon.
 Though the increased voter turnout is an

achievement for the democracy yet there
is scope to achieve universal participation
to uphold the true democratic character of
Q. Critically comment on the existing barriers to
the Universal Adult Franchise.
deepen Indian democracy further. In your
opinion, what reforms are needed to deepen it
further? Comment.
Q. Why is the Supreme Court‘s judgement
in S.R. Bommai vs. Union of India
case significant? Comment with suitable  Three reforms are necessary to deepen India‘s
examples. democracy. First, political parties must report

the sources of their funding. If, under the RTI, his essay, ―The Intellectuals: Role, Function
all government activities, barring those and Paradox‖. ―Thinking intellectuals alone
dealing with national security, are in the are in no position to change the world even
open, why should the affairs of those who are though no such change is possible without
actually going to govern be opaque? Many of their contribution. This requires a united front
our issues with corruption, cronyism and of ordinary people and intellectuals.‖ Many in
patronage stem from the secrecy shrouding India today are writing about fraternity, the
campaign funding. critical necessity of electoral reforms and the
 The second key reform is establishing the rule importance of institutions. But how will they
of law. Much has been said on the need for reach the public imagination?
the Lokpal and Lokayukta as curative
institutions to tackle both big and petty
corruption. However, at the end of the day,
justice is provided by the legal system. The Q. Do you support the idea of making voting in
weakest spot in our judicial system is the elections compulsory? Substantiate.
pendency of cases. How can rule of law be
established when cases remain stuck in the
courts for decades? By current estimates, there  In a democracy, voting is the duty of citizens
are more than three crore cases waiting to be by which they are empowered to elect their
disposed of by the courts. A complacent representative and participate in the
judicial system is a millstone around the neck governance process. There has been a demand
of a liberal democracy. of introducing compulsory voting in India as
 The third area of reforms — strengthening introduced in countries like Australia, Brazil,
institutions — is vital but not tangible in Singapore, etc.
terms of remedies. Any constituent structure  It would help encourage true representation
of a liberal democracy — Parliament, political of all eligible citizens in the democracy and
parties, courts, regulatory bodies, army, help in developing an informed citizenry.
police, universities, corporations — is an Political and Civic education is imparted by
institution whose individual vitality and engaging them in voting. Parties are given
ability to evolve contributes to the overall less incentive to focus on their sectional vote
strength of a liberal democracy. banks, thus preventing lobbying and use of
Unfortunately, little consciousness exists on money for gathering crowds to vote and a
the role of institutions in deepening vibrant democracy is achieved.
democracy in India. In general, our  It would discourage the candidates to use
institutions easily succumb to political muscle and money power in influencing the
interference and tend to be individual-centric large voter population. Thus criminalization
rather than based on a shared commitment to of politics will be reduced, which would be
excellence, accountability and service. more effective in case of compulsory voting
Hopefully, reform in political funding and a with the introduction of negative voting in
time-conscious judicial system will catalyse form of NOTA.
reform in other vital institutions. 
 But how will these reforms come about?  But imposing compulsory voting might affect
Perhaps those elected will bring about a the freedom of the citizens. It would have an
revolution from the top. Maybe a citizen‘s adverse impact on certain sections of society
movement will force political parties to be like the economically backward classes,
more open and the judiciary, less complacent. migrants, etc. The absence of proper polling
If so, who will organise this citizens‘ and registration facilities, infrastructure,
movement? We already had one and it seems transportation facilities, etc affects the voter‘s
to be fizzling out. What is the role of participation. It might also lead to increase in
intellectuals in pushing for key reforms? It flow of black money in order to influence a
may be useful to quote Eric Hobsbawm from larger voter population. rather voter
awareness campaigns such as recent SVEEP of money was paid by top bureaucrats to get
campaign by EC should be further promoted, top most posts such as railway board
extended and strengthened. appointments. These practices increase
 Thus, compulsory voting can be introduced corruption in government. Also, gender and
only when the election machinery is equipped caste bias is sometime seen as in case of Kiran
with increased officials, polling booths, bedi‘s promotion as head of Police
facilities for easy registration and updation of department. Also, nepotism, favouritism,
voters list facilitating migrants, providing family ties and patronage are most prevalent
travel allowances etc. Also a system of online in Indian appointments to top posts.
voting interface in all polling booths can be  These factors have huge detrimental effect on
introduced enabling voting to any functioning of these institutions. Corruption
constituency, where the constituency moves becomes prevalent; merit appointments are
to the voters than the voters moving to reducing thus hampering the quality of
respective constituencies. functioning. Political bias is seen in working
of top officials. Governors take highly skewed
decisions in favour of central governments,
With examples examine various factors that thus disturbing the federal powers and rights
affect institutional procedures and conventions of state governments, which is basic feature of
while appointing a person to top posts in India. constitution. All, these effects democracy
Also comment what effect these factors can have whose purpose is to give a responsible and
on these institutions and on democracy as a
accountable government, which can be
whole.
ensured only by impartial decisions of higher
authorities of India.
 The top posts in India such as Chief Justice of  Irregularity and arbitrariness are present in
Supreme Court, CAG, Lokpal, heads of top appointments which need to be curbed.
different wings of defence forces, Governors More efficiency can be brought by including
of States, Election Commissioners, RBI all sections of society in such appointments
governor, Attorney General of India, Cabinet including judiciary, civil society and
Secretary and UPSC members are filled opposition parties.
through various executive decisions and
procedures. These posts hold considerable
responsibility and significance towards
people of country and help in effective Q. Discuss the evolution of India‘s patent laws
governance. since independence. Are they compliant with
 Institutionally merit and seniority are given international agreements? Examine.
preference in various cases. Chief justice of
India is almost always the senior most judge
as there is no question of merit of competence Answer-
between Supreme Court Judges. While  Indian patent law has changed over time
Governors of states are appointed by the to suit the needs of the time and counter
President of India, on recommendation of the domestic and external challenges. The
Central Government. These appointments are patent law in the pre independence was
generally political in nature. more suited to the British interests.
 Different secretaries of government of India 
are appointed on the personal preference of  Justice Bakshi Tek Chand committee was
Ministers heading their respective ministries, constituted to reform the archaic law to
ex- PM‘s personal secretary. Here, merit and make it conducive to national interests.It
ease of working is cited as basic feature for observed that the Indian patent law must
appointment, but recently many cases of provide the essentials such as
corruption have unearthed where, huge sum food,medicine ,surgical and curative
devices to the public at reasonable price

while providing reasonable compensation The process is easy & there is no special
to secure the interests of the patentee. knowledge require to understand(We still 25%
 Justice N Gopala Ayyangar committee illiterates)
was subsequently formed to revamp the
patent system. It recognized that due to voters have to simply endorse a party or
differences in industrialized and under candidate.
developed countries, the patent law must
It offers Voters a choice not simply between
be regulated in accordance with the needs
parties but specific candidates,Still people can
of the country. It provided for the process
win as independent candidate.
claims in cases of chemical inventions and
the refusal for patents in food and They know who their representative is and can
medicine in the Indian patent act 1970. held accountable,As it is not possible in
 With the formation of WTO in 1995, India Proportional representation(PR).
was made to confirm with the global
patent system under the TRIPS agreement. Our parliamentary system needs stable(majority)
India adopted the TRIPS agreement in the or coalition govt., This system vows to give.
Indian patents act 2005 .In the recent
It discourages the party to get all their votes only
years, significant objections have been
from one caste of community,As in PR system
raised by the US pharmaceutical lobbies
bound to happen.
due to use of the Compulsory licensing
and the rejection of the grant of patents by Demerits;
India. There is a threat of sanctions and
categorization as Priority foreign country Candidates who win the election may not get
on India. majority(50+1%) votes.
 However, the objections are invalid as
India has not violated the norms under Individual votes not accounted,majority prevails.
the TRIPS agreement. The Doha
A party may get more seats than votes in
declaration made that the TRIPS
legislature(in 1984 LS election congress got 48% of
agreement should not prevent the
vote share but won 80% seats, and bjp got 7% of
members from protecting public health
vote share but won 2 seats).
.India seeks to resolve the objections at
multilateral forum rather than bilateral A FPTP type of election system is one that is won
talks,. by the candidate who receives more votes than
the others in a constituency.
Following are the merits of FPTP
1. It is simple for the voter to understand
What is the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) type of 2. Counting of votes is easy ,hence results can be
election system? Explain the merits and known quickly.
demerits of this system, especially in the Indian 3. It ensures a tight connection between the
context. candidate and the voters.
In this method of election, the state is divided into 4. It tends to produce a two-party system which
in turn tends to produce single-party
no. of constituencies.Each constituency elect one
governments, which don‘t have to rely on
representative and candidate who secure highest
no. of votes in that constituency is declared as support from other parties to pass legislation.
elected.In electoral roll who is ahead of others.
This method is prescribed in our constitution. Following are the demerits

1. Representatives can get elected on tiny
Merits:
amounts of public support as it does not matter
by how much they win, only that they get more

votes than other candidates.Therefore elected system. The low awareness and literacy among
candidates quite often do not receive the support the voters at the time of independence inhibited
of the majority of voters. the adoption of the PR system . Moreover, there
2. It encourages tactical voting, as voters vote not was a need for a stable single party government
for the candidate they most prefer, but against the that could take policy decisions effectively. The
candidate they most dislike sharing of the power under the PR system would
4. FPTP severely restricts voter choice. Parties are have led to creating impediments in the decisions,
coalitions of many different viewpoints. If the thereby delaying the welfare of the people.
preferred-party candidate in your constituency
has views with which you don‘t agree, you don‘t This system leads to sharing of the powers
have a means of saying so at the ballot box. between different political parties , thereby giving
5. Encouraging two-party politics can be an adequate representation to the concerns of all the
advantage, but in a multi-party culture, third sections. The assurance of fair representation in
parties with significant support can be greatly the governance would lead to reducing the
disadvantaged. money and muscle power in the elections .The
6. Because FPTP restricts a constituency‘s choice focus would then shift to formulating better
of candidates, representation of minorities and policies for the welfare of the people.
women suffers from ‗most broadly acceptable
The complex nature of the PR system may hinder
candidate syndrome‘, where the ‗safest‘ looking
the participation of the voters. The lower
candidate is the most likely to be offered a chance
candidate voter interaction may lead to the
to stand for election.
centralization of the policies ,thereby creating
The disadvantages far outweigh the advantages.
regional disparities. The shared power may also
New Zealand has opted for a voting reform
create obstacles in making the policy decisions. It
which has made the party system and the politics
may also lead to providing representation to the
of the country more dynamic.Hence India should
extremist sections of the population in the
also ponder over voting reforms.
governance of the country.
Pasted from
<http://insightsonindia.com/2014/04/23 Proportional representation (PR) is a concept in
/insights-secure-2014-questions-on- voting systems used to elect an assembly or
current-events-170/> council which means that the number of seats
won by a party or group of candidates is
proportionate to the number of votes received. So
if you have a 10-member district and the
8. What is the Proportional Representation (PR) Republicans win 50% of the vote, they receive five
system of elections? Does it suit India? Why has of the ten seats. If the Democrats win 30% of the
not India adopted this system? Explain its vote, they get three seats.
merits and demerits.
This suits to India partially for example, Dalits in
PR system refers to method of the elections in India are 17 per cent but being in the minority in
which the different political parties are allotted every constituency, one of them would never get
seats in proportion to the number of votes in their elected independently in the FPTP system. The
favour. The entire territory may be considered a PR system would assure them their share in
constituency or it may be divided into fewer large Parliament and legislatures and may even create
constituencies. a centripetal force to expand their constituency.
The voter cast their vote for the party rather than MERITS
the candidate .
1. This would give minority parties and
The PR system was not adopted in India as it was independent candidates a better chance
considered to be more complex than the FPTP

of winning seats in Parliament with much along with extremist may take prominent
fairer treatment place in decision making along with weak
2. PR ensures that the parties would have to government.Positives of this system
appeal to their core supporters, rather could be incorporated as adequate
than a small number of so called ‗swing representation of all section along with
voters‘ in marginal seats. enhancing voters selection for better
3. PR potentially offers greater and more- government.
representative choice for voters.
4. PR may encourage turn-out and reduce
apathy. Pasted from
5. PR rarely produces an absolute majority <http://insightsonindia.com/2014/04/23
for one party, however, it could be /insights-secure-2014-questions-on-
argued that PR ensures greater continuity current-events-170/>
of government and requires greater
consensus in policy-making.which is Pasted from
beneficial for India. <http://insightsonindia.com/2014/04/23
/insights-secure-2014-questions-on-
current-events-170/>
DEMERITS
Another model
1. Under FPTP, MPs serve the constituency
Was there no alternative to FPTP? The
they campaign in. This makes them more
diverse polity would point to a different
inclined to tackle important local issues.
model of election, say, the Proportional
2. PR can potentially provide a route for
Representation (PR) system, which is
extremists to force their way into the
followed in most European democracies
political mainstream: under a FPTP
and many others that have had far
electoral system this would be unlikely to
superior democratic records. While there
happen.
are many practical variants of the PR
3. Some would say that PR produces ‗weak‘
system, essentially it entails voting for
coalition governments rather than
parties or social groups (rather than for
‗strong‘ majority governments, which
individuals), that get representation in
arguably can lead to indecision,
proportion to their share of votes. For
compromise and even legislative
example, Dalits in India are 17 per cent
paralysis.
but being in the minority in every
4. PR can also reduce accountability to
constituency, one of them would never get
voters, as an ousted party of government
elected independently in the FPTP system;
can retain office by finding new coalition
not even from the so-called reserved
partners after an election
constituencies. The PR system would
5. The adoption of PR list systems weakens
assure them their share in Parliament and
the link between the elected
legislatures and may even create a
representative and his or her
centripetal force to expand their
constituency.which would be really
constituency. What is euphemistically
harmful .
called bahujan today was possible to be
6. The greater complexity and choice that
created through this process. The social
PR allows can put voters off voting, by
identities would make way for class
requiring them to have a greater
consciousness and impart class orientation
knowledge of individual and party
to the entire politics. There would be no
positions.
cut-throat competition as every interest
7. However,it might rise in delineating of
group would be reasonably assured of its
direct contact of MP(member of
share of representation. The competition
parliament)to ground level problem
would then shift to the ring of Parliament

to shape the policies in the interests of the need for redistribution of wealth and resources.
majority of the people. In the FPTP The rich and capitalist class view this as
system, once the elections are over, there detrimental to their economic freedom – freedom
is no motivation for debate in Parliament to invest and make profit, excess of which may
on policy content. The most material result in low investment climate. With less output
policies of the government that impacted produced, govt‘s mass welfare programmes
people (such as the imposition of cannot be sustained for long. Hence along with
Emergency and the neoliberal economic pro poor programmes , climate has to be pro
reforms) were never discussed in investment also.
Parliament.
However viewing it as a one sided relationship
The theoretical fallacy in the FPTP
would be erroneous at this point since the welfare
elections that the elected representatives
of the 2/3 rd population only will provide a
hardly enjoy consent of even half the
forum for the rich to exercise their economic
voters is overcome in the PR system that
freedom. The economic depression of 1929 is a
ensures most interest groups their due
case in point. In the absence of an aggregate
share of representation. The intense
demand, even pro investment policies fail to
competition of the FPTP elections leading
achieve sustained growth.This highlights the
to huge resource expenditure and
need for govt. expenditure in public welfare
consequent rise of corruption would also
programmes as a means to achieve inclusive
be eliminated in the PR system.
growth of India.
Most importantly, in the context of India, Hence viewing democracy as complimenting the
it would curb the vile motives in the economic growth of the country is the need of the
ruling classes to divide people on the lines hour.
of caste and community. For instance,
there would not be any need for the
reserved constituencies for Dalits and Should political parties be brought under the
hence even the Dalit tag, thereby ambit of RTI act? Explain why. (200 Words)
eliminating the salience of castes from
politics. Political parties have constitutional and statutory
status. Incorporation of Articles 102(2) and 191(2)
through the 42nd Amendment and the 10th
―The domestic origins of India‘s economic Schedule to the Constitution had given them
problems lie in the clash between democracy constitutional status. They are financed by the
and capitalism.‖ Comment. (200 Words) government through tax exemption, allotting
prime land for a nominal rate, giving free air time
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/democra in AIR & Doradarshan. These incentives have
cy-vs-capitalism/1167472/0 susbtaintially contributed to the financing of the
Ans - India with its developing economy has political parties. According to the RTI act section
come at crossroads where it has to balance 2(h) (ii) states that ―public authority‖ includes
democratic principles of political equality with any non-governmental organisation substantially
capitalist ideas of economic freedom. Though financed, directly or indirectly, by funds
principle values behind both may be in conflict, provided by the appropriate government. So in a
they may and should compliment each other to way the political parties are under the ambit of
provide sustained and inclusive growth. ―public authority‖ and are thus legally bound to
disclose their funding and process of decision-
The fundamental values enshrined in our
making. Lastly the political parties are the most
preamble and DPSP mandate india to be a
important component of democratic process and
socialist and welfare state. Given that more than
hence there transparency is a must.
2/3 rd of india‘s pollution comprise of low
income groups, there has always been urgent

Keeping this in The ruling of CIC to extend the fundamental rights should be upheld for
RTI over 6 national political parties is correct as it criminals and commoners in equal manner.
will strengthen transparency which in turn will
strengthen the people believe on democracy and
also help in efficient functioning of political
parties. Only before implementing there must be
Write a note on the role of SEBI with special
provision in the RTI act to see that whenever reference to its role in ensuring corporate
parties feel that the rivals are misusing the governance. (200 Words)
provisions the query must be sent to the CIC for
case by case study and approval.
Securities and Exchange Board of India, setup in
1992, envisages to perform the role of regulator for
the capital and securities market of the country to
promote the interest of the investors and
Question - Are the powers of pardon vested in encourage good corporate governance. It sets up
the President and the Governors under Articles governance standards in which security market
72 and 161 of the Constitution amenable to must operate and helps in protecting the rights of
judicial review? Critically comment in the light both the issuers and the investors.
of recent verdict by the Supreme Court. (200
Words) (separation of power between executive Corporate governance loosely refers to the best
and Judiciary) practices a company must follow in order to
protect and increase the value of the money the
Answer - constitution gives the power to the investors have invested in company‘s shares. Since
president and the governors to pardon any the investors invest the money on trust, it becomes
convict under Art. 72 and Art. 161 respectively. the responsibility of the board and its directors to
These powers have been used time and again by act in best interest and adopt good corporate
the president, in the manner which can be called governance practices. Corporate governance also
sometimes arbitrary. Several mercy pleas refers to the ethical business practices and making
application lies unheeded and unattended for a distinction between personal and corporate
years, subjecting the petitioner to continuous funds in the management of the company.
mental trauma and torture.
In the recent judgment while hearing The SEBI Act,1992 through with SEBI derives its
―Shatrughan Chauhan Vs. Union of India‖ case, powers along with companies Act, 1956 empowers
the apex court took a view of the matter and it to frame guidelines and regulations to control
reaffirmed the notion that indefinite delay on the the market and prevent fraudulent and unfair
mercy application is a violation of Fundamental trade practices. It has the authority to enforce its
Rights (Art. 21), which is applies irrespective of regulations and investigate cases of unfair
the gravity of crime. Thus, the court held that the practices such as insider trading, preferential
shares allotment unrelated to market prices, etc.
powers of the pardon vested in the President and
governors are amenable to judicial review, on the
basis of concomitant constitutional duty. The SEBI through its protective, Developmental
and Regulatory functions has been performing its
This development will further add fuel to the role in corporate governance in the country
debate of judicial activism and pervasiveness on
the other institutional bodies in the country. Also
it undermines the significance of President in the
country, where all powers are vested in elected
government. In the light of inordinate delay Write a critical note on the National Green
caused by president, the current stand of supreme Tribunal as an effective grievances redressal
court – though far reaching- is justified. The forum. (200 Words)

Link allegations of its ineffectiveness in front of

political corruption and use of money and
muscle power, etc. Even allegations on
CBI led to recent debates on independence
of CBI. So through these events it becomes
―Crass politicization of institutions of clear that allegations have blocked or
national importance is going on in atleast questioned their integrity in public
India undermining their integrity and but the same has also led to more debates
independence, thereby threatening for their empowerment so that they can
the smooth functioning of do their work in more better way.
democracy.‖ Critically analyze the
statement in the light of recent === Ruling party wants to keep their
events. stranglehold on the institutions of national
importance overlooking their importance
Politicisation of institutions has been a in nation building .Their brazen attempt
menace in recent times in case of CBI, of caging educational and strategic
UGC, KALA Academy, CAG, etc. It has institutions clearly have a bearing on
been clear in recent UGC case that a smooth functioning of
member was removed improperly after democracy.Interference leads to
joining opposition party. Another was destruction of institution and also leads to
CAG reports on coal scam and 2G reports injustice and dicrimination So,upholding
where parties accused it of interfering in the sanctity of such institutions must be
the policy domain despite CAG having the quintessential aspect of any
power by law to comment on the audit in governance
terms of policy adopted. Also CBI was
perennially accused of being used by
party in power for its political gains for its .Examine how the Constitution of India strives
operation and reporting being under to maintain balance of power between the
Home Ministry. Here it is noticeable that judiciary and the executive? Has this balance
judiciary has taken a stern view accepting been maintained? Critically comment.
these fallacies and also tried from its side
to curb this menace by commenting on Business Standard
these and suggesting measures for The three organs of the state i.e. Legislature,
freedom of CBI, state police, taking up executive and Judiciary are the cornerstone of our
cases of crass political remarks by democracy. The appropriate balance of power
politicians, etc. Though Judiciary itself as among them is quite evident in order to run the
an institution has not been out of purview state without any despotism and favoritism. The
of such political allegations like bowing to constitution of India though not recognized the
public anger in delhi rape case, power doctrine of separation of power it sufficiently
politics and corruption in many high defines the functions of different organs to
profile cases, recent spat over judicial differentiate the power of balance.
appointments, etc. Here truth of the Indian Constitution explicitly articulates that
matter is that the allegations are executive functions of the union/state shall be
considered by people as Right to Free vested in President/Governor with certain
Speech but some times such questioning legislative rights such as promulgating
has led to changes in the system like ordinances in special occasions and during
recent appointment of JAC to end judicial Emergency and President Rule.
collegium after allegations of corruption However, Judiciary through its ‗Right to Judicial
in judges, more powers to EC after judicial review‘ has been bestowed with powers to strike
orders when PILs are filed for down any such laws which are in violation of the
enhancement of its operations after constitution. The judiciary is largely independent
and separate wing of the government having no Few renovation measures have been taken
control from executives in its day to day function. by the Tamil Nadu government like
However, the complete separation between injecting cement solutions to plug the
executive and judiciary is not maintained. The seepages in the dam during 1930s.
executives such as President exercise judicial Consequently, Committee was setup by the
powers in matter of disqualification of members Supreme Court to look into the safety issue
of Parliament. Executives also have their say in of the dam. The committee reported that the
appointment of judges. At the same time dam is structurally and hydrologically safe
Judiciary also exercises executive powers when it and TN govt can raise water level.
direct a state investigation agency function 3. In 2006, Supreme Court allowed the
according to its wishes. Tamil Nadu government to increase the
Both these organs have worked as check and height of the dam to 142 ft.
balance over each other to be confined to the four Later, Kerala government has passed Kerala
wall of our Constitution. This wonderful balance Irrigation and Water Conservation
is the main reason behind triumph of democracy (Amendment) Act through which a Dam
in India. Safety Authority was set up to suspend or
or restrict functioning or decommission any
dam if public safety is endangered.
Tamil Nadu government approached
Supreme Court fearing that the act is aimed
at decommissioning the dam despite its
judgement.
Q-Write a critical note on the Mullaperiyar dam Supreme Court gave the judgement that the
controversy. 2006 act of Kerala is unconstitutional and
said Legislature could only amend a law but
The Hindu could not invalidate a judgement or decree
passed by the court. and allowed the Tamil
The Mullaperiyar Dam was costructed by Nadu govt to raise the dam level to its full
British during 1887-1895 on the Periyar river capacity.
in the then Travancore State. The dam
provides for diversion of water through a
tunnel into the Vaigai basin in Tamil Nadu  The Mullaperiyar Dam is a masonry gravity
for irrigation purposes. A 999-year lease dam built over the river Periyar in 1895
was made at that time and since then Tamil during the British colonial rule to divert
Nadu government is monitoring and water towards the Madras presidency area.
operating the dam. The Periyar Power  River water disputes are there in the entire
Station uses the water for power generation. sub continent. The Mullaperiyar is a small
The areas of conflict between Kerala and dispute compare to Cauvery and Sutlej
Tamil Nadu on this dam are: disputes and can be easily solved. Proper
1. Kerala govt. says that the dam is 115 years scientific study should be done and
old and it is not safe. In the case of a disaster appropriate decisions at all possible levels
the dam might be broken and the should be made and implemented. If an
downstream areas of Idukki, Kolamavu, earthquake causes the dam to collapse, it
Cheruthoni etc will be drowned where huge can threaten the lives of 3.5 million people
population is living. It proposed to downstream. The issue needs to be looked
decommission the dam and construct a new at as a national problem, not as a dispute
dam in its place. between two states.
2. The Tamil Nadu government contends
that if the dam is demolished then there will
be water scarcity. It wants to raise the level
of storage in the dam from 136 ft to 142 ft.
Q--Explain the rationale behind effective in solving the matter until the riparian
constituting Polavaram Project Authority (PPA). states and Supreme Court approves the project.
Comment on the controversy related to the There are many river water disputes in all over
project. India. The government must find a long-term
approach within its Department of Water
The Hindu Resource to deal with such skirmishes in the near
Indira Sagar (Polavaram) Project is a multi- future.
purpose irrigation project across the Godavari
River in India. It aims to transfer large surplus
water from the Godavari River basin to the Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme
Krishna River basin as a part of river linking with other countries'
project. According to the Water Resources
Ministry, works for Polavaram dam project
commenced in October 2004 and is programmed
to be completed by 2018 Q. . Discuss the importance of opposition party
There has been a controversy on this project since in a parliamentary democracy.
the initiation of the project in 2004. The
environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the Answer-
project says 276 villages will be affected and an In parliamentary democracy the opposition
estimated more than 2 lakh people will be actuates the checks and balances which are
displaced. Tribal constitute 50% of such a inherent for effective working of a democracy .
displaced population. proactive role by the opposition parties that
Some activist pointed out that this interlinking of highlight the diversity of opinions and hence
the rivers will harm the interests of the new plurality of democratic societies….More imp.in
Telangana state and Rayalaseema region of our democracy of first Pass the poll system in
Andhra Pradesh. The project not only will which even selected candidates does not truly
displace several thousands of families, it will also represent the will of majority.
submerge several archaeological sites, coal The government has the numbers to pass
deposits, a wildlife sanctuary and several hectares ordinary bills but needs active support of
of farm land. opposition on a number of matters including
The neighboring state of Orissa also expressed its amendments and special bills. Even on ordinary
concern on the submerging of its land. The bills the opposition brings out the acute
Polavaram dam involves a huge cost but its deficiencies and highlights it to the citizenry
benefit will be limited as 70% of the proposed through debates and discussions. Censure motion
irrigation area in the project detail report (PDR) is , vote of no confidence , adjournment motions etc.
already under irrigation cover. Also there is Provide the opposition with effective
problem to fund this huge costly project without parliamentary procedures to attack the
private investors. government on policy and governmental issues at
Recently passed the Andhra Pradesh large thus keeping government on it toes.
(Reorganization) Act, 2014 states that the Union Often important parliamentary committees (PAC
would take the regulation and development of in India ) are headed by leaders of opposition
the Polavaram project under its control. To parties so as to ensure Parliamentary check over
resolve any inter-State water dispute, the arbitrary executive decisions and maintain
government can resort to conflict resolution propriety of actions.
through the Interstate River Water Disputes Act, Few nations infact have the concept of shadow
1956, apart from regular dialogue and cabinet (like Britain) which comprises of
negotiation. opposition members to effectively censure unjust
So GoI passed proposal to constitute the actions of the ruling cabinet and also prepare
Polavaram Project Authority (PPA). The purpose them for governance incase the ruling
of the PPA is to overcome the project‘s hurdles government falls.
and generate investment. But the PPA can‘t be

term in power has expired or when the party has

lost confidence of the Lok Sabha, the President
• zero hour and question hour may have can ask the Prime Minister to continue in office
been mentioned because these two make the govt until a new government is selected. Unlike
of the day to stand on its toes on various issues… Bangladesh, no separate caretaker government is
Also opposition needs to ensure quality of debate elected in India. Prime Minister is responsible for
during sessions in both houses instead of creating conducting day-to-day affairs of the
ruckus is the need of the day….(little mention administration with the help of few ministers but
may be needed)… he cannot take important policy decisions.
• Collusion or reaching consensus between
ruing government and opposition (on various
issues that are in loop to discussion in parliament
Compare and contrast India‘s Rajya Sabha and
),out side the parliament during meetings is one
UK‘s House of Lords in their composition,
unhealthy trend witnessed these days. It avoids functions and importance to their respective
healthy debate, right of people to know facts with countries. (200 Words)
clarity & some what a mockery on parliamentary
system. Composition:-
• Rajya Sabha(RS)->lesser in number than House of
Lords; Indirectly elected
UK – House of Lords:-More members than RS;
Unlike RS or House of commons, most of them
What is ‗caretaker government‘ in the context of are appointed by the Queen either on
Bangladesh politics? Does India have such a recommendation of PM or appointments
system? If it has, explain the differences with committee while other sit by virtue of
examples. (200 Words) ecclesiastical role in established church of
England.
Ans. Caretaker government is a temporary or
Function:
transition government. In Bangladesh, when the
Rajya sabha:It can introduce, amend and veto an
term of the government ends, the government
ordinary bill.
hands over power to a caretaker government.
while UK – House of Lords can ―delay‖ and
Members of the caretaker government should not
amend but not veto bill.
belong to any political party and should be
independently selected. It is duty of the caretaker RS:-If vetoes, legislative deadlock and so
government to carry on day-to-day President may summon Joint Sitting
administration in the country and conduct free UK – House of Lords:-No question of Veto
and fair elections. The system was abused in power. So, no legislative deadlock and hence no
Bangladesh when in 2008, a military-backed joint sitting.
caretaker government was selected but it Importance:
continued in power for two years. In 2011, the Except in case of money bills, RS holds equal in
ruling party of Bangladesh abolished the system position and powers vis-a-vis Lok Sabha.
of caretaker government. The system has again UK – House of Lords:-Barring its subordinate role
generated controversy in Bangladesh since in case of Money bills, it is considered lesser in
elections are to be conducted soon but there is no power even in case of ordinary bills as it can
concept of caretaker government anymore. It is to ammend or dilate but can not veto. So, it is not
be noted that the system was a part of the equal in powers and position to House of
Bangladeshi constitution and was abolished by a Commons. This doesn‘t make the Lords
constitutional amendment. irrelevent. The Lords consists of many experts in
In India, caretaker government is not provided all fields – medicine, law, military, science, sports,
for by the Constitution but is practiced as a religion, charities, education and so on – which
matter of convention. When the ruling party‘s scrutinise Bills and highlight flaws and

improvements which the Commons may have rejected as the government has the majority. But
missed. if a cut motion is approved or a demand for grant
is rejected it shows that the house has lost
confidence in the government and it results in
resignation by the council of ministers.
Moreover the upper House has no power in
Do you observe any fundamental differences in relation to the passage of the budget and hence a
how elected representatives in India and USA majority in Rajya Sabha is not essential .So in
behave in their respective legislatures? Explain India a budget by the government has to be
with any one recent example from each approved if it has to stay in power , and hence
country. (200 Words) there is no such concept of Government
Link Shutdown.
Link
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Compare and contrast the situation .Critically comment on the Constitutional

of government shutdown in USA when provisions that enable the Parliament to create
the Congress fails to pass authorization new states.
for sufficient funds for government
operations with that of India‘s budgetary
process
Article 3 and article 4 of constitution deal with the
provisions for creating new states in Indian
The basic difference of budgetary processes in
union. As per article 3 the central government has
both country comes from the fact that both
the sole authority for creation of new states and
countries have different forms of Government
altering boundaries of existing states. Though
and difference in law making procedure.
there are provisions for eliciting the opinion of
The authorization of funds for government state legislature by centre on bifurcation issues,
operations in US goes through a layer of they are not binding in nature. Moreover
processes; both houses of Congress and the bifurcation laws are not treated as an amendment
president. In the current scenario, the democrats to the constitution.
do not have majority in the House of At the time of making of the constitution these
representatives and hence the government is provisions were introduced with greater power
dependent on the Republication for passage of for the centre so as to protect the sovereignty and
the authorization. But the Republicans wanted to integrity of the nation keeping in view the testing
use this as a bargaining chip to delay the times prevalent at that time. These provisions
landmark legislation on health by President helped in keeping India together. However
Obama (ObamaCare), that they are opposed to. concerns are being raised in the present times
So effectively this will result in shutting down of about giving too much power to centre on
all but ―essential Services‖. But this does not bifurcation issues, as evidenced recently in the
result in a removal of the government from office. case of creation of telangana, where the motives
In India, the budget or the annual financial for its creation appear to be primarily political
statement is laid before the Lok Sabha by the though the demand has been for long time.
finance minister. Subsequently series of As there are no criteria in the constitution on
discussions happen on the demand for grants by what basis the new states are to be formed, there
different departments and finally the is a need to streamline the provisions of article 3
appropriation bill and finance bill are laid before where by some sound juristic criteria for the
the house. Opposition parties can show their creation of new state are laid out and matters are
disapproval for different provisions by moving not left on the blanket will of the centre. These
types of Cut motions but generally they are criteria should be devised keeping in view the

needs of development, administration , financial and Seemandhra (Rayalseema and Coastal

viability etc. Also there is need for giving greater Andhra) and this raises serious concerns for
say for states on bifurcation issues as it is they Seemandhra citizenry.
who have to bear the consequences of division. A The foremost issue is about status of Hyderabad,
permanent State reorganization commission slated to be capital of Telangana, the present
should be setup as an expert and competent body capital and a metropolis housing major service
which considers the bifurcation issues holistically and manufacturing industry whose loss would
rather than on political considerations. mean revenue and job losses for government and
people from Seemandhra, who have equally
=========== toiled in bringing it its present fame. A new
capital is estimated at an investment of INR3lakh
The constitutional provides for an indestructible crores to accommodate high court, secretariat,
Indian territory with destructible states. This has govt. offices and housing projects among other
been proposed through the Article 3 of the Indian primary infrastructure. Its burden will be felt by
constitution. Seemandhra economically unless compensated.
Interestingly Punjab and Haryana govt which
The article provides that the parliament may alter
were earlier bifurcated are still fighting cases on
state boundaries, areas or create new states from
Chandigarh, there present and joint capital.
existing ones through simple majority. This is not
Political calls for driving away Seemandhra man
to be considered as a constitutional amendment.
from jobs in Telangana is reminiscent to tensions
The bill can only be proposed with the prior
in newly formed Jharkhand over domicile issue.
permission of the President. The states concerned
The people from two states share a common
are to be referred to but their views are not
language, food habbits and marriage relations.
binding on the president. Any subsequent
Other major issues are sharing of revenue from
amendments in the bill is also not necessarily
agriculture, industries, transport corporation,
referred to the states.
religious institutions and ongoing projects in the
India after independence needed a massive state. Water distribution from the major rivers
rearrangement which necessitated a relatively Godavari, Kauvery are another thorns.
simple and obstruction free procedure for states Universities will have to rework their affiliations.
reorganization. Article 3 proved to be apt for the Power projects and there distribution sharing
situation. But with the changed scenario today shall remain a challenge.
where vested interests have a role to play in the Seemandhra people will have their government
political decision making, caution is needed. A machinery fight left wing extremists as more
cost benefit analysis is indispensable which can districts of the red zone will fall in their territory.
be done through an independent body which take Problem remains many but a political will is
into account the concerns of all the stakeholders necessary to resolve and instill faith in people.
without any political bias. With regional parties Seemandhra can be financially compensated for
rising since the last decade, political concerns any burden and centre shall ensure that people in
seem to be a major factor in such decisions. two states see a safe transition of power.
Thus, the constitutional provisions for states
reorganization did suit our needs in the past but
now there is a need to check it efficacy.
===However u can add sm points regarding the
Critically examine the main concerns of coastal
real estate investments + big national Polvadram
Andhra and Rayalseema people against the
Dam project and the issues involved in it….
formation of Telangana state.
Energy Security + other concerns regarding clash
ANSWER-
between Agri Farmers interst Vs.. Global Industry
Division of states has well proved in India that it
aspects….
may or may not bring development but remains a
contentious issue for long. Andhra Pradesh when
bifurcated will see separate states of Telangana

Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and

India‘s foreign policy is the prerogative of the Misdemeanors.
Centre, not the State.‖ Comment. (150 Words)
b) In India, the process can be initiated by either
India is a state which is federal in character with
of the houses with charges signed by 1/4th
strong unitary form.The centre has a wider
members of the house framing the charges. 14
influence and role when it comes to India‘s
day notice should be given to the president
foreign policy.And it is prerogative also as nation
whereas in USA The House of Representatives
as a whole cannot amend its foreign policy just
starts the impeachment process by publicly
for the shake of its states.
investigating the charges and holding hearings.
Foreign Policy proves to be the strongest measure
of growth for any nation.When India is
progressing and projecting towards a leader in c) In India, after the bill is passed by a majority of
South Asia and converging itself to become a 2/3rd of total membership of the house, it is sent
world power.A lot depends on its strong and to the other house for investigation of the charges
instrumental foreign policy with its neighbors while in USA, if the House of Representatives
and the rest of the world.So in larger prospect its votes for Impeachment by a simple majority, the
the centre which is having a final say in the Articles of Impeachment are imposed and trials
diplomatic policies across the globe.Though there are held in US Senate. The President has now
is a coalition government at the centre which been officially impeached per the United States.
sometimes hinders in taking a collective decision
on foreign policy.For eg. the recent episode of d) Indian President has the right to appear and
Tamil Nadu government asking Indian not to represent himself at such investigations while the
parcipate in CHOGM to be held in Sri-Lanka next USA President is represented by his lawyers.
month over the issues of tamilians in Sri-Lanka.
But India has clearly reiterated the fact that it e) In India, if the other house also sustains the
cannot compromise on its foreign policy stand charges and passes the bill by majority of 2/3rd
just by giving the states a greater say the decision of the total membership, then president stands
making policy. removed from his office while in USA 2/3 votes
India‘s look east policy,BRICS and IBSA of the Senate results in conviction.
association and the recent economic and military
ties with many nations further boost the fact that f) No Indian President has been impeached yet.
its the centre which formulates the foreign policy. US president Andrew Jhonson became the first to
India‘s developing ties with U.S and china are be impeached.
also exemplary examples of its strong foreign
policy.
Union and State Legislatures (structure,

Q--Compare and contrast the grounds and functioning, conduct of business, powers &
procedure involved in the impeachment of the privileges; issues therein)
Presidents of USA and India respectively.
The Hindu Q-On what grounds Members of Parliament can

be disqualified from the membership of the
a) Indian President can be impeached for Parliament? Explain. (200 Words)
―violation of constitution‖ Whereas USA
President can be impeached for Conviction of, Answer

The major grounds on which members of Answer - The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Parliaments can be disqualified from the substances (amendment) bill, 2011 simplifies the
membership of the Parliament: regulations for procuring and possessing narcotic
1.If the member holds any office of profit under drugs like morphine when used for medicinal
the Union or State Govt.( except that of a minister purposes. Presently, getting morphine and other
or any other office exempted by Parliament. opioids for palliative care involves cumbersome
2. If the member is of unsound mind and stands licensing procedures under the NDPS Act, 1985.
so declared by a court. But once the amendments are approved by the
3. If the member is undischarged insolvent. parliament it would bring relief to thousands of
4.If the member is not citizen of India or has cancer patients in the country who use opioid for
voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a foreign chronic pain relief.
state or is under any acknowledgement of
Further, the proposed Bill seeks to alter the
allegiance to a foreign state.
process of licensing in States by bringing it under
5. If the member is disqualified under any law
the State drugs controller; multiple agencies are
made by Parliament.
involved in the process today.The bill also
Some additional disqualifications in the proposes changes in section 2 of the act to ensure
Representation of Peoples Act(1951). that a patient using narcotic drug or psychotropic
substance is not labelled as an ―addict‖.
The member must not have been found guilty of
certain election offenses or corrupt practices in
the elections.
The member must not have been convicted for
any offense resulting in imprisonment for two or
more years . ―Issues such as criminalisation of politics need
The member must not have failed to lodge an to be addressed through legislation rather than
account of his election expenses with in the time. the judicial process.‖ Elaborate.
The member must not have any interest in
government contracts, work or services.
The member must not be a director or managing Criminalisation of politics refers to the incorporation
agent nor hold an office of profit in a corporation of the criminal elements into the political system of the
in which the Govt. has at least 25 % share. country. The phenomenon has led to use of the muscle
6.The member must not have been dismissed and money power in politics, thereby deteriorating the
from Govt services for corruption or disloyalty to political standards.
the State. The SC bench has recently opined that it should be the
The member must not have been convicted for onus of the PM to ensure that ministers with tainted
promoting enmity between different groups or characters do not enjoy executive positions. The
for the offense of bribery. legislature is responsible for framing laws for ensuring
The member must not have been punished for that only candidates with clean backgrounds are
preaching and practising social crimes such as elected as the representatives of the people.
untouchability, dowry and sati. The judiciary can aid in the giving directions in the
cases of breach of the constitutional values. The
Apart from the above points of disqualification,
intervention of the judicial process in removing
disqualification on the basis of Defection under
criminal elements in the political system may be cited
the provisions of Tenth Schedule is also observed.
as an judicial overreach.
However,the judiciary had rightly stepped in
Question - Write a note on the importance of the
judgement for the disqualification of the convicted
Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
members under section 8(4) of the RP act. Such
(Amendment) Bill, 2011. (100 Words) (Any bill
instances are aimed at removing the malaise in the
made could be put in Union or state legislature
functions, although it directly does not connote system and should be considered as exception rather
the relation, but indirectly they are linked) than normal course.

Thus, it should be realized that though judiciary may

intervene to put things in order, but the real onus of Dissolution of parliament in India, essentially means
the decriminalisation of the politics lies with the the dissolution of the House of People or the
legislature. Loksabha. Dissolution of the House means the end of
life of the Loksabha either by an order made by the
President under Article 85 (2) of the Constitution or on
the expiration of the period of 5 years from the date
8) Write a note on the importance of the appointed for its first meeting. Also when the leader
Question Hour in the Parliament. of the majority loses his majority in the Loksabha, the
prerogative passes to the President, who can ask
another leader to prove his majority in the Lok Sabha
or dissolve the Lok Sabha, and call for elections. The
The first hour of every parliamentary session is the dissolution of Loksabha has the following implications
question hour. During this period any member of on the business of the parliament:
parliament can raise question of public interest and • Bills originating in Rajya Sabha which are still
seek answer from the concerned ministry. Generally a pending in that House do not lapse.
week notice is given to the concerned ministry to • Bills originating in Rajya Sabha which having been
answer the relevant question. This makes both passed by the House and send to Lok Sabha and
ministers and civil servants on their toes. pending there lapse on the dissolution of Lok Sabha.
Although it is the minister who answers the question i.e Bill becomes invalid.
in the parliament but the civil servants working under • Bills originating in Lok Sabha which having been
the ministry have to collect the required data and passed by that House and transmitted to Rajya Sabha
prepare the answers and get them approved from the and still pending there on the date of dissolution of
ministry. So it plays a key role in making both Lok Sabha, lapse.
minister and administrators responsible. • Bills originating in Rajya Sabha and returned to that
The question hour carries importance in the following House by Lok Sabha with amendments and still
ways: pending there on the date of its dissolution,lapse.
-It keeps the ministers and civil servants aware of • A Bill upon which the Houses have disagreed and
public opinion. the President has notified his intention to summon a
-It helps in protecting the interests of the citizens and Joint Sitting of the Houses to consider the Bill prior to
few experts described it to be equivalent to the trails dissolution does not lapse on dissolution.
by jury. • A Bill passed by the two Houses of Parliament and
-This form of interpellation enables the minister to sent to the President for assent does not lapse on the
know about the happenings in the remote places of dissolution of Lok Sabha.
the country through the local members of parliament‘s • A Bill returned by the President to Rajya Sabha for
questions. reconsideration of the Houses does not lapse if the
-It also enables the government to know the pulse of dissolution of Lok Sabha takes place without the
the people about the policies and programs being Houses having considered the Bill.
implemented. The popular resentment could be
reflected through the protests by the representatives in
from of questions. What is the composition and function of
-It is also an effective means for citizens to control the delimitation commission? Why is delimitation
govt. through their representatives. done? (200 Words)The Hindu
Under article 82 of the constitution, Delimitation

commission is constituted by government of India
What is dissolution of parliament in India? under the provisions of delimitation commission act.
What would be its implications? Under what Main task of Delimitation commission is to redraw the
circumstances usually dissolution takes place? boundaries of constituencies of state assembly and
Explain. (200 Words) Lok Sabha.

Composition of delimitation commission is chairman, Subsequently nor do they pollute environment or

members and associate members. Chairman is former distort global climate. However they certainly
judge of supreme court, members are chief election help improve health with its positives of physical
commissioner, election commissioners and state activity.
election commissioners (ex-officio members) and A congested traffic during peak hours take
associate members are 5 MLA and 5 MPs of each state somewhere around one hour to travel a meagre
drawn from legislative assembly and parliament. distance of 5 km by car.
Present constituencies are carved out on the basis of Alternatively, if a dedicated corridor for cyclists is
delimitation commission under the provisions of provided, the same distance can be covered in
delimitation act 2002 on the basis on census 2001. much lesser time. Such a measure is already a
However, constitution is amended to not to redraw success in several western countries. Some cities
constituencies till the fist census after 2026. like Beijing ban use of a private car for at least one
Main purpose of the delimitation is to resize day in a week.
constituencies on the basis of population as Overhauling public transport system with some
population growth is not equal in all constituencies restrictive uses of private cars can effectively
over the time. reduce the loads on Indian roads.
National Urban Transport Policy, 2006
Each state has been allotted a no. of seats in a way that announced promotion of non motorised transport
the ratio between that no. and the population remain and equitable allocation of road spaces, but
almost same for all the states. However, there are nothing seems to trickle down from paper to
demographic changes in the country, measured by actual scenario. It is prudent to remind that ban
census report. which calls for fresh re-allocation of on cycles by WB Govt is a clear violation of this
seats among them policy.
Hence the The main task of the commission is to Dedicated lanes for cycles and public transport
redraw the boundaries of the various assembly and are need of the hour. They ensure equitable uses,
Lok Sabha constituencies based on a recent census. reduced accidents, saving in aggregate running
time, improving environment and of course
While drafting policies for the people, the bettering our current account deficit.
concerns of citizens should be addressed by the
government, not excluded.‖ Critically examine
the statement in the light of West Bengal
government‘s ban on cycles on certain roads in ―The fair play of the functioning of Parliament
Kolkatta. Suggest measures to accommodate can be ensured only if the government willingly
slow moving vehicles on busy Indian roads.(250 subjects itself to legislative scrutiny.‖ Critically
Words) analyze.(250 Words)
Decision to ban cycles on city roads is an ill

conceived strategy. It is an anti poor measure. At
a time when Governments across globe are
adopting or returning to greener mode of
transport, such a decision is retrograde.
Kolkata has higher number of cycle riders Is Rajya Sabha relevant today? Do you think it
compared to private car owners. A lot of people, should be abolished? Critically comment
including students, service providers like paper In our Westminster System of democracy Rajya
vendor, milkman plumber, etc depend on bicycle Sabha has a similar status as the House of Lords
as their mode of commute. Talking in terms of in UK. Rajya Sabha is a representation of the
equitable use of city roads, cycles occupy much states of the Indian Union in the Parliament
lesser space compared to a car. Neither do they whose members are elected by the members of
burden economy by inflated import of fossil fuels. the state assemblies and 12 members are

nominated by the President having made two factors can‘t undermine the position of Rajya
exceptional contribution to literature, arts, Sabha.
science, public Service etc. However, Rajya Sabha enjoys equal role with Lok
While Rajya Sabha enjoys similar status in case of Sabha in the passage of Constitutional
ordinary legislation at par with the Lok Sabha, in amendment bills,in the passage of resolutions,
case of money bills it has a lesser status than Lok election as well as impeachment of President etc.
Sabha. Rajya Sabha also enjoys certain privileges However in three cases Rajya Sabha have specal
like to enable central legislation in subjects under powers which are not available to Lok Sabha
state list and creation of All India Services. (though exercised less frequently)
So while Rajya Sabha has a very important (a) Parliament can enact on any state list subject
responsibility of representing the causes of states only after passing of resolution from the Rajya
in the parliament it also acts as a method of Sabha.
checks and balances in way of hasty legislation, (b) Parliament can create any new All Indian
amendment and in preserving the federal Services only when a resolution is first passed
structure. It also brings in diversity to the from Rajya Sabha
parliament by way of nominated members who (c) Removal Of Vice President can only begun in
bring with them expertise in various fields that Rajya Sabha.
enriches the discussions and the quality of Moreover, importance of Rajya Sabha can be
legislation. understood from the facts that- Firstly, Lok Sabha
At the same time the institution of Rajya Sabha is generally agrees with the policy and programmes
eroded by political Parties by using it as a of the government it is the Rajya Sabha who
backdoor entry for people losing in general expresses the fair and balanced opinion and
election, to elect people for petty political gains. A hence Rajya Sabha is able to exercise more
recent phenomenon has been the election of influence on the policies of the government.
outsiders from states whose reasons are other Secondly, it also acts as chamber to revise the
than representing the best interests of states. Al so decision of Lok Sabha and preventing any hasty
the method of nominating members has been legislation.
misused by governments for political interests. To conclude we can say that in Indian Context,
So while the Institution of Rajya Sabha has not the relevance of Lok Sabha is paramount as it
lost its relevance there is urgent need for political satisfies the two important pillars viz: as federal
parties to maintain the high standards of this set up of federal legislature and the spirit of
house and not using it for petty political gains. Parliamentary democracy.
.
More than what powers Rajyasabha is vested
with you could have stressed its necessity e.g. it is
===Relevance Of Rajya Sabha a sort of revising body for policy decision as
Rajya Sabha since its inception is relevant and politics alone is not the factor for member
will remain relevant in future also.It is considered selection. Bringing policy lacunae to public is
as second house and not the secondary house and imperative in a healthy democracy.
it‘s creation is based on the principle of equality In coalition politics it is not always possible for
of houses. Rajya Sabha is a constitutional ruling party to get their bills passed in Upper
necessity which is an institutionalised form of House- congress presently has only 70 seats in RS.
representation for the states to protect their Non-money bills are a choice for RS- lokpal bill
interests in any federal set up of federal was not passed in RS, though passed in LS.
legislature.
It is not inferior to Lok Sabha, if Lok Sabha enjoys I am for abolishing RS and my points are-
certain special powers that are not available to Vote buy out stories.
Rajya Sabha it is because of compulsion of 55 unopposed members to RS- a fair number not
Parliamentary democracy. even from states they represent-the idea of state
For example, representation in practical sense remains
(a) No Confidence motion and Money Bill- these
challanged- UK resident filing Rajyasabha increase the sittings. It is required to chose moral
nomination from Jharkhand figure from society.
1850 onward corruption in USA senate elction-
almost similar to RS saw reforms there- finally
leading to state elections.
Powers vested with RS can be transferred to LS
with direct provision for some eminent
representation- it will lessen exchequer burden.
=====Bicameral Legislature comprising of lower

house and upper house and it is one of the basic Q--Critically analyze various formulae put
characters of a federal state. Upper house consists forward by many stakeholders to resolve the
of representatives of the constituent state. The Kashmir problem.
states get voice in the legislation on union
matters. However the recent controversy in The Hindu
Ireland has raised the issue regarding its The ongoing territorial dispute between India and
importance. Wastage of money, delay in Pakistan over the status of the contested areas of
legislative process, hurdle to smooth functioning, Jammu and Kashmir is well known to everyone.
repetition, etc are some of the reasons by anti – When redrawing the borders is not a solution,
upper house. Rajya Sabha should not be India and Pakistan will have to look for ideas that
abolished as there are more strong points in are practical, workable and acceptable to resolve
favouring its need the Kashmir issue.
During past few years, number of actual working There have been many suggestions to solve this
days of parliament has been reducing. As a result issue like-
many important bills are pending before the 1) Accepting the Line of Control – After three
legislature. Now the already losing work adds up wars and long periods of disagreements, it is
the burden of getting passed by two houses, essential that any agreement must ensure that the
which further delays the task. It sometimes Line of Control is like a border between any two
appears that electing double representatives of a normal states. India would formally give up the
particular group of citizens is a burden on regions that it still shows in its map and Pakistan
exchequer. In case of conflict, there is a need for can fully integrate its part of Kashmir.
joint sitting for ordinary bills, one the other hand 2) UN controlled Kashmir Valley- Let India and
for the Constitutional Amendments cannot be Pakistan give up their control of the valley and
passed without the consent of both the houses. make the valley region (about 5% of the disputed
This again makes the process slow. area) into a quasi-independent nation with UN
All above arguments, although against the Rsjya control or guarded neutrality (similar to
Sabha, can not be deciding factors for its Switzerland). This could act as a sort of buffer
abolition. In a federation Rajya Sabha has state.
important role to play, through which the states 3) Kashmiri‘s right to decide through Plebiscite-
get opportunity to raise the voice in matters of let the people decide which nation they want to
union laws. State representatives look go with. However with change in demography
applicability of each and every clause of the bill to through trans border terrorism...India does no
the state to which they belong. They debate and favor this.
discuss and come to the more inclusive way. 4) The Chenab formula- suggested in the 1960s,
Indian federation is a unique federation; there are that Kashmir is divided along the line of the River
many instances when the states lose its power Chenab. This would give the vast majority of land
and India works as unitary government. The to Pakistan. The Muslim majority population of
abolition of upper house will further weaken the the valley and Jammu would be brought within
value of states. Instead of abolition of Rajya Pakistan‘s borders.
Sabha, its reform is required. It is required to

5) Independent Kashmir Valley- has been Helps in Floor management, in 2nd house -
considered by some as the best solution because it Rajyasaha
would address the grievances of those who have
been fighting against the Indian Government
since the insurgency began in 1989. But critics say
that, without external assistance, the region Executive (structure, organisation,
would not be economically viable. functioning)
India- Pakistan had Shimla peace conference,
Agra peace conference and many bilateral
dialogues, but there has not been any solution till
now. It is not easy to specify the outlines of a Q. . Do you think the Comptroller and Auditor
solution. However the history shows that the General (CAG) can audit accounts of private
Kashmir issue can‘t be settled by war, force or firms? Critically comment oh his duties and
violence. responsibilities.
A solution of the Kashmir issue will enhance
India‘s security, strengthen the prospects for
durable peace and stability in the region and Answer-
enable India to focus more on rapidly emerging  India being a parliamentary democracy
long-term geopolitical challenges. which means parliamentary control of
government earnings and spending. This
is the place where parliament places its
responsibility to CAG, a constitutional
Q--Discuss the procedure involved in post. Article 149
selecting the Leader of the Opposition Lok  Since spendings and earnings are part of
Sabha. Also examine his/her position an Consolidated fund of India CAG has
duties in Loksabha. every right to investigate into private
firms domains also.
The Hindu  Earlier there was clear cut distinction
Leader of the largest opposition party is chosen as between public and private domain and
the Leader of opposition, provided that largest CAG used to confine itself to Public
opposition party has at least 10% of the total seats domain but after opening up of economy
in the house. Thus the figure stands at 55 this distinction has diminished as can be
members for Lok Sabha and 25 members for seen from various PPP projects and use of
Rajaya Sabha. There is no formal process public resources by private players and
adopted, it is based on the recognition accorded sharing profit with government for ex
by Speaker in Lok Sabha and Chairman in Rajya Gas, Spectrum etc.
Sabha upon the leader of such party in  So CAG role must expand in consonance
opposition. However an alliance of parties cannot to the changing scenario to enforce
be considered as a party for the determination of accountability.
LoP. 
Leader of Opposition represents the entire  But it has to maintain a balance too
opposition in the house and voices his dissent because too many auditing agencies may
and opposition on issues in the house. He/she is confuse (TRAI for telecom and then CAG)
accorded rank of a cabinet minister and is eligible and defeat the very purpose of it. Its role
for perks, salaries and allowances of the same. in auditing should be limited to revenue
LoP plays important role in appointment of CVC, side only, see that revenues are not under-
CBI director, Lokpal, NHRC chairman and stated, and it should avoid its
members, CIC and secretary general of Lok investigation in economy, policy decision.
Sabha. Otherwise This may dampen the
investment environment which is very

much essential for development as politics to for see the prospects of national
envisaged by 12th plan. leadership.
 Apart from above it audits state, central The members of so called ―third alternative‖ have
gov, panchayts accounts and any work themselves to blame for this dismal presence and
assigned by president but he can not
performance. Their unity is based upon cashing
impose any punishment to defaulters.
on anti BJP and anti INC sentiments, rather than
 CAG does not have the power to shared ideology and principles. They also have
question the govt on the basis of its
many opportunistic allies who change sides
finding in its report but only places this
without inhibitions. Unfortunately the chances of
report in the parliament which is
third alternative in upcoming general elections
examined by PAC . Also there is a
looks bleak again.
possibility that its report is not examined
at all.
 Hence he is rightly called ―watchdog of
public purse‖.
Q. Do you think the Comptroller and Auditor

General (CAG) can audit accounts of private Write a note on the composition and functions
firms? Critically comment oh his duties and Expenditure Management Commission (EMC)
responsibilities.
The constitution of an Expenditure Management

Commission (EMC) as announced in 2014-15
Question – ―The third space in Indian politics is budget to recommend major expenditure reforms
the largest and the most diverse, and yet the will enable the government to lower its fiscal
‗third alternative‘ has remained an unfulfilled deficit. Controlled fiscal deficit will help the
experiment.‖ Comment. (200 Words) government to strengthen the macro economy
over time and especially ease inflation.
Answer - There is no doubt about the fact that the EMC composition:
―third alternative‖ in Indian politics has most HEAD: Bimal Jalan, former RBI governor
diverse composition. It includes parties from MEMBERS: Sumit Bose, Former finance secretary
north, east, west and south India.However, the Subir Gokarn former RBI deputy governor
notion of third place being largest can be MEMBER-SECRETARY: Senior officer with
interpreted as large void which has remained finance/expenditure experience
unfilled. EX-OFFICIO MEMBER: Additional Secretary,
After Independence, India was a single party Expenditure Department, Finance Ministry
country with sporadic presence of other regional Functions: The commission would look into
parties. It took five decades for an alternative to various aspects of expenditure to be undertaken
rise and threaten the monopoly. The dominance by the government,
of a single party was expected as it had eminent a) Suggest ways to reduce food, fertilizer and oil
freedom fighters in their ranks. But it is subsidies
astonishing to learn that despite two factions in b) Reforms to make subsidies more targeted
congress even before independence, second without compromising protection of marginalised
alternative took long time to rise. and poor people.
c) Formulation of a new Urea policy
Lack of third alternative, thus, is expected. Very d) Narrowing fiscal deficit
few party have pan India presence. In fact, other e) Review the operational and allocative
than INC no other party can claim this status. efficiencies of government expenditure to achieve
Regional parties are too engrossed in the local maximum output.

The Commission is expected to submit its interim SC held that the pleasure of president is not
report before Budget 2015-16 and the final report justifiable. The governor has no security of tenure
before Budget 2016-17 and no fixed term of office, he can be removed by
the president at any time. The constitution does
not lay down any grounds upon which a governor
Critically comment on the issue of appointment may be removed. Hence, since the commencement
and dismissal of Governor posts in India. of constitution in 1950, governors had to go
following the change of guard at the centre.
Office of governor is the one with great dignity,
responsibility and continuing relevance. A
The Governor of a state is appointed and governor was envisaged as the constitutional head
removed by the president on his pleasure under of the state, and the representative of Union in the
article 156 of Indian constitution. The governor is state. Governor is expected to be a vital link
a sensitive position in center-state relations. between the Union and the state, to act as the eyes
However, the process of appointment and and ears of the Centre, and to ensure that state
removal of president has been a matter government is carried out in accordance with the
surrounded by the political clouds. Owing to lack Constitution and to see that the interests of the
of concurrent meaning to the term ‗pleasure‘ in Union are safeguarded.
art.156 successive union governments have been The office of governor has been mired in
showing discriminatory attitude in the controversies, about their partisan behaviour and
appointment and removal of the governors. acting as agents of party in power at Centre. Some
critics also suggest scrapping the institution of
The major ground the successive union governor all together; but this could not be the
governments have been showing for the removal right solution.
of a governor is that he/she is not in sync with The Sarkaria Commission and National
the developmental ideas of the government. Commission to review Working of Constitution
Removal of governor on this basis is unfair and suggested that governors should be selected only
discriminatory. Instead government can try to from among eminent persons not too intimately
bring him/her in sync with the ideas. connected with active party politics. So long as this
advice is not heeded, controversies because of
There have been many criticisms stating that the their removal at the time of a change of
post of governor has become a rehabilitation for government would continue. Moreover when it is
political veterans and retired bureaucrats. institutional that governor holds the office at the
Sarkaria commission has recommended that the pleasure of president, the governors should
governor appointee should be a eminent person consult their own dignity and self respect and put
far from the political sphere. And also supreme in their papers immediately, without waiting to be
court in1979 and 2010 iterated that the governor asked to quit.
post is not a sub-ordinate to the central
government. Yet there is very little change in the
government attitude.
Critically analyze the role of Governor in the
Write a critical note on the relationship between development of states in India and his
the office of the President of India and the relationship with the Union Government.
Governors of states.
Governor is the titular head of state government

The Governor‘s appointment is not the result of and an agent of union. He doesn‘t have any direct
any electoral process. He is appointed by President role in the development of a state. In all functions
and holds office during the President‘s pleasure with a direct bearing on the economic or social
for a maximum period of five years. development, he is bound by the advice of the
state cabinet.

But he has discretion to reserve some bills for years since Independence to strengthen or
Presidential assent. Also he can ‗pocket veto‘ bills. weaken federalism.
Bills being the only device with the legislature to
direct the executive, the governor may be The Hindu
considered to be having an indirect and limited As envisaged in the constitution, the prime
proscriptive control on development, but no minister is the head of the govt. he heads the
prescriptive control. cabinet and advises the president in his actions.
The constitution considers the Governor as an As dr. B R Ambedkar said the post of prime
agent of Union. He holds post at the pleasure of minister of India can be equated with the
the President‘. But, in ‗S R Bommai‘ case, the SC president of the United States.
clarified that he is not a mere agent but an India is a union of States. States are constitutional
important constitutional functionary. As said, he authority‘s and thought they have been given
can reserve bills His report is considered while considerable power under their jurisdiction, the
declaring ―President‘s Rule‖. Once A. 356 is centre is the top authority with considerable
operational, he assumes the direct charge of state influence on States. Thus the functioning of the
administration and discharges his duties as per the central govt. determines the extent of federalism
wish of the union. Now, his removal cannot be in India.
arbitrary or malafide. In the initial years after independence, congress
party formed govt most of the states and the
-- centre. As the then prime minister was a pan-
indian figure and had immense say in who would
Article 153 provides for a governor for each state. lead state govt.
He is appointed by the president.
The governor is bound to the advice of the council But with the rise in regional parties and coalition
of ministers of the state. However, he is provided govt. regional demands had taken prominent
with considerable discretion by the constitution position in centre state relations. Be it foreign
and the parliament. policy, grants in aid, more budgetary allocation,
He can reserve any bill for the consideration of the special treatment, decentralised planning or the
president if it is against the directive or federal increased role of national development council
principles. He can recommend the imposition of have all been result of vociferous demands of
presidents rule in the state. During which, he is state governments. This was the rise of true
responsible for the administration. federalism in India.
Parliament has enacted several laws giving
governors of certain states discretionary powers. But many a time excessive use of President rule
In Maharashtra, Karnataka, telangana, Gujarat etc. shows that power of PM has also been exploited
the governor is responsible for development of in the past.
certain backward regions of the states. In states
with scheduled areas, he oversees their PM role here is much more imp to take all along
development. together in development of nation.
He plays a dual role as a nominee of the central Now, prime minister himself being an ex chief
government and as the head of the state. The minister has acknowledged that the prosperity of
governor holds office at the pleasure of the the country lies in the prosperity of the states and
president. The removal of governors after change has thus evolved the concept of cooperative
of government at the centre suggest that governors federalism
are treated subordinate to the union rather than as
an independent constitutional position.
Q---Critically comment on how the role of the
Prime Minister‘s Office has changed during past
Critically examine the role of Prime Minister as twenty years.
envisaged in the Constitution of India and how
the post has been used by its occupants over the The Hindu
The role of PMO has been as dynamic as the PMO diminishes the role of cabinet and cabinet
person who holds the chair of the PM. ministries? Comment.
Traditionally PMO has been the life and soul of
the Prime Minister. It helps the PM in his daily The Hindu
working from scheduling his meetings, press The PMO provides secretarial assistance to the
conferences to important matters like updating on PM. The PM through his office coordinates with
national and international affairs. This helps PM all central council of ministers, governors and
take informed decisions and implement policies ministers of state govts. It plays an important role
speedily. on important policy issues, which the minister
During the last twenty years, the PMO has not concerned feels should be submitted to the PM
been as powerful as it used to be. This can be for orders or information, and PMO provides the
attributed to the coalition politics that is evident requisite facts and information to PM regarding
at the central government, which has infact such policy matters leaving the ultimate decision
curtailed the powers of the Prime Minister. making at the discretion of the PM based on these
In the coalition era, the PM has not been as facts and information.
dynamic as he used to be earlier. The agenda of PMO administers the ministries in which PM is
the government is pre decided in the form of a the minister-in-charge under his guidance. Also
common minimum program that the ruling party since PM is the chairman of planning
has to stick to. The reduced power of the PM has commission, relevant files are forwarded to the
had an adverse impact on the PMO. PMO for his comments and clearance. PM
national relief fund (PMNRF) and National
Due to the decline of the Congress party in 1990s defence fund (NDF) is operated directly from the
and the emergence of regional political parties PMO.
has lead to the era of coalition politics at the Functions of PMO:-
national level. Coalition governments were 1. Provide secretarial assistance to PM.
formed not based on the common ideologies but 2. Coordinate between PM and various ministries
based on the necessities of the time. Every and with states on issues/projects/policies that
coalition had the leader of the stature of the Prime are deemed important by PM. Thus, it has an
Minister, which has led to the dispersion of important federal coordination role.
power among the various ministries. Prime 3. Facilitate speedy implementation and
Minister‘s office has been relegated to the status monitoring of any project that has been assigned
of ―primus inter pares‖ i.e. first among equals importance by PM.
from the most powerful status. 4. Advise PM on various policy issues and
This process has been intensified during the keeping him/her updated on issues of national
period of UPA government. The power to take and international importance.
decision has been completely taken away from In a vast country like ours, there are various
the Prime Minister,and it was vested in some issues that central govt. has to deal with. While
extra constitutional and unaccountable persons PMO is required to coordinate with various
and the PM had no say in the policy of the ministries while at the same time conveying PM‘s
Government. For Example when the government views on various policy issues, the importance of
decided to pass an ordinance to nullify the apex cabinet is not lost as various ministries are
court verdict on section 8(4) of RPA, due to required to provide specialized focus to sector
pressure from the Congress party‘s vice president issues. Thus, cabinet performs a significant role.
the ordinance was withdrawn hurriedly. In fact, a PMO‘s power increases if it provides
Only a strong PMO can help PM fulfill his/her certain level of autonomy and demands
role in the most effective manner. accountability from cabinet ministries. Thus, a
powerful PMO and cabinet are complementary
and not antithetical.
Q--Examine the functions of the Prime
Minister‘s Office. Do you think a powerful

Q---Critically comment on the relationship environment and the procedures should be

between the President and the Prime Minister designed in such a way that there always remains
as envisaged in the Constitution. an opposition and an LoP. May be cabinet post
not given, but surely need participation in crucial
The Hindu appointments.
under article 78, president has right to be

informed of affairs of the union, PM under this
provision is the principal channel of
communication between president and council of What are quasi judicial bodies and how
minister.he advises the president with regard to different are they from judicial bodies such as
appointment of important officials like attorney High courts? Do you think that the increased
general, CAG, EC etc. number of these bodies have diminished the
although the president is nominal executive function, structure and importance of courts?
authority. but as first citizen of India, he act as Discuss. (200 Words)
symbol of unity, integrity and solidarity of
nation.he is embodiment of ultimate authority of 1. The quasi judicial bodies are bodies that
constitution, which moves only on threat to perform the judicial function vestiged out
constitution government. of high court but are not a part of the
integrated judiciary system of India. These
bodies also called Tribunals are different
Q--A recognised leader of the opposition (LoP) from High Courts in various respects.
is necessary for the proper and harmonious 2. The appointment to various tribunals is by
functioning of Parliament and for the working
Central Government.
of several of the recently enacted laws. In the
light of the statement critically comment on the 3. Tthey refer dedicated cases in the area of
selection procedure of LoP and the importance litigation eg. National green tribunal,
of this position in the Parliament and outside. Income Tax Appealate Tribunal, Central
admin. Tribunal etc are specifically
The Hindu focused on environment and tax cases
The party with the second highest seats with at respectively.
least ten percent of seats of the house can claim to
4. The increased number of these bodies has
the post of the Leader of Opposition of that
diminished the structure and importance
house. The LoP leads his party in the house and
of these courts since the firm executive
plays crucial role in functioning of house as well
control on the appointment to these
as government.
bodies undermines the basic tenet of
With the new set of rules of recent decades the
judiciary viz; judicial independence.
LoP in Loksabha plays crucial role in
appointment of CVC, CIC, Director of CBI, 5. and the Finally, the appeal against their
Lokapal and members of NHRC. Apart from this judgement to High/Supreme court is also
the party in opposition provides constructive circuitious vide procedure of special leave
feedbacks to the government policies and petition.
criticizes all poor steps of the government. It also 6. Although The tribunals are a way ahead
poses a potential alternative to the government in for timely disposal of pending litigations
case of crisis to the government. besides the ‗expertise‘ approach which
The opposition party with leadership of LoP is ensures credible decision making and
crucial for better functioning of government. But restores public faith in judiciary, yet there
the changing political scenario and rising regional shall be safeguards for inter-institutional
parties may lead to lack of adequate strength for integration among various tribunals to
any party to form opposition party . So the rules integrate them under the existing judicial
needs to be changed as per the changing political

pyramid and secondaly appointments

need to be freed from political interference
7. SC in chandra kumar case of 1997
declared that those provision of Art.323A
and 323B that are excluded HC & SC from Suggest measures to address the issue of large
adjudicating those matters, for which number of pendency of cases in the Indian
tribunals were made, as un-constitutional. courts.
Judiciary being one of the pillar of democracy

and protector of rights of the citizen is constantly
Question- ―It is only when we have a highly delaying the justice.
efficient and time-bound justice delivery
mechanism that we can proceed to judge the Measures to avoid delay :
merits of death penalty.‖ Comment. (200 Words)
- FIFO : first in first out formula with some
There have been much debate now a days about exemption may work fine as many cases will take
the retention or otherwise of capital punishment, much less time
following the recent Supreme Court judgment, in -Computer : use of computer software to process
which it decided to commute the death penalty cases and accordingly creating average delivering
into life imprisonment citing an inordinate delay time cam be kept as maximum time limit by which
on part of executive in dealing with the mercy certain type of case should be delivered.
petition. -Filling Vacancies : At such a crucial time when
pending cases numbers are in millions urgent
We have the judiciary characterized by the filling of vacancies is needed .
lackluster approach when it comes to delivery of -Ad hoc : huge lot of cases pending in
time bound judgments. There remains a large nationwide high courts may appoint ad hoc judges
backlog of cases which are on increase day after from lower courts after filling in vacancies who
day. may boost the process the similar formula can be
used at apex level.
At such a position, it would be worthless to talk -Review : Case not being implemented in certain
about the merits and retention of Death penalty. period has to be taken up and cross check should
It may be said beyond doubt, that death penalty be done on certain responsible person.
acts as a deterrent for criminals. More Fast tracking the work of high courts may not be
particularly, for the grave crime involving done overnight but right step in the direction is
terrorism and what is called ―the rarest of the must.
rare‖, its importance can‘t be undermined at any
cost. But these all hold true, if and only if we have
highly efficient and time-bound justice delivery
mechanism. The independence of the judiciary is part of the
basic structure of the Constitution. In the light
The executive promptness in dealing with the of recent developments, analyse if this basic
existing cases, the strengthening and structure has been disturbed.
modernization in police, greater accountability of
public institutions and stick adherence to ―rule of
law‖ are some of the things which must be Recent developments in appointment of judiciary
ensured before we fairly introspect on the has brought to fore the conflict among two basic
justifiability or otherwise of the death penalty. structures of constitution ie judicial independence
vs democratic accountability. It therefore needs an
analysis of its pros and cons.

Pros The major drawback of NJAC is that it gives

(a) Brought transparency, objectivity and enough scope for political interference which is
accountability in whole process. threat to judicial independence. It also violates the
(b) Creates a professional judicial HR management basic structure of the constitution and the concept
agency in the form of NJAC. of separation of powers. Also there would be
(c) Included executives who were denied their procedural delay in appointments, tampering with
constitutional role in appointment process. IB reports of a candidate not having good rapport
Cons with the political parties. The bill also allows two
(a) Apparent parity in NJAC membership is members of the commission to scuttle the
actually tilted towards executives because: appointment of an individual, such provision can
selection of two eminent members have greater be misused.
role of executives; veto right may nullify judicial
choices but the opposite also holds true. Definitely, this bill has certain advantages like
(b) Wide criteria of selection, that is open to transparency in selection, more accountability in
legislative pronouncements, may stifle judicial judiciary etc, but this does not meet the purpose
independence with future amendments. for which the collegium was setup. NJAC does not
(c) Constitutional amendment without ratification guarantee the much needed freedom for the
by half of the states is just an indication of future judiciary.
executive intrusions. So to maintain its full-fledged freedom and
(d) Exposure by justice Katju, if true, tell the uprightness, the judiciary should have
vulnerability of judiciary which despite collegium predominant role in the commission. The role of
system was intruded. executive should be limited to transparency only.
Constitution is an organic document. Its judicial In absence of these features, the democracy would
interpretation has strengthened democracy. The be in danger.
present NJAC is not written on stone that can‘t be
changed. Collegium system itself evolved of the
failure of earlier system and so can NJAC be Another Answer..
evolved in future. Only the working of NJAC will
tell whether judicial independence is violated or 1. Some judges and eminents in law say that
not. proposed NJAC is against the fundamental rule of
constitution‘s ―Basic Structure‖
As according to article 50, there is separation
Critically comment on the various criticisms between judiciary and executive
expressed against the proposed National 2. Arguments that, there will be a shift of power
Judicial Appointments Commission. from Chief Justice of India to the Executive of the
day
3. The point which refers to Veto power: any 2
Judicial independence is absolute necessity for members of the commission can veto the
maintaining the rule of law in the country. If appointment to any post, which means
judiciary is under the control of the executive, it 2 eminents or Executive member along with
cannot punish the executive is it violates the law. eminents are enough to make judgement without
regard to 3 persons from judiciary
Immediately after Parliament‘s approval of 99th 4. There are few questions unresolved as to what
Constitution Amendment Bill, there were wide happens if a member is absent from the
spread criticisms on NJAC which will replace the commission during appointment? Is there
collegium in making judicial appointments, a Quorum?
though the bill still awaits ratification by at least 5. There must be opinion for the civilians also
half of the country‘s State legislatures, and then (provided with confidentiality of their details) in
President‘s assent for establishment of NJAC. order to get the true
service done by the member to be appointed.

6. Seniority should not obstruct merit while excluded executive role in appointment. Yet,
appointing members to courts executive dominance is checked by provisions like
7. parameters on whose basis members are veto power and mandatory approval by the
selected should be made public, or they must be President.
brought under the purview of RTI. With NJAC in place it is expected that the judicial
appointment process will be streamlined and will
restore the judicial credibility that has started to
Write a critical note on the highlights and dilute with the current trend in collegium system.
importance of the the 99th Constitution
Amendment Bill that was recently passed by the
Lok Sabha. ―With a proactive role based on the power of
judicial review, the higher judiciary in India has
attained an unprecedented significance.
Ans: The 99th Constitutional ammendment bill However, in the areas of judicial management
passed by Lok Sabha will replace the collegium and appointments, there is little scope for
system of judicial appointment and transfers. It euphoria.‖ Comment. (200 Words)
aims to bring more transparency, accountability
and objectivity in higher judicial appointments. The Hindu
Salient features:
(a) National Judicial Appointment Commission
(NJAC), a 6 member constitutional body consisting Indian judiciary system have played a very
of CJI, two senior most SC Judges, two eminent significant role in reviving people‘s confidence in
persons ( appointed by 3 member panel consisting it by giving landmark judgments in the past
of PM, CJI, LS opposition leader) and law minister whether it is in case of disqualifying convicted
is established and assigned the job of judicial legislature from contesting elections or including
appointments. NOTA option to give people the choice to reject
(b) NJAC will recommend the names of persons candidate or giving punishment in favor of female
on the basis of their ability, merit and other criteria protection and dignity.
to be devised soon. However , it can be noted that the method of
(c) NJAC will have veto power to reject any name appointing judges is not upto the demand of the
if two members oppose that. people. The method of collegium system for
(d) For HC, cheif justice shall be appointed on the appointing judges is failed to be transparent to
basis of inter-se seniority. Other judges shall be people and has brought corruption , nepotism etc.
appointed from the nominations made by chief
justice of that HC in consultation with two senior Hence a robust mechanism should be included in
most judges and views of CM and Governor of the JAC bill which can be effective in bring
state shall also be considered. transparency in judicial system , and remove all
(e) President shall have to make appointment if on loopholes . One way can be to introduce people‘s
reconsideration NJAC sticks to its participation in process and selecting judges on
recommendation. basis of merit ,if implemented can be a historical
Importance achievement in judicial process.
(a) NJAC will remove the mysticism associated
with collegium system. commission it should be ensured that it has the foll
(b) HR planning of judges will be handled characteristics-
professionally thus saving precious judicial time 1) It should be an independent body
and reducing vacancies. 2) All the organs of the state and the citizenry be
(c) Objective criteria for appointment will end represented
arbitrariness. 3) Transparent process of selection(guidelines and
(d) Inclusion of two eminent person will bring criteria of selection should be declared)
public accountibility in the process. 5) It should be effective and accountable
(e) Inclusion of law minister brings the much

6) There should be no predominance either of the Organisations like Amnesty International have
judiciary or of the executive acknowledged that the biggest concern regarding
7) selection should be based on merit CP is the miscarriage of justice,as even innocent
Recently brought JAC bill 2013 in parliament to people are put to death.it even supports the
bring reforms in the judiciary abolishing of CP. Studies have shown that CP
doesn‘t have any credible evidence in its name to
show that it has any deterrent effect on crime.
CP is a revenge masquerading justice.it doesn‘t
Do you support abolition of the capital solve anything ,nor it fixes anything. Certainty of
punishment? Explain why. (200 Words) punishment,not severity is the real deterrent in
crime.
Capital punishment should be continued in Indian please review my answer please.
cirminal jurisprudence.
The death punishment acts as a deterrent against
brutal crimes. Absence of it gives a freehand to the Comment on the shortcomings of criminal
criminal elements and inflists them to wound the justice system t in India. (200 Words)The Indian
society. A brutal crime isn‘t a crime agianst victim Express
only, it is a crime against the cociety. Dealth
sentence relieves the pain and keep the society into discipline needed to be brought urgently into the
normalcy. system by giving lawyers deadlines and enforcing
The punishmetnt is awarded only in rarest of rare them strictly.
cases. SC has given many guidelines from time to
time in this regard. If we look at the CPC, the
death punishment is given to only burtal crimes. Criminal justice system is failing in India as we
To eliminate the error of judgment, enough come across a huge number of reports of crime
safeguads and check points were placed. It can be and injustice meted out on people daily. The
implmeneted only by higher judiciary. Presidential reason being cited here is that it has failed to keep
celemency gives naother round of vetting. A crime up with the changing times and needs of the
came through all these deserve death sentence. people. As of 2011 there were around 3.2 crore
The state has righ and duty of elimination brutal cases pending in various courts across India.
criminals. Because state is the soul of society. An There are a few loopholes in the system
attack on society is an attack on state. Removal of responsible for such as sorry state. The first
vices is necessary for survival of society and loophole is that the courts are chronically under-
prevent chaos. staffed. India has 11 judges per thousand people
Thus, in a nation like India, the capital punishment which is a very low figure compared to the
should eb continued. developed countries such as the US where the
number is as high as 200 per 1000 people. The
A5 reason for the low number is that judges here are
MK Gandhi has rightly said-‖an eye for an eye low paid. Their salaries are not enough when a
makes the whole world blind‖. young graduate passes from a law college, high
Capital punishment is the ultimate denial of salary of corporate world seem lucrative...
human rights,violating the right to life as
proclaimed in the Universal declaration of human The second shortcoming is that of litigations. The
rights..It is a stain on a society built on reasons being lack of computerized records and
humanitarian grounds.Capital punishment was inadequate number of courts to clear pending
opposed by several members of the constituent cases. Therefore the cases continue to drag on for
assembly like Dr. Ambedkar himself saying years altogether. One adverse result of this
that‖people may not follow non-violence in phenomenon is the huge number of under trials
practice but they certainly adhere to it as a moral languishing in Indian jails, who loose the precious
mandate and it is the proper thin g for this state to years of life in jails due to the failure of the system
abolish Capital punishment altogether. to give them justice. This is a serious human rights

violation and of Article 21 of the Indian (v) Politics of patronage and favoritism has bred
Constitution. nepotism. A simple back ground check reveals
that many of the new appointees are either related
Another problem is a very low rate of conviction to existing Judges, or hail from their old offices.
even in grave crimes. Many a times, due to which Thus forms the so called ‗Judge Factories‘.
violent and organized crimes have become the
order of the day and even a profitable business for One More…..
some.
Speedy justice delivery through establishment of The consensus for replacing the present system of
fast track courts for grave crimes like murder and appointment of judges to superior courts by a
rape, simplifying the judicial procedures , bringing collegium of Supreme Court judges can be
about synergy among the judiciary, the uderstood on following grounds.
prosecution and Police, making the system
simpler, faster, cheaper and people-friendly can (a) Extreme secrecy : Collegium system lacks
only restore the confidence of common man in the transparency and is mired with controversial
judicial system which is in urgent need of reforms. selections. PD Dinakaran, AP Shah and Gopal
Subramanium case are living examples of this
obscurity.
Critically examine why there is a consensus for (b) Self selection: it is a unique procedure invented
replacing the present system of appointment of by judiciary that lacks any parallel in the world.
judges to superior courts by a collegium of
Supreme Court judges? Explain. (c) Man power planning: HR planning needs
expertise which judiciary lacks creating large
vaccancies resulting in backlog of cases. It also
There is a consensus because, presently: occupies precious time of judiciary.
1. Judges alone appoint judges. This is a practice
found nowhere in the world. (d) Commited judiciary: Collegium sytem was
2. The system is as opaque as a governance process adopted to insulate judiciary from executive
ever can be. The criteria of short-listing and details intrusions. But, latest revealitions by Jus. Katju has
of consultation are not in public domain. cleared the myth of judicial independence.
3. This arrangement is undemocratic. It vitiates the
‗Separation of Powers‘ doctrine. It tilts the checks (e) Democratic accountability: Indepence of
and balances in favor of judiciary. judiciary is nice, but with accountability it
4. There is no established rigorous procedure. becomes better.
There is a lot of latitude given to the collegium.
That much amount of discretion is unwarranted in Three judges case invented Collegium system to
a ‗rules-based democracy‘. It vitiates the ‗rule of provide cure from executive interventions, but the
law‘ principle and reverts to ‗rule of man‘. cure has become worse than disease. Considering
5. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. all the controversies there is an emergent need to
(i) After collegium came, there has been no modify the judges selection. Passing selection to
Chandrachuds, Bhagavatis or Krishna iyers. (ii) executives considering their records in CVC and
Judiciary has been marred with allegations of CBI appointments is also not feasible. There is a
corruption. Dubious judgments being pronounced need to evolve a selection procedure, an
on the last day in office in office, has become a independent and professional selection body with
norm. domain experts and opening selection criteria to
(iii) Judicial activism has crossed all tolerable RTI to ensure fair appointments.
limits. Judiciary‘s impunity has given it the
courage to legislate morality. The re-instatement of
S. 377 IPC, is a case in point.
(iv) Incompetent judges are causing undue delay.

At present how is the judge of a supreme court

appointed ? Do you think it is a fair system ? Vishakha guidelines…
PIL the best ever move for social justice

The supreme court judges in India subsequent to
the three judge cases, the president has to appoint
judges who has been chosen by the collegium – a But judiciary itself reform to promote more
closed system consisting of chief justice and four women at higher judicial level…..setting up
senior most judges of supreme court. commettees in accordance with vishakha
In words of present chief justice the collegium guideline…more representative ….So that Social
system worked fairly well but, it has been Justice can be promoted…
criticized for being a closed system in which the
union cabinet and parliament has almost no role to Apppintment of High / supreme court issue
play in appointment of judges, opacity and
accountability ,charges of nepotism in unable to ensure that the members of weaker
appointment. recently, a batch of advocates in sections - the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled
madras high court expressed their dissatisfaction Tribes - and women get meaningful representation
on process of shortlisting candidates for in the judiciary.
appointment as judges.
Although the collegium system has served our It recommended that the government make
country fairly well for last couple of decades reservation for S.C.s and S.T.s in the matter of
despite lot of controversies but present socio- appointments of High Court and Supreme Court
economic conditions demand to make it more judges, if need be, by amending the Constitution.
democratic in nature. The Judicial appointment It also wondered how Article 15(4) could not
bill 2013 which establishes a judicial appointment apply to the appointment of judges of the Supreme
commission (JAC) with CJI , two senior most Court and High Courts. Article 15(4) enables the
judges of SC, two eminent persons & law minister State to make any special provision for the
as its member is a move in right direction given a advancement of any socially and educationally
constitutional status to JAC will further eliminate backward classes of citizens or for the S.C.s and
the chances of executive overreach and at the same S.T.s.
will give a wider democratic representation to At present, the majority of the High Courts have
parliament and executive in selecting the provisions in place for reservation in their services
meritorious judges for the prestigious post. for S.C.s and S.T.s. This has been done by framing
maintaining the independence of judiciary. suitable rules for recruitment. However, the
Supreme Court has not made any such rules.
Write a critical note on the role of judiciary in

ensuring social justice in India. (200 Words) The poor administration of the country has
burdened the judiciary with the task of providing
social justice. It has time and again intervened and
provided assistance to the poor and
Constitution of India had given the responsibility disadvantaged class of the society.
to the judiciary to interpret the law so as to The judiciary has provided relief to the poor
provide social justice for the poor and victims. PIL has become very popular means for
marginalised people of the country. the aggrieved to get justice. human right
―The judiciary has played a vital role not only in violations, compensation in endosulphan,
preventing abuse of power but eliminating tightening noose on the political parties etc.
exploitation and injustice Inspite of these shining examples, the role of
judiciary has not been up to the mark. The affluent
Ex--ordering states to release grain from FCI and powerful have many a time gone unpunished
instead of letting them rot.. owing to the loopholes in the justice system. The

delay in justice process has been another problem. remained fair and non discriminatory. It
The compensation has been very small. The delay underlines the long stated ‗ Verdict for rich and
and meager concession in Bhopal Gas case is a powerful‘ . The concept of proven beyond
point in the case. The laxity and delay in unreasonable doubt, has provided loopholes for
enforcement of environmental laws is another escape of these influential people, thus again
example. highlighting the misery of downtrodden and
The judiciary is overburdened with cases. Social weak sections of society.
justice should be seperated from normal civil cases Hence, such events, indicate the need for judicial
as society shapes the future generation. For a reforms, whether in terms of All India Judicial
better future generation, social equity and justice is Services, Judicial Standards and Accountability
must and judiciary is a mean to achieving that bill or in terms of Judicial appointment committee
objective. and other minor reforms in ensuring rule of law
in real terms. Thus, reforms will reaffirm, the
much eroded faith in Judicial impartiality in the
―In India a staggering 30 million cases are said society.
to be pending in the country‘s courts today. And
to tackle this intimidating problem requires
comprehensive judicial reform, more judges of
quality and improvement of the judicial
infrastructure.‖ Critically comment on the need ―The Constitution (120th Amendment) Bill, 2013
for judicial reforms in the context of low in its present form is a threat to judicial
conviction rates in serious crimes committed independence.‖ Critically comment. (250 Words)
against vulnerable sections of the society. (250
Words) Link
Reference
Answer:
Judiciary, the prime body for grievance redressal ,
and mandated to ensure ‗rule of law‘, has given
landmark judgments and decisions for the same, ―Nothing can make for a more powerful case to
but its speed and efficiency is far than abolish the retributive practice of death
satisfactory. The large backlog of cases i.e. 30 sentences than the reformation of individuals
million , huge vacancy of judges, and highly convicted of heinous crimes.‖ Critically
complex, cumbersome process of judiciary , evaluate. (250 Words)
testify the above statement. Some judicial
verdicts, have allegedly, come under scanner of
corruption and misuse of power also. Hence the ―Nothing can make for a more powerful case to
need for judicial reforms is not out of place. abolish the retributive practice of death sentences
Recent judicial verdicts, acquitting the powerful than the reformation of individuals convicted of
Ranvir Sena members, from their conviction by heinous crimes.‖ Critically evaluate. (250 Words)
lower court, in the famous Laxmanpur Bathe In the recent Judgment by Supreme court, the
massacre case, leaving 56 Dalits killed . The court have commuted the death sentence of
previous verdict of lower court, relieving and re- Sushil Kumar for murdering his wife, Naina
affirming the judicial standards and faith of poor Sahni. The Court seems to have placed significant
and vulnerable sections of society in the judiciary, weight on the point that the State had not led any
has been much compromised again by this evidence to show that Sushil Sharma was beyond
acquittal. reformation. By taking the position that the State,
Another case, where a former HC Judge, was while demanding the death penalty, should
found involved in several Cash for Verdict scams, demonstrate that the individual will revert to
has been frozen by the recent HC judgement, such crimes, the Court has brought the focus back
freezing the CBI prosecution. The case points out , on the mitigating circumstances and the
the dilution in judicial verdicts, which has not appropriate burden on the State. It is this aspect

of reformation that was articulated in Bachan in cleaning up Indian politics, which has been
Singh case in 1980 that has been ignored most beset by corruption scandals.
often and the obligation is most certainly on the Judges ruled that ―If a [convicted] person has no
State to show the impossibility of reformation. right to vote, he has no right to contest,‖ .
Individual who have been awarded a death this judgement this could be a boost to the
sentence usually spent a very long time in prison growing demand for more transparency and
before their final fate is decided. In our legal accountability among the political class as parties
system, we have no mechanism to evaluate the may be reluctant to give tickets to those who face
changes they have undergone during this period. a plethora of charges, regardless of their ability to
Some of them are the most trusted prisoners in win an election
the jails in which they are lodged, some others =====You can also talk about how the ‗equality
contribute to the administration of the jail by before law‘ was skewed in favour of legislators,
maintaining records and teaching other prisoners especially with the ones having criminal record.
about work they could do in jail, some others
And about strengthening of democracy, you can
have picked up skills and earned degrees while
analyze the role of judiciary in keeping check on
simultaneously having introspected about their
executive and legislature. And then about rights
time in jail.
of citizens to have clean politics and
Reformation is an issue that is relevant to all
administration.
prisoners who appear before the Court
irrespective of the nature of the crime, age, sex
and social background. Before awarding a final ===The supreme court‘s judgement on debarring
sentence possibility of their reformation must be corrupt MP‘s from contesting elections is a
explored and the system must take an interest in landmark verdict and has a long way to go in
evaluating them as individuals as they are today. Indian Democracy. The Representation of
To argue that an individual cannot be reformed People‘s Act, 1951 provided scanty options for the
because of the crime she has committed is a people of India to keep away criminals and
perverse articulation of what was intended in corrupt politicians from the doorsteps of
Bachan Singh case 1980. Parliament and Legislative Assemblies. Though
the conviction of recent prominent politicians for
their siphoning off of public funds and corrupt
practices has come after two decades of waiting, it
Do you think recent judgement by the Supreme is still a victory for the people. It is a victory for
Court removing the immunity for convicted democracy that the judgement will keep
MPs and MLAs will help clean up politics and convicted politicians from political mainfray and
strengthen democracy in India? Comment ban them from contesting elections for atleast
another decade.
This judgement will have its serious effects in the
.1 Yes , the decision taken by supreme court is coming days as well, because of the elaborative
commendable and plausible , this judgement will list of corruption cases, disproportionate assets
not only improve indian political system but will cases and criminal charges under many
also prevent other MP‘s and MLA‘s to commit parliamentarians. As an immediate practice, this
further crimes. judgement will motivate people s representatives
According to the Association for Democratic to keep away from corrupt practices. In the long
Reforms (ADR), a non-profit organisation that term, this judgement by the Supreme Court will
campaigns for transparency and accountability in force all mainstream political parties to field good
public life, out of 4,807 members of Parliament candidates with clean background and
(MPs) and members of the legislative assemblies progressive track record for elections.
(MLAs) analysed by it, 1,406, or 30%, face
This as a result will have a positive and direct
criminal cases. 688 sitting MPs/MLAs are facing
impact on democracy in India. Good
serious criminal charges against them
Parliamentarians can make good laws and
nevertheless, they are lawmakers. it a major step
effective governments. A good Government will verdicts often prescribes for the capital
always consult the people in formulating policies punishment in rarest of the rare case. The cases
and take the people into confidence for its ending with a verdict of capital punishment has
implementation and thereby resulting in inclusive increased at the level of lower courts and most of
development. Inclusive Development can be them seemed to result of some external factors.
attributed as a sign of good democracy Media trial is one of the reasons of motivating the
judgments. The media on its own sensitizes the
In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in issue and end up in changing minds of judgment.
murder cases awarding of the death penalty is This sensitization often motivates public to
an exception and life sentence is the rule, lower protest. These protests at large scale pressurize
courts are increasingly giving death sentences
their representatives and for the vote bank these
owing to some unwarranted external factors.‖
political bosses often intervene in the matter and
Critically comment. (200 Words)
changing the verdict of the lower court. The story
Ans.The recent apex court decisions in 2 cases of not always begins with media, sometimes public
murder convicts being given life imprisonment on its own protests and demand for the capital
rather than capital punishment are glaring punishment due to emotions and empathy.
examples of changing stance of supreme court on Over and above these factors there are some
application of rarest of rare case criteria. It can be technical reasons also. The Supreme Court which
said that the recent judgments are so that we often advocates the capital punishment for the
develop a more clear view of the conditions rarest of the rare case has not defined clearly
under which the crime was committed. what these rarest of the rare cases consists of. The
Lower courts resorting more and more to the judges sitting in the lower courts are not
provision of capital punishment in murder cases experienced and often get confused, end up in
brings attention to the fact that either there is no choosing capital punishment for murder or
proper understanding and clear cut delineation of equivalent crimes.
boundary of the application of rare clause or the Media trial should be checked and public anger
lack of juridical experience to counter the various should be dealt with some innovative solution
factors that affect the trial viz. media reporting , and not allowed to violate integrity and ethics.
public perception and demand or expectation The more concrete solution would be; either the
which ends up in a biased decision . The onus of capital punishment should be replaced with
seeing each and every aspect of the case then falls absolute life imprisonment or there should be
on the higher judiciary which generally is clear guideline in deciding whether a case is
reversing death penalties now-a-days. rarest of the rare or not.
However the need of the hour is the role reversal In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in
of lower judiciary that needs to be done to save murder cases awarding of the death penalty is
the time , capital wasted in pursuing the case in a an exception and life sentence is the rule, lower
higher court for the lack of a unbiased and courts are increasingly giving death sentences
thoroughly understood decision.This will reduce owing to some unwarranted external factors.‖
the cases in higher courts as well as increase the Critically comment. (200 Words)
confidence in judicial system of the country. • SC has categorically stated that death penalty is
to be imposed in the rarest of the rare cases where
the community‘s collective conscience is so
In spite of the Supreme Court‘s ruling that in
shocked that it expects the judiciary to inflict
murder cases awarding of the death penalty is
death penalty. It can be awarded when fair, just
an exception and life sentence is the rule, lower
and proper procedure has been followed.
courts are increasingly giving death sentences
• Indian trial courts award about 130 death
owing to some unwarranted external factors.‖
sentences every year but SC upholds only 3-4 of
Critically comment. (200 Words)
them. While it is not possible to develop specific
guidelines, the wide latitude in definition of
India has not struck capital punishment from its
rarest of rare term has increased the number of
punishment provisions. Supreme Court in its

death penalties. candidate with no previous interaction with the

• An objective analysis of shocking collective selection panel has little to no chance of getting
conscience is impractical because of wide cultural, recommended. As a result focus shifts from
religious, racial and geographical divisions in performance towards keeps existing judges in
India. While lynching of thieves won‘t race much good humour.
eyebrows in Bihar, Sati is a relatively minor issues 3. Appointment / Transfer can still be denied by
in Rajasthan executives. Thus executives having a final say is
• Media trial has also started influencing public unhealthy in appointment to an independent
opinion. In Aarushi case, media has carried out institution like judiciary. This again promotes
the trial and proclaimed the victim going beyond political favour , bias and inequality.
the doctrine of presumed innocent till As it currently stands the system does call for
pronounced guilty. It is possible to sway public reform,
opinion by way of technology and this can have a Appointment of a judicial appointment
negative effect on judicial system. Judges are also committee as envisaged by JAC bill wherein both
part of the same society and this can make them the judiciary and executive have an equal say
amenable to such influences. would be an welcome step. This will eliminate
• Article 21 gives the state power to deprive any of two authority having a last say increasing
someone of his life provided due procedure is acceptability of decision taken by the committee.
followed. Judges are set to objectively analyse any It will also incentivise performing candidates and
case. In light of the changing socio-economic discourage bias and prejudice.
milieu, they should be trained and sensitised for a The Hindu
fair assessment.
Critically comment on the reforms needed in

.Critically evaluate merit and functioning of the Indian judiciary
collegium system in India. Do you think this
system either needs reform or replacement with judiciary being one of the major pillars of
a different system? Critically examine. democracy needs to maintain a clean image of
itself. But recently by and large, judiciary has
The Hindu been dragged into number of controversies. Cash
Collegium system is designed to recommend at home, Collegium system of opaque
selection and transfer of judges in Supreme Court appoinments,large pendency of cases that run
and high court. longer than ones lifespan,judicial overreach by
It consists of CJI and 4 senior most judges of extending to execuitve domain etc.Though
Supreme Court who makes recommendations to certainly judicairy acts as a custodian of
President. Executive however is not bound by the constitutuin and its right,but reforms in judiciary
decision and can turn down an appointment on are being long awaited.
cogent reasons. 1)Reforms include bringing transparency in
The system is not mentioned in Constitution and judges appointent.-Formation of All India Judicial
was born out of several Supreme court‘s service can be thought of in this regard.
judgement where court asserted that its views 2)Each and every case should not be
should be considered while making entertained,only cases based on urgency and
appointments and transfer in judiciary to check merit should be enteratined-Pendency of cases
undue interference of executives . will be reduced.
It has however come under criticism as : 3) Institunal level grievance redressal mechanism
1. It encourages favouritism and nepotism as only needs to be strengthened slothat pety matters
those having good repo and contacts with CJI can dont reach the court.
make it to the selection. 4) Sparing and judicious use of PIL by the public
2. Although it does not discourage merit it does should be encouraged by settling public spirited
not encourage it either way because a meritorious
PIL in fast track rather than entertaining all PIL‘s the middle class plays right into the hands of the
5) Lok adalats and other alternate dispute media by focusing only on that area.
settlement options should be publicized and
There is an urgent need to bring an end to this
mutual solving of problems at grass root levels
practice that violates the rights and also ends up
should be encouraged.
in biasing the trial.An informed public and media
6) Judge to case ratio is very poor in our country.
should be self restraining so that the dual
More judges need to be directly recruited.Legal
objective of voicing the public concerns and right
Infrastructure should be augmenetd to meet this
to fair trial do not end up taking each other down.
objective. Law should be publicized as a lucrative
career for zealous youth.
7) Last but not the least, Use of technology shold
be made in managing cases,hearing through
video conferencing etc. all in all a single window
―The Supreme Court has categorically laid
approach should be made available with the help
down that bandh/hartal is unconstitutional and
of technology for everything peratining to
the State has the obligation to protect the citizen
judiciary
against it.‖ Despite SC‘s framing guidelines in
2009 to recover costs
It is observed that the media and the collective from bandhorganizers, neither the States nor the
public sentiment are increasingly influencing Central government have taken any action to
the outcome of court judgements. Is natural put in place a legislation, or fast track
justice a victim here? Does this affect certain mechanism consistent with the guidelines.
class of society? Critically analyze. (250 Words) Comment on the unconstitutional
nature of bandhs and inaction of governments in
Ans.Indian constitution was written by our implementing court order. (200 Words)
forefathers with exceptional depth and after
rigorous discussions. The ‗rule of law‘ and the
provision of right to equality before law and
Bandhs or hartals have been used as a form of
equal protection of laws brings out the vision that
protest by political parties, pressure groups in our
a fair trial was to be provided to the accused.Any
country since long time. These bandhs throw the
violation of the rule resulted in Judiciary stepping
life in state out of gear and jeopardize the safety
in to provide justice. But recent pronouncements
of people.
by the courts in Kasab case to Delhi gangrape
Bandhs generally includes forcible closure of
cases of giving death penalty to the convicts bring
shops and business establishments, destruction of
out a peculiar case of satisfying the collective
property both public and private, disruption of
conscience of the people.
public transport system etc. It also leads to
Justice to those who were the affected by the acts disruption in supply of essential commodities like
of those convicted is the duty of the judiciary but food, water, medicines and electricity, cause law
it should be done in an unbiased manner so that and order problems like riots and certain
the principles of natural justice are not casualties. The aforesaid impacts of bandh forced
violated.But the role of media and public are SC to declare it unconstitutional on grounds of
becoming questionable as the acts of Media trial violation of fundamental rights 14, 19 and 21. It
and public trial are making the judiciary biased in also laid guidelines for state to penalize the
taking the decision in order to satisfy what needs organizers for damaging public authority.
to be done rather than what has to be done and Though these have not yet been implemented by
thus natural justice becomes a victim here. the state govt. as many a times the political party
Also in the cases involved there are two classes organizing bandh is the same which is in power
that are affected by this i.e. the lower and upper and even if it is being organized by some other
class. Cases involving the two mostly end up in a party, they let it continue just to settle their
question over the ‗character‘ of the accused and political scores and use the situation for vote bank
politics.

Till now the political parties had sacrificed our numbers encroaches upon the executive
democratic values at the altars of personal decision making authority? What is the opinion
pursuits, but with judicial activism & electoral of SC on the issue of judicial overreach?
reforms we will reach a stage where parties will Explain. (250 Words)
uphold the democratic legacy passed down by • Montesquieuan principle of separation of
our founding forefathers and wont squabble for powers tasks the legislature with policy
petty political gains. formulation, executive with implementing policy
and judiciary with interpretation of laws.
• Judicial overreach occurs when judiciary takes
======• Article 19 confers on citizens to form
into its hands matters of policy implementation.
political associations and trade unions. But it does
Indian Supreme Court has taken matters into its
not confer on the right to strike, which is a legal
own hands either due to executive incompetence,
right. Supreme Court has said that bandh is an
under public sway or to curb the narrow-minded
illegal strike which has a coercive nature. It
policies of legislature or executive. While PIL has
violates the right of life [Art.21] of citizens as it
been the preferred method of activism, Judiciary
prevents them from earning their livelihood and
has also started cognisance of matters suo motu.
violates their freedom of speech [Art.19].
• SC itself has said that it is not activism as PIL
• Bandh is a general strike which is not confined
merely introduces people-friendly procedures for
to a particular sector. It thus abrogates the basic
addressing people‘s grievances with judiciary. SC
right of citizens and is unconstitutional. Hartal, if
is tasked with maintaining a balance between FR
confined to a particular sector is not illegal,
and DPSP and their interpretation has to be in
however proper procedure is to be followed
context of changing socio-politico-economic
while going on a strike.
milieu.
• While executive has the option to apply
• Aadhar scheme for biometric data collection has
essential Services Maintenance Act [ESMA] for
been functioning on the basis of an executive
essential services, there are no clear guidelines on
order. It has no legal backing and it was proposed
its usage. SC has framed guidelines and has ruled
to be voluntary. Various concerns were raised
to recover costs from the bandh organisers.
regarding right to privacy of citizens, many
However there has been no legislation to this
services have mandated the use of Aadhar and
effect.
the efficacy of the technology. Cabinet recently
• Gandhi himself used this device but made sure
rejected all parliamentary considerations while
that it did not increase the suffering of common
clearing the UIDAI bill.
man. Nearly all political parties regularly resort
• Yet all these are executive issues and judicial
to bandhs and this has led to inaction. Instead of
intervention should be based on the legality of
following democratic process of participation,
affairs and not on the environment which led to
parties prefer to raise sentiments by way of
policy formulation, which is a prerogative of
bandhs. Since no action can be taken against them
legislature. SC should not dwell into assessing the
legally, this has become a favourite device of
correct way of policy formulation and as such, its
voicing dissent.
recent order does mimic activism to some extent.
• Recent bandh in AP where even basic services
• While mutual checks and balances are
have suffered highlights the narrow vision of
necessitated for the functioning of a democracy,
parties succumbing to this device. SC has recently
caution should be exercised while transgressing
sought a reply from the executive on the lack of
one‘s domain of constitutionally mandated
action. What is needed is that legislature should
powers.
frame a comprehensive policy in this regard so as
to reduce the plight of common man
What is judicial overreach? Does the SC order Analyze the ethical issues involved in clinical
on Aadhar scheme putting critical restrictions trials involving human volunteers. What is the
against the use and distribution of UID present status of clinical trial rules in India.

Explain in the light of recent Supreme Court A comprehensive and effective oversight system
verdict. (200 Words) is essential to uniformly protect the rights and
ANS:- Protecting the rights and welfare of those welfare of participants while permitting ethically
who volunteer to participate in research is a and scientifically responsible research to proceed
fundamental tenet of ethical research. A great without undue delay
deal of progress has been made in recent decades 5:- Education, Certification, and Accreditation
in changing the culture of research to incorporate Protecting the rights and welfare of research
more fully this ethical responsibility into protocol participants is the major ethical obligation of all
design and implementation. parties involved in the oversight system, and to
A series of scandals concerning social science provide these protections, all parties must be able
research and medical research conducted with the to demonstrate competence in research ethics—
sick and the illiterate underlined the need to that is, conducting, reviewing, or overseeing
systematically and rigorously protect individuals research involving human participants in an
in research. However, the resulting system of ethically sound manner
protections that evolved out of these rising In india, One hundred and fifty-seven human
concerns—although an improvement over past clinical trials were approved last year while just
practices—is no longer sufficient. It is a five managed to pass muster this year. The
patchwork arrangement associated with the differentiating factor was this: the trials cleared
regulatory review and approval of new drugs last year by the Drug Controller General of India
and devices. In addition, it depends on the were on the recommendation of only the New
voluntary cooperation of investigators, research Drug Advisory Committee, while the five cleared
institutions, and professional societies across a this year went through the new three-tier
wide array of research disciplines. Increasingly, regulatory regime that came into effect this
the current system is being viewed as uneven in January following the Supreme Court‘s directive.
its ability to protect the rights and welfare of This huge difference in the number of approved
research participants and promote ethically trials clearly reflects how a radical shift in priority
responsible research. — placing the well-being of volunteers and
The ethical issues involved in clinical trials benefits to the medical needs of the country much
involving human volunteers are as follow:- higher than the interests of pharmaceutical
1:- Respecting Research Participants companies — has drastically cut down the
Whether testing a new medical treatment, number of eligible trials. The SC directive to
interviewing people about their personal habits, reassess the 157 trials using the stringent
studying how people think and feel, or observing regulatory norms is welcome move.
how they live within groups, research seeks to Conducting human clinical trials is absolutely
learn something new about the human condition. necessary even if animal trial results are
Unfortunately, history has also demonstrated that promising. But human safety is supreme.
researchers sometimes treat participants not as
persons but as mere objects of study
2:- Ensuring Independent Review of Risks and
Potential Benefits
participants are susceptible to coercion or are
otherwise placed in vulnerable situations; and Q-Do you think the appointment of the Chief
monitoring ongoing research. Justice of India should be solely based on
3:- Compensating for Harms seniority alone? Critically comment.
Despite all precautions, however, some research
participants might be harmed. Participants who The Hindu
are harmed as a direct result of research should
be cared for and compensated Article 124 of the Constitution of India mandates
that there shall be a chief justice of India.
4:- Establishing a Comprehensive, Effective, and However, no specific provision is made to the
Streamlined System appointment of CJI. So, same rules are followed

as other judges and senior most judge is made Where 323 A refers to Administrative tribunals
CJI. and 323 B refers to other matters like taxation,
CJI holds the highest judicial position in India. He foreign exchange, import, export, industrial and
appoints the constitutional benches and allocates labour, land reforms etc.
the cases to them. Composition -These tribunals are specialised in
nature ,with specialists of the concerned field
Seniority is considered as a measure of the looking after the matter with speedy justice.
experience and wisdom of the judges. It provides Relationship with executive is more or less as the
a legitimate opportunity to the SC judges to be initiator of the tribunals with the spirit of
appointed as the CJI. objective criteria also seeks autonomy in its decision making notwithstanding
to reduce the corruption and the nepotism in the now a days day to day interference is a
judicial appointments, thereby , bringing routine.The judiciary commands appeal for the
transparency into the system. orders issued by these tribunals.
However, consideration of the seniority as the However ,these tribunals have been facing
sole criteria reduces the efficacy of the post. This various challenges such as violation of rule of law
should not override benefits of a stable leadership ,natural justice ,overlapping ,non accountability
in public interest. In the last twenty years the ,non participative nature ,out of bound of RTI.All
country has had 16 CJI`s with only a few with a these need to be considered with keeping in mind
tenure exceeding two years. He can no take long that tribunals should function under statutory
term reform in judicial system. Sometime Last law ,which in turn should work under spirit of
few months are spend in personal work like constitutionalism
pension, gratuity, debriefing next junior etc
considering seniority as the sole criteria would
not be adequate. The recent JAC bill has proposed
for commission for appointment and transfers of Q--What were the highlights of the
SC and HC judges would provide greater lapsed Judicial Standards and Accountability
consultation between the executive and judiciary , Bill? Why was the bill introduced? Explain.
thereby bringing greater efficiency into the
system. The Hindu
Judicial Standards and Accountability bill
was introduced to bring the transparency in
the judicial process of the country, and deal
with the charges of existing corruption in
Critically comment on the nature of tribunals, the judicial system. As of now there exists
their composition and their relationship with no law which can allow the common people
the executive and judiciary. to complaint against any misconduct by the
judges. The bill was to fill the lacunae, and
Business Standard for the same purpose the bill had following
The era of information revolution ,good provisions:
governance ,corprate governance forced the 1. Oversight committee: The bill envisaged
government to come out with alternative dispute to create an oversight committee under a
resolution mechanisms ,tribunals is one of them. former CJI to take the complaints against
Nature —tribunals are being formed under judges. If the complaint is of the CJI, then
executive or statutory order which limits its funds the oversight committee was supposed to
,functionaries and functions.The are not governed look into the matter itself. For other judges
by criminal or civil procedure code or indian it was supposed to give the case to an
evidence act. scrutiny panel.
There was no provision for Tribunal originally in 2. Scrutiny panel: The panel for the cases
the constitution but subsequently in 1976, related to a judge of SC was to contain two
Parliament Article 323 A and 323 B to start the judges of supreme court nominated by the
tribunals. CJI. And for a judge of high court, two

judges from high court nominated by the government. The lack of efficiency at executives‘
chief justice of the high court. level and PILs filed to consider the wellbeing of
The scrutiny panel was supposed to give the masses probably prompted the court to do so.
report of its investigation to the oversight The court has in many recent cases constituted
committee. If the report given by the panel committees to look after a certain area. The
does not confirm the charges then the committees mostly headed by its former judges
oversight panel rejects the complain, else a are looking into many cases such as black money,
investigation panel was to be set up for the cricket betting, and Road safety and so on. The
further investigation. court though it‘s various benches is also
3.Investigation panel: The panel was supervising many important cases such as 2G
supposed to investigate on the charges and spectrum, coalgate etc.
give the report back to the oversight panel. This proactive approach of the court though
And then oversight panel was to take the sometime considered as undue encroachment to
necessary action. the legislative and executive organs of the
Though the bill was passed by the Loksabha constitution and causing more strain to its
but the Rajya sabha halted it because of the overburdened infrastructure, it has resulted into
following reasons: many positive outcomes which otherwise were
1.Piecemeal bill: The bill does not dealt with not seemed possible in the realm of incumbent
the selection but only accountability. governments and its officials.
2. There was no proper representation of the The overreaching behaviour of the court, as it
executives. sometimes may be dubbed into, is often the result
3.The bill does not mentioned the of lax approach of the concerned and the court
composition of investigation panel. And the while taking a balanced approach must intervene
composition of the scrutiny panel cast doubt as and when required to justify the role the
on its impartiality. constitution makers have given to it.
4. The bill said the punishment was to be in
tandem with the crime of judges. But as the In the words of Gandhi .‖For democratic ideology
reputation of judges must be beyond all to become mass ideology , it should be taken to
doubt, thus this provision was questionable. the heart of the masses‖.For masses to believe in
Because of all theses reasons, the bill was the system , the balance of legislature , executive
forwarded to a committee to suggest and judiciary is crucial . On this context , it has be
necessary amendments, but it lapsed with analyzed whether judicial activism upholds or
the dissolution of the 15th Loksabha. upsets the balance.
 t mandatory declaration of asset and Supreme court ‗s decision should be seen from
liabilities..this can also be added the intent and object of the decision . If the intent
is to seek to know where the Lakshman Rekha
can be drawn in interpretation of the act , it is
highly commendable .On the other hand , if it is
Q--Critically comment on Supreme Court‘s intended to overpower the legislature and
decision to set-up committees headed by its executive in their jurisdiction , it sets a recipe for a
judges to look into matters beyond its democratic disaster. Judiciary till 1970s had an
jurisdiction. Do you think proactive and interpretative role and it is after the
overreaching judiciary is necessary to India? Keshavananda Bharthi case s introduction of
Comment. basic structure of the constitution , it changed its
course . Wider interpretation of Life to liberty in
Business Standard Maneka Gandhi case to introduction if Public
Interest Litigation without locus standi are
The Supreme Court being the guardian and final noteworthy interventions of judiciary.
interpreter of the constitution has endowed upon At the same time , policy directions are the
itself many tasks which were earlier thought only responsibilities of the legislature and executives
to be in the exclusive domain of executives and and any disrespect to that severely undermines

the very democratic process. It is the public guarantee that their productivity will
confidence on these representatives that increase/decrease with the aging.
empowers them to draft legislation .Unless such • Increasing working hours of courts and
legislations are unreasonable according to the Reduction of vacation period:
constitution, the intervention undermines the Judicial exhaustion can reduce the efficacy of the
public confidence . Judges and can also partially eclipse the true
From the last two decades , though there have purpose of delivering justice as the focus would
been anecdotal evidences of gross misuse of primarily be on disposing off more case rather
judicial powers ,the judiciary in majority of the than the just judgments.
cases has upheld the democratic principles suo • Setting up evening courts and additional courts:
motto. For a highly populated country like India would be partially successful in handling new
with decreasing moral standards in public life cases
and a gross disrespect for civic virtues ,judicial • Setting up E courts :would increase the ease of
activism is not alone desirable but a sheer access to judiciary, and as a result more filings
necessity. will happen. Thus the burden of the courts will
further increase.
Possible Solutions to the pendency problem:
Q--Critically comment the reasons behind the 1. Creating a National Judicial Talent Pool:
increasing pendency of cases in Indian law One of the reasons for non filling of judicial posts
courts. How this problem can be solved? is the non availability of efficient judges. Creation
Suggest measures. of National Judicial Talent Pool, by conducting a
competitive test can augment this.
The Hindu 2. Ad hoc Judicial Officers: The Ad hoc judges
According to PRS legislative research: As on 30th will be appointed for a honorarium to handle
September, 2010, a total of 2.8 crore cases are newly filed cases and the appointment will be on
pending in subordinate courts and 42 lakh in a per case basis. A judge cannot take up more
High Courts. Approximately 9% of these cases than one case at a time and only after disposal of
have been pending for over 10 years and a further the current case, a new case can be taken up.
24% cases have been pending for more than 5 3. Utilising untapped resources in Public and
years.2 Private Sectors for Judicial work: Due to a variety
Reasons for increasing pendency of cases: of reasons including lack of minimum wages in
• increase in institution of fresh cases; legal profession, a number of bright law
• inadequate number of judges and vacancies graduates enter paid employments, there by
• inadequate physical infrastructure and staff; depriving themselves the chance to join judicial
• frequent adjournments services, and depriving the nation their services.
• Absence of qualified personnel Practice requirement for higher judiciary should
• Over indulgence of judicial time in ministerial be done away with and instead, National Judicial
processes. Talent Rankings and Judicial Standards
• Non standardization of judicial performance Monitoring Authority Rankings should be taken
parameters as the basis for selection to all levels of judiciary.
• Ineffective utilisation of technology. 4. Independent Judicial Standards Monitoring
• High Cost in maintaining judicial Authority: There should be an independent
establishment. Judicial Standards Monitoring Authority, which
Solutions as proposed by Govt and its analysis: will rank judicial officers based on well defined
• Litigation Policy: avoiding unnecessary parameters of efficiency
litigation is akin to killing a patient to increase the 5. Strengthening E courts: E-courts as currently
efficiency of the health care system. envisaged by the judicial and legislative think
• Increasing retirement age of incumbent judges : tanks, is just a judicial workflow management
increasing the age will not be proportional to mechanism rather than an alternative mechanism
increase in number of judges and also there is no for dispensation of justice. IT platforms are
capable of holding and facilitating the entire

judicial process which will ensure mainstreaming discarding their importance ( The Shah Bano case
of judicial processes. is still fresh in our minds) lest it been seen as an
6. Strengthening and utilising Legal Educational enemy of Muslim people. People may continue
Institutions for Justice Dispensation: Apart from approaching them for advice and arbitration on a
reducing the arrears of the courts it can also help voluntary basis but their orders will only be
in building next line of good lawyers. binding on people willing to obey them ( subject
7. Enhancing Alternative Dispute Resolution to the constitutional supremacy of not being
Mechanisms: Alternative Dispute Resolution violative of Fundamental Rights). SC has played
Mechanisms should be seen as complimentary it‘s part as a gurdian of constitution to perfection.
and not as a substitute for formal judicial process.
Combination of both conventional and alternate
dispute resolution mechanisms need to be
employed. This could be made possible by
strengthening the existing ARD mechanisms, as Q---Critically examine the linkage between
well as by find new ADR mechanisms, to work resource allocation for the judiciary by the
supplemental to the conventional dispute government and the pendency of cases in India.
resolution mechanism of courts.
Business Standard
 ―Finances are the bloodlines of any
organisation‖..
To this above simple rule Judiciary is not an
Q-Critically comment on the existence of Sharia exception. India being the largest
courts in the country and the opinion of the democracy and aspiring to be the
Supreme Court on their rulings. superpower have to have deal with the
disputes. This has given to the mounting of
The Hindu cases to 30 million, many of which will be
Muslim personal laws are governed by various solved after the essence is lost.
laws , The Dissolution of Muslim Marriage Act Without finances the process and progress
1939 , Muslim Women ( Protection of Rights on of the system comes to standstill. Indian
Divorce) Act 1986 , Hanafi law etc. However budgetary allocation is paltry stands only
these are to be adjudicated and decided upon by 0.11 to 0.4 making the mockery of entire
the normal legal structure present in the country judiciary system.
through the Indian Judicial system. The Dar al 
Qazi ( personal courts based on sharia law  Unlike for critical issues of health and
appointed by All India Muslim Personal Law education there is no representative voice of
Board ) thus originally never had legal backing. judiciary in Budget making. Due to this
This has been recently substantiated by a SC poor funding Judiciary has suffered in
ruling that such courts have no legal support and following manner :
their orders are not binding upon the people ( the a. Number of judges in India at 10.5 per
illegality of Fatwas). At best they can be seen as million population is far lower than
clarification body as to ways and means sharia recommended figure of 50 judges per
laws could be synchronized with the existing million population. Due to lack of judges
legal structures. Thus SC has fulfilled it‘s serving judges are overloaded with work
constitutional mandate of protecting the thus drawing cases for long.
Fundamental rights of it‘s citizens. ( Recent b. Due to poor remuneration, judiciary has
Imrana case , the decision of the Muslim failed to attract best of the talent to bench.
panchayat was violative of the fundamental right Highly paid lawyers see no gain in opting
and anybody who would force her to follow the for it. This leads to incompetence in
dictat would be in violation of Indian constitution judiciary thus delays.
and SC would deal with them appropriately) . c. Government which is a party to 60% of
Also SC has shown a great maturity by not the cases pending at higher judiciary has no

incentive to push the court cases as the same c. Moral : By withdrawing his candidature Mr.
is not leading to higher budgetary Subramnium has averted a constitutional face off
allocation. between judiciary and executive. The moral
d. Courts sit of cases which are related to responsibility of this controversy however lies
laws passed by legislatures, but at the same with executive.
time there is no impact assessment of such
laws on the workload of judiciaries. This
would lead to appropriate allocation of
funds. Q-―The contemporary practice of Public Interest
Litigation (PILs) has atrophied and morphed
into a format that has lost sight of this original
Q--Examine how the collegium system to choose political and constitutional justification.‖
new judges works in India. In the light of recent Critically comment.
controversy over the appointment of a judge to
the Supreme Court, critically comment on the PIL were envisaged as the instruments to the
political, constitutional and moral issues arising provide justice to the poor and marginalized
out of the controversy. sections.
 The political motives have led to reducing
The Hindu the efficacy of the instrument. The majority
Appointment of judges has been subjected to of the PIL application come from the states
scrutiny of Supreme court. Ultimately in Third such as Delhi and Punjab and there is lesser
Judges Case, SC declared that appointment of representation from the states with
Judges to SC and HC will be done by President considerable poor and marginalized
on advice of a collegium of judges consisting of sections. Moreover, the success rates of the
Chief Justice and four senior most judges of SC. litigation filed by wealthy section is 73
Any advice tendered to President shall be percent , significantly higher than the 47
binding. Thus collegium became the appointing percent rate of success for the
authority for SC and HC judges. Over the years disadvantaged social class.
there have been many instances where questions  .
have been raised against it. First, it does not The PILs filed by Shiksha Bachao Andolan
provide enough checks, transparency and for removing the objection material from the
accountability in appointment of judges. Second, NCERT or the ones filed for strengthening
over the years this has led to favoritism, nepotism and consolidating the interests of the IAS
and neglect of meritocracy. There is an opinion community, among others, highlight that
that to make appointment more transparent the instrument which was meant to provide
another appointing body should be formed. On a justice to the marginalized sections has
positive side it has ensured autonomy and reduced into an instruments for partisan
independence of judiciary. considerations. The courts have become a
Recent controversy was because government forum for such oblique considerations.
returned G. Subramanium‘s name, which was It is essential that the poor and the
recommended by collegium. Dimension involved marginalized sections have an access to the
in controversy : judicial system for safeguarding their
a. Political : Due to Mr. Subramanium‘s interests. It should be ensured that PIL
involvement in politically relevant cases it should retain its relevance and do not lose
appears that government is trying to punish him the objectives which inspired its creation.
for taking stand against them.
b. Constitutional : By bringing in vested interest
in returning Mr. Subramnium‘s name the Public interest litigation (PIL) was invented
executive is undermining judiciary‘s in 1970‘s to bring the focus of Indian
independence and disregards doctrine of judiciary towards the plight of marginalized
separation of power. section and unheard voices of society. It has

been able to deliver justice and redress the government to an extent. Third DSPEA is now
grievances of the poor people. But in the more compliant with the Prevention of
new millennium, PIL is being transformed Corruption act.
from
. Issues like cricket and corruption etc which It removes conflict of interest as the very group of
were more popular in media were accepted officers who may be the target of the inquiry get
for regular hearing. So we may conclude to decide whether the probe should be allowed or
that PILs today are not exclusively focused not.
on remedying deficient access to the courts. Notwithstanding the political interference, the
CBI over the years have been adding to its
Another controversy with use of PIL is that powers, aided by some Supreme Court
by using this anti-democratic and judgments (Vineet Narain case, coal mining rights
illegitimate people can halt the govt. allotment case etc) as well as certain government
development process and program. initiatives. Caution must be taken not to allocate
the Shiksha Bachao Andolan Samiti, a front political autonomy at the expense of
organisation for the Rashtriya unaccountability to such a powerful organization
Swayamsevak Sangh, filed PILs to remove which must ultimately be answerable to some
―objectionable material‖ in National Council democratic institute. Additionally in an
of Educational Research and Training atmosphere of policy as well as functional
(NCERT) textbooks and thereby bring paralysis, an over vigilant CBI can add to the
―Indianness in the field of education.‖ existing inertia in bureaucracy.
Shisksha-Bachao-Andolan in bringing Besides the judgement is not the final answer to
Dongier‘s book on Hindus off-stores. CBI‘s perils. CBI today is saddled with multitude
PIL is a radical procedural innovation that of tasks without matching manpower, forensic
allows the court to overcome conventional, resources and financial strength. It is also
constitutional norms of the separation of dependent in most cases for preliminary
powers, dilute procedural norms and devise investigation on the state police and the CID
unique and far-reaching institutional which have been ignored even more acutely.
remedies. This may only be justified if it is Finally a judicial remedy to the institute
used by marginalized n unheard section of accountable to legislature has not been proven
society. very effective. The scant respect shown to the it‘s
It is essential for the court to revitalize PILs directives by the central and most of the state
by constraining them to their foundational governments in the ShriPrakash Singh judgement
justification on police reforms is a pointer.
 A piecemeal judicial remedy to solve its
problems may not prove very effective. CBI
Q-Critically comment on Supreme Court‘s today is saddled with multitude of tasks
ruling that the Section 6A of the Delhi Special without matching financial and functional
Police Establishment Act as unconstitutional autonomy. Hence, a thorough structural
and examine the implications of this ruling. overhaul of DSPEA is required to release the
‗caged parrot‘.
The Supreme Court recently held as invalid A strong political will must be the
Section 6A of the Delhi Special Police underlying basis for CBI reforms for them to
Establishment Act(DSPEA), which granted be sustainable.
protection to joint secretary and above officers
from facing even a preliminary inquiry by the CBI In negatives- With the over vigilant CBI,
in corruption cases. mention the corruption done by certain CBI
The judgement is significant on several counts. officials too, thus making it draconian.
One it strengthens the constitution‘s commitment In weaknesses of CBI- administrative
to towards equality of law for everyone enshrined control of CBI is still with government.
in Article 14. Two it reduces CBI‘s dependence on

Ministries and Departments (of Union and in check so that the power remains in the political
State govts.) domain and balance be maintained
What are the functions and responsibilities of

the Ministry of Statistics, government of India? Pressure Groups & Formal, Informal
Examine. associations (and their role in the polity)
―The ‗apolitical‘ character of our armed

forces and their subordination to the Q-Do you support regulation of media in India
political leadership were deliberately and by the government? Justify your answer and
carefully nurtured in the early years of the also suggest alternate measures. (200 Words)
republic.‖ Comment on the statement in
the light of recent events. (250 Words)
Positive
Military or other defence forces have been loyal
to civil leadership and still continues to be. But -- Media must be regulated on what they show,
the legality of their report, how invasive are in
recent events like opposition to afspa removal in
people‘s personal life = to maintain standard and
kashmir and siachen and north-east, frequent
quality.
incidents of political-military nexus in equipment
acquisitions explored in Tatra Truck scam, recent Because freedom came with caveats even in
spat of allegations of a former Gen in supplying Indian constitution‘s Article 19 (2), which
money to local ministers in kashmir, etc have stipulated that freedom of expression was subject
come to define a change in the said relationship. to reasonable restrictions.
Indian forces are loyal to the extent that defence
-- Regulation must be based on a ‗statutory,
ministry holds the final decision power. But many
mandatory self-regulatory body‘ with
things are there which the forces handle on the
appointments made by an independent
ground acc to their duties of security. Recent
mechanism.
issues of vacancy in forces at officer levels,
inadequate armed weaponry, difficult living -- Indian media is self-regulated and the existing
conditions, intermittant supplies in case of bad bodies for regulation of media such as the Press
weather on the border in himalayas and deep Council of India, which is a statutory body, and
seas, etc have taken a high toll on their lives and the News Broadcasting Standards Authority, a
their families. But incidents such as said in the self-regulatory organization, issue standards
beginning are worrying as they seem to which are more in the nature of guidelines.
demoralise the forces on account of corruption -- ‗Evolving editorial code and having internal
and culture of impunity. Main issue which ombudsman will help raise standards‘
brought the issue to the front is leak of an internal
inquiry report against former general. Another is -- To check-- paid news, projection women as
his recent joining of a political party to get ex- commodity and to make media accountable.
servicemen demands of one rank one pension.
Such scenario indicates defunct relations between  media misreporting and sustained
military and political leadership. Issue of former defamation of particular social groups or
general‘s retirement age also gained media hype. individuals;
Need is to bring in proper change in the structure  scandals involving millions of rupees in
of military and armed forces to reduce gap exchange for favourable coverage of
between people and soldiers. Also need is to particular political and investment
bring the demands of the servicemen to proper interests;
disposal so that they donot interfere in the civil  bribery and corruption linking lobbyists
domain. Also their opposition to the removal of and fixers for large industrialists with
forces from kashmir and other areas must be kept

major media houses, journalists and grievances of armed personnel,

politicians; movements started for their registration at
 the sale of editorial space and airtime for the place of their postings, as they could
advertorials; and the reckless hardly vote at their native places.
endangerment of members of the public  SC in a recent verdict made it their right to
through the unethical and sensationalist get registered as ordinary residents at
reporting of health scares and terror their place of postings in case of peace
attacks. stations.
 To check social media= to avoid  Voting in cantonments on the basis of SC
Communal violence like Muzaffarnagr judgement can create problems in case of
and Exodus of NE people =from small constituencies i with large
Bangalore cantonments, where competition among
contestants is cut throat.
Negative  The result of elections may be determined
--Media is called the fourth pillar of democracy= only by the voting pattern of cantonments.
check corruption, deteriorating law and order For example, in constituencies in North
and other issues of public interest East, J&K, Leh where local voter base is
small and cantonment sizes are
-- Acts as Public watch dog = therefore has a comparatively large, voting result can be
central role to play in the freedom of information decided by voting of cantonment only.
and freedom of expression Also in case of large cantonments like
--Acts as check and balance for government‘s Jalandhar, Gurdaspur, this may happen.
misuse of power.  The cantonment in changes can also be
accused of favouritism if substantial part
-- Article 19(2) = guarantees freedom of of cantonment moves to some other place
expression with reasonable restriction. before the elections
-- It will go against the freedom of the press,
maintenance and improvement of the standards
of newspapers and news agencies in India
leading to murky ownership structures and Critically evaluate various women rights
monopolistic practices. movements that have taken place since
Independence. Also examine the role played by
women organisations in these movements.
Q. Should armed forces be allowed to vote in
general elections as general voters in peace
stations? Examine the problems associated with
such a move and offer solutions.
Q---Critically comment on the creative and
commercial challenges that the news industry
ANSWER- faces in India , across TV, print, radio or online.
 For any person to participate in voting,
he/she should be registered at the place
―as an ordinary resident of that place‖. India has largest number of newspaper and news
 In case of armed personnel, they are channel in the world. It also has one of the biggest
generally stationed at the cantonments or social media population. However, the media
check posts different from their native houses are facing huge commercial and creative
places. challenges. Some of the challenges are:
 Most of the armed personnel are - With large number of newsroom, each channel
registered as the voters at their native tries to break news as early as possible. This
places. Recently to address the issues of result in monotonicity in the news viewing

experience and migration of audience to other long term mess is not taken care of. Different
avenues. branches, sections of the above mentioned forums
- With the advent of social media the newsroom work separately . They do not share their
has to reinvent itself because people do not prefer resources, bring own analysts, provide different
advertisements, the biggest revenue source of layouts, and finally try their luck with audience
newspaper and channels. reception. With so many options , the audience is
bound to migrate across them. But this costs high
The media consisting of the TV, print, radio or for these news providers and revenues do not
online is rightly considered as the fourth organ of sustain them in long term. Quality falls prey to
any democracy and Indian constitution sensationalism.
sufficiently provides many freedom to media to One solution can be integrated newsrooms. This
and report and articulate its view without any shall allow coherence, coordination and sharing
fear. of resources among different sections in a single
However, the news industry today is facing integrated newsroom. Costs can be reduced and
plethora of problems in the creative as well as also viewer‘s choice can be analyzed and
commercial scale. Though India now houses more resources diverted to that quickly. It can actually
than 135 channels (the biggest in the world), and generate employment as new ideas shall emerge,
around 86,000 newspapers, there are certain new ways of cross adaptations will accrue as a
challenges which prohibits them to come upon a result. New demands as result of adaptations will
quality and analytical news items. bring more jobs and business for the industry.
One such issue is the inability of the media Such innovations and risks need to be taken to
houses in ‗news integration‘ which essentially break the current commercial and creative
means combing all news divisions (radio, TV, stagnation which impedes the growth of news
print, online) to get maximum inputs from them. industry.
Another issue is about the revenue generation
which is almost depends on ad revenue. Even Media houses today are largely owned and
though there is a substantial generation of operated with profit in mind which in a way
revenue, the capital required to set-up the place obstruct in honest reporting on relevant matters.
itself has long gestation period. The saga of TRP has been dominating upon them
Media houses today are largely owned and which often compels them to sensationalize the
operated with profit in mind which in a way news instead of its useful assimilation.
obstruct in honest reporting on relevant matters.
The saga of TRP has been dominating upon them
which often compels them to sensationalize the
news instead of its useful assimilation. Salient features of the Representation of
People‘s Act.
The news industry holds crucial place in today‘s

world which is informed, inquisitive, vacillating Q-What is your opinion on Opinion Polls?
across different forums. Several forums like TV, Should they be conducted or not?
print media, radio, social websites, telephone Substantiate. (150 Words)
apps, online buzz feeds etc have arrived as a tool
for sharing news. The most critical challenges Answer)
faced now is to sustain this expansion is rising
costs, depreciating quality, stagnating revenues Opinion polls are the view expressed by the
and migrating audiences. There is lack of sample voters before the elections to predict the
visionary, long term approach followed by news voting behaviour and project the future
companies, which can address these government. These polls are conducted by the
simultaneously. leading print and electronic media in the country.
The most convenient option taken is of Existing law allows EC to ban opinion polls just
advertisements. These bring short term funds, but 48 hours prior to voting under Section 126 (1)(b)

of the Representation of People Act, 1951 findings that may or may not influence voter
(displaying any election matter including results behaviour ?
of any opinion poll or any other poll survey, in
-- The positive aspect of opinion polls is that they
any electronic media would be prohibited during
indicate a trend and make parties plan ahead
the period of 48 hours ending with the time fixed
while keeping their house in order.
for conclusion of poll)
Conclusion
Why are political parties getting so worked up
about opinion polls? With Greater transparency, if a poll is claiming to
There are two reasons. One, they tell voters about sum up the national mood, it should also describe
the national mood vis-a-vis parties. Two, they can its methodology --the size of the sample, its socio-
be used to sway undecided voters, especially economic profile, how the data was collected
those who want to vote for the winner to ensure (questionnaire, interview or phone), etc.
their vote doesn't go waste. For this reason, The poll should also disclose ownership and track
opinion polls are becoming a political weapon. record of the organisation that conducted the
Each party commissions and releases findings survey, and the client who paid for the survey. A
that show it will win. good start would be to ignore any survey that
doesn't provide detailed answers to all of these
Opinion polls are part of larger issue of electoral questions.
reforms.
Rule 49-O of the Conduct of Elections Rules,
Negative
1961 (50 Words) (NOT part of RPA)
--India having the literacy rate of 74%, out of
them a very few percentage of people really Answer)
understand the Indian governance system and
Rule 49-O was integrated in general elections of
value of their votes and in India.
India under the right to freedom of speech and
--Most of the political parties have running their expression under article 19. This rule empower
own media (Print and paper) for their own voters to vote against all the candidates. But this
benefits. Hence, these opinion polls inevitably exercise need some paper work which does not
project reports in their favour and lacks the provide enough privacy for the voter.
genuinity.
This led to the voting in favour of arbitrary
--Opinion polls shall be banned in order to candidate and defeated the very purpose.
conduct free and fair election , especially in However, now, SC has enforced to integrate the
Indian society. NOTA button in EVM for the same purpose
which does not violates the privacy of voter.
--Opinion polls that are not transparent and are
carried out unscientifically soon lose credibility. Correction: ―Rule 49-0 does not give right to vote
against all the candidates. when voter doesn‘t
Positive
want to cast his/her vote, It empowers not to vote
--any ban on opinion polls runs counter to Article in favour of any of the candidate.‖
19 (1) (a) of the Constitution that provides all
citizens the right to freedom of speech and What is the intention behind declaration of
expression. assets by candidates contesting elections? Has it
--Instead of banning opinion polls, the Election made any positive impact? Comment. (150
Commission can consider restricting their mode Words)
and the timing of the results‘ publication.
Answer)
-- If parties and candidates are allowed to try and
influence voters during the campaign period,
why cannot the media or others publish poll Declaration of assets and liabilities under
section 75A of RPA

The NOTA(None of the Above) choice will be

The main objective behind declaration of given in the elector voting machines from now
assets by candidates contesting elections is onwards after Supreme court directed the ECI.
combat the corruption.Using this tool several This is the second important election reform . It
countries decline the corruption.e.g. Latvia. gives a choice to reject to the voter. It also
Assets disclosure enhance the legitimacy of maintains his secrecy in doing so, which was
government in eyes of public.Due to this unavailable earlier.
increase the foreign direct investment in the The third and most significant judgment was
country.Because of this declaration, the terming the Section 8(4) of the RP Act to be
ordinary people select their representatives in unconstitutional. Now the convicted legislators
assembly or parliament. Suppose X candidate will be disqualified immediately. Also, they will
assets in last time election declared suppose be debarred from contesting elections for 6 years
some amount let us say 1 crore rupees and the after their release. This judgment will strike on
present his income 3 crores. Then the voter the criminality which was surfacing in the
can think about it and will give vote political cadres.
accordingly. The voter can know any criminal
offences is there are not.Declaration of assets
by candidates are powerful tool for voter to
―In recent years the Representation of the
elect good and fair representative.
People Act has become the victim of tug of war
Extras--- between the judiciary and executive.‖ Elucidate.
http://pib.nic.in/newsite/erelease.aspx?relid (200 Words)
=97577
Answer)
Highlight recent Supreme Court judgments that
are related to the conduct of elections and
electoral reforms. (200 Words) India is a Parliamentary Democracy. The
separation of powers is not as rigid as in USA.
Answer) Judiciary being the final interpretator of the
Constitution has time and again steped in to issue
of ―electoral reforms‖.
Supreme Court has passed crucial judgment in
recent times to bring more transparency, choice, Supreme Court upheald the Patna HC judgement
rational and clean polity at play. Free and Fair that a ―convicted‖ representative deems to be
elections are the door to a robust democracy. disqualifed to be a voter , so he loses his eligibility
Certain mal-practices and unjustified agendas to contest the elections. Along declaration of
had taken place in the election process. They section 8(4) of RPA, 1951 as un-constitutional and
seriously hampered the spirit of elections. Voting void for not treating ordinary citizen and
behaviour was also impacted. representative alike.
The three recent judgments tend to change some So, disqualifying the member from being a
of them. Firstly, Supreme court has asked the ECI legislator. The ECI was quick in implementing the
to frame guidelines in consultation with the judgement. However, there were loopholes left.
political spectrum regarding the Freebies. They
have become a major tool in the hands of parties These include even a person could be jailed for
to lure voters. Such freebies are in progressive. petty crimes like violation of traffic rules, political
They are for short sighted vote bank politics. vendata leads to filing of cases and use of state
They hide and dig the more positive agendas like machinery by the ruling party can lead to arrests.
development and social progress from the After considering such loopholes, the SC clarified
election campaign. that jailed persons can contest and those found
―guilty‖ will not be allowed.

imperilled, then the future of India looks very

gloomy.There are different reasons for such a
worrisome situation.
Firstly, rather than debate and discussion ,
Question - ―Indian elections are a ritualistic,
five-yearly obeisance to democracy that hides disruption and drama has now become usual.
the appalling state of the country‘s institutions, This is done as a way of making their presence
in particular Parliament which today resembles felt to the public and at times to disrupt the
a wrestling arena.‖ Critically comment. (200 opposition from functioning.
Words) Secondly, the respect for constitutional morality is
increasingly becoming dismal. The discipline of
Answer - Right to dissent is an important aspect parlimentarions and even members of other
of parliamentary democracy. The principle institutional bodies are decreasing .Even the
challenge for a democratic set up is to chalk out a speaker ,due to lack of consensus, is not able to
mutually acceptable agreement on a particular take any stringent measures.
issue among a dissenting group driven by Thirdly, democratic election inside a party is not
ideological and at times personal preferences to a been welcomed. Most importantly,anti defection
given situation. Our MP‘s represent Us. Its the law does not give room for any dissension within
core spirit of democracy as Abraham Lincoln a party and this leads to poor communication.
aptly defined it. The answer to the question lies in Subsequently , this manifests in disruption and
the responsibility that we as voters invest in the stalling the functioning of parliament.
hands of our representatives. The current spate of It is high time to enforce a strict code of conduct
rowdiness in parliament compels us to think if we for the better functioning of the highest legal
are delivering on our responsibilities as voters of body.
a vibrant democracy. The responsibility lies with
us and we cannot turn a blind eye to these events.
We are equally accountable and the onus lies with
us. The events in the parliament has not shamed Question - ―To restore India as a liberal
the MP‘s but Indians. democratic nation, it will require more than a
mere conduct of regular, supposedly free and
However, this does not justify the blatant fair, elections.‖ Comment.
hooliganism displayed by our MP‘s in the
parliament. There are many other ways to express Answer - India has come a long way from
dissent and mobilize public opinion in one‘s assassination of Gandhi for his empathy towards
favour and there are tools in the parliament Muslims in post-partition India, to a second
available for enabling this option. Resorting to fastest growing economy that has tried hard to
verbal and physical attacks or shouting down gain the all inclusive and liberal credential even
dissenting opinion shows the lack of confidence when the 1.2 billion strong Nation is majorly
one has in his viewpoint. Its nevertheless, a dark Hindu.
day in the history of our parliamentary
democracy. A failure of institutional set up that para to be dropped When the erstwhile CJI retired,
had so far withstood the test of time. he made an observation that a country that made a
Parsee (who comprise less than 1% of its total
population) its CJI has surely made a point (former CJI
Question - ―India‘s future is imperilled if its Mr. Justice S. H Kapadia). Arundhati Roy argues, it,s
Parliament is imperilled.‖ Do you agree with exactly the same, making a point by appointing a
this statement? Comment. (200 Words) Muslim as a vice-president, a dalit as a Lok Sabha
Answer - Discussion ,debate and dissension are Speaker, a Sikh as a Prime Minister, a woman as a
the critical features of a parliamentary President so on and so forth. She sees such
democracy. Representatives of political parties, as appointments as namesake and argues that India
a gatekeepers between government and citizens, is far from liberal.
involve in putting forward their constituencies The present day opposition that Ms. Doniger
interest. But if such a sacrosanct body is faces for her book The Hindu: An alternative
Historyraises questions about how tolerant are we days as causes inviting removal.
and are we truly liberal? (c) Art 102: Anti defection law enacted 10th
Though many people have not yet read the book, schedule to define anti defection inviting removal.
History shows that one word can cause riots in
India and many people can lose their lives. In ROPA 1951
early 1980s the use of word palaayan along (a) Section 8(4): Latest SC judgment overruled the
withHazart Muhammad in a History textbook, immunity provided to sitting legislature that
became the triggering incident and Malegaon saw allowing immediate removal. Rashid Masood was
several killings, loss of life and property. the first MP to be removed under it.
History is full of incidents that show we were not (b) Section 70: Calls for the vacation of seat if
liberal at all the times. elected from two seats which otherwise invites
disqualification from both seats.
And yet there are examples of Akbar talking
(c) Section 125(A) (3): Filling false information
about Din-e-ilahi and rahi-akl. Of epics like
invites disqualification though court judgment
Ramayana, giving place to Javali who was
often coming after the end of tenure of house
extremely critical about Rama.
defeats the purpose e.g. Kisan Shanker Kathore
Of Mahabharataincluding a transgender in the
disqualification from Maharashtra assembly.
story (Shikhandi) or a woman raising piercing
(d) Section 10 A: Failing to maintain and provide
questions to saints and high authorities in a
records of election expenses invited
highly patriarchal past (Maitrei, Gargi and
disqualification of Banswara MP Maan Shankar
Draupadi). Of nude sculptures on temple walls
Ninama.
(Kajuraho) and many more.
India will have to keep its tradition of being all
inclusive and tolerant so that another Gandhi The reports of Law commission, Commission for
does not get assassinated and the India can go on Review of Constitutions and Parliamentary
to become a beacon of democracy. Standing Committee have variously highlighted
the criminalization of politics. With 1/3rd
legislature facing criminal charges the latest SC
judgment advises the government to add a new
Examine the grounds on which a sitting member clause: ―Framing of Charges by Judges‖, as a
of legislature and a cabinet minister in the reason for disqualification.
government can be disqualified. Explain the
opinion of the apex court on this issue. This is a novel step to cleanse the public life by
setting high ethical standards as judicial
Ans: There are various grounds under which a determination of charges are based on prima facie
sitting member of legislature and a cabinet evidences. But it also opens the gate for political
minister can be disqualified. vendetta as Indian evidence act puts the onus of
evidence collection on police. And, political
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS pressure on police is not a hidden fact.
Constitution has variously provided conditions for
disqualification. Write a critical note on the need, principle
(a) Article75(1) & 164(1) have provided three behind its functioning and drawbacks of EVMs.
conditions: Fixed 15% strength for cabinet (200 Words)
ministers beyond which the ministers appointed
have to abdicate; a nonmember shall leave his
ministerial berth after 6 months and doctrine of Electronic Voting Machine is the device which
pleasure that gives paramount to PM advice.( SC enables voters to cast votes through push of a
says that it is the prerogative of the PM/CM to not button instead of conventional paper system. EVM
appoint tainted ministers to executive posts as that consists of a control unit and a balloting unit
would hinder the sanctity of the post) which are connected together. Control unit is with
(b) Art 101: provides conditions like resignation, the presiding officer and the balloting unit is kept
holding seat in both houses and absence for 60 in voting compartment where voters cast their

vote. It was used for the first time in 1998 years or more, should be disqualified (Conviction
assembly elections. not required). But the charges should have been
Elections before introduction of EVMs were facing framed 6 months before election.
many problems like  The annual records of political parties should be
1. Huge no of invalid votes which reduced the audited and made public. There should also be
number of effective votes transparency in fund raising methods.
2. Manual counting of votes which created  ‗Paid news‘ should be made an electoral offence
suspicion among general public and with punishment of minimum 2 years of
3. Miscreants spoiling the ballots to manipulate imprisonment.
results.  Undue influence, bribery at elections and
These problems propelled election commission to publishing false statements are all non-cognizable
come up with new method with the aid of offenses. These laws -framed as far back as in
technology that could instill confidence among 1920- should be made cognizable and
voters. punishments to be enhanced.
Rationale behind its development was  During last 6 months of term of the house,
1. Cost cutting – Achieved through reduction in Government advertisements and transfer of
wastage of resources in the form of paper, election officers should be banned.
printing, transport and storage.  ‗Totalizer‘ should be introduced during
2. Overcome the evils of booth capturing – counting so that the trend of voting in individual
Achieved via recording of votes on real time and polling station areas would not be known. This
option of close in control unit which could disable will prevent post election victimization of electors.
voting as and when pressed. The lethargy in implementing above reforms is
Drawbacks: because it affects the implementers itself!
1. There is limit on maximum number of votes that However, recent developments (negative voting,
can be cast in a particular EVM and maximum disqualification of convicted legislators etc) prove
number of candidates (64). that the powers of judiciary could speedup
2. As most of Indian rural population is illiterate electoral reforms.
and they would not know how to operate the
machine to cast a vote. Critically analyse the nature of voter behaviour
3. EVMs do not automatically transmit the results in recent elections to state assemblies and to the
to election commission. EVMs have to be collected Parliament.
and tallied on the day of counting. This poses a
threat to security of EVMs.
Firstly, there has been an increase in the polling
percentage mainly because of intensive campaign
What do you understand by electoral reforms? run by EC and also the high mobilisation done by
What were the recommendations of the Election political parties to attract the large number of
Commission on electoral reforms? Analyze. (200 newly eligible young voters.
Words) Secondly, the voter behaviour is in contrast to the
previous elections mainly because of 2 reasons.
Large number of young voters and increased
Electoral reforms refer to a set of improvements influence of social media.
over existing laws to fix the loopholes that enable Thirdly, economic issues were in the forefront
officials, political parties, contestants, media, and was a crucial factor that shaped voter
ruling government etc to carry on corrupt behaviour.
practices during an election. Fourthly, mobilisation on caste and class lines
The Election commission of India (ECI) has failed to make any impact. Social engineering den
proposed many reform measures from 1992 till by political parties failed to give desired results.
date. Some of the notable recommendations are: Fifthly, there was a clear distinction among voters
 A candidate who has been framed by the court while voting for state and general elections. This
for offences punishable by imprisonment of 5 shows increased maturity and awareness.
Sixthly, voters preferred regional parties for state in Indian elections vis a vis first-past-the-post
elections. system.
Seventhly, communalisation before elections by
political parties have given them positive results.
There was considerable consolidation on religious
lines still. Allow the black knight to move straight rather
Finally, voters moved away from their traditional than to move two and half steps in a game of
voting behaviour and gave chance to new parties. chess , result will be entirely different similar is
Which is a healthy sign of a maturing democracy. the case with elections , change the rule from fptp
system to p.r. , you will get entirely different
Do you think regulation of poll campaign results . There are merits and demerits of each
activities of political parties on internet by the like one may favour majority and one may
Election Commission is a right step? include and protect minority.
Substantiate. (150 Words) In india we follow fptp system but there is a
continuous demand to introduce some form of
p.r. as a measure of electoral reform . Merits and
In this hyper-connected age of digital media, even demerits of p.r. are as follows:
political parties don‘t want to be left behind to Demerit:
reap the benefits of social media and that too with 1. P.r. system is very complex whereas fptp
an add-on of cheap publicity. system is very easy to understand even by a very
large illiterate population of india.
In the wake of this prevalence of web, EC recently 2. P.r. is easy to implement in small countries like
issued instructions for poll campaigning and israel but in country of subcontinent size like
advertisements to political parties and this really india ,it will be difficult to implement.
seems to be a prudent move in following ways: 3. In p.r. system there is only political parties and
1.Every candidate has to give their e-mail ids and no individual candidate , which abridge the right
accounts information for monitoring purpose and of person to contest election
this will help in restricting fake accounts which 4. Candidate cant be held responsible for local
would otherwise mushroom up misleading a issues as people vote for political parties and not
voter. for candidates
5. It may result in no clear majority.
2.Contents of the advertisements issued by
parties/candidates should be pre-certified by the But still there is demand among various sections
appropriate authorities and this will prevent to introduce p.r. system because of following
them from exaggerating their achievements & merits:
undermining of other parties. 1. It include every section‘s aspirations and seats
are allotted to a part n accordance with their vote
3. The payment to these digital media websites
percentage
will be included in poll expenditure and that will
2. Winner or ruling party is normally one which
help in bringing these expenses in account which
holds majority votes that is more than 50 percent
would have otherwise been written off.
3. With around 65 years of experience in holding
So in all this regulatory move will bring more elections now we can expect some form of p.r.
transparency, accountability & prevent spreading system to be introduced in elections and get true
communal hatred. representation of people in the parliament
====The proportional system has a number of

merits as demerits too.
.Compare and contrast the merits and demerits Merits:
of adopting proportional representation system • Effective reality by showing the proportionality
of votes got by the parties.
• Justicable party representation in the
legislatures with respect to voted polled. aggregate. Centrist policies get develop through
• Small minor parties can also have a compromise and consensus and traditionally less
representation in the legislature, which means a represented sections like women and minorities
effective representative system of democracy is get their due voice.
upheld.
• Effective discussion of a issue from all corners However there are certain shortcomings in the PR
and communities of the country system that in the Indian system can work against
• Number of countries are successful with this it. In a diverse country as India the PR can give
system leading to better governance. undue power to a large number fringe parties
Demerits: whose policies can be abhorring to most. Being
• In seen from the Indian perspective with the creatures of compromise, governments can be
literacy levels keeping into concern, Indian citizen made weak. Recent experiences in India point to
can not understand effectively this system. crucial decisions being left behind due to policy
• Lack of centralized power to form a stable logjam. PR systems are also complicated and In a
government, Indeed have to go for coalition country where more than 1/4th of its population
results a instable government is illiterate such system also tends to make the
• Huge election procedure than the FPTP system, elected representative less accountable to his
consider the population of india. voters.
• Efficient single policy decisions cant be take However, the FPTP system in India has not
from all parties, this results in policy roll out discouraged the growth of smaller parties as seen
delays. in the gradual regionalisation and federalisation
To be frank both the systems(PR,FPTP) have its of India‘s polity. Additionally reservation of seats
demerits and merits. Its depend on the nature of for marginalised groups such as the scheduled
politics and countries viability to adopt for a castes and tribes has largely ensured desirable
system that better reflect its aspirations. outcomes in terms of representation.
At the present scenario requires correcting the
fundamentals first- educating the electorate,
reducing the impact of big money on elections,
Q--What are the criticisms against the first-past-
moving over caste based and sectarian identities.
the-post system of elections in India? Do you
think India should adopt proportional
representation system? Explain why.
Business Standard
Appointment to various Constitutional
In the recent general elections in India, the
posts
winning party- the Bharatiya Janata party gained
an absolute majority of the seats with just 31% of
the votes. Likewise the Bahujan Samaj Party
Explain the procedure laid out in the
couldn‘t win a single seat despite getting over
Constitution on the appointment and removal
20% votes in Uttar Pradesh. Such anomalies point
of Governor of a State in India. Do you think
out to the inherent weaknesses of the First Past
these procedures are strictly followed? Critically
The Post(FTTP) system where winner takes it all comment.
and a large proportion of voters and certain
groups like those of the minorities risk being left The Hindu
unheard. The article 155 of the constitution says that the
A Proportionate Representation(PR) system of governor of a state should be appointed by the
elections is proposed to negate these effects. It president . And the article 156(1) makes his
allows smaller and newer voices to be heard more
removal dependent on the pleasure of the
easily. The system is likely to result in a higher president . Apart from the pleasure principle
turnout than the present 66.38% because every there are no specific procedure mentioned in the
voter knows that her vote counts in the

constitution for the appointment or removal of by the following methods:

the governor. a) Distributing net proceeds of taxes between
This provision of the constitution has been used Centre and States on the basis of their
as a tool by the central governments to appoint its contribution to the taxes.
representative as the governor . Thus a change of b) Determining the factors governing the Grants-
the guard at the center often results in a change of in-aid to the states and the magnitude of these
the governors appointed by the previous regime. grants.
Thus the pleasure principle has been severely c) Making recommendations to the President of
criticized for undermining the constitutional India about the measures to be adopted to
position of the head of state . The SC in BP augment the Consolidated Fund of States to
Singhal case ruled that the governor is a increase the resources of Panchayats and
constitutional representative and not an agent of Municipal Assemblies on the basis of
the center . In a verdict in 2010 it also said that recommendations made by Finance Commissions
any capricious removal of a governor will be of States.
liable to be judicially reviewed. The commissions
on center-state relationship like Sarkaria and
Punchhi have also recommended to remove the On the other hand Planning Commission
pleasure principal in the appointment and (without having any statuary and constitutional
removal of the governor . backup ) accesses the material, capital and human
Though the arbitrary removal of the governors is resources of the country and to formulate five
against the spirit of the constitution . But it is also year plans for is most effective and balanced
true that for an efficient administration , center utilization. It determines national priorities of
requires a governor sympathetic with its policies development and define stages of growth. It
and would not like a person in opposition to the points out the factors of economic retardation and
philosophy of the ruling party .To overcome this prepares conditions necessary for the successful
problem , implementation of recommendations of executions of the plans. It
Sarkaria and Punchhi commissions , like the
Definitely, Finance Commission acts as a
governor should not be a politically active person
complement to the Planning Commission as
in the state , should be an eminent personality
together they act as a whole. On one hand,
and should have a fixed tenure , is required . This
Finance Commission makes recommendations for
will make the position of the governor politically
fund augmentation and grants for states whereas
neutral and merit based.
on the other, Planning Commission endeavours
to bring these recommendations into practice by
formulating sections of five year plans on the
basis of some of these recommendations. So, both
Constitutional Bodies (powers, functions Finance Commission as well as Planning
and responsibilities) Commission work hand in hand for better
financial condition of the Centre as well as the
States. Finance Commissions act as
Q-Explain the role of Finance Commission. Do complimentary to Planning Commission.
you think Finance Commissions act as
complimentary to Planning Commission?
Explain. (200 Words)
What are Autonomous District Councils in
Answer) India? Critically analyze their role and
performance over the year. (200 Words)
Finance Commission is a constitutional body
which was set up in 1951.It is formulated every 5 Autonomous District Councils were set up in the
years having a Chairman and 4 other members. states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura
The main role of Finance Commission is to define and Nagaland by the 6th schedule of the
the financial relations between Centre and States constitution. These councils can have at most 30
members and not more than four of whom are 3. A multi-member body will check CAG activism
nominated by the governor. They wield doesnt become CAG adventurism, thus exceeding
administrative, judicial and financial powers its jurisdiction.
though the function of the councils varies from Our constitution provides for safeguards for
district to district. independence of CAG, including security of
These were set up to protect the cultural and tenure, fixed conditions of services, rigid
traditional interests and practices of the tribal procedure of removal from office and so on.
minorities of the Assam region during the time of But considering the importance of its role, it
our Independence. They were set up so as to becomes imperative that as a body CAG is made
function in a way most suited to them and not get more accountable and democratic.
dominated by the mainstream population of Shunglu Committee report is a natural step in
Assam plains who mainly belonged to the higher that direction.
castes of Hindu religion.
Reply
However, the district autonomous councils have
become redundant in recent times. Nagaland
abolished them in 1972 when it was declared a
state. In meghalaya, the legislature has a tribal
Question. Write a note on the composition and
majority thereby making the very concept of
functions of UPSC. Also critically examine its
ADCs redundant. The ADCs have not function in relationship with the government at the centre
letter and spirit. Many of the regions remain and states. (200 Words)
backward and undeveloped with wide spread
corruption among the tribal elite who usually get Answer - UPSC is a constitutional body formed
elected to the top posts. Many of the ADCs lack under Art. 315 of the constitution of India. It
financial autonomy and those which have some consists of 1 chairman and 10 members.The
financial powers have also not seen proportional composition according to constitution is left to the
development. discretion of president.
May be it is time to rethink and review the 6th
schedule of the constitution. Functions of UPSC under Article 320 and Article
321 includes :
―The Shunglu Committee had suggested 1) Recruitment by conduct of competitive exams
structural changes in CAG by making it a multi- and selections through interviews.
member body.‖ What is the rationale behind 2) Advising on suitability of officers on
such a recommendation? Analyze.(200 Words) appointment as promotion and transfer on
Ans deputation.
The Shunglu Committee(2011), that was 3) Advising government on methods of
appointed into CWG scam, had recommended to recruitments for various posts and amending
bring structural changes in CAG by making it a rules for recruitments.
multi-member body, where one member shall 4) Disciplinary cases related to civil services.
necessarily be an accounting professional. 5) Miscellaneous matters relating to grant of
extraordinary pensions, legal expenses etc
The rational for the same is explained below->
6) Advising government on any matter referred
1. Making CAG a multi-member body makes it
to commission by president.
more professional, considering it includes the
7) On request of governor, to serve any or all
services of accounting professional and checks
functions of recruitments with permission of
any undesired bias that may creep in in its
president.
functioning.
2. Inclusion of an accounting professional into UPSC , on request, performs advisory work for
CAG lends it more credibility as a professional the government on the matters of promotion,
body. CAG in recent years has come under transfer, granting pensions. The advice is not
criticism over its accounting methodology by the binding in nature. It needs to take permission
political class. from president before initiating recruitment

process in any state, after being requested by state EC also used technological advancements such as
to do so. Also the salary of the UPSC members EVMs, computerization of voters‘ list, issue of
are drawn from consolidated fund of India, thus voter identity cards and recently VVPAT (Voter
parliament has no control over it. Verifiable Paper Audit Trial) system. This
resulted in improving voting percentage and
quicker and accurate results.
Question - What measures has the Election Though there are certain limitations, the above
Commission taken to bring electoral reforms in reforms introduced by the EC made Indian
India in last twenty years? Examine. (200 Words) democracy more transparent, responsive,
accountable and representative.
Answer -Conduct of free and fair elections at
regular intervals is essential for a healthy
democracy. Electoral reforms mean achieving the
Question - ―Civil Services Examination reform
above objective by increasing the efficiency of the
ought to have been an easy enough place to
systems in place. The Election Commission which
begin the arduous task of administrative
is the guardian of elections took the following
reform.‖ Comment on the statement in the light
measures to bring electoral reforms. of recent changes introduced by the UPSC and
The Model Code of Conduct which was set up in the government to the examination and
1971 to regulate the activities of political parties eligibility criteria respectively. (200 Words)
and candidates during elections has been revised
from time to time. It has mixed results. Despite its Answer – The Civil Service examination (CSE)
acceptance, many parties particularly the ruling conducted by UPSC is a coveted and revered
one violates it. examination across the country. The recent
changes introduced to the examination and
EC issued an order in 2002 on the direction of the
eligibility criteria have to be seen in the light of
SC court under Article 324 requiring all
administrative reforms sought by UPSC and the
candidates to submit affidavits detailing their
government.
financial, educational and criminal backgrounds.
Regarding examination, the increased weightage
This led to increased awareness among voters
to common papers, new pattern of qualifying
allowing them to make informed decisions.
examination are some of the changes aimed to
In order to prevent the mushrooming of political screen candidates who are dynamic, analytical
parties, the EC introduced strict guidelines for and aquainted with the contemporary politico-
their registration. EC also requires them to follow societal environment, thereby de-emphasizing the
internal democracy by holding regular elections. rote learning.
Though elections are held, they are not The second change which relaxes the upper age
democratic in nature. limit to appear for CSE has to be seen in two
respects. One, acommodating the diverse pool
EC also tried to decriminalise politics. It
who come from rural hinterland with limited
submitted a number of recommendations to
opportunities, exposure or guidance which calls
legislature to implement them. But due to the
for an equity and inclusive approach.However, It
reluctance of political parties they are not
is noteworthy that the Administrative reforms
implemented. With the involvement of judiciary,
recommended lowering the age limit to induct
some of them such as the 2002 directive regarding
trainees who are ‗malleable‘ to civil service
affidavits, the recent judgments declaring Section
values.
8(4) of the RPA invalid and the inclusion of
The examination must be seen as an easiest place
NOTA are implemented.
to begin with administrative reforms.As per the
To get rid of the growing money power, EC has examination pattern, the approach to examination
fixed legal limits on the amount a candidate can will inculcate a habit of dynamism, awareness
spend during elections. Despite EC‘s strict and objectivity which will go a long way in
implementation, this rule is flouted many times. bringing out a ‗steel frame‘ which takes informed

decisions analytically. democratic character of the Universal Adult

As with the main criticism of relaxation in age Franchise and conducting free and fair elections.
limit that a person becomes too rigid after a
certain age to imbibe the values of public service, In the light of past few years‘ developments,
similarly the task of administrative reforms critically comment on the role of institutions in
becomes more arduous as one goes deeper into strengthening democracy.
the subsequent stages of complex procedures or
networks of administration The four estates of democracy are: Legislative,
Executive, Judiciary and Media. All of them have
played there part in strengthening democracy,
Question - What are the major factors behind going by the developments in the last decade.
high voters turn-out in recent elections in India?
Examine the role of the Election Commission in • The Parliament passed watershed
detail. (200 Words) legislation like RTI Act, Lokpal Act, RTE Act,
Forest Rights Act and Land Acquisition Act and
Answer - Voter participation is the reflection of Food Security Act.
the extent of penetration of democracy among the
• ‗Basic structure‘ has not once been
population. The voter turn-out in recent elections
invoked to strike down a legislation in the past
in India has been increasing which today is 5
decade. State-legislatures have toed the
times what it was when it emerged as a
constitutional line. On the whole, Legislature has
democracy.
shined in both its restraint and its pro-activity in
The efficiency of the Election Commission (EC) is its designated function, striving to make the
credited for this achievement in increasing voter extant political democracy to achieve economic
registration by weeding out the names of ghost and socially inclusive dimensions; however,
voters and increasing awareness. The rise in resistance offered to Women‘s Reservation bill
awareness about the governance system due to and frequent un-parliamentary behavior are a
development of communication media putting downside.
forth the discontent and expectations of the
masses and increasing mobilisation by political • The Executive has mostly worked well to
parties have led to increased turn-out. Also the implement the above said progressive laws.
demographic dividend of the country with large Corruption perception index was on a downward
population turning 18 has furthered the voter trend until the 2G scam surfaced. The top
turn-out. executives have been mired in huge scams, while
the middle and lower bureaucracy is starting
The EC has helped streamline the election process shed the old robes of corruption and
by determining electoral constituencies, despondency. While the exponential growth in
preparing electoral rolls, granting recognition to infrastructure and the India jumping from 10th to
political parties, determining the code of conduct, 3rd position in the listing of economies, and a
notifying election schedules, thus ensuring the general better-show in indices measuring
smooth conduct of elections. A change in the security, the said scams, glossing over reports of
approach from supervising the election NHRC and NCW, and LWE menace does not
machinery to specific targeting is seen by reflect well on the executive.
initiatives leading to increasing sex ratio of voters
also. Initiatives like Systematic Voters‘ Education • The judiciary has gone out of its way to
and Electoral Participation and awareness make the democracy really inclusive. From urban
programmes, inclusion of NOTA option, paper waste management to right to education and RTI,
audit trail have helped increase voter‘s the SC has heralded most of the progressive
confidence in the system. legislation. This activism is dubbed ‗overreach‘ in
Though the initiatives by EC have been some narratives. Such an overreach has the
commendable yet there is scope to achieve potential of damaging democracy in the long run,
universal participation to uphold the true though the short-term effects are most welcome.

• The media has not only exposed the

corrupt but also lauded the fair. It was the
starting point of not only proscriptions on bad Write a critical note on the functioning of the
tendencies but also prescriptions of good ones. speaker in Lok-Sabha and state assemblies. (200
But corporate ownership of media houses puts a Words)
shadow on their credibility, as the discourse on
cronyism starts to dominate the political arena. • Speaker in Lok-Shabha gets elected by the
simple majority of members presenting and
In a nutshell, all democratic institutions have voting in the house. (With a basic requirement
done well. But they leave much to be desired. which is speaker to be Member of Parliament or
assemblies.)
* Institutions are the steel framework of a
democracy. Strong institutions preserve • Speaker although remains silent player in
democracy irrespective of the people acting in the assemblies but poses respectable and decisive
them. roles. (casting vote)
* The parliament is the pioneer and foremost • Speaker act as a neutral judge who listens
institution to preserve and strengthen our the argument of both parties (ruling and
democracy. But, in recent times, it‘s functioning opposition/) over bills and other important
has been dismal. Due to inefficient working of the issues.
parliament, there has been an increase in social
movements as can be seen from their demands. • He /she is responsible for conduct of
Though social movements are reflective of business of the body and is represented a true
people‘s participation, but their rise has been guardian of tradition of parliament, speaker can
more due to parliaments working then people punish member for misbehavior.
awareness.
• Speaker has function to perform in
* The judiciary is the preserver of our democracy. judicial administrative matters. Decisions made
It has played a much needed proactive role due to by speaker are final and cannot be challenged or
decline of the parliament. It‘s judgments on questionable.
Election reforms have strengthened democracy to
great extent. It prevented any overreach of the • Decides defection of MPs
parliament. It was not judicial activism rather
• It is speaker‘s duty to decide whether the
judicial reactivism.
bill is money bill or not and if any bill is pending
* The EC and the CAG have played a crucial role before house then speaker decide whether
in their respective domain in tune with the ideals amendments are allowed to introduce in the
of democracy. The EC has conducted elections clauses of bills. Along with it various motions
fairly, peacefully and made sure to a great extent such as motion of no confidence, motion of
our democracy is more representative. The CAG adjournment etc. are permitted by him/her.
has been the watchdog of any executive rashness
and recklessness in spending public money. CAG Q3-Critically analyze the roles and
report on 2G spectrum, coal bloc allocation have responsibilities of CAG in India. (200 Words)
revived the ―to the people‖ ideal of democracy.
CAG, is the Comptroller and Auditor General
* Though certain institutions have had degraded, (CAG) of India who heads the Audit and
as happens in any budding democracy. But our Accounts Dept. of our country, plays a key role in
constitution and the people have the will and financial committee of Parliament and state
power to revive them to restore and strengthen legislature. Under the Chapter V of Indian Const,
our democracy . he audits the Receipts and Expenditure of GOI,
State Gov and also the authorities financed by the
.

govt. He has come to be recognized as a ‗friend, with the Government in some sectors and
philosopher and guide‘ of the Committee. businesses that exploit natural resources, such as
coal, telecom spectrum, iron ore and crude oil etc.
He is also the external auditor of Govt. Owned There are some concerns expressed by the private
companies, the reports of CAG are taken into players such as-
consideration by PAC(Public Acc. Committee). By 1) Private companies are already going through
considering that every drafted report needs a many audits. This new audit will affect their
review before submission the CAG scrutinizes the business and may damage the distinctive
notes which is submitted by various entrepreneurial freedom. But this is not the big
Ministries/Departments and helps the problem as cost of audit can be cut from govt
committees to check the correctness of the facts revenue...
and figures in their draft reports to ensure that 2)Moreover CAG is empowered to audit...does
that every report is considered as an important not mean that every time they will come n audit
one by the govt. You.
3)It wont be a complete audit of all account….it
The audit done by C&A G is broadly classified
will only only reciept on which basis revenue is
into two
shared with govt….so no much hurdle for pvt.
1.Regularity Audit, which is to audit against the 3) It is also argued that it will also hurt the
provision of funds, to confirm whether the money auditing profession, as it will show the
shown as an expenditure were authorized for the government‘s lack of confidence in the
purpose for which they were spent and also to profession. But it is the need of the hour as the
confirm whether it satisfies the rules and government and civil societies has more
regulations framed for expending public money, confidence in CAG rather than in practicing audit
whether the expenditure was done with the professionals.
approval of concerned authority in the Gov. As in the 12th Plan, GoI aims for a $1,000-billion
While spending the public money.. infrastructure expenditure, half of which may
come from PPP, and Crony capitalism is rising in
Performance Audit, to focus whether the Gov. India, The role of public auditors, therefore,
Programmed have achieved the desired criteria at becomes critical in assessing whether such
lowest cost and given the intended benefits. arrangements are truly in public interest and are
also fair and balanced in sharing of risks as well
In conclusion the CAG is an official mandated by as rewards.
the Constitution to act as a watchdog on The scope of any CAG audit should be decided
government finances and its functioning. By through a consultative process involving all
auditing the accounts of bodies at various levels stakeholders; care should be taken that such
of government he plays an essential role in audits do not result in an over-reach. Company‘s
making the government more transparent and policy and business convenience should not
accountable to the legislature as well as civil become the subject of scrutiny.
society.
Q---In the light of the Supreme Court order in

the ―Association of Unified Telecom Service Q--Is UPSC civil service exam‘s CSAT paper
Providers and Others vs Union of India‖ case, discriminatory? Critically comment.
critically examine the concerns expressed by the
private players and comment if these concerns The Hindu
are genuine. UPSC introduced the CSAT paper in 2011 with a
Business Standard view to test the aptitude of candidates appearing
Recently in ―Association of Unified Telecom for the Civil Services [Pre] Exam. Recently, there
Service Providers and Others vs. Union of India‖ have been allegations that the paper is
case, Supreme Court ruled allowing the CAG to discriminatory as it gives more emphasis to
audit the accounts of private firms that have English and hence, creates a barrier for aspirants
specific, direct revenue sharing arrangements
from Hindi medium who have little exposure to Ministry in 1963.

English.
The allegations seem justified in the sense that
language should not be a criteria for testing the DSPE act enlarged the jurisdiction of
abilities of an aspirant. It is also true that investigation of CBI to all government
proportion of engineers, doctors and managers departments and to any state (except Union
has increased in the final selection after the Territories), subject to consent of government of
introduction of CSAT who have good exposure to concerned state. However, CBI could investigate
English while the proportion of Hindi-medium only with notification by the central government.
aspirants has decreased.
However, blaming the entire CSAT paper is not
Till date, CBI has legal powers to investigate
justified. Apart from English, the paper also has
corruption cases against central-government
other sections. Also, in this competitive world,
employees, or concerning affairs of the central
knowing English has become a sine qua non for
government and employees of central public-
success. Following recruitment, civil servant may
sector undertakings and public-sector banks.
have to serve in any part of the country during
Cases involving the financial interests of the
his/her career. Lack of English knowledge would
central government, breaches of central laws
be highly detrimental in such cases. Further, India
enforceable by the Government of India, major
is a multi-lingual country. In this situation, if any
fraud or embezzlement, multi-state organised
benefits are extended to Hindi-medium students,
crime and mulit-agency or international cases
it can spur demands from other regional
also lie under CBI‘s jurisdiction.
languages and it would be very difficult in such a
situation to conduct any national level exam.
To conclude, though some of the grievances Recently Gauhati High Court has quashed the
against CSAT paper is justified, blaming the 1963 resolution by which CBI was constituted and
entire paper is not correct and balance needs to be held that the CBI was neither an organ nor part of
struck so that grievances of Hindi-medium the DSPE and thus could not be treated as a
students are taken care of without affecting other ―police force‖ constituted under the DSPE Act.
aspirants. However there are opinions also that DSPE is
synonymous with the CBI and nowhere has it
been claimed that it applies to any investigating
body other than the CBI. The agency has also
never invoked its existence under any other law
Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial but DSPE.
bodies
Do you think total autonomy to CBI would hurt
criminal justice system? Comment. (150 Words)
Explain the composition and mandate of CBI. The administrative supervision over CBI is
Comment on the recent verdict of Guwahati divided between the ministry of home affairs and
High Court questioning the very existence and
Ministry of personnel. The overall supervision of
legality of CBI. (200 Words)
work and budgetary control is exercised through
ministry of personnel.
Government created a Special Police
Establishment (SPE) in 1941 to investigate
corruption in War and Supply Department of The CBI presently demanding for the complete
India during World War II. SPE derived its functional autonomy and vesting powers of a
jurisdictions and legal powers from the Delhi government secretary. CBI argues that since it
Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act 1946 and faces administrative hurdles at every stage. So it
was later renamed Central Bureau of wants direct reporting to the minister. If CBI
Investigation (CBI) by a resolution of Home directly Reports minister then the

superintendence of the minister will be the role they perform. While Cabinet
compromised. The present criticism of CBI as Secretariat co-ordinates the work of all the
political tool will further be strengthened. ministries and helps in formulating the
policies, PMO also does similar kind of
Also once the CBI director is treated as work, but the co-ordination is limited
government secretary he will have the power to mainly between PM and other ministries.
put up candidates for public prosecutors which is Also, PMO helps the Prime Minister to
presently done by Law ministry. So if CBI keep an eye on the performance of other
director acts as government secretary it may lead ministries as well as in controlling the
to the dilution of the principle of separation ministry which is under direct control of
between prosecuting agency and investigative the PM.
agency. Thus complete functional autonomy must  PMO is the hands and ears of the PM. It
be receives requests for meetings of PM with
avoided. ministers and others and coordinates
these, which are held at the office in South
Block, New Delhi. PMO passes on the
With respect to investigative autonomy CBI faces
necessary files for PM‘s review, including
several hurdles.Presently CBI personnel is largely
those from Planning Commission and
on deputation from other departments. So if
major policy decisions. As the PM heads
separate personnel cadre is given, then it would
the strategic ministries like Atomic
be able perform its investigation more efficiently.
energy, Department of Space, Ministry of
Personnel, Grievances hence all work
Presently the financial transaction of CBI are kept related to these is carried on due to the
outside CAG.It must be continued. And CBI PMO. In addition, if PM takes charge of
director must be given minimum financial any ministry, then all related files are
powers. handled by PMO. The PM‘s National
Relief Fund and National Defence Fund is
also overseen by the PMO.
Thus total autonomy to CBI must be avoided  Also, questions to be answered in
since it is detrimental to criminal justice system. Parliament by PM in relation to ministries
Instead a customized autonomy must be ensured under him or important policy matters are
with proper checks and balances. handled by the PMO.

 Many times, the role of PMO has often
been criticized for diminishing the role of
Q. Critically comment on the role and
Cabinet Secretariat and performing the
importance of the Prime Minister‘s Office in
tasks which are to originally performed by
India.
Cabinet Secretariat such as policy
formulation. Also, the role of PMO in
 . In a Parliamentary Democracy, Prime
taking over foreign policy decisions from
Minister is the Head of Government and
Foreign Ministry has also been criticized
has his imprint on all the major policy
in the past. However, it all depends on the
decisions. He is assisted by a PMO which
personal choice of Prime Minister and the
co-ordinates the work of all the ministries
incumbents in both the PMO as well as
with the Prime Minister and keeps him
Cabinet Secretariat.
updated about latest developments, both
 However, despite all the criticisms, an
home and abroad. PMO also scrutinizes
efficient and effective PMO is a necessity
the files that comes to Prime Minister and
for the efficient working of the
suitably advises him in policy matters.
government and proper implementation
 Certain parallels can be drawn between
of government policies and co-ordination
the PMO and the Cabinet Secretariat in
among various stakeholders.
analyse all the states challenges and come

up with a comprehensive plan to deal
Q. A key determinant of the role of the states in them all.
a federal polity is their participation in the
formulation and implementation of critical
economic plans. Do you think India‘s Planning
Commission is truly federal in its nature and
functioning? Examine what needs to be done. What are the major inter-state river water
disputes between riparian states in the
peninsular India? Explain the role of Tribunals
 Taking advantage of the concurrent power in resolving these disputes. (250 Words)
of ―economic and social planning‖ union
government has established planning
commission without resorting to Ans.
legislation to formulate an integrated five Article 262 provides that Parliament by law my
year plan for economic and social provide constitution od Inter State water Dispute
development which was need during tribunals and decisions of such tribunals shall be
those times. final and outside jurisdiction of Supreme Court.
 The function of the commissions is to This is so because ownership of watersource in
prepare a plan for the most effective and india can be pure commercial and legal matter, as
balanced utilization of the country‘s it influences life of everyone.
resources. Various inter-state river water disputes between
 It is obvious that implementation of the the riparian states in Peninsular India are:
plans rests with the states because the
development relates to most state subjects 1. Cauvery River Water Dispute : Between
and most states followed the plan as there Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
was a common political party governing
at the centre and state. 2. Krishna River Water Dispute : Between
 But as years passed by proliferation of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra
new political parties and establishment of Pradesh
coalition governments at the centre, states
have started taking a greater role in
central government. Cauver River Water Dispute: For this dispute, the
 Thus planning commission now fails to Cauvery Water Dispute Tribunal was constituted
realize the true spirit of federal polity as it in 1990. It passed its award in 2007 which is yet to
still possesses larger powers with prime be implemented. There are still disputes going on
minister being the chairman of it. between two states.
 Though it started taking corrective
measures by realizing the condition but it Krishna River Water Dispute: In this case, two
doesn‘t seem enough and still lots need to tribunals have been constituted so far. The first
be done so that states get their due tribunal was constituted under the Justice R. S.
importance. Bachawat and its award was accepted by all the
 Some measures included diverging the states concerned. The second tribunal was
role of allocation of funds to the states to constituted in 2004. It gave its award in 2010 but
finance commission which proves there are still issues over the award and has not
efficient. To solve the economic challenges been implemented fully.
in India commission must be transformed This shows that the tribunals have been
into an independent expert body recruited somewhat successful in fulfilling their mandate
through a transparent process and i.e. hearing all the parties, doing detailed studies
establishing this body at every states to and passing the award. However, the awards
coordinated themselves together and have not been implemented and there are still

issues over the awards. The implementation of country‘s development. Similarly,

award is outside the scope of these tribunals and industrialists had also developed the
it is up to the Center and the concerned states to Bombay Plan.
reach to a amicable solution and implement these  Second, the condition of Indian
awards. economy at that point of time was
pathetic. Planned development would
help in proper resource assessment and
Write a note on Mahadayi River Water Dispute. their utilization in the most effective
(200 Words) way. In this endeavor, the Planning
Commission was set up.
Mahadayi or Mandovi river is said to be the life  Third, planned development would help
line of Goa, about two-third of it flows in Goa. in bringing regional balance in
Two of its tributaries are Kalasa & Banduari development.
nalas. What Karnataka wants to do is that  India at Independence was marked by
construct dams across the Kalasa and banduari gross regional inequalities which needed
and divert water to Malprabha river which flows to be changed in keeping with
in the Belgaum District. This diversion of water Constitution‘s directives.
will cater to the drinking water needs of villages  Fourth, planning would help the govt to
and towns of Belgaum, Dharwad, Bagalkot and control over various sectors of economy
Gadag districts.This diversion has been opposed and help generate employment
by Goa which depends upon the flow of River opportunities and develop
Mahadoyi for keeping its Zuari River navigable infrastructure which was very crucial at
till the Mormugao harbor in Panaji. To this Goa that juncture. It would lead to
has made a request under Section 3 of the Inter- betterment of social condition in the
State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 for country.
constitution of the Tribunal refer the matter for In retrospect, the idea of planned development
adjudication and decision of dispute relating to was in keeping with the historical, social,
Mandovi River. To this the cabinet in 2009 economic & geographical needs of the country.
constituted a tribunal headed by a Retired
Supreme Court judge J.M. Panchal. In this
dispute along with Goa and Karnataka, The relevant ideas and motivations were.
Maharashtra is also a party. Now after 10 years of 1. Nehru‘s Socialism: Nehru was a socialist and
this dispute the Tribunal has not come out with a he favored a controlled economy but democratic
report of the water sharing method, this only polity. In compromise with the faction headed by
aggravates the hostility and confusion. Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Sardar Patel, he
countenanced a mixed economy but insisted on
Critically examine the ideas and motivations Planning Commission and five year plans,
that helped India to adopt economic planning directly out of the Leninist Playbook.
for the development of country after 2. History: INC has had a Planning Committee
Independence. from late 1930‘s onward. A lot of
Planning exercises like Bombay Plan by Indian
industrialists, the Gandhian Plan and People‘s
India decided to adopt economic planning for Plan by Loknayak Jaiprakash Narayan had
development after Independence. This was owing already been proposed. It was a foregone
to several factors which acted as motivators. conclusion that independent India would be
 First, there was historical consensus on planned economy.
the issue of planned development. 3. Powerful Proponents: Well known intellectuals
Indian National Congress, in its pre- like M. Visvesvarayya, Dr. Meghnath Saha and
Independence era had formed National P.C.Mahalanobis rooted for developmental
Planning Committee under Nehru‘s planning. This helped Nehru to confidently
leadership to prepare blueprint for pursue planning.

4. Russian Model: In 1947, for the outside world, in communicative rationality in engaging those
USSR was a Utopia. Our leaders wanted to affected in the deliberations on policy making.
replicate that. Important in this direction will be in
5. Ground Realities: Resources were few, regions strengthening the Local Self Government
were highly unequal in development and a Institutions and ensuring they have adequate
middle class, who fuels the economy by creating funds, functions and functionaries to be able to
‗demand‘, was minuscule. ‗Laissez faire‘ models plan based on their local realities
would have been a very risky decision. It could - Personnel will have to be tuned to the changing
have been either a resounding success or a requirements. Instead of a facilitator of Centrally
disaster. Our leaders decided on a via-media sponsored schemes, an enabler will have make
path, since they were not ready to play games the State and its functions more participative
with the hard-won freedom - A finer balance between the Generalists and
Specialists will have to be sought in order to meet
the needs of an increasingly complex world
―…what India needs is not a new Planning
Commission, not a new think tank, but a state- ―The body that replaces the Planning
building commission. ‖ In the light of Commission should not be old wine in a new
arguments that state machineries need to be bottle.‖ In your opinion, what should be the
strengthened to bring growth and development, ideal composition and functions of new body
critically analyse the statement. that replaces the Planning Commission?
Comment.
A review the Role of the Planning Commission

- Came through an Executive Resolution therefore The ideal composition of the commission should
was acting as an extra constitutional body over be:
the Constitutional Finance Commission 1. Outgoing cabinet secretary
- Despite a planning machinery put in place 2. CAG
through the District Planning Committee‘s and 3. Representative of Indian Economic Service.
Metropolitan Planning Committee‘s in the 74th 4. Indian Expert developmental economics.
CAA yet a top down approach has mostly been 5. Foreign expert in economics
followed thereby making a farce of 6. NGO representative.
decentralization 7. Leader of Opposition as ex-officio chairman,
- With the increasingly Federal polity in which we with no power to vote.
exist, there is a need to give State‘s greater Domain experts to head different departments of
autonomy in designing and implementing PC that shadow the ministries.
development programmes rather than executing PM and other ministers are excluded so that PC
a one size fits all centrally driven programmes ‗advisory‘ does not become ‗diktat‘.
Despite its contributions over the years, it is time Cabinet Secretary is the most experienced public
envision a different approach to Growth and administrator which encompasses all fields of
Development that looks at strengthening State govt. activity. Expert members to remedy the
Institutions ‗govt. by amateurs‘ shortcoming of parliamentary
Evaluating imperatives system. Opposition leader and NGO
- The lacunae in the existing Planning representation raises credibility and transparency.
Commission must be addressed also to tailor Functions:
their functioning to the context in which we 1. To advise, and advise alone, about the policies
operate. that the govt. may take in economic realm and
- In the LPG era, the State must play a greater there alone.
Regulatory role which is anchored in a rule based 2. To assess the functioning of plans as well as
framework, is transparent and encourages MONITOR them.
competition 3. In case of sub-optimal performance of plans, to
- As stated by Habbermas the polity must engage suggest remedial measures including freezing of

funds. Ministry to inform parliament in case of operated by professional managers. It will invest
non-compliance. in real estate which comprises of housing, offices,
4. To suggest what indicative targets should be township etc. The investors can trade their
set for next FYP. holdings in SEBI prescribed exchanges. The
5. Plans to be indicative and that alone. Possible return from the investment would be given to the
models to be suggested but not enforced. shareholders according to their share, with some
6. To form a ‗shadow cabinet‘ of experts. commission being retained by the managers of
Departmental Secretary to liaison with respective the trust.
expert member while rendering advice to Infrastructure investment trust works in the same
minister on important policies. principle with only the investment destination of
the trust changing for real estate to complete
composition and functioning of new body should infrastructure sector.
be based on factors: These trusts are significant as
1) increase in investment options for people.
1. Federal spirit: In the globalisation era, states are 2) Efficient way of channelling FDI and FII into
becoming more and more central not only for infrastructure and real estate.
social policy initiatives, they must have due 3) The must needed push for stagnant real estate
representation in the proposed body. and infrastructure sectors in terms of finance.
2. Weightage: a body with little say will sooner However, the government and SEBI especially
become redundant. So it should be made has to regulate these trusts thoroughly due to
responsible to committee of Chief Ministers their nascent stage. There is more scope for
headed by Prime Minister. frauds. Have to retain and build investor
3. Professionalism: Perhaps, this is where sentiment in these trusts.
planning commission fall prey. This body should
be made professional.
4. Monitoring wing: Planning commission REITs will take small investors money and invest
proposed many good schemes, but it failed to in real-estate and infrastructure. A long gestation
monitor their impact and reform them period is imperative. A long-term investment is
accordingly. So, any new schemes for economic attractive only if there is security of capital. Hence
and social development should have in-built the reduction of asset requirement to 500Cr from
component of monitoring under aegis of this 1000Cr will hurt investor confidence; however,
body. Further, governments should be obliged to the market may get more players and thus be
consult with the body before announcing new competitive.
schemes, this will check exponential rise of FII is allowed with necessary riders from a
schemes and incentivize flexibility in existing strategic perspective and lock-in periods. No
ones. corporate tax would be levied on REITs for a
So a comprehensive package of reforms, much stipulated period.
beyond the making DE novo institution, is Advantages:
required to make the proposed body effective. 1. India has a comparatively high savings rate.
REITs will bring much needed investment in
infrastructure, tapping into household savings.
2. A higher yielding alternative to govt. securities
Write a note on SEBI‘s recent launch of Real 3. Rationalization of real estate prices – REITs
Estate and Infrastructure Investment Trusts. can‘t deal in black money, because of annually
published balanced sheets.
Real estate investment trusts and infrastructure 4. FII contribution to infrastructure.
investment trust were included in the Budget- Disadvantages:
2014 and sebi has recently launched them. 1. India is currently having a real-estate bubble.
REIT works on the principle of mutual trust. When it bursts, if household savings and FII lose
Citizens, Foreigners, NRI are all allowed albeit value because of the REITs, that would an
certain regulations to invest in them. The trust is economic disaster.

2. May promote real-estate speculation, further awareness and for the settlement of consumer
contributing to the bubble. disputes.
3. Urban bias: If RIETs should be profitable, the The main provisions of the Act in its present form
investor should find them more profitable than are,
govt. bonds. To make profit, RITEs will invest in * Consumers right to get information of quality,
projects with assured returns aka urban projects. quantity and price of products.
*Consumer power to sue fraud businessmen in
‗The passage of the Securities Laws (Amendment) district forum or state or central commission and
Bill by Parliament is an important step in get remedies.
empowering the Securities and Exchange Board *This act helps to educate consumers about his
of India to deal with financial shenanigans.‖ rights.
Elucidate. Currently though there is a three-tier quasi-
judicial consumer disputes redressal machinery at
The number of incidences in the financial services the National, State and District levels, for speed
market like Sardha Ponzi Scheme and Sahara and economical settlement of consumer disputes,
Optionally Convertible Debentures had made a case which would have been resolved in no
SEBI to come up with new Securitas Amendment time, keeps on lingering due to adjournments and
Bill 2013. It has been promulgated through paperwork. So there is a demand for amendment.
ordinance route initially and extended twice have To quickly dispose-off cases in these consumer
taken the shape of bill finally. councils, Union ministry of consumer affairs is
The Bill will provide the following powers to planning for amendments with proposals to
SEBI replace present Central Consumer Protection
1. Empowers SEBI to raid, investigate and attach Council by Central Consumer Protection
the bank account and properties Authority by delegating it with punitive powers
2. If a person doesn‘t comply with SEBI rules, It like,
can arrest the person without approaching the a) Imposing administrative penalty against
court. traders violating consumer rights
3. Any collected fund more than Rs. 100 would b) Conducting investigations
qualify as ―Collective Investment Scheme‖. SEBI c) Conducting search and seizure of related
can further extend the definition if needed. evidence,
4. SEBI can sign agreement with foreign financial d) Summoning offending manufacturers,
regulators advertisers and service providers to record oral
5. It will ensure speedy trail through fast track evidence
courts e) Recalling goods or withdraw services found to
6. People who lose their money in fraudulent be unsafe or hazardous
cases would receive the compensation through f) Ordering reimbursement to purchasers of such
sale of recovered assets. goods or services.
The above bill will help strengthen the SEBI Also the retired judges who were appointed at
existing regulatory framework and safe guard the these councils will be replaced by members
innocent investors. appointed through State and Union PSCs. Hence
Central Consumer Protection Authority with
extra powers and a new set of young judges at
consumer councils are expected quickly redress
Examine why there is a demand for amending consumer grievances.
the Consumer Protection Act, 1986? Comment
on its present provisions
―Human rights commissions are powerless to
Consumer Protection Act, 1986 aims to protect render any ―real service‖ to human rights.‖
interests of consumers in India through Critically comment.
establishment of consumer councils at national,
state and district level to increase consumer

The several issues human rights commissions are DRDO is the premier Research and Development
facing which have to an extent rendered them (R&D) wing under defense ministry and there is a
ineffective in protecting human rights are need for separate commission to ensure its
autonomy.
1) Inadequate infrastructure and manpower. Most The implementation of Rama Rao Committee
of the HRC are situated inside government offices (2008) report resulted in structural and financial
with very limited facilities. Thereby limiting its decentralization of DRDO, still many of its
scope to effectively deal with large number of functionalities appear handicapped. Being a R&D
cases. department, instead of judging DRDO by its
2) There is overlap of jurisdiction between the project‘s performance at the user‘s end (defense
different commission as in SC,ST commission, services), the overall procedural impact on
women‘s commission, minorities etc. This has knowledge enrichment and future developmental
several issues. Firstly, it leads yo confusion perspectives should be considered. This will be
among people as to whom to approach. Secondly, ensured by greater autonomy. A commission will
makes it difficult for the government to monitor fix DRDO‘s accountability to the nation, as it has
and evaluate its programmes in protecting direct bearing on the national security and its
human rights, and also evaluating the credibility. Moreover, it will ensure quicker
performance of these commissions. decisions, implementation and adherence to time
3) HRC submits its report annually to the frames, automatically enhancing its efficiency.
parliament or state legislature. So eventually the The commission will also facilitate the much
affectiveness of these commissions depends on needed collaboration with the willing private
how affective the parliament and SL are. players, as a part of New Defense techno-
4) for any case, the HRC submits the recommend industrial consortium.
nary course of action to the government. No At present, when 70% of Indian defense
mandatory compliance. Rendering them technologies are being imported, a commission
ineffective in cases of violation by the for DRDO will not only ensure greater efficiency
government itself. and autonomy, but will also help it in developing
5) Most importantly, their focus is on providing self- reliance for technologies. Thus, ultimately
relief to affected people rather than on finding the thrusting the indigenization of defense industry.
real cause of occurrence of such crimes and It will also drive DRDO towards being a
preventing them. knowledge hub and developmental center for
future defense prospectives.
However, HRC have imbibed a sense of security
among the people that their rights would be
protected. More importantly it has made people
aware of their human rights. Also, with the rise of
Write a note on the need and highlights of
media, a case of human rights violation against a
draft Regulatory Reforms Bill, 2013. (200
government official or private big shot is a sort of
Words)
embarrassment to them, preventing them from
indulging in such activities.
• Draft Regulatory Reform Bill, 2013 aims to
make regulators across key infrastructure sectors
accountable to the Parliament besides giving
them power of licensing.
Does DRDO need a separate commission like The need of Draft Regulatory Reform Bill, 2013 is
Atomic Energy Commission and Space being urged to govern the constitution, powers,
Commission to make its laboratories more functioning and accountability of the regulatory
efficient and autonomous? Examine. (200 commissions for public utilities and generally for
Words) taking measures conducive to development of
public utility industries, determination of tariff,
enforcement of performance standards,

promoting investment and competition and for make them accountable to the parliament, thus to
protecting the interests of consumers, and for the public in general.
matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. The bill has few major proposals. It aims at
This bill is needed to cover a wider range of governing constitution, powers and functioning
reforms to be carried out, such as for business of major regulators, tariff determination,
regulations etc, enforcement of performance standards,
Highlights of the bill: promotion of investment and protection of
1) This Act may be called the Regulatory Reform consumers. Bill also gives the regulator power to
Act, 2013. grant and revoke license and decisions can not be
2) It extends to the whole of India except in challenged in civil court.
respect of the regulatory commissions in the State
of Jammu and Kashmir
3) This Act (if enacted) shall apply to all The Indian competition enforcement system has
regulatory commissions established prior to this been wisely designed, keeping in mind both the
Act and to all regulatory commissions which may ―deterrence‖ and the ―compensation‖ goals of
be constituted hereinafter. competition law.‖ Comment.
4) The government may from time to time
constitute regulatory commissions and appellate Business Standard
tribunals, as the case may be, under and in
accordance with this Act or under any applicable Competition Act, 2002 consists of rules according
laws, but always subject to the provisions of this to which, if a company which is found faulty of
Act. violation of competition rules by Competition
5) The Government may from time to time Commission of India (CCI) and the verdict is
constitute tariff regulatory commissions under upheld by Competition Appellate Tribunal
this Act for determination of tariffs in the (Compat), then the affected consumers can also
provision of goods and services in public utility file a case of compensation against such
industries companies by forming a joint ‗class‘.
This bill if enacted is, committed to protect the This law is made to uphold the dual actions i.e.
interests of all consumers, by ensuring quality of ‗punitive‘ and ‗compensation‘ which are needed
service and lowering of costs and to promote to uphold law and rights of consumers. The
competition, efficiency and economy and prevent problem comes in the identification of end users
market domination, cartelisation and anti- who are affected by violation of the law, and who
competitive behavior and for orderly growth of can claim to form a ‗class‘. Joint ‗class‘ formation
the relevant public utility industry. leads to reduction of litigation costs and
distributes risks equally.
Regulatory Reforms Bill, 2013 is aimed at For eg.- compat upheld the ruling against 11
establishing super monitoring authority over cement companies of cartelization, and thus
regulators of 13 key sectors and initiate ‗class‘ action could be taken against them in
coordination and cooperation in their working. courts for compensation. But, who forms class?
Sectors which will come under this umbrella The end retail users, or the bulk purchasers such
legislation are – electricity oil & gas, coal, as builders who have anyway passed on the costs
telecommunications and internet, broadcasting to the end consumers i.e. purchasers of buildings.
and television, posts, airports, ports, waterways,
railways, mass rapid transit system, highways
and water supply, and sanitation.
Pasted from
There is need of this legislation as it will be
<http://insightsonindia.com/2014/06/18/insigh
helpful in establishing cohesion in working of the
ts-secure-2014-upsc-mains-questions-current-
regulators of these sectors, who till now have
events-june-
limited or nominal communication. It also will
18/?utm_source=feedly&utm_reader=feedly&ut

m_medium=rss&utm_campaign=insights-secure- ―The new Drug Price Control Order (DPCO)

2014-upsc-mains-questions-current-events-june- that prescribes a ceiling price on several
18> essential medicines is boon to patients but pain
to chemists.‖ Comment.(200 Words)
Yes it is true that The new Drug Price Control

It won‘t be wrong to say that ‖The Indian
Order (DPCO) that prescribes a ceiling price on
competition enforcement system has been wisely
several essential medicines is boon to patients but
designed, keeping in mind both the ―deterrence‖
pain to chemists.
and the ―compensation‖ goals of competition law
There is no doubt that the new DPCO is boon to
‖ but the ground reality has not been the same.
patients as NSLM list increased from 74 to 348
The problems lies in dejure to defacto
drugs, which leads to decrease the prices and
implementation of the enforcement system i.e
market based mechanism replaces the cost based
what is in the law and how its implementation
mechanism in formulating the prices which
has been on ground totally different.
ensures drugs reach the patients in cost based
The recent DLF and India Cement might show us effective manner and also protects the industry to
that there is a ray of hope but the problems are large extent .
not only limited with couple of cases, it still has to The Existing DPCO price policy is cost of
go a long way in order to act as a deterrent. production plus markup where as new DPCO
price policy is simple average of all brands which
The Competition Commission of India and are having market share > 1% .
Competition Appellate Tribunal derive their The new DPCO is pain to chemist as their
authority from the competition act, 2002. The margins are reduced on account of price
Competition Act provides that if violations of reduction, qualified pharmacist is mandatory for
competition law cause any loss or damage then any chemist and allowing FDI investment and
the aggrieved persons can form a group and can intense competition from bigger players.
file a ―class action suit‖ in the tribunal to recover Especially those are running on rent premises in
the compensation. For a common a class action cities like Mumbai etc , they are forced to shut
suit seems like a distant process and many times down due to this new DPCO impact .
big giants can distort the groups by partial Apart from chemist, it is also : likely most impact
compensation in order to avoid the class action MNC‘s in premium pricing brand (eg : GSK ) ;
suit. less effected the companies are Dr reddys,
Ranbaxy etc as their presence in exports and they
The enforcement system still not caters to the are not exposed to domestic market to large
need of individual consumer no matter how big extent ; companies profitability and growth
the issue is. Any enforcement system will not be
efficient as long as it doesn‘t cater to the needs of Q--Do you agree with the view that the
the last person in the line. Also, monopoly of big Planning Commission is redundant and should
companies has tilted the enforcement system in be wound up? In the light of its present
their favour as they can afford one of the best functions, critically comment.
lawyers which the consumer cannot.
Business Standard
DLF and India Cement cases might act as a
deterrent at a big level but may not work for an
individual consumer. The violations of the
competition law should be the same irrespective India has plethora of goals and limited resources.
of whether a group or an individual suffers from Thus need of planning cannot be wished away.
a loss or damage. At the same time, one can see The structure, functioning, and operation can be
the positive signs with the kind recent judgments re-oriented to meet the aspirations of a
given by the competition appellate tribunal. democracy.

Planning Commission assigns money from centre Today no single party dominates every state and
to states on developmental goals. It appraises the regional powers with varied aspirations have
policies and programmes at both levels. It serves cropped up. The initial role of the PC to frame a
as a conduit between Centre and States, brings central policy and allocate resources has become
coordination and understanding of their needs obsolete. It can be at best frame a guide pointing
and problems. towards the various forces influencing the
economy while leaving the budget management
Independent, timely, holistic review of various to the finance ministry as recommended by the
inter-related departments under one label is Rangarajan Committee.
important. This needs a full time specialized
body. Accordingly, central schemes, states centralization is likely to be inefficient because
schemes and price maps are designed. Adequate bureaucratic decision-making, subject to multiple
research, specialized innovation, out of the box levels of accountability, is inherently sluggish,
solutions have been provided by Planning rule bound and unlikely to promote risk-taking.
Commission.
The second ARC report suggested a revamp of
But , it‘s mandate, structure, membership, the structure and it should be implemented
functioning has been targeted by many. For gradually.
instance, a broad based membership from states
and other stakeholders. Lack of specialists in Planning for the new economic environment is a
dealing for typical issues. Rigid attitude and lack process that has to rely more on persuasion than
of flexibility in assigning resources. Imposing directions and has to be much more consultative
Centrally Sponsored Schemes have emerged as than in the past.
bone of contention between Centre and States.
Falling stature of Constitutional bodies like
Finance Commission is stated. Planning commission is an extra constitutional
and non -statutory body responsible for social
Thus, it should be re-oriented, re- integrated, re-
and economic planning of the country.
structured , linked with Finance Commission and
other oversight mechanisms. Improved
technology will arm it to give better policy
advice. But an independent, full time body is Q--Why was the Planning Commission set up?
necessary to bridge the gap between resources Critically comment on its evolution since
and imperatives, which India still faces. independence.
The Indian Express

The planning commission(PC) in India was
Livemint
formed in 1950 as the agency to formulate India‘s
planning It frames and evaluates policy in each Planning Commission was set up in 1950 with the
sector and frame broad government policies. objective of assessing resources, distributing it
Since many policies overlap ministries, the PC across states and sectors, setting priorities for the
helps coordinate those policies. overall development of India. It unconspicuously
works like a lobby for poor and marginalized
Indeed the role of PC as a coordinating agency is
section.
essential where every sector is ultimately
connected to a myriad of other sectors. Its role as With the growing influence of the socialist ideas
a policy framer and budget allocator however in 1930s and inspired by soviet planning success,
needs review. National Planning Committee was set up in1938.
In post independence major state intervention in
Unlike 60 years ago when PC was formed, private
the economy, ravaged of colonial exploitation,
sector is a much larger part of the economy and
necessitated a central planning body. With its
the economy itself is much more open globally.
success in 50s and early 60s, its power continued b. With change in centre-state relation, PC is
to rise. Gradually it started to have a significant increasingly being seen as an instrument of
say in Union plan budget and distribution of central interference in states‘ affair. Due to this
central grants across states. Lack of constitutional there is more focus on region specific
or statutory backing is a concern since it has development plan rather than a strait jacket plan
undermined the Finance Commission. Highly for whole of India.
centralized planning reduced the role of the states
and virtual veto over some financial matter has c. PC overlap of authority with Finance
alarmed the finance ministry., commission which is a constitutional body has
undermined FC.
Post liberalization, diminishing role of state,
increased decentralization has made the PC d. Planning commission has led to limited
somewhat redundant. Accepting the changed autonomy for ministerial planning.
reality to some extent, PC has also moved from
However after 1991 in eighth and subsequent five
―highly centralised planning‖ to ―indicative
year plans, PC has moved to indicative planning.
planning‖.
Also there is need to have a body which
But the call for completely closing down PC is not determines the priority at the national level and
a wise one. We need some sort of body to coordinates among various departments,
coordinate across ministries, states for long term ministries and states to ensure that there is
sustainable, inclusive development addressing coherence. For this PC has to shun bureaucratic
environmental concern. With its decades of mechanism and become a lean professional body.
expertise and institutional memory PC can do it
best. Yes, its mandate and function may be
modified.
Q---Critically evaluate the role played by the
Competition Commission of India in upholding
Q---Critically comment on the relevance of the
its mandate.
institution of Planning Commission in the
context of a rapidly changing Indian economy
Business Standard
and society.
ans:Competition commission of India(CCI) was
The Indian Express established in 2008 by the CCI act in 2003 as a
step away from licence raj and to ensure free
Planning commission started operation in 1950 as
market economy.The mandate of CCI is to
an advisory body. The prime goal of planning
improve competition within industries, to oversee
commission was to formulate five year plans
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and to protect
which were seen as instrument of economic
the rights of the consumers.
growth and development. In pre-liberalization
era it played a crucial role of determining Competition commission monitors the working of
development priorities, government expenditure economy to see if unfair practices are used to
of plans, implementation of plans and measuring eliminate competition and dominate market.
various socio-economic indicators. Since Earlier rules were in place that did not allow
liberalization it had to shift from imperative companies to have market share over a fixed limit
planning to indicative. With increased role of decided by government.
private players in the development. Following are
the changes and related issues : Competition commission have gained
international acclaim in its functioning. There has
a. With increase in private investment and been few shortcomings in the part of Competition
recognition of their role in development, PC has commission while acknowledging its
started to focus on setting policy priorities to contributions.
channelize private investment in desired sector
and region.

1. There has been overlapping in the domains of mergers in Indian companies allaying industry
CCI with other regulators like TRAI that needs to concerns that merger control would result in
be clarified. transaction delays and adversely impact
investment in India. It has also shown its
2.Competition commission should maintain a impartial side by penalizing Coal India, a public
balance between regulation and competition so sector unit for abuse of dominance as monopoly
that markets are not adversely effected by over suppliers of coal.
monitoring.
Moreover CCI‘s actions unleashed the
3. The competition commission has the duty to competition forces in the Indian economy
monitor mergers and acquisitions, but its often prompting pro competitive initiatives in several
seen that there is lack of clarity on how sectors of the Indian economy.
international companies having subsidiaries in
india should be evaluated when merger takes It has thus befitted Indian companies by not only
place between them. creating a level field but also making them more
competitive vis-à-vis foreign companies.
CCI has done a commendable job in handling the
market, whether it is the DLF case or the case of CCI‘s jurisdiction however sometimes overlaps
Coal India Limited. It has shown the will to with other regulators like Telecom Regulatory
monitor both government and private firms in Authority of India, Central Electricity Regulatory
equal footing and has gone after various cartels in Commission and Reserve Bank of India
the industry. Hence CCI has contributed weakening its mandate. Such ambiguities are
immensely in maintaining a free and fair market expected to be resolved with the proposal to
in the country amend the Competition act.
Finally it must be said that CCI can only go so

much in bringing competitive spirits in the
economy. The government on its part must see to
it that every business firm small or big can easily
The Competition Commission of India (CCI),
avail basic infrastructural facilities. Effective laws
functional since May 2009 has the mandate to
and institutions must be put in place to facilitate
sustain the competitiveness of Indian markets as
new entry of business and winding up of the
per the Competition Act (2002), amended in 2007,
same. Innovation must be promoted by
Over the years the CCI has reviewed anti- protection of intellectual rights.
competitive practices in diverse sectors and on
the way penalized some of the largest Q--Write a note on the composition, necessity,
corporations in India including DLF, Coal India , role and mandate of the Law Commission of
the Board of Control for Cricket in India or India.
investigating cartels in key economic sectors,
including cement, sugar, steel and tyre. The Hindu
Apart from the bigwigs, the CCI has also targeted Law Commission of India is an executive body
anti consumer practices like price-fixing by onion established by an order of the GoI .The Law
traders, domestic airlines and LPG gas traders Commission consists of the Chairman, the
and anti-competitive practices of limiting the sale Member-Secretary,full-time Member and part-
of drugs in India. It has also educated the Indian time Members. The no of full time and part time
consumer of their rights, through several members vary according to the requirement of
advocacy initiatives. time.
However its actions cannot be all clubbed as anti The law commision is constituted for a period of
industry. Over the years, the CCI has also greatly 3 years.It works as an advisory body to the
facilitated nearly 150 quick and transparent Ministry of Law and Justice.

During the start of its term it is given the ‗terms of running water which are necessary for
reference‘ for law reforms in the country. manufacturing strength eventually leaving scores
of industrial projects in bottlenecks.
The Commission reviews judicial administration
to ensure that it is responsive so that delays are Mostly government schemes fail not because they
eliminated, arrears are cleared and disposal of are inherently defective but due to the absence of
cases is quick and cost-effective.It seeks to necessary infrastructure resulting from lack of
simplify procedure to curb delays and improve transparency, lousy laws and corruption, lack of
standards of justice. simplified procedures, unwanted red-tapism and
callous attitude.
It also strives to promote an accountable and
citizen-friendly government which is transparent The recent decision by government to introduce
and ensures the people‘s right to information. e-billing in treasuries for disbursing the salary of
State government employees without enhancing
The commission also provides a firm assistance to the capacity of the server or providing other
legal research in the country. infrastructure facilities for conducting the
operations in a foolproof manner has been
Besides the Law Ministry, the commission is also
criticized.
sometimes requested to work upon specific issues
and submit its views to the Supreme Court.The In the past schemes implemented by the Indian
latest being ―the different ages at which a person Government have many loopholes where the
is defined as a child in different laws‖ It executives and operatives take the benefit are not
recommended a reduction in marriage age of allowing people to get benefits.
boys to be at par with girls at 18, stirring a public
debate. For financial inclusion = in villages, no electricity
is there, no internet, no rural banks
Though its recommendation are not binding on
govt the fact that a number of its reports have (For all the above problems government is
been taken up by various ministries and have already taking steps, we need write them when
been worked upon to change the legal scenario, is asked critically analyse)
itself an indicator of the role of the commission in
advancement of law reforms in India. ―In India, the functioning of democratic
institutions and the deepening of the democratic
process along with the efforts to implement
constitutional mandates for affirmative action
have induced higher levels of political
Government Policies & Interventions for mobilization.‖ Do you agree with this view?
development of various sectors (issues in Elaborate. (200 Words)
their design, implementation)
Answer)
Q-―Most government schemes fail not because --Role of RTI, Competition Commission of India,
they are inherently defective, but because many CIC, CVC, NHRC, NCSC/ST, National Women
a times on the ground the necessary Commission
infrastructure is non-existent.‖ Comment (150
Words) --Passage of 73rd and 74th Amendment act =
reservation for women, SC, ST
Answer)
--Election Commission= Universal adult franchise
India suffers from a well-known infrastructure (A-326), Free and fair election
deficit: a lack of efficient roads, ports and
--Reservation for women, SC, ST, OBC = for
distribution channels besides lack of reliable
education and job.
electrical power, sewage systems, and even

--Policies= MGNREGA, Aajevika, NRHM, RTI, forces and police personnel are not be given
etc. protection under the law if they commit sexual
offences against women. If this law cannot be
Many more dimension can be added (open ended removed, then the loopholes in this law should be
question) removed.
Do you think AFSPA is anti-constitutional? --The act allows any non-commissioned officer of
Substantiate. (150 Words) ‗armed forces‘ to fire upon civilians causing
death, to search any premises without warrant or
Answer) to detain any civilian on the grounds of
‗suspicion‘ in states and regions of the republic
AFSPA gives special powers to the personnel of termed as ‗disturbed areas‘ and no judicial action
Armed forces to act in conditions (disturbed of any sort can be taken against the personnel
areas) where security is under threat. The powers responsible.
include insulation of personnel from armed forces --Human rights organisations are against the Act,
from legal prosecution for their actions to as they claim that officers committing human
maintain law and order in such areas. The actions rights violations get away with their crime due to
include, searching any suspected person, arrest the Act. Its repeal will bring domestic law more in
without warrant and even shoot at sight after line with international standards and send a
warning. strong message that the government is committed
Such draconian powers are in line with the need to respect the right to life of all people in the
to counter serious threats from terrorism, country.
insurgency, extremism etc., present in certain
areas. They target integrity and unity of the
country. Even secessionist forces need to be Critically assess the role of MGNREGA in
tackled. Therefore AFSPA is justified on empowering rural women in India. (200 Words)
maintaining the security and sovereignty of the
nation. It cannot be termed anti-constitutional in Answer)
that light.
Whereas on the other hand, misuse of these The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
powers have also been reported numerous times. Employment Guarantee Act aims to strengthen
Frequent violation of human rights, exploitation the women employment by enforcing that about
and breach of fundamental rights which every 33 percent of total workforce should be women
citizen enjoys have been compromised. It has and also that there will be equal wages for men
been called anti-constitutional in this regard. and women. MGNREGA has positive impact on
employment pattern of women. Women have
But, the misuse cannot be the reason for benefitted both as individual and community.
overshadowing the security concerns of the
nation. Activities like terrorism, extremism etc. Women are benefitted individually because they
pose even more threat to human lives then are able to earn independently, spend some
AFSPA. The loss of life and property do not have money for their own needs, contribute in family
limits in their action. Therefore, AFSPA remains expenditure etc. The gained benefits of women as
important but its misuse should be checked by community can be understood by increased
the executive. Citizens should be given some presence in the Gramsabha, increasing number of
grievance redressal forum which effectively women in speaking out in the meetings,
provides reprieve. Hence, AFSPA cannot be increasing capacity of interaction etc.
called anti-constitutional in letter and spirit.
Against— However, women‘s decision for participation and
--The Justice Verma Committee recommendations their share in MNREGA jobs is hindered by
about amendments to AFSPA so that armed various factors. There are certain problems

associated with it such as social taboos (e.g. Panchayat Raj (RDPR) has made efforts to link the
Women going for work outside home and that MGNREGA jobs scheme with agriculture
too taking up earthen work in other people‘s farm activities of Indian farmers.This is a very positive
or place is a practice that is not accepted socially) . and constructive step towards encouraging
farmers in farming activities and discourage
The presence of illegal contractors has led to the migration of rural population.
harassment of women workers and working
conditions have been found to be exploitative. Under the scheme the small and marginal farmers
Since women are ignorant about the legal can take up development activities on their farms
entitlements to get work on demand, they are and draw wages from MGNREGA. The purpose
very often turned away by the contractors who of the was to ensure additional financial gains to
think they are less efficient. farmers and along with food production.
This facility has been designed and extended for
Although the Act requires that when there are
all farmers, since the agrarian crisis has hit the
more than five children under the age of six
nation and will only get worse if this kind of
present at a work site, a female worker (Aaya)
check on migration of rural population and
should be appointed to take care of them, such a
inclusion of farmer in MGNREGA scheme is not
facility is neglected. This has discouraged
initiated.
participation of women, especially breast feeding
mothers. Again, certain kinds of work such as Improving quality of land and generating extra
digging of wells etc., limit participation of income for marginal farmers was one of the main
women. Apart from this, delayed payment of aims of the scheme and to a great extent the aim
wages also makes women‘s participation difficult, has been achieved since households who sought
particularly for women who are the sole earners jobs under MGNREGA and on whose land work
of their families. was undertaken did not come back to work under
right to work scheme, a trend termed as positive.
The reasons for the Poor Performance of Four
states are many and major one‘s are as follows:
1. Patriarchal nature of the society of the states.
The anti-poverty programmes are leaky and
2. Delay in wages leads to aversion of women in
inefficient, unable to lift Indians out of
the MGNREGA work and they end up in some
poverty.‖ Comment. (150 Words)
other instant pay job but with less wages.
3. Nature of work which is of more physical in
nature attributed to them.
Answer)
Data released by Planning Commission in

The scheme has huge potential for regenerating
July shows that around 21% of the Indians
employment opportunities provided there is the
live below poverty line. It is also due to
resolution of loopholes. Certain changes and
widespread poverty that our Food Security
initiative should be taken to remove these
Bill has to cover 67% of the population.
barriers. The valuable gains should not be
Though the government has launched a
derailed for poor implementation.
number of programmes aimed to eliminate
poverty, yet these figures present a gloomy
Has MGNREGA benefited Indian farmer?
picture.
The main reason that these programmes fall
short of achieving their target is the
Answer)
widespread leakage and inefficiency in their
The MGNREGA has benefitted Indian farmers implementation. Most of the times, the
immensely. benefits cannot reach the target audience. To
overcome these inefficiencies, technology can
help us a lot. We are already seeing the results
The Department of Rural Development and

in Direct Benefit Transfer Schemes. Social According to the NSSO , still a large
audit of schemes is another way to increase population lives in slums. The slums
transparency in schemes. could be reduced by formulating housing
These schemes can only be short term projects using a more creative and
measures. Real poverty can only be decreased innovative approach.
by real growth in every sector be it  The government has undertaken projects
agriculture, industry or service. for the rural and urban development.
Schemes like IAY and RAY aim at
providing houses to the population living
in the rural and the urban areas
respectively. The Bharat Nirman Program
has led to development of the
infrastructure in the rural areas. The
collaboration of the construction projects
in rural areas with MNREGA has led to
Q. In India, the National Design Policy, increase in the rural development.
announced in 2007, has not sufficiently focussed  The infrastructure development under
on socially useful products. Identify the areas different schemes has not been able to use
where creative, affordable, enduring and useful innovative and modern methods . This
public structures are much needed in India and has led to paucity of funds and delayed
comment on the existing architecture built by completion. An approach focusing on the
government funds in rural and urban regions. creative design methods would help in
ensuring the development of socially
useful products.
ANSWER-
 The National Design Policy was aimed to Q10. Do you think India‘s early childhood
strengthen the quality design education , programs have succeeded in their mission?
encouraging the use of design by the small Critically examine their functioning and need
scale industries and facilitating the for reforms. If possible cite any example from
involvement of the designers and industry other countries that can be implemented in
to promote the original designs. The India. (250 Words) (Hint: talk about ICDS,
design policy has not been able to focus on anganwadi system, malnutrition, IMR, creche
the products of social importance. system under NREGA etc)
 In India, there is a need for an innovative
and creative approach in the public Ans.
structures for the tackling the 1. Early childhood care has been mentioned
infrastructural problems. in the Constitution in Article 45 under
 The paucity of funds has led to the Directive Principles of State Policy and it
different infrastructure projects being signifies the importance, it has being
undertaken in the traditional approach accorded to, in India. In view of these
getting stalled. An innovative approach principles, Union Government has
could be used in setting up of affordable launched various initiatives such as ICDS,
infrastructure during disaster Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan (SSA), NRHM
management. Open defecation continues and Rajiv Gandhi National Creche Scheme
to pose a threat to the health and for Children of Working Mother.
sanitation of the people. 2. ICDS is the largest public initiative in the
 A creative non-conventional approach for world to offer integrated Early Childhood
creating more public toilets would lead to Care. This centrally-sponsored state-
reducing the cases of open defecation. administered scheme provides services

such as supplementary nutrition, by 2020.

immunization, health check-up, pre- It has a special focus on the troubled North-
school, nutrition education etc. through Eastern states and the Maoist-affected areas. This
various Anganwadi Centres established will have twin benefits. First, it will be able to tap
across India. their talents and moreover, it will wear them
3. Similarly Rajiv Gandhi National Creche away from getting drawn towards extremist
Scheme was launched to provide activities.
assistance to NGOs for running Creches This initiative would help children develop
for babies. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is through sports, learning the virtues of unity,
responsibility, team-spirit, and help improve
aimed at providing primary education to
children. It focuses on opening new concentration which are very crucial for their
schools, improving infrastructure and overall growth and development. In fact sports
teacher availability. academies could also be linked to schools, in an
integrated approach towards the overall
development of children.
4. In spite of these programmes, India has a But the actual challenge lies in implementing it,
Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of 42, which is as there is a lack of trained personnel in the field
though lower than the past, in way above of sports, and lack of proper remuneration which
global average of 37. Also a report has drives people away to pursue sports as a full time
suggested that around 48% children under profession.
five of the country have stunted growth,
indicating that half are suffering from
chronic malnutrition.
This indicates that India has a long way to Question - Is Aadhar initiative a failure?
go before achieving its desired objectives Critically comment. (200 Words)
in ECC.
5. For this, India can look for some other Answer – UID-AADHAAR was started as a
models implemented in countries such as transformational initiative and general perception
Denmark where guaranteed nursery and was that it would change India‘s face as a most
52-week paid leaves are provided to digitized nation in the world. Aadhaar,‘ which
children and their parents respectively. means ‗support‘ or ‗foundation,‘ was to be the
This can provide some vital inputs to platform on which all government programs and
India to further enhance its ECCE many commercial applications, were to be built.
programs. Government scheme to link many subsidies like
LPG, scholarships, wages, and marriage
registration with AADHAAR was cancelled by
SC judgment that AADHAAR card was not
mandatory.
Question - Write a note on Rajiv Gandhi Khel AADHAAR is also being criticized on the basis of
Abhiyan.
lack of feasibility study, hasty approval, threats to
national security, being directionless, using
Answer - The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan is an unreliable technology, need for privacy and data-
initiative by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs protection and lack of coordination among
and Sports to improve youth participation and government agencies involved. The concept of
their performance in sports. The strategies UID was based on the assumption that lack of
include establishing sports complexes in every identity is the reason for inability of the poor to
block, thus reaching out even to the rural, under- access welfare. This appeared seriously flawed. It
privileged youth and monthly stipend and ignored the discretion vested in government
incentive to trainers with the DC being the nodal
officials in deciding eligibility.
officer. This would help India in moving towards
On the basis of above talk it can be concluded that
the dream of joining the top 10 Olympic nations AADHAAR could not achieve its very purpose

and got failure on many grounds, political will is Weekly ‗S‘ ‗P‘ and ‗L ‘reports are received from
also one of them. To make AADHAAR applicable reporting units. Analysis done by districts and
government should go for deep study first and state unit, feed back given and early warning
try to find IT role in AADHAAR which could signals(EWS) are generated, epidemics are
make it very effective. detected and attended and investigation are being
undertaken
Question - Write a note on the Integrated

Disease Surveillance Programme of the Indian
government. (200 Words) In our rural and urban areas both water and
sanitation are closely linked and hence the two
Answer - Integrated Disease Surveillance Project should go hand in hand. Comment on the
(IDSP) was launched with World Bank assistance statement in the light of continuing practice of
in November 2004 to detect and respond to open defecation by large number of Indians and
disease outbreaks quickly. The project was government‘s efforts to bring sanitation from
extended for 2 years in March 2010. From April past 65 years. (200 Words)
2010 to March 2012, World Bank funds were
available for Central Surveillance Unit (CSU) at India‘s rural and urban sanitation problems
NCDC & 9 identified states (Uttarakhand, faced by people. In rural areas lack of sanitation is
Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil not considered as a social taboo. There are
Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and West inadequate number of toilets, lack of water
Bengal) and the rest 26 states/UTs were funded supply and lack of awareness among the people
from domestic budget. for sanitation.
OBJECTIVE:-
-To establish a decentralized State based Whereas the urban areas suffer from problems
Surveillance system for communicable and non such as growing slum areas and unauthorized
communicable diseases in the State, so that timely colonies due to large scale migration from rural to
and effective public health action can be initiated urban areas. In these areas there is a lack of piped
in response to health challenges for water supply, inadequate number of toilets, lack
communicable and non communicable diseases. of maintenance of common toilets and so on.
-To improve the efficiency of the existing Large families live in cramped spaces as a result
Surveillance activities of the disease control of which there is less scope of building toilets for
programme and facilitate sharing of relevant individual houses.
information with health administrations, Therefore, problems related to sanitation, both in
community and other stakeholders so as to detect rural as well as urban areas
disease trends overtime & evaluate control
strategies. . the end result in both cases being open
MAJOR OBJECTIVE:- defeacation.
-Early detection & response to disease outbreaks.
MAJOR COMPONENTS:- Government of India has devised separate
Integration and Decentralization of Surveillance sanitation policies for both rural and urban
activities India.India started its Central Rural Sanitation
Strengthening of Public Health Laboratories Program in 1986 for rural areas. As a result of
Human Resource Development – Training of deficiencies and low financial allocations, the
SSO, DSO, RRT, other medical and paramedical CRSP had very little impact on the gargantuan
staff problem. The Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan, launched
Use of Information Technology for collection, in 1999 aims to make 50% of Gram Panchayats
collation, compilation, analysis & dissemination Nirmal Grams by 2017 and 100% access to
of data sanitation for all rural households by 2022.
Bringing academic institutions and medical National Urban Sanitation Policy was launched
colleges into disease surveillance during the XIth FYP, aims for 100% sanitation in

urban areas. Both these programs focus on women particularly in rural areas are prone to
community-based approach and strengthening sexual harassment.
local institutions.
Unavailability of water to majority of households
However it is to be seen as to how well these has led to serious sanitary problems and is a
programs are implemented in future to tackle this matter of National Shame that majority still
ever increasing problem of open defeacation. defecate in open air.
Provision of water and sanitation should be done

as it is a Constitutional Right of every citizen
In Rural & Urban India Sanitation problems are under ―Right to Life‖
created due to different circumstances.
In Rural India there is lack of awareness about

health, hygiene and sanitation. Further, there is
lack of ‗pucca‘ houses and proper domestic water
supply. 'toilets for all' is stated as a national priority and
the task be jointly assigned to all the relevant
In Urban areas, sanitation problems are widely ministries, making them accountable for time-
found in slums due to open air defecation. Lack bound targets. Required resources should be
of public toilets and their proper maintenance found as this is a national priority. Village
causes further problems. And open sewages, pradhans and city mayors/chairpersons should
overflowing drainages and garbage offer more be roped in and be made accountable for
challenges for sanitation. performance. Just building toilets is not enough,
their maintenance should be institutionalized.
The efforts taken by GoI for sanitation are:
1. Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC) launched in

1999 which is now Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan is a Awareness creation must be a key hallmark of
demand driven & community based sanitation the programme; stakeholder involvement,
program. especially keeping in mind regional variations
and specificity of requirements, should also be
2. Indira Awas Yojana for ‗pucca‘ houses with emphasised. Let states compete for early credit
toilets in Rural areas. and substantial incentives. And corporate social
responsibility spending could be actively and
3. School Sanitation &Hygiene Education (SSHE)
effectively deployed.
to ensure child friendly water supply, hygiene,
toilet and hand washing facilities to School
Children.
Write a note on the National Nutrition Mission
4. Central Rural Sanitation Campaign was
(200 Words)
launched in 1986.
5. National Urban Sanitary Policy was launched

in 2009 for ―open defecation free‖ sanitary Cities.
An initiative of government of India for policy
Further, State Governments and ULBs have direction and effective coordination of all
launched many program‘s and campaigns for nutrition related programs being implemented by
sanitations locally. the Government .
However, despite many government efforts huge The main aim of the program is to check out the
majority of Urban and Rural people continue to problems of malnutrition, infant mortality, under
defecate openly. This has causes recurring five age mortality and maternal mortality.
diseases due to pathogens in many areas and

It would also review and revise the goals set out Asian Development Bank intends to implement
in the National Nutrition Policy, 1993, and the the PURA scheme under a Public Private
National Plan of Action on Nutrition, 1995, Partnership (PPP) framework between Gram
keeping in view the present nutrition profile of Panchayat(s) and private sector partners.
the country.
The scheme envisages twinning of rural
The Mission will have two tier- supervisory infrastructure development with economic re-
structures. It will be headed by the Prime generation activities and is the first attempt at
Minister and will include concerned union delivering a basket of infrastructure and
ministers, chief ministers by rotation, amenities through PPP in the rural areas.PURA
academicians, technical experts and NGOs. project spans several Panchayats in a cluster, the
private partner would propose sub-projects with
The Mission will have an Executive Committee, the PURA elements for each of the Panchayats.
which will be headed by the Minister of State in
charge of women and child development. It will The leveraging of public funds with private
have two ministers in charge of nutrition / capital and management expertise for creation
women and child development / health from and maintenance of rural infrastructure is the
nutritionally backward states, two ministers from essence of the PURA scheme, which is envisioned
states with good performance in nutrition related to act as the catalyst not only for convergence
programs, secretaries of union ministries between different infrastructure development
concerned and experts. schemes but also for the new model for the
management of urbanisation of rural areas.
The Mission will put in place effective mechanism

for coordinating the efforts of different ministries, Write a note on the objectives and components
after reviewing the goals set out in the National of National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM)
Nutrition Policy 1993, the National Plan of Action (200 Words)
on Nutrition 1995 and the existing strategies
being adopted by various ministries. NRLM was designed after restructuring
Swarnajayanti Grameen Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY)
The Executive Committee will be responsible for
to tackle some of its shortcomings like insufficient
identifying nutritionally backward regions and
investments for building community
groups, monitoring and evolving mechanisms for
institutions,and weak linkages with banks
coordination and conduct of evaluation studies.
leading to low credit mobilization.
Financial burden of this programme is shared

between the Centre and the States in the ratio of
Write a note on PURA model. (200 Words)
75:25 (90:10 in case of North Eastern States
including Sikkim; completely from the Centre in
PURA is a noble programme initiated by Hon‘ble
case of UTs).
Former President of India Dr A P J Abdul Kalam
for Providing Urban amenities in Rural Areas. Objective- To reduce poverty by enabling the
poor households to access gainful self-
The perspective of this programme is to enhance
employment and skilled wage employment
the development in villages with all basic
opportunities . It will result in the improvement
facilities like schools, roads, lighting, water,
of their livelihoods on a sustainable basis.
communication, health, employment and income.
The Indian central government has been running NRLM works on three pillars –
pilot PURA programs in several states since 2004.
-enhancing and expanding existing livelihoods
MoRD with support from Department of options of the poor
Economic Affairs and the technical assistance of

-building skills for the job market outside with long term project sustainability.
-nurturing self-employed and entrepreneurs. 5. Provision of basic services to urban poor with
affordable prices
Compnents :
6. Adequate provision of funds to meet
1.Promotion of Institutions of the poor – Strong deficiencies.
institutions of the poor such as SHGs and their
village level and higher level federations are It has been a MIXED report card for JNNURM
necessary to provide space, voice and resources regarding attaining its objectives.
for the poor, and for reducing their dependence
on external agencies. The Major criticism includes Tardy progress of
scheme implementation, Steep rise in prices of
2.Universal Social Mobilisation: NRLM would implementation of schemes, Gender concerns and
ensure that at least one member from each Large delay in process implementation. In fact,
identified rural poor household, preferably a implementation of JNNURM has already been
woman, is brought under the Self Help Group extended by 2 years up to 2014.
(SHG) network in a time bound manner.
But on the brighter side, a number of projects
3.Training, Capacity and skill building have been complemented under various sectors
such as Water Supply, Sewerage, Storm Water
4 Universal Financial Inclusion: NRLM would Drains, Solid Waste Management, Roads and
work towards achieving universal financial Flyovers, Development of Heritage Areas, Mass
inclusion, beyond basic banking services to all the Rapid Transport System, Urban Renewal, etc.
poor households
Infact, even the partial success of JNNURM has
5.Provision of Interest Subsidy paved way for JNNURM-2 which focuses more
on small and medium towns. Thus, JNNURM has
6.Skills and Placement ProjectsPartnerships with
certainly helped in development of various urban
NGOs
areas of our country but still a lot need to be
7.Linkages with Panchayat Raj Institutions done.
source : NRLM mission document ―The systems and strategies put in place to reach
every child in every part of the country with
lifesaving polio vaccines can be used to save
millions of children from other preventable
Has the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban diseases.‖ Elaborate. (200 Words)
Renewal Mission programme succeeded in its
mission? Evaluate. (200 Words)
JNNURM integrates various objectives in mission India has achieved amazing success in becoming
mode such as: a polio-free country in just five years when it had
nearly half of world‘s polio cases. This campaign
1. Integrated development of infrastructure has also shown the power of vaccines to wipe out
services in cities. a disease and safeguard the children. However,
the story doesn‘t end here. According to the
2 Focus on urban renewal programme of old
UNICEF around 1.4 million children die of
cities to reduce congestion.
preventable diseases such as pneumonia, measles,
3. Scaling up of civic amenities with emphasis on diphtheria, tetanus etc every year. The systems
access to urban poor. and strategies adopted in eradicated polio could
be very useful if they are re-implemented in
4. Establishing linkages between asset creation eradicating other childhood diseases. Measures
and asset management such as a vast surveillance system to allow

vaccinators to respond in a timely manner to vaccinators to respond quickly to outbreaks.

disease outbreaks, timely vaccination to children Strategies were formed to target children in
etc. could help in preventing avoidable deaths. vulnerable communities and other places that
Also children belonging to vulnerable were hard to reach. While we have won the war
communities should be targeted strategically. on polio, we still have a long way to go in
Strong commitment of the government as shown combating other childhood diseases that can be
in the case of Pulse Polio Immunization program prevented with vaccines. Today, we have
along with partnerships from other international vaccines that protect against some of the most
bodies such as the UNICEF and World Bank is common childhood diseases. If we can get the
required for reaching this goal. There is also a polio vaccine to every child, why can‘t we do the
section of society which is against the expansion same with vaccines that protect children against a
of the vaccination programme and introduction whole range deadly of diseases? We need to instil
of newer vaccines. Therefore, more scientific the urgency displayed against polio into the fight
research also needs to be done to ascertain the against other childhood diseases. While we have
good and evil effects, if any, on the lives of made some progress, we are catastrophically off
children due to any newly introduced vaccine. course to meet the UN Millennium Development
There needs to be a sense of urgency in order to Goal 4, which calls for reducing child mortality
fight against childhood diseases. by two-thirds by next year. The national
immunisation programme has only 61 per cent
coverage across the country. We lag behind many
of our neighbours in introducing critical new
Newspaper Extract
vaccines into the national immunisation
India must build on the polio campaign to programme, including those to protect against the
prioritize childhood immunisation. This week, we leading causes of diarrhoea and pneumonia —
mark the three-year anniversary of the last case of the two biggest killers of children under five.
polio virus in India. It is a monumental India has the opportunity to build on the success
achievement — and arguably one of the greatest of the polio campaign to prioritise childhood
public health success stories of all time. The immunisation. Polio successes have already
legacy of the polio campaign is more than just the contributed to efforts against other vaccine-
successful eradication of the crippling disease. preventable diseases. For example, the
The systems and strategies put in place to reach government has implemented a polio-style
every child in every part of the country with vaccination campaign in 14 high-risk states
lifesaving polio vaccines can be used to save against measles, a disease that killed
millions of children from other preventable approximately 56,000 children in 2011.
diseases. According to Unicef, every year in Surveillance laboratory systems set up under the
India, 1.4 million children under five die from polio programme now help monitor for measles
preventable diseases. Reaching every child with outbreaks. Already, large declines in measles
timely vaccination could dramatically reduce cases have been recorded in several states. This is
child deaths in the country. Polio shows that this a great step forward and more should be done to
can be done, if we put our minds to it. Five years leverage the systems and strategies that have
ago, India had nearly half of the world‘s polio defeated polio. The opposition to efforts to
cases. Experts considered the country the most strengthen and expand childhood immunisation,
technically difficult place to end polio, with however, poses a real threat. There are some
migration, high population density and low groups that vocally continue to resist vaccination,
immunisation coverage posing significant particularly newer vaccines. Most recently,
challenges. Through the commitment and criticism has stemmed from a small group of
leadership of the government and with support doctors that has expressed unfounded scepticism
from national and international partners, over 2.3 against the five-in-one pentavalent vaccine,
million vaccinators immunised 172 million despite the vast body of evidence supporting the
children with the polio vaccine every year. A vast use of this vaccine. Based on appropriate
surveillance system was established to allow scientific evidence and recommendations, the

government made the decision to introduce the

pentavalent vaccine, which protects against
diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, hepatitis B and —
haemophilus B (Hib), in the national turn sewage into water for irrigation or use in
immunisation system. This is an important step industry.
towards ensuring that children are protected
from life-threatening illnesses, including
pneumonia and meningitis caused by Hib. The diverse options for reuse and recycling of
waste water must be factored in for: use in
agriculture, recharge of water-bodies, gardening,
and industrial and domestic uses. In each case,
the treatment plan will be different. But in all
Analyze the measures needed to be taken to cases, the treated effluent will improve the
move towards sustainable solutions to urban hydrological cycle. It will return water and not
water and waste management. (200 Words) waste to the environment. While a larger sewage
treatment plant affords economies of scale in
operation, a plant fitted to size — collecting the
waste of a group of houses, an institution or even
Investments in water supply must focus on colonies — may have higher costs of operations,
demand management, reducing intra-city but there are substantial savings in the piping and
inequity and on the quality of water supplied. pumping cost.
This will require cities to plan to cut distribution
losses through bulk water meters and efficiency
drives.
Examine the merits and demerits of raising FDI
User charges should plan to cover increasing in the insurance sector from 26 to 49 per cent.
proportions of operation and maintenance (O&M)
costs, while building in equity by providing a
―lifeline‖ amount of water free of charge, with
higher tariffs for increasing levels of use. Ans: Raising FDI in insurance sector is a part of
2nd generation reforms that have both merits and
Each city must consider, as the first source of demerits.
supply, its local water-bodies. Therefore, cities
must only get funds for water projects, when they MERITS
have accounted for the water supply from local
(a) It will provide the much needed capital that
water-bodies and have protected these water-
cash starved Indian promoters are not able to
bodies and their catchments. This precondition
provide.
will force protection and build the infrastructure,
which will supply locally and then take back (b) Will improve insurance density.
sewage also locally. It will cut the length of the
pipeline twice over — once to supply and the (c) Brings best global practices of management
other to take back the waste. and technology transfer which are otherwise
denied to domestic insurance sector.
(d) Product diversification and tailored products

Planning for ―full coverage and costs‖ will lead to meet the demand of growing middle class.
cities to look for unconventional methods of
treating waste. Biological methods of wastewater (e) Will support financial inclusion efforts.
treatment introduce contact with bacteria, which
feed on the organic materials in the wastewater, (f) Provide long term finance to infrastructure
thereby reducing its Biochemical Oxygen sector that is a key driver of growth.
Demand (BOD) content.

(g) Increase employment. make much if a difference from the previous 26%
cap.
(h) More competition will cut cost, benefiting
customers. 3) More penetration – 26% cap didn‘t make much
of an impact. Rather domestic companies may
(i) Raise tax revenue of government. prefer to penetrate into rural areas as they know
the psyche of the people and can provide better
(j) Break domestic monopolies and thus improve
products rather than foreign companies who may
settlement process.
prefer safe, profitable ventures.
DEMERITS.
The demerits are
(a) FDI benefits have long gestation period so
1) Increase competition to domestic players – LIC
realization of benefits are not eminent.
and other do septic players have matured
(b) Gullible customers became prone to tricky considerably offering great products and have
insurance contracts, losing their life savings. developed trust among users. Thus, this would
not impact them much.
(c) Global financial integration has a contagious
effect when financial crises occur. 2) foreign dependence – The global crisis of 2008
has raised apprehensions of dependence on
(d) Once the business starts earning profit the foreign companies. But, our insurance regulator
capital starts flowing back to foreign country IRDA has put stringent regulations to prevent
creating long term balance of payment crises. any such incidents. Thus, raising the cap would
not affect our financial stability
(e) Negative externalities to labor market as
ultimate motive of FDI is profit maximization.
Another answer …with a bit of analysis Examine the criticisms against the Right to Fair
The extent of merit or demerit depends on the Compensation and Transparency in Land
Acquisition, Resettlement and Rehabilitation
ability of IRDA to regulate and manage FDI. Only
Act, which was notified in December 2013.
time will determine the rationality of this
exuberance.
The Right to Fair Compensation and
1) Increased capital – Raising the cap would mean Transparency in Land Acquisition, R&R Act is a
a larger share for the foreign companies and a positive step, especially when we compare to the
major say in the company affairs. This would British era Draconian Act of land Acquisition
incentivize them to invest more. 1894. However, this act doesn‘t address all the
issues and have got some demerits:
The rationale to increase capital is the expectation
that insurance companies would invest more in 1. Applicability: This act applies to a land
infrastructure projects as they are best suited for acquired more than 100 acres in rural area and 50
long term investments. But, the investment acres in urban areas. Hence, it gives the leeway to
pattern of insurance companies show a massive the acquirer to acquire in small patches (less than
proportion going yo equity markets. Just by 100 and 50 acres) in step wise manner and escape
increasing the cap may not make much of a the law
difference.
2) Professionalism and innovative products – FDI 2. Consent: The act needs the consent of 80% and
would bring certain best practices from around 70% affected population, in case of acquiring by
the world to India. But, the cap of 49% would public enterprise and private enterprise
mean the foreign company still does not have respectively. This makes the acquiring process
authority over the company. Thus, it may not slow and would affect the business, this limit
should be reduced.

3. Other laws: acquired under laws like SEZ act, Criticism: Although the compensation is
atomic energy act, cantonment act, land increased ,it will not increase in substantial terms
acquisition (mines) act etc. doesn‘t appear under as the value is under reported
this.
However , the government is working on the
4. Compensation: The amount would be 4 times projects so that under reporting is curbed(e.g.
market price in rural and 2 times in urban, is very National digital land records).
less as the actual price is way high than the
amount generally shown in market for 4.Social Impact Assessment(SIA) provision
registration purpose. Criticism: this will delay the process of land
acquisition
All, this make the law toothless and have given
enough leeway for manipulation. 5. Rehabilitation provision Criticism: Pro business
lobbies say that this will increase the cost of the
project making it non-viable.
The Act continues the empowerment policy of In this way, the Act has been a welcome step
government with respect to the unprivileged as towards repealing the previous colonial act of
well as privileged sections of the society. The 1894.But much has to be done with respect to
provisions and the criticisms against the act are reviewing the act
discussed as follows.
.
1. The act mandates consent of 80 percent and
70% of the affected families in public and private Write a note on union government‘s new
enterprises. scheme – Financial Inclusion Mission.
Criticism :( a) pro- activists: the demand was Financial inclusion is delivery of financial services
100% consent required. at affordable costs to vast sections of
disadvantaged and low income groups. The new
(b) pro-business: it will increase the burden on
financial inclusion scheme named SAMPOORN
infrastructure development.
VITTEYA SAMAVESHAN, aims bank accounts
However, the consent requirement is adequately for every Indian and banking services within 5km
represented as 100% consent will stall the land of every town and village, and by March 2016
acquisition process and lesser consent with special focus on women, small and marginal
requirement will certainly decry the farmers and laborers.
empowerment framework of the government.
This campaign for inclusion will be at various
2. Nine union government acts are exempted layers,
from the purview of this act (such as defense act,
a) In areas where possible, the regular brick and
Sez act, etc.)
mortar branches will be created.
Criticism: this provision makes the rationale foul
b) In areas where not possible, small branches
as the requirement was in naxal affected areas
manned few people will be created.
and other areas
c) The layer below that will be kiosks
However ,some acts has to be exempted because
of deterrent of non completion of projects of d) Another layer below will be ATMs and
national importance
e) Then the human contact through fixed-point
3.Compensation provided under the act: four Business Correspondents.
times the market value at urban land, two times
the market value at rural land Contrary to the old financial inclusion
programme, this new scheme operates in both

rural and urban areas. Also the cumbersome KYC 6. Regulating the sale of the ultrasound machines
process is replace with easy e-KYC facility. Each only to registered bodies
account holder would be provided with RuPay
card giving him freedom to operate from The enforcement of PCPNDT Act 2003, which
anywhere. The government will encourage prohibits sex determination tests of the fetus
transfer of subsidies directly to bank accounts of (leading to abortion if it‘s female), has been far
the beneficiaries. The possibility of exploring and from satisfactory. The main reasons being:
expanding mobile telephony banking is also been
• Poor supervision of genetic and ultrasound
explored.
clinics
Financial inclusion is a critical step that requires
• Unethical and illegal practices of the concerned
political will, bureaucratic support and dogged
doctors/ radiologists
persuasion by RBI. It is expected to unleash the
hugely untapped potential of the bottom of • Rampant misuse of technology
pyramid section of Indian economy. Perhaps,
financial inclusion can begin the next revolution • Fast increase in the number of ultrasound
of growth and prosperity clinics over the years
• Implementation of PCPNDT Act is far from

expected
What are the highlights of the Pre-conception
and Pre-natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition • A center doesn‘t generate any of the records of
of Sex Selection in India) (PNDT), Act 2003? illegal sex determination. No complainer and no
Evaluate its performance. (200 Words) evidences. Unfortunately like many other Acts,
this act also faces implementation problems
• No effective monitoring mechanism

concerned.
• Proper knowledge of the Law
Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic
Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, is an federal • No Standardization in practices, record keeping
legislation enacted by the parliament of India to etc.
stop female foeticide and arrest the declining sex
ratio in India. The act banned prenatal sex • Problem of False Reporting
determination. 2003 is an amendment to improve • No proofs & evidences for the authorities to
the regulation of the technology used in sex take action
selection.
To avoid the above, public awareness through
The highlights of the amendments are: media should be increased, public meetings
1. The technique of pre conception sex selection should be arranged in rural areas. Females are
within the ambit of the act treated weak hence equality should be
encouraged.
2. Bringing ultrasound within its ambit
3. Empowering the central supervisory board,

constitution of state level supervisory board
4. Provision for more stringent punishments Highlight the sociocultural importance of rural
and traditional sports in India. What measures
5. Empowering appropriate authorities with the can government take to protect waning
power of civil court for search, seizure and traditional sports in India? (200 Words)
sealing the machines and equipments of the
violators Link

India is a Secular Nation with 14% of Muslim

Population ,so the Minority assets and Interests
The passage of the long-pending Pension Fund should also take into account for a greater extent
Regulatory and Development Authority to save the country‘s diversity and Integrity
(PFRDA) Bill confers several benefits to the
organised pension sector.‖ Critically
examine. (250 Words) How can India allay the fears of nuclear
suppliers about India‘s nuclear liability law
Link without amending it? (150 Words)
• India‘s Nuclear Liability Law has raised
concern among potential investors due to its
deviance from international law in case of liability
due to an accident. This is to be seen in the light
of Bhopal tragedy and the fact that it has been
enacted by a sovereign democratic process.
Rampant encroachment and the misuse and • However in order to quell investors‘ concerns,
usurpation of wakf assets representing Islamic Government has already agreed to pay upto 1300
religious endowments is the reality across
cr over NPCIL‘s liability of 1500 cr. Pegging the
India.‖ Throw light on different measures taken
liability in term sof rupees and not SDR will
by the government to bring transparent
favour suppliers as SDR has been constantly
administration and to stop illegal
appreciating.
encroachments of wakf assets . (200 Words)
• It can bring an insurance package for the
nuclear industry. This will help in evaluating
Ans:-
actuarial liability which can be then factored in
―Wakf‖ or ―Waqf‖ is an arabic word which
agreements. Better quantification will lead to
means ‗Prohibited‘. According to Islamic Context
more certainity in agreement and this will further
any Interested can donate any type of Property
favour the nuclear suppliers.
for a charity for Noble Cause.All those Properties
• However, India should not dilute the bill to
are Headed by Central Wakf Council with it‘s
please suppliers. Industrial disaster is a
Respective State Wakf Boards.
controversial issue and India should not lose
Many a times the income and the Misproportion control over the liability process to please
or Encroachment of Assets was observed in the investors.
wakf board so, in 1996 a Working committee of
Rajya Sabha has Appointed to look into state
Wakf Boards.In 2006 Sachar Committee provided What is distress migration? Explain with
Counter Initiatives for Land Enchroachments and examples which factors lead to this type of
Related matters. Major Suggestions were putforth migration in India. (200 Words)
by Joint parliamentry Committee in its report in Answer:
2008.Later in 2012 Union Ministry for Minority Distressed with the circumstances, poor
Affairs directed State Wakf Boards to undertake livelihood opportunities or even food insecurity
survey and Computerise records but sadly there leads to the Distress migration. Such type of
is No Progress,So Wakf Act 2013 came in prospect migration, in contrary to find better
of managing more than Four Lakh Registered opportunities, is the one, which people take as a
Wakf Property. no choice option. Owing to poor conditions and
The New Act pushes the state boards to provide highly backward areas of some of the states,
necessary informaation with i Proper time Distress migration is common in India. So called
Frame.Encraochmet of Wakf Property is a non- BIMARU states, experience such migration,
bailable Offence that can convict for rigorous two where large number of inhabitants, move to
Years Imprisonment.The Act make the State distant places to work.
Governments Responsible to function Effectively The recent cyclone, which hit the Odisha coast,
severely destroying the district of Gangjam, will

also lead to distress migration. The district, Nuclear suppliers fear that this may put an onus
already, experiences migration of fishermen to on them though the mistake might be done by the
work in areas such as Mumbai, Surat, Goa etc operator, in this case, NPCIL. They also argue
seasonally. But in the aftermath of this cyclone, that the Indian liability law is not in tune with
and losing their homes and boats, nets etc, other international laws. Any question of liability
fishermen will be more prone to migrate to might also hamper their business interests.
distant areas. Even their bargaining power will be
Liability clause may invite some backlash from
less and will have to work under stated
the suppliers but it is in the greater interest.
conditions.
Modifications like including the right of recourse
Traditionally also, because of high economic and
of the operator in the initial aggrement, insurance
social disparities in India, the poor workers and
to be covered by the GIC India, providing the
labourers, carry out distress migration, in search
libility costs in the initial aggrement itself etc
for better livelihood and lives. Such trend was
might help to tide the backlash.
especially found in eastern states and north
eastern states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Bengal Nuclear liability law is critical to the India‘s
,Assam etc. energy security but it can be addressed in a
proactive manner by evoving a consensual
==You can include caste as a factor of approach in it.
distress migration. How lower caste go for
migration in order to avoid wrath of
higher caste and social mobility. Secondly
seasonal distress migration of agricultural
labourers should be included in normal
The emphasis of Assisted Reproductive
times.
Technologies (ART) Bill should be to ensure
Thirdly, communal violence as a source of
that the benefits of surrogacy are most
distress migration as seen in parts of UP
beneficial to those who are weakest in the
etc. or in case of India – Pakistan partition.
supply chain – the surrogates.‖ Elaborate
The ART through which surrogacy is conducted

are a recent and fast growing addition to India‘s
medical market and medical tourism sector. Their
Why did India enact a nuclear liability law? unregulated proliferation over the past few years
What are the concerns of nuclear suppliers has raised serious issues of safety, ethical practice,
regarding this law? Do you think this law cost and rights of surrogates.
adversely affects India‘s energy security?
Analyze The draft ART bill, 2010 fall short of many
A) Aftermath of the 2010 civil nuclear agreement commitments that health regulators were
with the US,Russia etc India has ostensibly supposed to advocate. The bill stipulates that
increased its quest for nuclear energy and this payment for surrogate is to be made in five
called for a formulation of policies including the installments whereby 75% would be given after
nuclear liability law. delivery. This not only shows a clear priority
accorded to intended parents but also betrays that
In the course of recent of events like the the worth of surrogate‘s labor pain, pregnancy,
Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan as well as related emotional and physiological risks are
from the past experiences of the Bhopal gas meaningless.
tragedy, the question of liability in the case of a
nuclear accident has called for the enactment of a Further, the bill increased the number of
nuclear liablity law. This is of great significance as successful cycle of live birth from 3 to 5 that
the aftereffects of any nuclear accident continue includes ART cycles. Surrogate mother may go
to haunt for a long time and concerns of all the through many cycles till achieving five successful
parties have to be addressed. live births; which will adversely affect her health.

As pointed, most surrogates are from poor 2.This bill mentions about complaining to the
background because middle income families CVC or SVC but these are already overburdened.
either don‘t need or are ethically constrained, so And also CVC enjoys only power to
chances of over exploitation is maximum. recommend.It ca not impose the penalties.
3.The bill has limited definition of disclosure and
Moreover it is observed that intended parents
victimization.Also the definition of the
once they get the child, never take care of
whistleblowers is narrow.
surrogates health effects which are more prone
4.This bill does not mention about the severe
after the delivery. There is no provision of any
punishment for the disclosure of the
insurance for further catastrophe in case it occurs.
whistleblowers names.
There should be proper counseling for surrogates
5.This bill does not mentions anything about
who are basically poor to understand the health
encouraging the whistleblower concept.
issues along with proper guidance and caretaker
Suggestions:
measures from their family.
1.An independent body should be set up deal
The recent bill though much desired but fall short with the whistleblowers complaints rather than
of many aspects that specifically attends the CVC or SVC.
concern of surrogates who are economically 2.The complaints must be prioritized and
challenged and come forward only to fill their accordingly they must be dealt.
monetary gaps.Therefore drafting and 3.It must be made according to the international
regulations should to be in line with the benefit of standards.Eg:USA.
the most suffered in the process i.e Surrogates.
Critically examine India‘s record in handling

various refugee related problems since
What are the highlights of India‘s independence.
Whistleblower‘s Bill 2011? Analyze its
drawbacks and suggest improvements. (200 The Hindu
Words) India has always been a home to refugees
Ans: This bill seeks to address the from all neighbouring countries right from
maladministration, administrative abuses and 11th century when hindu rulers of Gujarat
corruption by a public servant. granted refuge to Parsis and today there
Its basic features are as follows. number stands close to 4 lakh. Despite such
1. It protects the whistle blowers by maintaining a large number of refugees there have not
anonymity of complainant to a larger extent. been a concrete law,statue governing these
2. It requires the complainant to mention his refugees.
name in the complaint. The refugees from various countries have
3. The bill has the provisions to curtail the false come to India since Independence like
allegation by imposing the penalty on such Pakistan, Tibet, Bangladesh at large scale.
complaints. Refugees in India are governed by
4. Any public servant or NGO can complain to Foreigners Act, 1946. The lack of specific
the CVC orSVC. legislation in recognizing these refugees
5. The Vigilance commissioner keeps the hampers in their effect of getting basic
whistleblowers name secret. amenities, not to mention the increased
6. This bill aims to protect the honest officers from security concerns of nation. Only certain
undue maladministration. judicial decisions and some home
Drawback of the Bill. ministries‘ advisories have given directives
1.The provision of disclosing the name of the in ad-hoc manner. A comprehensive
whistleblower is detriments to the very aim of the legislation must be formulated
bill. This will discourage the Complainants. differentiating foreigners and refugees
giving them recognition and that entails in it
various international law like that of non- these steps will ensure better status of
refoulement. There must be structured refugees within India
system that gives these people a permit ,an
identity document and which would help
streamline the government records.
These measures not only will help to tackle .Why the Bill on Women‘s Reservation in
the issues of national security and a humane Parliament is not yet passed? What are the
life for these people but will also have a far- issues surrounding it? Examine.
reaching benefit for aiming-for-permanent-
membership-in-UN India in getting The Hindu
international recognition. There has been a long standing demand by
various sections of the society for passing of the
Women Reservation Bill. But this has not yet
• India known for its open arms policy of happened
giving shelter to refugees Reasons for non passage
• Evidence from Ancint times when Gujarat 1) Lack of political will: Politicians dont want to
ruler gave shelter to Parsis to now to risk their seats for the sake of an ethical issue. The
Rohingyas, afghans, somalians etc basic problem is the clause that calls for rotation
• As per UNHCR, total number of refugees of seats reserved for women every 5 years
in India – 2 laks 2) Opposition by caste groups: The OBCs, SC and
• Though India is not a party to UN STs have a fear that this reservation would be
convention on refugees, its policy restricted to upper castes and rich women.
commended when many countries have Backward castes and poor women would not gain
closed their borders and refused protection mileage.
Issues within the Country 3) Lack of consolidated women voting: Women
Lack of a specific law for refugees: general are expected to folow the foot steps of the male in
aw applicable to all Foreigners, The the family.
Foreigners Act applies to refugees as well. 4) Lack of a strong lobby for reservation: Though
2. standardised documentation for refugees pressure groups are there they seem to surface
3. lack of legal recognition has led to only during elections. Women groups must work
difficulties in their access to basic facilities to muster support till the bill is passed. They
such as decent living conditions, must also try to increase the participation of men
employment, free or subsidised medical in these pressure groups.
facilities and education Given their importance in the society and the
difficulty in knowing whether they have a historical importance Indian culture accords to
legitimate reason for their presence in India them, India has an opportunity to create history
– for security issues of India and become one of the first nations to pass this
a comprehensive draft law was passed by landmark bill. There is also an increasing hope
Justice Bhagwati. However, it failed to pass that the current mandate given to the 16th Lok
in the Parliament. Sabha would ensure the passage of this bill.
way forward
1. define the term ‗refugee‘ as against a
‗foreigner‘ so that they can be entitled to any
special provision
2. foreigners Act penalizes those who enter
‖The Companies Act 2013 is in many parts a
Country without any valid documents by
shabbily drafted law, defined not by clear
repatriating them to their home country. principles but by an enormous and unwieldy
Exception needs to be made for refugees edifice of myriad central government rules.‖
since they fled from their country in distress Critically analyse.
3. refugees permits must be given to them
once they enter for their easy identification

Business Standard WOMEN DIRECTORS: According to GMI

A modern law does not by itself become a great Ratings‘ Women on Boards Survey 2013, women
law, for success depends on implementation. account for only 11 percent of total directorships
There are few issues regarding TCA 2013 that will in world‘s best known companies. Major efforts
make or mar the success of the new law. They are will have to be made to create more women
analysed as under: directors, but before that there have to be more
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS: This provision women reaching the top of the corporate
makes it mandatory for companies to have one- hierarchy. The legislation should act as a spur to
third of their board members as independent women‘s empowerment, but compliance could be
directors; more stringent definition of IDs, their years away.
tenures will be limited to two terms adding up to CLASS ACTION SUITS: Perhaps the best new
10 years; alongwith that IDs can also hold a provision in the Companies Bill is the enabling of
maximum of 20 directorships. All these class action suits, but the moot point is whether
provisions make its positive impression but there shareholders of government-owned companies
are few pitfalls in this provision, which are: can sue the government for squashing minority
Firstly, as IDs are appointed and paid for by the interests. There is ample scope for class action
promoters, so here arises a question for how suits against ONGC, Oil India and GAIL , which
much independent these IDs really be? are subsidizing losses in the oil marketing
Secondly, theoretically, enough people are companies.
available to be appointed as IDs, as there are no Class action suits have to be filed before the
qualifications for it. But practically this number National Company Law Tribunal first, but
diminishes, as soon as they get to know about the banking companies are excluded from such
responsibilities they will have to bear. This will action.
result in lack of commitment to work in the So, these dilemmas need to be removed before
interests of shareholders. proceeding further. At last but not the least, it can
Thirdly, the provision of allowing IDs to take be said that ―it‘s a great start, but, as always, the
upto 20 directorships each will affect the diligence proof of the pudding is in the eating.‖
in work. So, nothing bad in having so many IDs,
but with that the corporate governance will need
a heavy dose of regulation too to complete the
picture . Q1 )There is a need to revisit India‘s entire
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: There policy on identification and registration so that
is no clear definition of CSR in this bill. The only the twin objectives of knowing who a citizen is
obligation is to earmark the funds, form a and ensuring effective delivery of services are
committee, formulate a CSR policy, and spend the not undermined.‖ Examine
cash. No accountability for what purpose that
money is being spent but just have to give
reasons if in case it wasn‘t spent. So, beyond India‘s recent approach to UIDAI to give identity
inculcating a corporate conscience,it won‘t make to indian citizen has been in question after
any difference to the society. scheme was started without parliamentary
EXCESSIVE BUREAUCRACY : The new sanction and recent spat of SC to not making it
Companies Act mandates that every director mandatory for entitlement delivery has proved it.
should be registered with the government and Also there are apprehensions of data security and
obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN), snooping and misuse of biometrics in the wake of
which will enable the government to monitor the american NSA‘s spying project. Also private
number of directorships any person holds and control on the project has created suspicion in
also his track record. But India‘s track record people about the safety of personal data. Another
shows that bureaucratic monitoring of corporate concern is multiplicity of id proofs already with
affairs leads to corruption and bribery. So, this people which is creating additional burden on
will deter more competent people from taking up people and the govt. One more concern is the
directorships.

distribution of UID to refugees without Tobacco production is a very remunerative work

inspection. All these issues make this program a for many farmers, Govt intervention in this area
little in a difficulty. Despite being a good had mainly been through expilcit and implicit
initiative to create a data base for crime agencies subsidies. As of now, there is no promotion from
and security agencies there is a concern of its govt side but neither is there any regulation in
misuse in the absence of a proper and light of health concerns. There is a need to
comprehensive data privacy policy in the UID. provide incentives to farmers to shift to other
Recent allegations of violations of Right to crops.
Privacy in the project, the road ahead for the
In case of tobacco products, certain measures
project is not easy. Need is to bring confidence in
have been taken by govt. Pricing measures
people about the objectives of the project and
include increasing the tax but its only limited to
campaign to clarify doubts about the security of
cigarettes and not on tobacco products used by
data and use of the data and safety standards and
lower income group. Hence, this serves more as a
checks and balances in the system. Also the
measure to increase revenue rather than
distribution of the benefits can be made foolproof
disincentivize the consumers from tobacco
by accepting one more proof along with it till it
consumption. As a non price measure,
becomes foolproof on its own. Also identification
advertisements are issued and warnings have to
of citizen is critical and refugees must be
be mandatorily issued on the product packaging.
identified with strong guidelines to give them
some alternate identity which may help them There is no doubt a need to control the sector, but
either repatriate or get some facilities so that they it will have huge economic repercussions given
donot encroach upon the legible indian citizen the large proportion of people involved in
identity. Also there should be strict punishment cigarettes and bidi manufacturing units. The govt
for the violators. will need to take care of this aspect
simultaneously.
===Tobacco rolled in paper or leaves or packed

Suggest some measures to tackle the problem of
in plastic sachets is consumed by 35 per cent of
power theft in India?
adult population in our country, making India the
second largest consumer in tobacco products in
the world.
A recently released health ministry report
estimates that the total health expenditure burden
In the light of increasing health risks associated of tobacco in the year 2011 was a little over Rs. 1,
with consumption of tobacco products, critically 00,000 crores. Though it is argued that the taxes
comment on government‘s policy on tobacco from tobacco products is around Rs. 20,000 crores
cultivation and its products. and the tobacco as an industry provides
livelihood to many, but these arguments are mere
farce when compared to its negative effects.
 Tobacco has increasingly been proving a menace The health hazards like cancer, respiratory
to the society which can be gauged by the fact problems etc. affect not only active consumers but
that 27 % tobacco users are of the age group 15- also the passive ones. The out of pocket
24. Government‘s policy towards tobacco expenditure on health due to addiction makes
production and its products had been generally people more and more poor. Though increasing
supportive initially as it acted as a source of taxes on tobacco products is being suggested as
employment to many plus generated a high one of the solutions to reduce its consumption,
revenues. But with increasing health concerns, it but addicted person will buy the product at any
has stopped any promotional support to the cost, and this will further burden the pockets of
sector since the 7th five year plan. the poor.
Gradual decrease in the consumption of tobacco

through a multi pronged strategy of increasing change the behaviour

taxes and simultaneously setting up of tobacco * Establishment of Tobacco product laboratories
crisis centres where proper counseling is given to build regulatory capacity mandated under
must be setup and active advertisements to COPTA 2003
persuade them not to consume tobacco with the * Mainstreaming R&T on alternative crops
ultimate aim of zero-tobacco consumption must * Monitoring and evaluating (GATS-Global Adult
be given highest priority. Thus reducing the Tobacco Survey)
tobacco‘s burden on health and economy.
State and District level
Around 0,25% of total cropped area in the * Setting up of Tobacco control cells to monitor
country is under tobacco cultivation. Tobacco and implement the anti tobacco law.
comes under state jurisdiction but still centre * Training Health & Social workers
plays a crucial role in development of the sector * School programmes
Different ministries are involved in different * Monitoring the control laws as well as
aspects of the industry but due to the heath programmes…
concern associated with it no one has launched
any scheme since the 7th FYP but still they are
playing key role in marketing support, export
promotion, R&D and fertilizer and credit Critically comment on Road safety issues &
subsidies. measure taken by govt. to address these issues
In India the Flue Cured Virginia tobacco in India.
marketing is handled by Tobacco board which
has made auction compulsory and has provided Road infrastructure is responsible for maximum
complete backward and forward integration to number of deaths. It is estimated that every 4
the sector which is one of the reason that farmers minutes, one road accident takes place. Though
are not shifting to alternative crops. since independence many kilometers of road
The government policy of pricing tobacco network has been added, but very few steps have
products has focused on revenue perspective been taken in direction of road safety. Road safety
rather than disincentivising the product. Also the has been long neglected due to various reasons.
advertisement ban and mandatory warning has Lack of lighting, proper signals / signage‘s, non
not been effective in discouraging the consumers. usure of seat belts etc are some common causes of
As large number of farmers livelihood is road accidents. During emergency lack of quick
dependent on this they will only shift to emergency response team during those initial
alternative crops if provided with irrigation crucial hours result into maximum deaths. Also
which in case of tobacco product being draught non availability of trauma / emergency care
resistance not required and marketing support centers along highways & state highway are also
system. Apart from this from consumers a causes of high casuality enroute of hospital.
perspective to bring attitudinal change warning Non observance of traffic rules coupled with not
on packs needs to be more threatening and mass wearing helmets & other safety gears result into
awareness programme needs to be carried out maximum death. Drink and drive cases are also
with civil society participation. on the rise.
 In india , the govt implemented the Measure taken by govt.

comprehensive tobacco control programme act in (1) Govt. is focusing on building better & good
2003(COTPA) and ratified the WHO framework quality roads under various projects like Bharat
convention on tobacco control in 2004. Following Nirman, Pradhan mantra gram sadak yojana etc.
this it initiated the National Tobacco Control Effective lighting at blind spots / accident prone
programme during 11th FYP. spots as well as signals warning curves etc have
According to the NTCP, duties are divided into reduce road mishaps.
State , District and National levels. (2) Under PM swasthya suraksha yojana, it is
At National level envisaged to set trauma center along highway at
* Public awareness/ Mass media campaigns to every district Head quarter. Other emergency

treatment centre would be propped along is fully utilised for the construction and
highways for effective treatment in case of maintenance of roads.
emergency.
(3) 108 Ambulance, ICU on wheels have increased
the pace to faster delivery to hospitals.
(4) More awareness is being spread by programe
Apart from legal reforms, what other reforms are
like ―Sadak Par Pahle Aap‖
necessary to reduce and eliminate violence
(5) Road safety awareness program are being
against women? Critically comment.
made part of the curriculum.
Ans: Legal Reforms alone will not yield results
had they not been coupled with institutional and
====Why the policy paralysis in road safety? social reforms.
1) Officials in charge of road safety are almost
Violence against women starts right from her
never accountable
birth or even before her birth till she takes her last
2) Detailed investigations into road crashes are a
breath. Jumping the sonography related laws,
rarity
―infanticide‖ is a gloom for any progressive
3) Statute governing road safety in India, the
society. Punishing erring doctors and parents
Motor Vehicles Act (MVA) 1988 has proved
along with media attention is necessary for
ineffective
creating deterrence as well as awareness to check
4) Indian laws around road safety remain
such practices.
deficient and poorly enforced
Inspite of having ―Nutritional Programme and
5) Road design continues to be dangerous
Universal Immunisation programme‖ since birth,
However, the Rajya Sabha had introduced Motor in absence of poor implementation they field to
Vehicles Act (Amendment Bill) 2012, but that was bring desired results which is quite evident for
also archaic and did not address these issues. our repeated failure in bringing IMR below 25
Recommendations: and MMR below 100. Efficient and prompt
Medical service delivery mechanism is needed for
1) One possible way to solve this problem would solving these problems.
be to increase the amount of fines. Obviously, if The attitude of women seen as ―Liability‖ to
governments increase the penalties on breaking ―Responsibility‖ can be achieved by financially
traffic laws, then people might prevent empowering parents of girl child. Conditional
themselves from breaking rules. As a result, the cash transfer schemes like ―Dhanlaxmi Scheme‖
number of traffic accidents would be reduced. needs greater penetration for achieving twin
This is just one solution. objectives. First ,ensuring she being no more
2) Most important method to bring down remain as liability as she will be entitled for
accidents is strict enforcement of speed limits. 90 ―cash‖ on achieving specified age and education.
% of accidents can be avoided by strict Second, it will increase her chances of survival.
enforcement of speed limits. Compulsory registration and follow up therefore
3) Tamper proof speed controllers should be is necessary at frequent intervals. Offering her
made mandatory for all heavy vehicles. New skill training and employment opportunities on
heavy vehicles should have built in tamper proof achieving 18 years of age will give her freedom in
speed controllers. chosing her lifecourse along with choice for the
4) Two wheeler manufacturers should be asked to life partner. SEWA(Self employed womens
design two wheelers with a designed maximum association) can be emulated here.
possible speed of (say) 50/60 kmph. This limit Distressed women, deserted or separated women
may be decided based on the conditions of each often becomes victims to societal violence.
country. Offering her safe household under ―Indira Aawas
5) New gadgets are to be developed for collision Yojna‖ by categorizing such women as ― Priority
prevention and should be fitted on all vehicle. group‖ is necessary. Such houses muct be given
6) Ensure that the money recovered as Road Tax concrete toilet facilites,especially in rural areas

under ― Total Sanitation Campaign‖. This is ,bettering their health status (MDM ,ICDS ) is one
crucial as no. of cases suggest atrocities against of the potent factors for malnutrition.
women while she is out for attending natures call
in open fields.
Education facilities coupled with hostels will
ensure her continuance in education system.
===. Malnourishment in a child is a direct
Programmes like JNNURM must have gender
indication of the abject poverty in a region. It also
component in the mechanism for devolution of
shows that the intended governmental welfare
funds. Incetivising Urban Local Bodies for
schemes have not done their duty. Even though
running ―women only buses‖ or rail coaches will
the government spends billions of taxpayers‘
prevent her public abuse in buses and trains. All
money in eradicating such social evils, it does not
women bank,police stations are extension of
reach the poor.
similar approach.
This shows the inefficacy and inefficiency of such
Soicietal awareness is necessary. Reforms in
programs. The well-intended Integrated Child
marriage systems like co-sharing of marriage
Development Scheme is not successful in
expenses,giving social sanction to
reaching the grass roots, because more than 1.8
courtships,increasing age of marriages,right to
crore people in Gujarat have been deprived of its
employment in case of failure of marriage can be
benefits. Anganwadis, which are established to
the new beginning for them.
provide nutritional security to children, are also
not adequate enough. Even though we follow the
Rights-based approach towards such essential
Why even so called developed states in India commodities, we are depriving millions of people
have large number of children suffering from from their rights.
malnutrition? Examine the plausible factors This shows the utter callousness of governmental
behind this anomaly. (150 Words) offices. We need transparency, accountability,
competence in employees and a nation free from
–The definition of ―development‖ is hinged on corruption first, if we need to have our social
economic welfare and less on social well- welfare schemes to achieve their objectives.
being.Economic factors like FDI inflows,overall
state GDP rate,fiscal behaviour majorly determine
the contours of development while human you can replace last paragraph by single line, and
development indicators viz- add few points on causes like early marriages,
illiteracy,malnutrition,health constitute the poor availability of water and sanitation, lack of
secondary parameters. awareness regarding breast feeding, etc..
Some plausible fators for this anamoly-
-Poor show by ICDS-Integrated ChIld
Development Services faltered to deliver desired Comment how far Medical Termination of
results on two fronts thereby resulting in poor Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1972 has been successful
pre-school education and inefficiency in in preventing non-institutional abortions and
supplementing nutritional benefits to children explain the factors responsible for the rise in
belonging to age group of 0-6 years. such non-institutional abortions. (250 Words)
-Low investment on improving human • Medical Termination of Pregnancy [MTP] act
development indicators-Funds are utilized to aims to enable maternal health by legalising
make way for developing industrial units and abortion services. It legalises abortion services
other commercial ventures.Paucity of adequate and de-criminalises the abortion-seeker. It lays
funds to improve infrastructure related to strict guidelines such as abortion to be carried out
education,health takes a backseat. within 20 weeks ,risk to life, rape pregnancies,
-Poor implementation of welfare schemes-Poor contraceptive failure in couples under which
monitoring process of schemes intended to abortion can be carried out to prevent its misuse.
improve overall standards of children via • The act thus facilitated the creation of an
improving their educational status(RTE Act) enabling environment for seeking abortions. Yet,

most of the abortions are done in the non- diseases, diarrhea, pneumonia, tuber culosis and
regulated sector. Unsafe abortions contribute to tobacco consumption. This can be done by
eight per cent of the total maternal deaths and devising revised disease control programs with
unaccounted figure of morbidity. improved accessibility of combination drugs,
• The reasons for this anomaly is due to the lack investigation kits, vaccination and nutrition to
of certified abortion centres, shortage of doctors, masses.The menace of tobacco consumption can
lack of information among women esp. in rural be checked by a world over established technique
areas and social stigma associated with abortion. of increasing taxes and creating awareness.
MTP act fails to address these causes and has Secondly, the health infrastructure (PHCs, CHCs
been unable to safely regulate abortions in the etc) has to be revamped to make it accessible,
country. affordable and improving its quality. Since,
• There has been a rise in non-institutional health care falls in state list hence central
abortions across the country. Most of the women government should assist the state governments
are unaware about such abortion clinics. No to improve health care facilities and implement
information dissemination mechanism exists to Centrally Sponsored Schemes in health sector
recrify this. There is a severe shortage of effectively. Thirdly, the entire health care delivery
government clinics and more than 75% of such is based on the information collected at the field
clinics are in private sector. These clinics charge level. Hence, the methods of data collection and
very high rates and this has severly limited the its analysis should be made robust. Besides these,
efficacy of the act. the prerequisite of any health care program is
• Shortage of doctors and their reluctance to ensuring the availability of better nutrition, clean
serve in rural areas is another cause of concern. drinking water and sanitation facilities.
The MTP act should be amended and midwives The basic roadblock in the health sector today is
should be allowed trained in such procedures. the supply-demand mismatch. This sector is
Certification procedures should be made less severely starved of good quality specialist
stringent. doctors, para-medics and nutritionists. Though
• Social stigma associated is also a cause of the government through several programs like
concern and civil society should be utilised to Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojna is
tackle this. Teenage pregnancies are on the rise trying to set up AIIMS like institutes to increase
but current laws term even consensual sex among the number and quality of human resources in
minors as rape, forcing them to seek non- health sector. Besides this, more than 80 % of the
institutional abortion centres. total expenditure on health care (6 % of GDP) is
• Right to a healthy life is protected by out-of-pocket expenditure. This plays a major role
constitution and necessary steps should be taken in pushing the already poor majority below the
to prevent such maternal deaths. poverty line. Government has come up with
several health insurance schemes like Rashtriya
In your opinion, what should be governments‘s Swasthya Bima Yojana but their effective
priorities in the health sector? Critically implementation and reach has still to be achieved.
examine the roadblocks involved in bringing But to top them all is the lack of availability of
universal healthcare system in India. nutrition, clean drinking water and sanitation
which is the major road block in ensuring better
The Hindu health care system. Taking this on priority the
India has dubious distinction of having highest government has already made efforts to improve
number of deaths due to malaria and tobacco the effectiveness of PDS, initiated schemes like
consumption besides performing poorly on Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan but the slow pace of their
Millenium Development Goals like IMR and implementation is a prolonging the delivery of
MMR. Hence the prioritization of measures to be benefits.
taken should be guided by the severity of the
impact. Firstly, health problems and diseases
leading to high mortality should be tackled with.
This includes diseases like malaria, vascular
‗Foreign education is both a vital ‗export‘ service viewing them as a responsibility to an

that earns sizable revenue, and a powerful opportunity. This means candid recognition that
connector between countries and peoples.‘ In scholarships are a sweetener, a fine gesture of
the light of the statement, examine how India solidarity with foreign countries, but the real
can build good relationships with foreign driver will be the self-funded student who comes
countries by attracting their students to the both because of the quality and the competitive
country. cost of an Indian education.
Business Standard
The biggest importance of having foreign
students is that these people do get a sympathetic
touch with India, and when they return home,
Analyze the factors that have led to large scale
they are the big supporters of friendship and migration of people from Kerala to Middle East
cooperation with India. They will be more aware countries.
about India's Political, Socio-economical
challenges. Better understanding in Handling Out of the people that are migrating to middle
critical situaion, like Khobragade east from India the most percentage is from
case………..Actually it helps in Better Public kerala .Most number of people migrated from
Diplomacy. kerala to gulf from 1972-1983 which is called gulf
'Soft power' has many facets, a key feature boom.There are approximately 2.5 million people
common to all of them is the building of long- in gulf countries from kerala and the money
term relationships between countries, especially annualy sent home is considerable high with
at the level of people and individuals. respect to remaining of the country.
Research has shown that those that have studied The factors that have led to the migration of
abroad become advocates for strong ties with the people are the unemployment level in the country
country that educated them but the situation in the middle east is opposite
with huge oil reserves and with less population
and less labour force these countries are in need
India's first education minister, the legendary of labour so they have increased the immigration
nationalist Abul Kalam Azad, understood this at all levels india which saw high employment
well. When he created our Indian Council for rates has gained the situation thus resulting on
Cultural Relations in 1951, in addition to high immigration rates from the region.
entrusting to it two-way cultural relations with The migrants who were from the working and the
foreign countries, a special charge assigned to it lower-middle classes have gradually gained
was to look after foreign students in India. study social status.The economy in the state have also
tours for them. it funds 2,404 scholarships increase due to the income sent by the migrants.
A report by the US-based Institute of

International Education, widely cited recently in ====Analyze the factors that have led to large
our media, gave foreign student figures in the scale migration of people from Kerala to Middle
major destination countries: the US, 819,000; the East countries.
UK, 488,000; China, 328,000; . In 2001, the number
of foreign students in China was 60,000, which The Kerala Gulf Diaspora can be traced to the Oil
has since been ramped up remarkably through boom of the 1970 in the middle east countries. As
deliberate policy actions; their announced goal is per the 2013 statistics, more than 60,000 crores
to receive 500,000 foreign students by 2020. was the inward remittances to Kerala from the
middle east countries.
As the middle east countries expanded their
What should we do to attract more foreign production, they were faced with severe shortage
students? We need first of all to shift from of skilled workforce. Back in Kerala, the following

factors have contributed to the increase in for Rs 30000 whereas a buffalo costs Rs 70000.
migration. Another crime which has surfaced is increasing
1) Demographic Pressure : The population number of rapes in the state. Haryana witnessed
increase was not matching with the employment 730 rapes in 2011-12.
requirement. The mortality rate in kerala was Apart from these immoral activities, such
declining as a result of better standards of living inconsistent demography is otherwise dangerous
when compared with the rest of the states. So for a society. Haryana can never progress and
people naturally opted to move to middle east prosper as a society, if such trends of 830/1000
countries, where the situation demanded skilled ratio remains. Thus reform needs to take place at
workers. individual, societal, state, institutional and even
2) Stagnation in Agriculture : The agricultural judicial level. The mindsets, attitudes and
reforms lacked far farsightedness which resulted irrational logics need to be countered by strong
in increased agricultural wages. As a result the action in different dimensions.
Agricultural sector was no longer profitable and
more people opted to migration as the solution.
3) Land Reforms : There were shortage of land in
kerala with the rising population pressure.
4) Educational Development : With low
profitability in Rice and Coconut, education was Explain how MNREGA scheme works.
seen as the key to more job prospects and parents Critically comment on its design especially with
concentrated in the education of their children. reference to transparency and accountability
This produced skilled workers who were in high measures.
demand in the middle east countries.
The Hindu
MNREGA is one of the demands driven and rural
people oriented scheme which has evoked mixed
Haryana has one of the lowest sex ratio in the response from different corners of the country.
country. What are the factors responsible for This difference in response is mainly because of
this and what implications does low sex ratio the agrarian social structural differences and the
has on the society? Critically analyze. (200 operating mechanism .
Words) The objective of the program is to create wage
employment and durable assets enhancing rural
Answer: infrastructure. Rather than being a regular
Haryana is one of the states, where the century welfare scheme , this scheme uniquely address
old societal taboos continue to exist. The belief the requirements to enhance farm productivity by
featuring ‗girl as burden‘ remains deep rooted channeling labor power to build small irrigation
.Add to this the inefficient law and order canals and also provide sustainable livelihood to
situation. The justice is delayed and body such as rural poors. In the long run , by creating such a
Khap Panchayat attracts more authority of people durable assets ,dependency on NREGA as such
than Judiciary and rules of government. These are would come down and more agro productivity
some factors responsible for lowest sex ratio in can be witnessed . In order to achieve this steps
Haryana. Girls, asserting ancestral rights are like strengthening of Panchayat raj institution,
considered socially unacceptable. The same belief bringing in social audit , utilizing IT to enhance
is attributed to girls demanding some say in their transparency was envisaged and had been
own marriage. Hence Girls face discrimination implemented.
and practices such as female foeticide are being
carried out on large scale. On the one hand ,such measures has increased
The implications of this low sex ratio are the rural income to agricultural laborers ,like in
disastrous. The unavailability of girls for TamilNadu and Andhra , on the other hand it has
marriages, leads to unethical practices like human also led to unprecedented ramifications.
trafficking from other states. A girl can be bought

Systemic flaws like fudging of rolls , transfer of monitoring needs to be undertaken and local
money either delayed or stalled for some communities should be engaged for the same.
unknown reasons ,backdoor entry of contractors c) The biggest complaint from the beneficiaries is
with their known labors manifest the flaws in of delayed payment. This should be done away
transparency . with by electronic transfer of funds directly to the
Also , laxity in implementation of social audit and account of the beneficiaries. Work needs to be
sometimes even manipulated audits manifests the done for taking banks closer to unbanked areas or
miscarriage of accountability. making use of business correspondents.
d) The officials involved in execution of works
This can be rectified by enhancing end to end should be made more accountable to prevent
computerization of datas , money transfer with misuse of funds.
hand held computer devices / mobile devices as e) The panchayat level planning and district level
per the local conditions . The above planning should be strengthened to come up with
computerization , a successful model in Andhra , better works oriented to the needs of the rural
will engender more accountability and areas. Focus should also be on identifying
transparency as the data are all time accessible for convergences with other schemes.
public scrutiny. Furthermore ,separating the f) Social audit mechanism should be strengthened
implementation agency and auditing agency will and this requires training at the local level by
provide more objectivity in the success of the experts in audit.
scheme. Nevertheless ,with technology driven g) Planning of works should be such that the
adaptations this scheme promises a real there are sufficient workers available for the
development in the distant hinterlands. farmers in the sowing and the harvesting season.
h) Works should be designed so as to benefit the
workers towards developing their skills which
Mandatory social audit by Gram Sabha within 6 they can then use for self employment removing
months is provided, to ensure accountability. But their dependence on the government.
lack of training & educational provisions has MGNREGA has increased the standard of life in
weakened it. Through e-FMS (electronic fund rural areas by increasing wages and with certain
management system) & e-FRS (expenditure based modifications it can make a greater impact on the
fund release system), fund management & release overall economy.
is done on real time basis. Still, wage mafia in
Odisha & Uttar Pradesh has extracted benefits by
bogus entries & fake accounts.
Q-In the light of India‘s regulatory mechanism
and university system, critically comment on
Q--What improvements would you suggest to major problems faced by higher education
the MGNREGA scheme and why? Elucidate. system.
The Indian Express

MGNREGA is the flagship rural employment There is a need of reforms in the higher education
programme of the government of India and aims system of India. Various issues ranging from
to provide livelihood security to the rural governance to regulation have stagnated the
households. However the scheme needs some progress of higher education in India.
improvements Lack of quality institutions has limited the
a) The works undertaken should be linked more opportunities for the students who want to
with asset creation in agriculture and allied pursue academics and research. Politicization of
activities. This will act as much needed institutions has hindered their autonomy and
investment in the agricultural sector and will growth.There are multiple organizations through
improve agriculture output. which these are governed causing conflict and
b) There is also the need to improve upon the overlapping of functions there by holding
quality of the asset created. Continuous

decision making. Not all students and teachers question of educating one and all becomes
are admitted and hired only on the basis of merit. difficult to address.
This has let to the degradation of teaching quality
and accountability of teachers. Number of The Right to Education draws its constitutional
universities without any authorization from the validity from the provisions of equality and also
UGC for profit motives have poor standards of directive principled of state policy, The
teaching and research. Their primary role of government‘s view is since the land used by the
creating knowledge has been compromised and private unaided schools, is many a times given at
they are just disseminating knowledge. Spoon throw away prices, they have social responsibility
feeding techniques hinders the innovative to wards the poor sections of the society as well.
capabilities of students. As the government has taken recourse of Right
based approach for job, food and education, and
Lack of funds,suitable infrastructure like
with the SC ruling in favor of such laws, the
labs,libraries etc and technology up-gradation are
question of their propriety from Constitutional
also hurdles in the efficiency of the higher
point of view can hardly be debated. What
education.
remains to look into is whether the Right based
For improvement in teaching quality,student welfare measures remain the only way forward
evaluation of the teachers should be conducted even when private investors have genuine
and publicly displayed and made a criteria for concerns against such laws.
promotion. This will also improve teacher
absenteeism. Different reforms considering – India being a welfare state is duty-bound to
different modes of working should be help improve the living standards of all her
implemented through UGC. citizens and education is best poised to do so.
– Transferring it from DPSP to Part III announces
our seriousness regarding it and also opens it to
the ultimate safeguard of Article 32 (SC writ
jurisdiction).
Q--Do you think Right Education Act needed
constitutional status? Critically comment,
Education is a potential weapon to bring in
especially keeping in mind objections raised by
progress , development and equality. In the
unaided private schools.
words of Amartya sen ,‖Knowledge as a power is
now more understood by state and societies in
India‖.In this context , the landmark legislation
requires a constitutional mandate.
The RTE Act came into being in 2009 through the
It is by the 93 rd amendment ,article 15 (5)
93rd Constitutional Amendment. The Act makes
empowered State to make special provisions to
it compulsory for a private unaided educational
SC/ST or any educationally backward sections
institution to provide reserve 25% seats for
for appointment in unaided educational
educationally and economically weaker children
institutions.On this context ,under article 21(a)
in the age group of 6 to 14 years.
,Right to education act was implemented . From
the unaided institution angle, this infringes on
The private unaided institutions have challenged
their fundamental right to carry on any
the law to be unconstitutional but a recent
profession or trade . It impedes them to establish
Supreme Court verdict have rejected all such
,administer and run their own institution.
appeals ruling in favor of the law.
They also apprehend that the teacher pupil ratio,
The main contention from the private schools is
physical infrastructure ,quality of students from
that the law infringes in their autonomy, gives
the backward sections will make the process of
rise to inspector raj and affects the educations
inculcating education cumbersome .They also
quality as well.
complain that the vaguely drafted act makes no
The high fees of private schools and lack of basic
clear standing on the fees reimbursement by the
facilities in government schools, leaves the

government and it leaves minority institution out system and taking steps to attract students
of the purview. to school. There exists a general consensus
However , keeping in mind of the above aspects , among the masses on the need and role of
it can be fairly stated that the intention of the bill education as a liberator. The govt. has so far
is not to rob off the freedom of unaided been able to do fair amount of justice to the
institutions but to provide a social goal of constitutionality of Right to Education act.
equality of opportunities and mobility to the However, much needs to be done if we are
weaker sections. On this ground , the above to take our primary education system to
argument of unaided institutions becomes comparable levels as exists in developed
untenable.Though certain clauses of the law can nations.
be sorted out with proper deliberation among all A shift of focus from primary education to
stakeholders ,awarding constitutional status to reforming the higher education at this
this landmark act should never be compromised . critical juncture will require massive
investments and resource mobilizations.
Also, the quality of higher education cannot
Q--―A uniform policy at the central level should be ensured owing to the fragile structure of
focus on access to higher education and not on our primary education system. The govt.
any ―right‖ to education. The rights-based instead of intervening aggressively can play
narrative should be confined to universal the role of a facilitator for its citizens. With
primary education alone, a fundamental right.‖ its huge funding requirements and
Comment. infrastructure related pre-requisites, the
govt. should open new avenues for
 A qualified, talented and well-trained investments coupled with liberal regulatory
human capital is central to the development policies as higher education is more about
plans of a nation and more so for India, interest than about the compulsory
which is home to 1/5th of world‘s requirement. The govt. should focus on
population with a nationwide average age harnessing the potential of the private
of 35 yrs, making it one the youngest sector, governed by forces of demand and
nations of the world. However, owing to supply, to generate opportunities for the
our socio-economic conditions plagued by masses. Cheaper education loans, tax breaks
burgeoning population and related for promoting R&D activities, setting up of
stumbling blocks, improper resource centres of excellence etc has without doubt
utilization, lop-sided growth patterns etc, boosted the growth and expansion of this
we have so far not been able to harness the sector. At this level of societal development,
potential that exists in our citizens. the need of the hour is that govt. should
Especially, the deplorable literacy rate when currently focus on enhancing access to
compared to our GDP growth and isolated primary education and provide parallel
pockets of steep growth, calls for policies for support for expansion of higher education.
the education sector aimed at enhancing the
human capital, both qualitatively and  The government provides resources to the
quantitatively. institutes such as the IITs and NITs for the
With chronic deficiencies in the primary development of the higher education sector.
education sector like lack of quality The resources are meant for the
teachers, poor infrastructure at schools, development of the infrastructure and
improper teaching methodologies, high access to technology for facilitating research
drop-out rate etc we have a long distance to potential in the sector.
cover before embarking upon the The growth of the quality private
challenging task of reforming the higher institutions in the higher education sector
education. Govt. has taken cognizance of has raised a call for change in the
this impending need and has taken a host of government policies towards the
measures for reforming the education mobilization of the resources to the sector.

Concerns have been made to ensure 1. private schools will increase the fee to
government monitoring the primary maintain their profit. That means additional
education while reducing its control over burden on already burdened parents. They
the higher education. already pay education cess in other taxes of
However, this may not be adequate, since which two-third goes to primary school.
governments aid would be essential in Thus it means those money has not been
developing the potential of the higher properly utilised also.
education. The low number of institutes in 2. This decision indirectly convey that they
the world rankings has raised concerns over also understand private sector education is
the quality of research. Recognizing this, it better than govt. school. Thus it shows
should provide more resources to facilitate failure in improving quality of education in
the development of the aided institutions. govt. schools.
This would lead to increased research 3. It shows the discrimination of SC towards
contribution from India at global level. The minority school and private school.
research would lead to advances in the Minority school have been removed from
science and technology thereby fostering RTE through rajasthani school vs union of
Indias growth . It would provide feasible India case and pramati educational trust vs
solutions to the problems in the society and union of India case. That means minority
lead to greater employment generation. school can take any amount of fees, can
According to reports, for every rupee prescribe any criteria for admission, can
invested over IIT, 15 rupees are added to the discriminate against any class without being
economy .Moreover, the entrepreneur skills answerable to court of law or parents.
lead to greater employment generation.The 4. However it will provide benefit to
research contribution cannot be disadvantaged section. They will get quality
undermined. Recognizing the objectives of education and able to harness their potential
the government in fostering India`s research in much better environment. It will be more
potential and benefits accrued from the prone towards RTE.
aided institutions, the government should 5. It will also result in different section of
continue its control over the higher people at same school and thus privileged
education sector. will understand the plight of inequality
from childhood and help in character and
sympathy development. Their way of
looking poor people will change and thus it
Q-Critically comment on the rights issue will be beneficial for society as a whole.
involved in Supreme Court‘s recent judgement However if govt. works hard to improve
upholding the constitutional validity of the education in their own school, these won‘t
provision in the Right be necessary and all stakeholders included
to Education Act reserving 25 percent seats in here will be on same page. This steps will
private schools for economically disadvantaged instead alienate some section of society
students. further.
Right of Children to Free and Compulsory

The decision of SC to reserve 25% seat for Education (RTE) Act 2009 serves as a
economically disadvantaged students building block to ensure that every child has
clearifies the failure of govt. in right to get a quality elementary education,
implementing right to education and SC is and that the State, with the help of families
counting now on private sector to fulfil this and communities, fulfils this obligation.
wish. But the question is it right to do this Recently Supreme Court delivered two
through reservation in private sector? Many judgments about the RTE act. These are-
points are to be pondered among which few 1) All non-minority private schools (aided
are: or unaided by Govt.) need to reserve 25 per

cent of their seats for economically  Education is a potential tool of progress

disadvantaged students. ,prosperity and equality.
The Section 12(2) of the Act which provided  The Supreme Court recently validated a
that a private school admitting students clause on Right to Education Act (RTE)
from disadvantaged and weaker sections which requires 25% reservation for
would be reimbursed at the rate of per-child economically disadvantaged students in all
expenditure incurred by the state or the schools.
actual fees charged from the child, The spirit of the decision is indeed laudable
whichever was less. Thus, ultimately, it is as it reflects the egalitarian ethos of the
the State which is funding the expenses of Right to Education (RTE) Act. Students and
free and compulsory education of the indeed teachers will only benefit from a
children belonging to weaker sections who firsthand experience of India‘s socio-
are admitted to a private unaided school. cultural diversity and economic disparity in
So Article 21A (right to free and compulsory a single classroom.
education) of the Constitution and the 2009
Act does not violate private schools‘ right However, giving exemption to the minority
under Article 19(1) (g) (right to engage in a educational creates a sense of unnecessary
profession) of the Constitution. importance to Article 30 over the
2) Minority communities do not have to fundamental freedoms. Even if there is a
reserve a minimum of 25% seats for children 25% reservation for economically weaker
from economically backward classes as sections in minority institutions, it does not
mandated by India‘s RTE law. take away their minority character.
According to the Court, if the Act is made Right to Education is a human entitlement
applicable to minority schools, aided or which must be guaranteed and protected. A
unaided, the right of the minorities under better aid by Government to aided schools
Article 30(1) of the Constitution will be is called for and a better protection of the
abrogated. Therefore, the provision of the right will help in the basic deprived
2009 Act, which made it applicable to children in the country and minority
minority schools, is unconstitutional. institutions an play a vital role.
But one should not look reservation as
infringement, even in minority
economically backward classes are there, Q---‗The controversy over the Four Year
they can give benefit to them. And yes it Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) raises
should be flexible region to region basis several important issues on university
depending upon the demography of that autonomy, academic freedom, the regulatory
particular place n socio-economic. powers of the University Grants Commission
and the power of the Central government to
The court direction reinforces the RTE Act interfere in higher education in the country.‘
as Private institution provide more quality Critically analyse.
education compare to Govt. schools. But
Govt. should also need to improve quality The Hindu
of its school and should not only depend on Earlier in 2012 when the proposal were made
Private sector alone. It‘s now up to the ,UGC has supported FYUP proposal ,but within a
central and state governments and the year without a single batch pass out and results
National Council for Protection of Child analyzed the very step of withdrawing has made
Rights to improve monitoring as many such the role of UGC ambiguous . If authorities such as
schools don‘t follow the law. Ensuring the Human Resource dept (HRD), UGC etc are
implementation of the Act is key focus now. themselves not confident or as considered
pressurized under new government regime, the
question of innovation, making students excel
and increasing the quality of education is having

a big question mark. While such disturbances in Including Right to education in fundamental
education system also questions on the autonomy rights meant that Government would have been
of education institution where changes for better compelled to invest heavily in education sector
prospect are not discussed and analyzed i.e. infrastructure development, teachers
beforehand. If authorities are concern about recruitment, and opening up of a lot of new
student‘s education then they must include schools. But, this was not possible, without
students (committee) in discussion sessions so achieving the basic needs i.e. food, clothing and
that strong and encouraging steps can be taken. shelter. Also, we didn‘t had enough competent
number of educated teachers to implement this
law.
India had more pressing problems of
Q---Examine why right to education was not underdevelopment, poverty, hunger, food
made a fundamental right by the Constituent security, health, defense, law and order,
Assembly when it drafted the Constitution of industrialization, improving agricultural sector,
India? land reforms, communalism, regionalism, north-
east insurgency and many more such problems
The Hindu which needed equal attention and resources.
Though the visionary members of the constituent None, of these could be neglected at the cost of
assembly knew the importance of right to others.
education, yet it was not incorporated as a Thus, our constituent assembly was knowing the
fundamental right in the constitution. The timing ground situation of country, and it was more
of the discussion of the clause and the proposed important for it to solve India‘s basic problems
political structure led to inclusion in the DPSP. and keep it united rather than giving false
India was to be a union of independent units as promises which our country was not able to
per the Cripps proposal. The weak center with deliver at that point of time. So, Right to
autonomous states structure of the center-state Education was kept in DPSP instead of
relations was thought to restrict the Fundamental rights.
implementation of the right to free and
compulsory education. Moreover, such a clause
would have impacted the fiscal and political
autonomy of the independent units as the
implementation would have required greater Q--Critically evaluate the steps taken during the
coordination. This has resulted into the inclusion Eleventh Five year plan to boost higher
of the education in the non justifiable DPSP article education sector.
45. However, the clause could not be discussed
after the change in the center-state relations in The Hindu
which Center was strong with residuary powers. Manifold efforts have been made to boost the
higher education sector in the 11th FYP with the
view to harness the benefits of Indian
The rejection of the Right to Education(RTE) as a demographic dividend as-
fundamental right during the drafting of the Enrollment- During the Eleventh Plan period
constitution of India has to been seen in the light (2007–2012), India achieved a Gross Enrollment
of the then historical proceedings and the Ratio (GER) of 18%, up from 12% at the beginning
capabilities of the Indian state. of the Plan period.
Expansion- Growth in private institutions was
significant during the plan period. 17 private
Fundamental Rights are those rights that are deemed universities, more than 8000 private
justifiable in the court of law. These are absolute colleges were setup. The expansion of central
basic rights, which can‘t be relegated by state, or institution was historic as govt. established 65
infringed upon new institutions. 8 New IITs and AIIMS were
setup in different states during the period.

Inclusiveness- Now each state except Goa has opportunities of higher education to the
central university. Medical and agricultural growing population of the country, but now
universities, institution of Fashion technology, its increasingly argued that now it should
pharmaceutical education and research institute, withdraw and let private sector take over.
South Asia and Nalanda universities were also The main arguments in favour of
setup. privatisation are that, since a lot of tax
Reservation- Special financial assistance was payers money is invested in educating
provided by the central govt. to existing students of such colleges, so they should
institutions to raise their intake capacity in order give pay back to society by serving in India.
to provide 27% reservation to OBCs without But, many doctors and engineers prefer to
affecting the number of general seats. serve in foreign countries. Also, many
Many measures also taken for the improvement change their professions, thus wasting their
of technology level through MOUs with foreign profession degree.
universities, linking projects with industries, Total privatization is detrimental to higher
using e- Governance and decentralization. education quality and affordability. In
Despite considerable progress during the foreign developed countries, where higher
Eleventh Plan, less than one-fifth of the estimated education is totally privatized, a major
120 million potential students are enrolled in concern to parents is the affordability of
HEIs in India, well below the world average of 26 college education, for which a normal
per cent. Regulatory authorities like UGC and family have to invest their lifetime
AICTE have not been successful to control the investments to get their ward a college
menace of private universities which are running degree.
courses without any affiliation or recognition. Private colleges have not been able to
Wide disparities exist in enrollment percentages prove themself and come at par with
among the States and between urban and rural Government colleges. Neither they have
areas while disadvantaged sections of society and done better research or provided better
women have significantly lower enrollments than quality of education leaving few cases,
the national average. Sachar committee report while charging many times fees. So,
pointed out that Minorities have very low privatisation of entire education sector is
enrollment level in higher education. not required.
There is need to focus on bringing well-trained
faculty, adequate infrastructure and updated and
relevant curricula. The use of technology in There used to be a debate in India on
higher education should be as per international whether there is a demand for education in
standards of research and teaching. Only then, this country. That debate is now dead. And
some Indian universities may be featured in the ironically supply side is not able to cope
rankings of the top institutions globally. up with the surge on the demand side.
Higher education in the arguably single
most critical aspect for a country‘s
development. India is close to cent per cent
enrollment ratio in primary education; more
Q--Critically examine the arguments in and more students are coming up on the
favour of privatisation of higher education in higher education level. But our higher
India. Do you think higher education should be education sector faces both qualitative and
completely privatised? Comment. quantitative problems.
Higher education sector in India is
The Hindu entangled in bureaucratic and regulatory
web The domestic laws prohibit ‗for-profit‘
 Privatisation of higher education is organisations to set up a higher education
vehemently discussed and debated these institute; foreign universities are also barred
days. Government had to provide from entry.There is an urgent need to re-

look at these stipulations. Both of these benefit the company.

regulations are aggravating the already-in- Thus, there should be a collaboration
crisis sector. And it is also pushing between private and public sector, and both
financially well to do students to secede should work in tandem for development of
from the domestic education system. There higher education.
is a huge out-flux of students to countries
like USA, Australia, UK and Russia.
Government can explore other options like
voucher or funding system for marginalised Q--What do you understand by broad based
students. 100 per cent privatisation of education system? What are its benefits?
higher education is not desirable but ther
certainly is greater need for greater  Broad Based education system:
participation for private sector. It can be summed up as having ‗N‘ number
India has peculiar demographic structure of skills rather than any specific skills. E.g.
which necessitate urgent action on this Given the boom in the management sector
front. If the opportunity to equip young in recent times in India and all over the
Indians with broad-based skills is lost, it world, instead of having only management
will be disastrous for the country‘s long knowledge if candidate has engineering
term prospects. background with skills in banking then that
. can be referred as something broad based.
As we know the businesses, industries even
on that matter schools and colleges are
getting complex and so the profiles of the
India is currently at a stage of reaping the persons recruited. In this scenario person
―Demographic dividend‖. The young with the diverse knowledge will always
population in India will need proper higher outshine others. In a history of education
education to get job ready. However, where saturation happens firstly at primary
government alone is not able to fulfill the level, then secondary and so on, at present it
demand and there is a need for more private has reached to higher education level and
investment in higher education sector. But broad based education is the next in list.
some proposes complete privatisation of Countries all over the world especially USA
higher education. is aware of the reality hence much
The complete privatisation logic is a fallacy diversification is getting done in the
and will be detrimental to India‘s inclusive universities. India needs to follow the path
growth strategy. Some of the argument put as it has following benefits:
forward for privatisation are:- 1. Persons with broad based education will
1. Private sector can provide more efficient himself a need for the industry rather he
and better education. However, the logic being needy for the job.
falls on its face, with evidence showing 2. Best from the cultures all around the
various engineering colleges churning out world will be exchanged with individual as
sub-standard professionals. a medium.
2. Private sector will be much more 3. Revolutionary in field of education in
demand-driven and will churn out country like India where market oriented
professional as per requirement of industry. approach is long due.
The above logic will crowd out other
streams of education like Arts/ science. 
3. Indian talent getting subsidised education Broad-based education is to ensure their all-
moves out of the country cusing harm to round or holistic development, in and out of
countries exchequer. However, it must be the classroom.These approaches in
noted, that the remittance that they bring education will allow to nurture young with
and geopolitical influence they create the different skills that they need for the

future. government intervention is of utmost

The best preparation for a lifetime, for importance especially for a welfare state like
business success, is broad training and part India. With proper planning help from
of that is international experience. If there is private sector and Foreign institutions can
anything that pays in the market, it is be sought for the same purpose.
cultural literacy. The ability to not just
survive but also thrive in different cultures,
pays off pretty nicely Q--Critically examine the benefits of reservation
Jobs are created for people with really good in higher education.
talent but if you see the broad sweep of
economic history, there might be a The Hindu
temporary imbalance between the higher  Article 15 of the Indian constitution
education skills that people bring and the guarantees the fundamental right of
number of jobs available for them. reservation in higher education institutes for
the best defence against off-shoring is what students of Scheduled Caste, Scheduled
is called ―whole brain learning‖ — logic and Tribe and Other Backward Classes. The
maths with aesthetic appreciation and policy has had a positive effect on the
creative thinking. Cultural literacy with core education landscape of India.
knowledge is very important. 1.It negates the debilitating effect of
It builds the ability to think in new ways, exclusion that socially backward class faced
solve new problems and create new over thousands of years in country.
opportunities for the future. And, equally 2.It amplifies the employment opportunities
important, help young to build up a set of as higher education leads to better salary
sound values so that they have the strength and thus improves the economic condition.
of character and resilience to deal with life‘s 3.It has positive feedback effect on the entire
inevitable setbacks without being unduly society as students who have successfully
discouraged, and so that they have the completed their higher education serve as
willingness to work hard to achieve their role model for other students.
dreams. 4.It fulfills the ideals of justice enshrined in
the constitution.
 5.It has eroded the dividing line between
The skills sets required by human resource caste significantly in work places and
of any country have undergone manifold educational institutes.
changes in todays globalised world. To However, the reservation policy has also led
impart such skills a broad based education to several unintended consequences as a
system is required , which comprises lion‘s share of seats is pocketed by few
cultural literacy with core knowledge. groups only leaving the rest in the same
Cultural literacy means ability of an state as they were during the independence.
individual to adapt in all cultures . If this Moreover, the reservation has not translated
trait is imparted through school education , into jobs in media, judiciary, higher
the human resource thus prepared can echelons of bureaucracy as on the false
easily enjoy the employment opportunities notion of merit the students belonging the
in other countries as well as in various backward classes are excluded from it.
MNCs within their own countries.
One other important aspect of broad based
education is creative thinking. Innovations
are very important for any country‘s
growth. Inculcation of this trait among 
students will make them an important Education is a potential weapon for the
drivers of growth of any country. upward mobility of the disadvantaged
Needless to say that for any such endeavour sections and in general prosperity for all .

The intent of the reservation in education is education and this step will increase their
to provide equality of opportunities to all participation in higher education.
sections irrespective of their social setting . 2) It will help to come forward those
On the one hand , the inherited social talented lower class students who do not get
structure mandates special provisions to necessary aid to continue their studies.
socially backward sections in the higher 3) Reservation in higher education will also
institutions . This is buttressed by the fetch good job to them which results into the
constitutional mandate under Article 15(5) higher socio economic development.
Secondly , in the increasing technical skill 4) Higher inclusion of the lower class people
oriented employment world and capitation will also help in changing the mindset of the
fee dominated private institution people which may be culminated in
,reservation in higher education provides a remotion of the reservation in the future
hope for the socially disadvantaged (when their will be no disparity)
sections. 5) Contrary to this reservation in higher
Thirdly , in context of demographic education may deteriorate the process of
dividend ,reservation enhances the skills of selection on merit basis, which may further
people from different backgrounds by discourage the talented students.
providing an opportunity in higher We can see that reservation in higher
institutions. education has several benefits but it comes
On the other hand , the State has to take with few hiccups also which should be
enough measures to ensure that merit and tackled properly otherwise this practice may
quality of the institution is upheld . Also , hamper the society negatively.
adequate opportunities are to be provided
to the other sections of the society .Recent
survey in NASSCOM says that 50% of
graduates from higher institutions are
unemployable. Though it cannot be entirely Q-Comment on recent controversy over the
attributed to the policy of reservation ,it Programme for International Student
cannot be wishfully ignored too. So , the Assessment (Pisa) rankings about learning
State has a responsibility in not only levels around the world.
providing an opportunity in higher
education but also to ensure the outcome is  Programme for International Student
in the direction of the objective. Assessment is a worldwide study
conducted by the Organization of Economic
cooperation and development in the
member and non-member nations to test the
scholastic performance of the 15 year old in
mathematics,reading and science. It is
 conducted at an interval of 3 years.
Reservation in higher education was The impact of the PISA on educational
introduced with the objective of including policies has raised concerns. It influences
more vulnerable class people in the higher the educational policies of the nations ,
education which also comply with the which in their bid to improve the rankings
article 15 of the constitution. Reservation take short term measures. These measures
will not only provide advanced knowledge result into violating the joys of learning. The
to this class but also furnish them with urge to modify the educational policies to
better employment opportunity. Following replicate the China`s education policy,
benefits can be attributed to reservation in which has been ranked one , reflects the
higher education- importance given to the rankings.
1) As per different studies lower class do The school reforms proposed by OECD does
not have sufficient representation in higher not take into the socio economic inequalities

that effect the performance of the pupils. Kudumbashree was started as ‗State Poverty
India has raised concerns on the socio Eradication Mission (SPEM)‘. It has unique three
cultural disconnect between the questions in tier structure.
test and the students. The focus on the Neighborhood Groups (NHG) at the grassroots
economic role of the schools without level send representatives to the ward level Area
adequate attention to the multiple Development Societies (ADS). The ADS sends its
dimensions for overall development depicts representatives to the Community Development
the lacunae in the evaluation. Moreover, the Society (CDS). It is the largest women movement
cooperation with multinationals which get in Asia with a membership of 40 lakhs families.
benefited due to change in economic The programs conceived as a part of the strategy
policies raises questions on the objectives of to reduce poverty are:
the PISA. • Microfinance operations/Thrift and Credit
Indian government has refused to take part Societies
in the evaluations post 2009 citing the • Micro Enterprises
inadequacies in the evaluation. The • Bhavanashree – Micro Housing
educational policies of the governments • Ashraya- Destitute Identification, Rehabilitation
should be suited to the country`s needs and Monitoring Program
rather than driven by the parameters • Haritashree – Lease Land Farming
outlined by few nations . • Balasabha – Children‘s Neighbourhood groups
• Solid Waste Management /Clean Kerala
1.PISA:Triennial tests of 15-year-olds carried Business
out by the Organisation for Economic Co- • Special Employment Program for the Educated
operation and Development (OECD). Youth
2.Latest scores in the Programme for • Buds- Special School for the Disabled Children/
International Student Assessment It launched ‗Sree-Sakthi Portal‘ which is
(Pisa)..China topped. exclusively for women to participate in active
3.This led to vigorous and haphazard discussions on various issues related to them.
changes in UK education policies even Political Empowerment of Women is also a main
imitating chinese model. approach of this initiative. Its success can be
imperfect assessed by the fact that in 2010 alone nearly
5.Further ther argue that school reforms 12000 women candidates contested Panchayat
should not ignore the ―paramount‖ role of election and nearly 5500 of them had won the
socio-economic inequality in influencing elections.
pupil performance. It also argues that the Women, who were regarded as voiceless and
OECD‘s growing influence over how powerless started identifying their inner strength,
schools are run is undemocratic. opportunities for growth, and their role in
reshaping their own destiny. The process of
empowerment becomes the lifeline to their
children, their families and the society at large.
Q-Write a critical note on Kerala Kudumbashree presents a unique model of
government‘s Kudumbashree scheme. participatory development, which can very well,
be adopted by other states in India and other
The Hindu developing countries.
Kudumbashree means ‗prosperity of the family‘
in Malayalam. Kudumbashree, a joint program of
Govt. of Kerala and NABARD for the
empowerment of women was launched in 1998. Kudumbashree is a female oriented, community
This aims to encourage their entrepreneurship based,poverty reduction project of the
and active leadership in women-involved government of Kerala.
activities through community development The purpose of this mission is to ensure that
societies. women should no longer remain as passive

recipients of public assistance, but active leaders Unemployment levels are high and poverty
in women involved development initiatives. is still rampant.
The mission has launched a streeshakthi portal  However, India ranks poorly on Human
for women to participate on discussions on issues Development Index and Gender Inequality
related to them. Index. Hunger and malnutrition are still
The mission has received various awards and rampant. Caste and religion-based
accolades for women empowerment and discrimination still persists.
eradication of poverty. In this context, development paradigm
which India needs should necessarily have
issues being faced by KS can also be mentioned fast economic growth, inclusiveness and
like sustainability as its main pillars.
1. Unsustainable micro enterprises because of lack Fast economic growth is crucial for two
of entrepreneuial training, lack of vision. many reasons. First, increase in production with
exist only to receive govt subsidy lead to greater employment generation.
2. Lack of specialized training –need assessment Second, fast economic growth will lead to
is not done before giving training which is too greater revenue generation for the govt
general. specific training is needed which can be used for pro-poor welfare
3. lack of proper coordination between gram schemes. Inclusiveness is crucial to bring
panchayat and block panchayat in providing those who are socially unprivileged within
assistance to Kudumbshree the fold of development. These should have
4. faulty identification of BPL beneficiaries full opportunity to benefit from the process
5. Non repayment and misuse of loan and of development. Sustainability is also
dual/multiple membership crucial because without it no growth can
6. Division of women on caste, religious and continue for long by haphazard exploitation
political basis of natural resources.
6. Corruption at CBO and Official levels To conclude, given the present social and
economic realities and requirements, India
1. Close monitoring and follow up on the needs to pursue a model of development
effective utilization of micro credit that focuses on rapid growth, inclusiveness
2. An Institute for capacity building for SHGs in and sustainability.
the state
3. Coordination between gram and block
panchayats
4. Proper Marketing of KDMS products  Amartya Sen argues in Development as
Freedom that development should lead to
freedom. He further divides freedom in five
Q--Critically comment on the type of parts:
development India needs considering its social 1) Economic Freedom
and economic realities and requirements. 2) Freedom of movement
3) Social Freedom
 Economically, India is the one of the fastest 4) Cultural freedom
growing economies of the world today. 5) Political freedom
Rising incomes of people, huge market, high Adam Smith believed that no society can be
Gross Domestic Savings and investment flourishing and happy, of which far great
levels point towards bright economic future. number of people are poor.and miserable.
However, all is not well in the economic In the light of such definitions of
field. Infrastructure bottlenecks continue to development and directions for building a
constrain the growth of agricultural and happy society, India‘s 12th Five Year Plan
manufacturing sectors. Economic that is titled as ―Inclusive Growth and
Inequalities have risen in the past decade. Sustainable Development‖, seems to be the
right path ahead.

 On its quest and rightful path of becoming needs of the population being unheard.
an economic superpower India needs to There is need for ensuring greater
adopt the often touted models of sustainable participation in the governance.The
development and inclusive growth. decentralization through 73rd and 74th
Inclusive growth should not stop at more amendment act has not been effective.
access to banking services and increased There is a need for enabling legislation for
social security cover for the reducing the discrimination in the society.
underprivileged. A strategic shift in The discrimination leads to exacerbating the
programs from the traditional BPL /caste conditions of the vulnerable sections,
based mass targeting towards individual thereby inhibiting their development. The
targeting to ensure growth of all . development should aid in overcoming the
Similarly Ever Green Revolution , rapid prevalent social norms which restrict the
industrialization is necessary for the country realization of the potential of the
but without infrastructure creation(roads , marginalized sections.
cold storage , sanitary godowns) and change The development should lead to effective
of byzantine laws like APMC ‗ labour laws , governance with the virtues of
economic and food security will be hard to transparency, accountability and
come by. responsiveness which cater to needs of the
Increasing enrolment in schools , skill public and ensure their welfare.
development , increased credit for Thus restricting development to growth
SHG‘s are necessary not sufficient. What use would be unfair. The development aims at
is economic progress in a society where creating an unbiased, participatory and
tribals are rendered homeless for minerals inclusive model and is not restricted to
exploitation and where increased money in economic growth.
hands of youth has pushed them into drug
menance like in Punjab ? What use is  India is a developing country with
education if people like Dabholkar are killed multifarious aspirations & myriad
and women are traumatized more brutally challenges. It needs a sustainable
at every step of life ? development which reaches up to last man
Hence the quality of education stressing on of society.
scitenific temper and humanity , social – In India, more than 60% people are engaged
moral skills and empowerment of women in primary sector which is labor intensive,
needs to be equally stressed inefficient & obsolete. It needs
modernization & increase in productivity.
Education & employment for all may assure
 Development is a broad term which leads to dignified standard of living which is a
expansion in freedom in the economic, requirement for Indian development.
social, and political aspects of life. It leads to Equality & well established connectivity
true realization of the potential . among various regions of India may boost a
Though India has witnessed growth in the real development. Development should
recent years, the development has remained facilitate basic amenities for marginalized
low. The growth has aggravated the section of society. It will inspire social
inequality in the society. The development freedom of participating in economic
should aim at providing equal opportunities activities, enhancing benefits from our
.There is need for reviving the growth in the demographic dividend.
agriculture and manufacturing sector, Open defecation & inadequate sanitation
thereby increasing the employment negates fruits of economic development.
generation. Thus it needs elimination. Affordable
Due to criminalization of the politics, the healthcare with pure water & food may help
democracy has been reduced to elections in in true development of India. Safe
India. The dominance of the few has led to environment for women & communalism

free society are other aspects India needs for reduction and elimination of the drug addiction
development. crime.
A rapidly growing India needs overhaul to
improve its human development indicators.
Removal of social curses like casteism,
female feticide & child labor are other acute Q--Critically comment on government‘s taxation
needs of development. Equal opportunities policy on tobacco products in India.
for all to excel in any walk of life may
realize Swaraj on earth, another word for India‘s high smoking rate causes alarming
inclusive development. health and economic costs. One of the most
effective ways to reduce tobacco use in India is
to raise the price of tobacco products through
increase in excise tax. Higher prices discourage
Q--Critically comment on the causes behind rise youth from initiating cigarette smoking and
in drug abuse cases in Punjab. encourage current smokers to quit. Raising tax
not only saves lives but also increases the
Reasons for rise in drug addiction in Punjab - government revenue.
a. Rise of income level after Green revolution – As
an immediate consequence of Green revolution In recent budget 2014-15, there has been
average household income rose sharply in substantial increase in the excise duties of
Punjab. This was much higher than rest of India. chewing tobacco and cigarettes. Though this is a
Due to this excess income and influx of farm very good move, one of the most important
labourers from elsewhere, youth in Punjab got shortcomings is the failure to tax bidi. Bidi
more leisure time as well as extra money to spend consumption constitutes 35 to 40% of total
on drugs and alcohols. This was the period when tobacco use in the country and it attracts
at village level youths started to use drugs in extremely low tax. This may result in product
groups. substitution. Moreover the elimination of the
b. Proximity to Pakistan border – Being close to current taxation system that is based on the
Pakistan, it was always easy to smuggle drugs length of cigarette would have proved more
into Punjab. The drug produced in gold crescent beneficial. There is possibility of the smokers
was routed through middle man directly into shifting from longer to shorter length cigarettes to
Punjab. Thus increasing the availability of drugs. cut tax. Finally, the government has failed to link
c. Absence of industrial growth and the tax rates to adjust automatically according to
unemployment – Since Green revolution, Punjab annual inflation and so real price increase may
has failed to take off its industrial sector. Due to not be achieved. And in course of time expensive
this currently there is huge unemployment cigarettes would become affordable to majority of
among youth in Punjab. These youth serve a smokers.
perfect prospective for drug addiction. Though the sharp increase in excise duty on
d. Lack of motivation and rise in NRI culture – cigarettes and chewing tobacco would surely
Due to aspiration of moving outside India, many prove deterrent and distinctive, it lacks other
youths in Punjab spend long years in waiting for measures to curb the consumption of tobacco
formalities etc., doing no productive work products as a whole.
meanwhile. They are highly susceptible to drug
addiction. Tobacco products results in a conundrum to the
e. Political involvement – Large drug rackets are government. One one side they are a source of
run by either political leaders or have their huge revenue and on the other they play havoc
support. Due to this they are able to operate with the health of the population. Thus any affect
without the fear of govt‘s action. to control the production and consumption of the
There is an acute shortage of de-addiction and tobacco products is always marred in the
rehabilitation centres. This hinders the steps in controversy.

The government in the recent budget raised the services; and inaccessible transport, buildings and
taxes on the tobacco products which is a information and communication technologies. As
commendable step, but left bidis out of its a result, people with disabilities experience
purview which may result in shifting the smokers poorer health, lower educational achievements,
from cigratees to bidis . Further the taxation on fewer economic opportunities and higher rates of
the cigratte is a specific tax which depends on the poverty than people without disabilities.
length of a cigarettes. Thus if the government
These barriers which segregate people with
increase on some specific length, smokers always
disabilities, in many cases forcing them to the
shift towards the shorter cigarettes. Thus
margins of society must be checked to help
defeating the whole purpose of the taxation.
disabled people enjoying and availing their
Therefore government should shift from specific
rights.
to ad valorem tax in case of the tobacco products.
Further keeping in mind the affect which a lower By analyzing this grave concern of providing the
consumption may have on the farmers and poor disabled people across the world with a sense of
labourers, the government should shift them security, we would come to conclusion that we
towards some other sustainable employment in a need an effective international organisation that
phased manner. supports the rights of the world‘s most
vulnerable people and if one small yet useful step
in this direction is, it‘s ratifying the U.N. treaty on
the rights of people with disabilities .
Development Processes & Development

industry (role of NGOs, SHGs, groups &
associations, donors, charities, institutional
and other stakeholders) In the light of questions raised on their
autonomy and integrity, critically comment on
Question - ―We need an effective international the mandate and role of various human rights
organisation that supports the rights of the institutions in India and the part played by
world‘s most vulnerable people i.e. people with governments in upholding their independence.
disabilities.‖ Comment. (200 Words) (the
question has 2 dimensions – 1st vulnerable Even after scathing remarks by SC and HCs, there
section and 2nd different organizations that help is little improvement on ground. The measures
them) taken are half hearted and the recommendations
for members are largely from political parties.
Answer - Given the data revealed by new global In such a situation where political connect has
estimates that more than one billion people been a sine qua non for appointments ethics has
experience some form of disability, it is not taken the back seat. Words like integrity,
strange to put a demand for an effective impartiality, transparency are just found in the
international organisation in support of people dictionaries of these institutions rather than in
with disabilities. working.
New research shows that almost one-fifth of the Over the years some steps were taken by Delhi
estimated global total of persons living with government last year. Qualifications (educated
disabilities, or between 110-190 million, encounter from recognized college), advertisements in four
significant difficulties. The report stresses that national dailies regarding openings etc. But not
few countries have adequate mechanisms in place much has changed on the ground. Political
to respond to the needs of people with opportunism still rules high.
disabilities. But until and unless there is a overhaul in the
appointment and dismissal process there is little
Barriers include stigma and discrimination, lack
hope for redemption of these institutions.
of adequate health care and rehabilitation

Administrative and financial power…... sector in order to bring in more accountability

and transparency.
Thirdly, just like Representation of Peoples Act
.In the light of controversy over foreign funding 1951 mandates each political party to make its
of certain NGOs and the accusation of stalling source of funding (>20000) public, a similar
development processes by few of them, critically provision could be extended to NGOs as well.
comment on what should be government‘s
strategy in dealing with them.
Business Standard
The Hindu In the light of recent reports on the activities of
Foreign funding of NGOs has long been Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs),
contentious. Recent report of IB accusing critically comment on their role in development
Greenpeace of stalling projects especially those and strengthening of economy and democracy.
related to coal and nuclear projects is highly
concerning. The Hindu
Course of action for government The Hindu
1) Stop all foreign funding to NGOs: This is not a The recent report of IB has claimed that several
recommended strategy as this paints all NGOs in NGOs funded on by the foreign countries are
the same colour. Some of the concerns and acting as a road block to the development
projects around them may have genuine ethical activities , and this has caused a loss of around 2-
standing and must be allowed. 3% of GDP . The report clearly points to the role
2) Stop all direct funding to NGOs. All fundings of NGOs in disrupting work on Nuclear
must pass through government approval route. energy(Kundakulam) and mining
This gives excessive power to government and an projects(Vendanta and Posco).
ability to stall some real concerns of citizens when While the claims of the report may be correct but
it comes to conflict with government view it does not mean that all the NGOs fall in its
3) Start a rating system of institutions keeping in purview . The work of NGOs like Association of
mind factors like Democratic Reforms in the passage of legislations
a) IB report like RTI , and SEWA in working with women is
b) Foreign institutions that provide them funding commendable . Further NGOs has given a
c) Ability to raise resources from alternate means platform to the civil society and poors to express
d) Past track record their views , thus democratizing the democracy .
4) Strengthen FCRA law: This too is not As the role of foreign funding is concerned , the
recommended as the present law itself is quite FCRA(foreign contribution regulation act) is there
broad to keep a track . And if the government thinks
Out of the four options, the 2nd last balances the that the act is not sufficient to prevent malicious
moral, ethical, economic viability and better funding of the NGOs , it can make more stringent
ecosystem for raising voices in support of laws . But to criminalize the activities of the
genuine concerns. NGOs form a vital part of NGOs or any attempt to control their legal
governance and give voices to many under functioning will be a setback to the democracy .
priviledged, in absence of which a silent Like the presence of 34% of MPs with criminal
undercurrent that leads to violent movements records does not mandate that the parliament
may take place. should be vilified , similarly the presence of some
Government must therefore ensure that freedom ill meaning NGOs should not undermine the
of speech and expression is given as much good works done by the NGOs.
importance as sovereignty as both are
interdependent.
Secondly, the concept of social audit of Discuss how and in what ways private sector
government schemes could be extended to NGO can play an important role in rural development.

Business Standard this perspective Self Help Groups (SHG‘s) play a

Consumer services can be very well taken up by very important role.
pvt sector, their supply chain management, Role of SHG‘s in rural development is of utmost
efficiency, productivity can be utilized in this. important and as follows:
Govt can outsource some work to MSME in pvt • Effective mobilization of selected people to a
sector similar platform for a unitary problem.
Joint ventures , joint development program can • Catering the financial needs of the individuals
be launched. which a single member on his own cannot do.
Private sector has initiated e-chaupal, marketing • Organising the identified poor people in small
and extension services in rural areas for the groups.
development of agriculture. It has brought in new • Effective women empowerment can be
technology for disseminating information and achieved at the group discussions regarding their
help in better market connectivity for agricultural own problems.
products. • Easily credit available from bank and also
subsidy from government in the name of SHG
Contract farming, future trading on commodity name
has helped farmers to know the future price of • Ultimately with the credit availability and
their produce. It has reduced the exploitation of development works the members can go for self
middlemen in the market. Even though some of it employment and thus leads to poverty alleviation
suffers from disadvantages like less penetration and also self reliant.
of technology, monopoly created by contract But though the role played by the SHG‘s is
farming, private sector can bring in huge change encouraging, a additional effort of government
under investor friendly government policies. and credit giving agencies with NGO‘s have to
Rules and regulations: government has been play a effective role to harvest the benefits of this
trying to attract private investment by creating scheme.
suitable infrastructure in various fields. In order
 ==== apart from positives ,cons also needs to be
to increase mobile penetration, universal
added ,we also need to point out how they have
obligatory fund has been created by the way of
failed in capacity development, imparting skills
cess to improve mobile infrastructure in rural
to women, marketing and linkage to various
areas. RBI has also directed all banks both public
private enterprises etc. as well as helping in
and private , to have 1/4th of its branches in
execution of various schemes and policy.
unbanked rural areas to achieve financial
inclusion. Such regulations by government has
made private sector involvement in rural
development an obligation. Also, compulsory
corporate social responsibility by companies will
also attract considerable involvement in the rural Q--Critically comment on the role of NGOs in
areas.PURA model the development process and development
Government must act as a mediator by industry in the country.
encouraging private participation in rural areas
through its policies and also create opportunities The Hindu
for them to generate profit which benefits The Recent IB report estimates that NGOs
mutually. resistance has negatively impacted GDP by two
to three per cent.It has created a question mark
over role of NGOs in furthering development and
growth of the nation.
At one level, NGOs acts as an extended arm of
Q role of SHGs in development
the state, engaging in humanitarian act and social
work.Government being the largest fund
At the grassroot level, to achieve development it provider itself speak their utility for
can be possible through effective people
development.
participation, that too in a decentralized form. In
At the other level NGOs are political and Welfare Schemes (centre, states;
cognitive entity challenging development performance, mechanisms, laws, institutions
paradigms and arguing issues of governance and and bodies constituted for protection of
democracy. vulnerable sections)
Many of these groups have advocated
transparency and responsibility but failed to What are the obstacles faced being by
apply it to themselves.As these organisation draw governments in developing tribal areas across
major funding from the foreign entities they may the country? Do you think present schemes
succumb to their objective which might be implemented by the Union government for the
antithetical to national goals.However it can‘t be welfare of tribal areas are yielding results?
generalized and all NGOs should not be painted Explain why. (250 Words)
with the same brush.
The double-edged nature of the NGOs puts it in a Answer)
perpetual state of suspicion. Yet, we have to
recognize that civic epistemologies and civil
society creativity are crucial for democracy.India The tribal‘s constitute about 8% of India‘s
need the support of developmental NGOs and population and spread across . they the least
think tanks, which can strengthen government developed 5 of the geographical area. Community
hands for better informed public of India and government through different
policies.However to mitigate the apprehension schemes in the field of education, health,
against their role NGOs need to be evolved to agriculture, marketing of their indigenous
create systems of audit which are both rule produces are being implemented. but the
bound, time bound and transparent.They need to implementation has not been that successful
develop credible policy alternatives against the because of number of obstacles.
developmental issues in which they dont align These obstacles are:–
with government.
And while doing critical analysis, it does not
always means you have to write pros as well as • poor accessibility of the tribal hamlets which
cons, it means : are mostly situated deep inside forested area.
1. your stand
2. proof why u took that stand • tribal areas of middle and eastern India are
3. challenges that could shoot up in future or naxal infested which hinders the proper
presently faced implementation of schemes as official are
4. If has any con in your opinion reluctant to work in these insecure environment.
5. way to curtail these -ves
6. a prudent way forward.
This a structure but not always necessary to stick • tribal‘s are unaware of schemes which are
on it. Depends on length of answer required. implemented for them as they are unable to read
In this answer you could have suggested way these schemes which are mostly implemented
forward like the institution of Lokpal, all NGO‘s through the main official language of the state.
reieving foreign aid comes under its ambit.
Then effectively implementing Foreign • the lack proper documents like date of birth,
Contribution(Regulation) Act (FCRA). land ownership document, to avail the benefits
quickly.
• some tribal‘s which prefers isolation are

reluctant to accept any type of schemes. they
must be persuaded by the officials.

•the schemes implemented by the tribal welfare Patients too prefer to have appointments
ministry at central and state level are multifaceted with government doctors in their private
so general evaluation of their efficacy cannot be practise.
generalized.  Hence, instead of focusing mainly on
village-based sub centres — which
Schemes in reference to education and
scholarships, hostels, and grants for higher patients rarely seem to use — enhancing
education are being implemented successfully. PHCs in better connected towns may have
programs like marketing of forest minor produce a greater potential for improving the
are successful through the TRIFED(Tribal quality of services.
Cooperative Marketing Development Federation
of India Limited ) one such example is the
Kandhamal Women‘s Leafplate Cooperative Ltd Q. In the light of recent Supreme Court
judgement, critically analyse all the positive and
in which number of SHG‘s are working
negative criticisms against Aadhar project.
successfully in marketing leaf plates in odisha.
overall trifed has been successful. where the
government schemes lag which are right based
ANSWER-
like handing over them their land rights, giving
them the control of minor forest products.  The main aim of Adhar is to provide a
unique id to every citizen so that he can
avail public service.
 Recently SC delivered 2 major judgements
Q. A recent study (India Human Development wrto Adhar:
Survey (IHDS) of 2004-05) has found that the  Firstly, Adhar not mandatory for public
implementation of RTE and NRHM schemes service:-
have actually reversed the objectives of both the  Adhar, as is unique id for every citizen,
schemes. Critically comment on the reasons eliminates inclusion and exclusion errors.
behind this reversal. As it is characterised by universal
portability, it helps migrant rural workers
to avail public benefits where ever they
ANSWER- go.
 The government which ensures fund  But some state govts have mandated
allocation has but little control over its compulsory linking of Adhar for getting
usage and on actual health or educational public service. Hitherto, not all got Adhar
outcomes. because for securing Adhar, identity proof
 The grim picture in the ASER report on is needed. It is linked to banking inclusion
education and accessibility ratio between which has not yet become universal. So SC
public to private health centers further judgement is timely. Untill the Adhar
exemplifies the aforesaid. enrolement, till now around 50% India‘s
 Moreover,the overall quality of public population covered, is completed for rest,
services is disheartening. Absenteeism is a there should not be any mandatory
regular phenomenon here. linking. Else, it becomes an instrument of
 Also, The confidence level between doctor exclusion rather of inclusion.
and patient or that between teacher and  Second judgement:- Not to handover
patient is low. This is inspite of high Adhar details for law enforcement
qualification that government officials agencies to solve a case in Goa.
have compared to their private  UIDAI maintains details of all those
counterparts. Adhar registrants in a unified database.
 The respect quotient that students or Several law enforcement agencies claim
patients seek are often unanswered.In access to these details for investigation
remote areas, harassing of students by purpose. Though it has positive dimesion,
teachers on the basis of caste is a norm . it has an equal negative dimension. This
leads to State intrusion on individuals people with disability by opting for postal ballots
right to privacy under Art21. By for them.
disallowing access, SC upheld the
fundamental right.
 Any project coughs in the nascent stage. It Question - ―Societally sanctioned rape and
is only by correcting errors in progressive sexual assault is not new in India.‖ Critically
manner, project could made successful. comment. (200 Words) topic - (protection of
vulnerable sections – women)
Highlight the important features of the Rights Answer - Though our ancient culture does not
of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2013. (200 degrade the position of women, in the later Vedic
Words) period it starts decreasing dramatically. It was
followed as an inherited policy by the subsequent
The important features of the Rights of Persons dynasties both Hindus and Muslims. During 17th
with Disabilities Bill, 2013 are: and 18 the century, at time of British invasion, it
1. It expands the definition of disability not was at its heights with very few exceptions.
merely confining to physical disability but Lack of gender equality concept is the root cause
various and varying degrees of disabilities. of attacks against women. Thus the society
2. The Bill attempts to increase the reservation consider women as inferior to men. In Indian
quota for the disabled in PSU from present 3% to marriages, men if not virgin it is acceptable, even
5%. to the prospective bride. But vice versa is
3. The Bill mandates Private Sector to make way something that is very offensive. Marital rape is a
for a Disabled friendly environment, concept which is unkown even to many educated
4. The Disability bill grants the right of fertility to women and thus considers it as their fate or duty.
a female prone to unsound mental infirmities Due to this dominant ― man ideology‖ many
5. The Bill is an improvement over the previous traditional courts like khapp/katta panchayats
Disabilities Protection Bill in that it strives for a exist in India. Most of the time, it puts the blame
more meaningful inclusion right to vote for on the women and her family. Later family finds
people with disability by opting for postal ballots that they can live peacefully only at the expense
for them. of her by killing or rejecting her. Though not so
inflexible, the condition is not different among the
Highlight the important features of the Rights educated middle and upper classes too. Though
of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2013. (200 unheard in the past, the recent brutality against
Words) the tribal women, by her community itself is
unpardonable.
The important features of the Rights of Persons This calls for the need of a strong reform
with Disabilities Bill, 2013 are: movement, among all caste/class/ethnicity. It
1. It expands the definition of disability not could done through effective implementation of
merely confining to physical disability but the already existing stringent laws, compulsory
various and varying degrees of disabilities. value education in all schools, awareness
2. The Bill attempts to increase the reservation campaigns in villages and among tribals could
quota for the disabled in PSU from present 3% to help.
5%. Other points are – Devadasi system, Social stigma
3. The Bill mandates Private Sector to make way attached to the women victim, 98% of rapes being
for a Disabled friendly environment, done by known person, objectification of women,
4. The Disability bill grants the right of fertility to honor killing, diktat of rape as prosecution etc.
a female prone to unsound mental infirmities
5. The Bill is an improvement over the previous
Disabilities Protection Bill in that it strives for a
more meaningful inclusion right to vote for Question - Should the current caste-based
reservation system be replaced with an
economic criteria-based regime? Critically children in line with the UN guidelines?

comment. (200 Words) Explain. (200 Words)
Answer - Rawls stretched on the importance of Answer - Dominant patriarchal societies have
creating differentiated opportunities for the made the women and child a vulnerable section
realization of social justice. to various abuses like physical, sexual, emotional
etc. and India is not an exception.
In India, oppression of a one class by dominant
As per constitution of India, it is bounded duty of
class in the society had historically led to several
the state under article 21, 21A , 23 ,24 , 39 to
social reforms and revolts. Buddhism and Jainism
provide a protected and secure environment to
were born with, among other things, a focus on
the child. In line with these provisions,
creating a casteless society.
government has enacted much legislation like
Ambedkar was disenchanted with modernity and child labor (prohibition and regulation) act,
suggested conversion to Buddhism. He saw juvenile justice act, immoral trafficking
moral justification as internal to ‗bahujan‘ or (prevention) act, right to education act etc.
heterodox concept of social justice. While framing To streamline its domestic policy framework with
the Indian Constitution the centuries of caste UN convention on rights of child 1989, which it
based segregation of society was kept in mind has ratified in 1992, government has enacted
and some castes and tribes with notified in commission for protection of child right act, 2005
Scheduled lists. and recently POSCO (protection of children from
Based on NSSO data, the extent of inclusiveness sexual offence act 2012 advocating right based
do not show a consistent profile for different approach regarding child.
social groups. For the year 2011-12, the monthly in order to sensitize the parliamentarians
mean per capita consumption (Rs at current regarding child protection , parliament
prices) are 1087, 1278, 1488 and 2154 for SC, ST, constituted a parliamentary forum on child
OBCs and other social groups (OSGs). protection in 2005.
Government has made various efforts to protect
The caste based census will throw more light on child from abuses but despite of these entire
the present spectrum of inequality in our society. actions more than 50% child still facing sexual
There has been a debate on barring the ‗creamy abuse and two third are facing physical abuse in
layer‘ from availing reservation opportunities but India. Hence the need of the hour is to strengthen
to make a shift from caste-based reservation to an the already established institution by
economic criteria-based regime can be justified implementing it in an effective, accountable and
only if there is a major divergence in the target efficient way with all round participation from
group. various organizations, NGOs and civil society.
Caste based reservation does creates the social
divide on the basis of birth. But studies have
shown that occupational mobility in lower Question - Analyze the important provisions of
income groups, who majorly happen to be the Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and
socially and economically backward groups, is Regulation of Street Vending) Bill, 2014 . (200
very low. The perpetuation of poverty and Words)
deprivation cannot be overlooked.
Answer - Provisions of Street Vendors Bill, 2014
Such a situation calls for greater study and 1. Creation of Town Vending Authority in each
research in the patterns of inclusion or exclusion local Local Authority to implement the
before making any major transition. provisions of the Bill.
2. TVC to have both official and non-official
members with due representation from
Question - What measures has Indian taken to Minorities, SC, SC, OBC and PWD.
stop child abuse and to ensure protection of 3. Regular survey of street vendors once in 5
years and issuing certificates of vending to those

surveyed. he can gain from the trip. He will therefore avoid

4. No vendor to be evicted till the survey is using his account.
completed. The task however is not unachievable. Opening of
5. Certificate can be inherited by family till the more than 1 crore account and government bid for
validity of the certificate. major role of FIs like NABARD and rope in more
6. Relocation, eviction and confiscation Business Correspondents will definately go a long
procedures made vendore friendly. Relocation to way in achieving objectives of PMJDY.
be exercised as last resort.
7. Establishment of Dispute Redressal
Mechanism under retired judicial officer.
8. Protection from harassment by the Police and Critically examine the problems faced
other authorities. by farmers in the Vidarbha region of
9. Provision of Credit, Insurance and other Maharashtra. What measures have been taken to
welfare schemes. address their problems by the state and the
10. Thrust on natural market and also defines it union government? Explain.
under the Bill.
The Problem faced by farmers in Vidarbha region

Critically comment on the objectives of and is multifaceted, but all these are taking the farmers
challenges likely to be faced by the Pradhan towards the penury condition and forcing them to
Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. commit suicide
1. Rain based: Most of the farmers in this region
Financial Inclusion has both been a dream and are holding a small farm land only 10% of the
challenge for India towards it aim of providing farmlands are irrigable rest is rain based.
banking coverage to all especially poor and Whenever there is a deficit in rain fall the
marginalized section of society. Pradhan Mantri Jan productivity gets affected. Vidarbha naturally lies
Dhan Yojana is a latest attempt in this direction. in a low rainfall area too.
Key Objectives 2. Multiple sowing: When the rain moves away
1. Universal Access to Banking facilities from its predicted schedule, the farmers have to
2. RuPay Debit card to each account holder with an sow the seeds multiple times to catch up with the
over draft of 5000 Rs rain. This leads to more investment and more debt.
3. Accidental Insurance of 100000 rupees 3. International Prices: The cotton prices are
4. RuPay Kisan Card determined by the market, if US Produces more
5. Financial Literacy than usual or China imports less than usual, the
6. Creation of Credit Guarantee Fund and Micro prices slump, which makes their earning go down
Insurance drastically.
7. Providing unorganized pension scheme like 4. Financial Exclusivity: The farmers have to
Swalambhan. borrow from money lenders at very high monthly
Given the low financial literacy and low prospect of interest rates as they have not been financially
profit in providing banking services to poor, task of included into the system so far. This makes the
Financial Inclusion has always been a challenging task farmers sale the cotton immediately to get rid of
for India. Two major roadblocks in this direction are: debt, else, they could have waited for a better
1. Firstly, financing the overdraft facility and prices
insurance cover. It is highly unlikely that poors will be
able to pay premium charges to cover their insurance. Vidarbha, a windward region of western ghats, is
Therefore government will have to finance both the part of India‘s drought triangle that face persistent
facilities. and severe drought. As a result the problems faced
2. Secondly, given the poor banking infrastructure in by its farmers are multifaceted.
most part of country it is likely that villagers may not
use their account. If one has to travel several kms , his Vidarbha is endowed with regur soil suitable for
expense of traveling is likely to be grater than benefits cotton cultivation. Though a drought resistant

crop, erratic monsoons, absence of assured The scope of the act is widened to include tissues
irrigation, lack of agriculture information also, compared with only organs in the previous
dessimination centre and poorly served by act. The scope of near-relatives is widened to
extension centre, crop failure is a common include grandparents and grandchildren instead
occurance. Poor institutional credit support pushes of only spouse, parents and siblings. These
farmers in the laps unscrupulous money lender features improve the probability of getting a organ
who charge usurious rates. Thus, a vicious cycle of donor in time and proves life-saving.
distress sale and poverty sets in that ultimately This act makes it compulsory for medical team to
ends with farmers suicide. request relatives of all brain dead patients for
organ donation and their consent or refusal should
MEASURE BY GOVERNMENT be recorded. This act enables, a team of Anesthetist
Surgeon to declare in case of non-availability of
Our constitution recognises the apathy of neurologist or neurosurgeon to declare brain
Vidarbha and assign its special responsibilty to death.
Governor. In persuance of this, various measures
have been taken by government like: This act increases penalty for commercialization of
(a) Announcing MSP and purchasing through CCI organ donation by imposing 5-20 lakhs fine and 5-
to give minimum cover to farmers. 10 years imprisonment for both sellers and buyers
(b) Various crop insurance schemes like MNAIS, of organs. This will deter commercial sale of
WBCIS etc to cover risk of crop failure. organs.
(c) Loan waiver and focus on financial inclusion. Negative features of the act:
(d) Establishment of KVK, extension centres, Organ donation from a person who is not a ―near
running adivisories through IVR messages. relative‖ requires permission of the State
(e) Promotion of agroforestry, mixed cropping. authorization Committee. It is not clear which
(f) Promoting livestock especially goat rearing to State authorization Committee shall have
enhance livelihood support. jurisdiction if the donor and recipient belong to
(g) Exhorting state governments to expand different states or if the transplanting hospital is in
irrigation facilities under AIBP by giving aid a different state.
through RKVY. Though the penalty for sale of organ has been
increased it is unsure if it will deter potential
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE sellers as the conviction rate of the previous act
Besides focusing on development of drought was very low.
resistant varities their is an emergent need to Conclusion:
estimate future market prices. So futures and The Bill seeks to strengthen provisions to curb
forward market should be developed for price commercial trade in human organs while
predictions. Effort should be make for transition of facilitating organ transplantation for needy
farmers from agriculture sector to agrobased patients. This bill has been passed with noble
occupations. intentions but its purpose will not be served unless
it is strictly enforced and offenders are convicted.
Write a critical note on the Transplantation of

Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011 . (200 Write a note on the important recommendations
Words) of the Mihir Shah Task Force Committee on
Comprehensive National Social Assistance
Program (Pension). (200 Words)
In spite of Transplantation of Human Organs Act,
1994, there is a huge shortage of organ donations The Hindu
in India and many patients die while on waiting A Task Force Committee headed by Dr. Mihir
list. It is at this juncture that Transplantation of Shah, member Planning Commission was formed
Human Organs (Amendment) Act, 2011 is passed. by Ministry of Rural Development in 2012 to come
Positive features of the act: up with a proposal for restructuring already

existing National Social Assistance Programme. channels and also in print media Govt is making
This was done keeping in view the significance of people aware of the mode of HIV transmission.
the scheme for the the elderly, widows and Govt has established blood banks so that blood is
disabled persons, the most vulnerable among the given only after being declared free from such
poor in the country. microorganisms.also to prevent parents to child
The main recommendations of the Task Force are- transmission govt is giving free nevi rapine syrup
1. Increase central assistance under Indira Gandhi in all hospitals.
National Old Age Pension Scheme from Rs. 200 Govt also established Integrated counselling and
per month to Rs.300 per month for the age group testing center for diagnosis of HIV. Anti retro viral
60-79. therapy is Instituted in those centers.
But still India could not halt or reverse the process
2. Revise eligibility norms for Indira Gandhi of HIV transmission because-
National Widow Pension Scheme by reducing 1 many people don‘t aware about the protection
minimum age from 40 years to 18 years & the measures to be used
pension to be extended to single never married 2 lack of infrastructure – drugs and diagnosis
women above 40 yrs & available at tertiary health centers only
divorced/separated/abandoned women above 18 3 those having HIV are socially boycotted
yrs. 4 resistance against second line anti HIV drugs (
now GOI has introduced third line)
3. Remove age restrictions and reduce disability
level from 80% to 40% under Indira Gandhi to combat this disease efforts are also required
National Disability Pension Scheme. from the people so that India can achieve this
MDG goal
4. Rates of assistance to be indexed to inflation
annually.
• HIV AIDS is one of the most lethal diseases with
5. Use of Aadhar based payment systems. no sure shot treatment available. India with its
6. Direct release of Administrative expenses large population and little awareness about HIV
implementing agencies & strengthening the and its infection, is more vulnerable to this
administrative structure so that time bound menace. Already India is suffering with more than
sanctions of pensions can be done two million people are living with AIDS.
• The National Aids Control Program (NACP)

started in 1992 has already in its fourth phase with
Critically evaluate India‘s strategy and efforts to the objective of zero new infection and better
combat AIDS. (200 Words) treatment with no discrimination.
The Department of Aids control, a part of ministry
The Hindu of health and family welfare is an specialized
To combat the transmission of HIV transmission agency to look after all government initiatives.
Govt created a separate department for AIDS • A policy making body of AIDS known as
control under the ministry of Health. The NACP National Council of AIDS is directly being chaired
programme has completed three phases now by the Prime Minister of India.
NACP-4 has been started. However, the effective implementation and
The basic strategy to combat HIV is- monitoring of the AIDS control programs are yet
1 Prevention to be realized. The reach of the programs is not
2 Treatment upto the mark and the vulnerable sections as sex
3 those who can not be cured – providing them workers, the gay and transgender community and
support,care, and their psychological and social poorer section of the population in the rural areas
integration. are not yet covered properly.
For prevention Govt has introduced IEC( •
information, communication, education) In TV

but aggressive as well as effective strategy is disability. Providing for a 5 per cent reservation of
missing, which was witnessed in case of Polio. public sector jobs and urging an inclusive
Government has started Prevention of Parent-to- educational framework that would absorb
Child Transmission scheme, but a comprehensive children with special needs, it aims to integrate
care, support & treatment to all HIV infected such persons with the mainstream.
persons have been proved as inadequate.
Recent studies have found that despite increased
• The cost of HIV drugs is very high in India & outlays in education, especially after the RTE was
special needs as well as quality of the Aids control passed, learning levels have remained stagnant in
programs are not commensurate with the panic Indian schools. What are the reasons behind it?
prevalent in society against AIDS. What needs to be done? Analyze. (200 Words)
Therefore flexibility ,community participation
must be emphasized. Moreover, proper Right to Education act of 2009 made primary
monitoring with humane considerations will make education for children between 9 to 14 years
India‘s AIDS control programs more effective. compulsory. So every child in this age group will
have the fundamental rights to avail primary
education free of cost in near a government school.
The result of this act is that the total enrollment
―The new disabilities bill could help enshrine a rate has increased to 96% .
more modern understanding of the issue.‖
Elaborate. (200 Words) But at the same time there is deterioration in the
quality o education in government run schools.
The Indian Express For example a comparison of data of 2008 when
Disability is an umbrella term; this includes only about 50 percent of Standard 3 students could
physical, physiological disorder. In India about 10 read a Standard 1 text, but by 2012, it declined to
crore people are under these category. Some year 30 percent. Same is seen in arithmetic skills. RTE
ago these people were perceived as the people has become a manufacturing unit where quantity
who need charity and welfare so the mainstream is good but quality is abysmal.
had a attitude to look down upon them with eyes The reasons are as follows: –
of pity. This has been changing and now these Low teachers to student ratio — more skilled
people with disability are demanding their rights teachers need to recruit under transparent
and entitlements. This change is now to be screening system. Contractual system of teachers‘
codified by the drafted disabilities bill. appointment must be stopped.
This new bill caters to almost all needs of the Emphasis on promotion of students to upper
disability group, from democratic rights to classes without proper evaluation — ―no-
educational aspiration. detention‖ and ―comprehensive and continuous
evaluation‖ provisions of the Right to Education
the discourse on disability has shifted from charity has although reduces exam pressures over the
and welfare to rights and entitlements. The new students. This system has omitted exam, which
bill seeks to enshrine a more modern could have been a measure of evaluation of
understanding of the issue, in keeping with the students‘ performance.
UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Depleting image of government schools — this has
Disabilities, ratified by India. This means ensuring accompanied which rise in private schools which
a range of economic, political, and legal rights for have poached the experienced faculty from the
such persons, as well as addressing social attitudes government schools, better pay will reverse this
that have kept them marginalised for so long. flow and help in better impartation of education.
Under the new bill, persons with disabilities Government needs to change primary education
would have greater legal access and control over from just imparting education to infusing
their finances. It also seeks to enable political knowledge.
participation, laying down that no person would
be disqualified from voting on the grounds of

The 12th plan on education has started to focus on The scenario is different in higher especially
learning outcomes and monitoring it at all the professional education. Any positive externality
levels of school education ensuring basic reading they espouse is monetarily compensated by the
and numeracy skills by class II and skills of critical society. So the govt. need not subsidize their
thinking, expression and problem solving by class education. Therefore it goes without saying that
5. Different curriculums in states will make it the private colleges are right to consider education
difficult to produce and monitor such outcome. a trade.
Centre can provide a basic framework for framing
a curriculum without reducing its quality. Apart The price of a commodity shoots up when the
from this, special training should be provided for trade is pushed underground. Therefore, the
teachers to deal with late entry students. colleges should be allowed to charge whatever fee
The guarantee of education is useless without they want. In any case, the dichotomy in fee
satisfactory learning. It has serious implications for between ‗merit‘ and ‗management‘ is illegal, as
growth and equity as India has growing observed by the SC in ‗TMA Pai‘ case.
demographic population.
But an ignorant doctor or an ignorant engineer can
Actions to be taken: be detrimental to society. Therefore it is imperative
1. Measures taken for quality check of education in for the govt. to regulate this ‗Trade‘. That is what
schools the AICTE, MCI and Universities do.
2. Regular independent assessment system which
will require the schools to meet the necessary test Once the qualification criteria for admission are
scores made stringent and a strict national level licensing
3. Penalties such as private tutoring exam is instituted, the irrational fee(capitation)
will come down`
4. Provision of retaining student in a rare case
where he/she found unfit to move to higher grade
5. Training provided to teachers for quality
teaching method Collection of capitation fee is not justified on any
It is thus important to state that the objective of the account. It goes against the principle of economic
bill is to provide children with education and not and social justice envisaged in our constitution. At
just schooling this juncture of our country, where education is
vital for our favourable demography, capitation
fee is a menace which needs to be curbed urgently.
Capitation fee is charged by almost all private
Do you think the idea of imparting of education institutions. A college with a higher ranking
being treated as a trade is wrong? Critically charges higher. A course with higher demand
comment in the light of the issue of collection of costs more. And if there are not enough alternate
capitation fee in private educational institutes in opportunities or seats, then the price will sky
India. rocket. Private education has become a commodity
in an unregulated market.
The idea of considering education as a trade is There are several issues involved here
both right and wrong, depending on the adjective 1) The reason for charging fees is because there is
put before ‗education‘, and the perspective from demand for it. The rise of the middle class and
which we look at it. their desire for higher education with which the
government institutions has not kept pace with
Primary education has positive externalities. So it has led to immense demand for private
is wrong for the govt. to consider it a trade. But, institutions.
that doesn‘t mean it is wrong for a private school 2) Due to limited seats, charging fees is a profitable
to consider it as trade. and easier way to grant seats.
3) It is ok if at least the institutes use the money
and invest in improving the quality. Even that has

not happened. The fees is siphoned of by the 3. Neo liberal policies have created
management and enters our black economy. lucrative jobs. This has affected the
Capitation fees prevents a large chunk of our able teaching and research culture. Graduates
youth from having quality education. It furthers are not willing to pursue research and
the rich-poor divide. Hence, it is imperative for teaching instead take up lucrative jobs
certain drastic changes. which are in reality transitory and non-
1) treating capitation fees as a bribe. Making it a satisfying in the long run. This has created
crime to give and take would have an impact. a shortage of good teaching faculty
2) Increasing the expenditure on education.
3) Institutes with public private partnership that The Govt. and other agencies like UGC
has the combination of governments public need to devolve a better percentage of
purpose and private efficiency along with doing GDP on education so that teaching
away with some government finance would help. profession is made more remunerative
4) Audit of private institutions and their and attracts talented professionals. It also
management is necessary. needs to give more autonomy and give
incentives for research and publications.
Forums for better interaction with
Some argue that Indian youth, especially vast industry needs to be setup as well.
majority of engineering graduates lack
necessary skills to work in innovation
industries. Do you agree with the view?
Substantiate. (200 Words)
Do you support the establishment of branches
India with a favorable demographic of foreign universities in India? Substantiate.
dividend is emerging as the engine o (200 Words)
human resource for the global economy in
the coming decades. However MNC‘s
who have already recruited a sizeable
number of Indian youth in their firms are Providing quality higher education to the
peeved by the skill deficit exhibited by the expanding population and rapidly growing
Indian youth. middle class is a huge challenge that India faces
today. A very small fraction of institutes in India
This anomaly is basically due to the like the IITs ,IIMs etc can actually meet the
systemic constraints in our education international standards. And the complex legal
system more specifically the professional arrangement of providing reservations to the
education .The problems are numerous weaker sections puts further stress on educational
institutes.
1. The engineering education is regulated India also faces capacity problems due to under-
by the UGC and the AICTE. The investments in this sector over decades. More than
regulatory regime grants very little 1/3rd of Indians still remain illiterate even after 50
autonomy to the individual universities years of independence despite measures like Sarva
thus constraining quick decision making Sikhsha Abhiyaan and Free and Compulsory
and formulating innovative curriculum. Primary Education .If this is the situation of
2. Very little industry tie up. Most of the primary education, we can well imagine the
premier institutes like IIts and NITs are set urgent need of qualified professionals ,
up at remote places(as per politicians investments, infrastructure required for improving
whims) far away from industrial centres. higher education in India. Even the remuneration
This is detrimental to developing provided to educationists is not good enough to
industrial tie ups. Often the graduates draw quality towards it.
have no industrial exposure during their In such a scenario, following an open door policy
course period. for the quality foreign institutes to open

universities in India would provide the much institutions providing medical services. This is to
needed capacity and new ideas on higher eliminate ‗fake‘ doctors and clinics run in rural
education management, curriculum, teaching areas mostly.
methods, and research and investment. Therefore I 2) Revamping the MCI which is the nodal body to
feel that opening doors for foreign universities for supervise medical practitioners to include patient
India would partially address the problems. groups.
Though India allowed foreign universities to 3) Frequent audit of hospitals and practitioners.
establish institutes in India ,it strict rules like a 4) Online portal which will have all information
minimum investment requirement, approval of about necessary test for common diseases to make
home country & its embassy in India, no people aware if they are being exploited.
expatriation of profit generated to the home 5) Computerisation of patient prescription and
country are major deterrants. On top of that is the sudden checking to prevent doctors from
impenetrable and corrupt bureaucracy. exploitation.
Critically examine the loopholes that exist in What are the objectives of the National Rural
both the public and private health sectors in Health Mission (NRHM)? Do we need two
India. Explain in what ways private medical separate schemes for rural and urban
practices can be regulated to ensure affordable population? Comment. (200 Words)
and quality healthcare to the people.
The objective of NRHM are as follows:

a) To revitalizing existing infrastructure and fresh
Public sector construction or renovation wherever required
1) Massive inadequacy from primary health care to through manpower planning and infrastructure
tertiary. PHCs ill equipped to deal with basic building.
diseases. Lack of hi-tech equipment in tertiary b) To provide effective healthcare to rural
hospitals to deal with complex diseases arising in population throughout the country
recent times. Need to increase expenditure on
health sector. c) Reduce infant mortality rate(IMR) and
2) Shortage of tertiary institutions. Pradhan mantri Maternity mortality ratio (MMR)
Swasthya Suraksha yojana aims to address this. d) Universal access to Public Health Service.
3) Shortage of trained manpower. From doctors to e) Related terms: women health, child health,
compunders. Doctors prefer private institutions nutrition, clean drinking water, immunization,
and urban areas. Mandatory rural service, training sanitization, hygiene.
of rural practitioners is needed. f) Prevention and control of communicable and
4) even where facilities are available, frequent non-communicable diseases
absenteeism by health workers.
5) Too much reliance on private insurance rather. h) Population stabilization and demographic
RSBY is another such program. Should rather balance.
spend on improving and increasing facilities. i) Revitalize local health tradition and mainstream
Private AYUSH
1) Immense commercialisation of health.
2) Unregulated, disorganised, inefficient, leaving
the patients at their mercy. The main objective of NRHM is to reduce infant
3) Incidences of fraud, over medication, and maternal mortality rate, ensure population
exploitative pricing and unnecessary surgery. stabilization, prevent and control communicable
Private medical sector can be regulated by and non communicable diseases and promte
1) Compulsory registration of all private ayush for healthy life style.

The challenges and the problems faced by rural The UNCRPD mandates that persons with
and urban population in meeting their health care disabilities have the right to be recognised as
services are different. In rural areas, there was persons before the law, and enjoy the same legal
absence of health care infrastructure and health capacity as others in all aspects of life. Neither of
care professionals to take care of the needs which these mandates is reflected in the bill. Though
was improved significantly through NRHM while persons with disabilities are granted the right to
in urban areas the challenges are absence of own or inherit property, control their financial
primary health care units in government sector, affairs and obtain access to bank loans, mortgages
marked inequality in accessing health services, and other forms of financial credit, there is no
inefficient service delivery and escalated effective manner of realising these rights and no
healthcare costs. Absence of primary health care provision for safeguards whatsoever.
has overburdened the secondary and tertiary In any case, these provisions only apply to persons
health units and also escalated the expenditure for who have legal capacity, and there are exclusions
the middle class and the poor. to this, perhaps unprecedented in Indian law.
Pollution, poor sanitation and lack of clean There is no shift from substituted decision-making
drinking water in urban areas show that urban to supported decision-making. The ―mentally ill‖
poor are in worse condition than their who are unable to take care of themselves or make
counterparts. Urban poor also face the problems of legally binding decisions will have all decisions
rise in blood pressure, diabetes, multiple taken on their behalf by guardians. The position of
addictions (alcohol, tobacco, drugs), violence and persons governed under the NTA does not change
mental illness which are less visible in rural at all. And then, more categories of persons with
settings. Non communicable diseases, road disabilities may have their legal capacity
accidents, disabilities, spectrum of nutritional threatened. The bill creates the category of persons
disorders ranging from under nutrition, with ―high support needs‖. Any person with more
overweight to obesity have to be addressed by than 40 per cent of a disability and who needs
urban health facilities. ―intensive support, physical, psychological and
NUHM envisages primary, community health care otherwise,… for activities of daily living;
infrastructure similar to that of NRHM but with independent and informed decision-making;
different challenges. Being a part of national health accessing facilities and participating in all areas of
mission, both programmes provide a life including education; employment; family and
comprehensive health services to the population community life; and treatment and therapy‖ is
according to their needs. included in this category — effectively all persons
with over 40 per cent disabilities. An assessment
The rural health is more about accessibility where board gets to take decisions on the nature of
as urban areas is the timely diversified facility. ―support‖ to be given to these persons, with no
obligation to consult the person concerned. The
scope of ―support‖ is not defined under the bill,
which means it could include guardianship or
―The United Nations Convention on the Rights even institutionalisation, neither of which are
of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) has barred.
served as the major catalyst in the global Undoubtedly, the bill opens up various
movement from viewing persons with opportunities — there are incentives for the
disabilities as objects of charity, medical private sector to accommodate persons with
treatment and social protection towards viewing disabilities, and with that will come requirements
them as full and equal members of society, with for training the persons who are employed,
human rights.‖ Critically analyze in the context sensitizing other staff members and making
of India‘s efforts at passing a legislation for workplaces accessible. These measures are
disabled persons on the line of above beneficial to many. However, is it worth shutting
mentioned convention. (200 Words) the door on discussions in order to — quoting the
Centre for Advocacy in Mental Health — ―secure
maximum rights for maximum people with

disabilities; and lay to rest the original inclusive

concern about all rights for all persons with Newspaper Extract--
disabilities‖? One could possibly argue that other
concerns could be addressed in the form of Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2012,
amendments at a later stage — but these replaces the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995,
amendments would be fragmented discussions, and brings India in line with the 21 century
running contrary to the cross-disability movement understanding of the rights of persons with
that the drafting of the bill and the UNCRPD have disabilities as captured in the UN Convention on
come to symbolise. Like charity, inclusion starts the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD)
from home. ratified by India.
For a flailing government trying its best to play to Although, very late, it is a matter of great joy for
the gallery, enacting a ―social welfare‖ legislation India‘s 100 million disabled people. Now, once the
like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill is a act would be enacted,it will lead to more inclusive
marvellous opportunity. Something as serious as development of the country. In the areas such as
an all-encompassing legislation for all persons Education, social protection, medical treatment,
with all disabilities deserves more than to be their recognition will ultimately be increased.
reduced to a bullet point on an election poster. However, the government‘s efforts in giving more
importance to inclusive educational centers
(catering to all children in a common environment)
• India has already made several acts for the than to special schools (catering only to children
welfare of persons with disabilities including the with disabilities) are creating controversies and
National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with these provision need to be rechecked as without a
Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and transition plan to move a set up with adequate
Multiple Disabilities Act (NTA), 2009 and the numbers of trained teachers and proper
Mental Health Act, 1987. But the Right of Persons infrastructure, the disabled children requiring
with Disabilities Bill, if passed in its present draft infrastructures like wheel-chairs and training to
form, would make a law which would be in line read in case one is blind would suffer miserably.
with the UNCRPD convention on the Rights of The enactment would also see greater employment
persons with disabilities of which India is a opportunities for the disabled people thus making
signatory. them improve their standard of overall living as it
But there seem to be dilutions or violations in the gives incentives to employers in the form of
original draft when the time has come for the bill rewards to them on employing disabled persons
to be finally passed. Important clauses such as but again here the new clause provides that
legal recognition for the disabled, right to inherit reservation for persons with disabilities shall be
property, control of financial affairs, access to bank only for the specific posts that are expressly
loans, mortgages and other forms of financial identified by the concerned authority. Thus, even
credit etc. seem to be missing from the bill. if a person is able to do the work required for a
This bill gives persons with more than 40% particular post, he will be ineligible unless it is
disabilities access to education, employment, specifically reserved. This is highly controversial
family and community life. These are the persons and violates UNCRPD principles since it
who have ‗high support needs‘ as they do not have presumes, wrongly, that persons with disabilities
the mental capacity to take their own decisions. can only perform some jobs or tasks.
However, the scope of the support they require Surely, it is a welcome decision to replace the
has not been specified in the bill. An assessment existing law ( the Persons with Disabilities Act,
board would take decisions regarding the nature 1995 ) with the new law on the same subject but
of ‗support‘ required to the person without even the government should relook the flawed parts
consulting him. and seriously consider the input from the
Therefore, a very strong Bill in favour of the disability sector before finalizing the Bill.
persons with disabilities is what is required at the
moment rather than scoring a few election points
through a sloppy legislation.

Critically evaluate the NRLM and its objectives. agencies and DRDAs according to district wise
(200 Words)The Hindu annual action plan including the Self Help Groups
(SHGs) in its implementation.
Main objectives of NRLM
NRLM is a poverty alleviation project of Ministry * It focuses on targets, outcomes and time bound
of Rural Development. It Focuses on promoting strategies.
self employment and organization of rural poor. It * The objective of NRLM is to shift from allocation
organizes poor people into Self Help Groups based approach to demand driven strategy
(SHGs) and make them capable of self- enabling states to formulate their own poverty
employment. NRLM will harness their capability reduction action plan.
and complement with them capacities such as * It aims at providing Equity to the disadvantaged
knowledge, skill, tools, finance, information . It especially women, children and other vulnerable
shifts its approach from allocation strategy to grouped.
demand driven strategies allowing states to form * It aims at universal social mobilization and
their own livelihood-based poverty alleviation therefore approaches to bring one member from
plans. each rural poor household especially women
Making compulsory to be a part of SHG to receive under SHGs network.
funds may exclude few people. Micro finance * It aims at achieving universal financial inclusion
agents works as mediator between banks and and both demand and supply side of Financial
SHGs which in turn makes loan repayment costly. inclusion.
Most of SHGs are taken over by elite groups Thus NRLM promises a lot with regard to creation
leaving poor people out of its benefits. Diverse and strengthening of rural livelihoods , it does
rural economy needs diverse financial service suffer some serious shortcomings like:-
according to its necessity which lacks in NRLM. - NRLM talks of rural livelihoods primarily
Agriculture and MSME are still out of its ambit through SHGs but relying only on SHGs appears
which are in dire need of financial support. to be serious limitation as not everyone in rural
Keeping household along with SHG as criteria for area is a member of an SHG and unlikeness of a
getting benefits will cover excluded people. person to become its member lead to forceful
Strengthening and continuous monitoring will mandatory membership which in turn lead to
contribute to the welfare of masses. Inclusion of corruption of the process. It can cause exclusion
agriculture and MSME sector into NRLM will instead of inclusion , of rural low income people.
greatly help agri-based rural economy. More - NRLM lacks serious attention to value added
customized services can be allocated to each agriculture and rural Micro, Small and Medium
NLRM if planning is done at panchayat level Enterprises (MSMEs) which can play a major role
instead of state. in enabling and sustaining inclusive growth in
rural areas.
Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) with the - Strategy of NRLM is too broad and sweeping.
mandate of poverty alleviation in rural India is Rather than attempting to do a whole lot of things
implementing various poverty alleviation and across the board , it should focus on areas that
rural development schemes. One such scheme is could impact livelihoods of large number of rural
National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) which livelihoods.
is the rechristened version of Swarna Jayanti The major reason for the failure of past programs
Swarojgar Yojna (SJSY). like SJSY is that they failed to understand and
Its aim is to reduce poverty by enabling the poor grasp the whole range of vulnerabilities and risks
households to access gainful self-employment and faced by different points in various value chains in
skilled wage employment opportunities resulting many strategic contexts. So NRLM should learn
in a sustainable livelihood . NRLM plans to give from these past programs and should work on its
special attention to the household which are design and implementation properly to become a
currently dependent on the Mahatma Gandhi flagship program.
Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNEGA) .
NRLM funds are released to the state level

1. High rate of corruption in the scheme has

done havoc to the popularity of scheme. For
What is social audit? How effective is social tackling high rate of corruption, wage payment
audit in effective implementation of many was started through bank accounts, directly to
government schemes? Explain with examples. workers but banking sector is itself facing the
(200 Words) problem of financial inclusion this led to delay
in delivery of wages.
2. Social audits were made compulsory to check
Audit in general is a process of systematic and corruption but these don‘t take place regularly.
independent examination of data, records, However some states example united Andhra
operations and performances of an enterprise in Pradesh. Several corruption cases have been
achievement of its stated objectives. Social audit is exposed.
thus an audit which measures the impact of 3. Regular social audits could also check forging
organization‘s work on the society as a whole. It is of muster rolls and siphoning of wages of
a scale to measure the social responsibility of an workers.
organization or a govt. 4. Decrease in no. working days per household
Social audit evolved in India with 73rd are also decreasing. Though scheme gives right
Constitutional Amendment Act. Its effectiveness to 100 days of work per year(inreased to 150
can be gauged from the paradigm change it has days before general elections).
brought at the grassroot level. Numbers of Civil 5.all weather assets aren‘t constructed which
Society Organizations and NGOs have gets washed away easily. If material-labor ratio
successfully utilized the provision of social audit is increased from 40:60 to atleast 50:50 ratio,this
in eliminating rampant corruption in MGNREGA can give flexibility to states in using funds.
in states like Andhra Pradesh & Rajasthan. 6. States are also nt able to use their alloted
Enactment of RTI Act 2005 gave further fillip to funds for the scheme.
the social audit process. Now easy availability of Howevr despite many flaws, this has been
govt. records has brought in transparency to the major booster in increasing rural wages which
once opaque functioning of govt. depts. Very is being shown in changing consuming pattern
recently, Indira Awas Yojana, a flagship scheme of of rural masses. More awareness among people
Central govt. has come under the ambit of social needs to be spread so that they demand their
audit to address the grievances of BPL families. right.
Further it can be useful with schemes like Mid-day
meal, public service delivery, etc.
Social audit is a powerful tool in the hands of
society. But unlike financial audit, its fruits can
only be reaped with the active participation of What are the functions of the National Skill
common man and civil society. Development Corporation? Write a note on its
importance and performance in recent years.
Critically evaluate the programme design and

the performance of NREGA Skills shortage is evident in every sector of Indian
economy, but a growing economy like India
requires a large and skilled workforce. NSDC
NREGA is a very ambitious programme of GOI seeks to fill the gap between growing demand and
which aims to provide 100days of work in rural scarce supply of skilled personnel across various
areas itself and check the rising trend of economic sectors. The main goal of NSDC is to
migration amongst rural masses. It is even foster private sector participation in skill training
supported by National Rural Employment and development. NSDC is implemented through
Guarantee Act. Public-Private and Public-Public partnerships.
But the scheme hasn‘t worked well due to many The main functions of NSDC are,
flaws such as a) Funding and incentivizing private sector and

ensure that its funds are largely ―re-circulating‖ economy for the availability of skilled personnels
i.e. loan or equity rather than grant in sectors with better pay and facilities.This would
b) Enabling support services in setting up also benefits the underprivileged sections of our
standards and accreditation systems. society and backward regions of country to move
c) Creating momentum for large scale out of poverty,working in unorganized sectors.
participation by private sectors.
d) Develop ultra low cost, high-quality, innovative
business models With examples, illustrate the importance of
e) Attract significant private investment. social audit in evaluating the implementation
Since its formation five years ago, it has skilled and progress of government schemes.
over 2 million people. Over half the districts in
India have NSDC training centres which offer 720 Ans: Social audit is a process of public monitoring
courses covering nearly 750 job roles in 27 of government programmes to ensure that monies
important sectors. Sector skill councils (SSCs) are being spent in desired way and for stated
under NDSC have developed standards for purpose. The idea of social audit evolved with
specific job roles to ensure that the skilled hands monumental efforts of MKSS which put to public
meet the needs of the employers from Day One. scrutiny, information obtained through RTI in jan
It is a good start. But this will not suffice the sunvai.
challenge of skilling 500 million people by 2022. Importance of Social audit:
Just like freedom struggle, building Skill India (a) Discloses and reduces coruption in public
should catch the imagination of all stakeholders works. Social audit in MGNREGA has disclosed
and results in participation of all with shared various cases of fake muster rolls and false works.
benefits. (b) Brings accountability and transparency in
implementation of schemes. This makes
bureaucrats vigilant in discharge of their duty.
National Skill Development Corporation India TPDS is cleansed to a great extent and pilferage
(NSDC) is set up as a part of national skill checked through social audit.
development mission to fulfill the increasing need (c) Develops public participation and sense of
of manpower across sectors.It is a unique Public ownership. Social audit of infrastructure project
Private Partnership which is aimed to promote and service delivery in Delhi by NGO Parivartan
skill development to international standards by ensured its prompt delivery and efficient after
creating large, quality, for-profit vocational utilisation.
institutions mainly in unorganized sector. It (d) Quality and quantity can be checked. This
provides funding to build scalable, for-profit check especially in MDM will prevent Bihar like
vocational training initiatives. It also enables tragedy from repeating in future.
support systems such as quality assurance, (e) Brings economy in utilisation of public money.
information systems and train the trainer (f) Brings public officials in close contact with
academies either directly or through partnerships. public. This enhances their understanding of social
The importance of NSDC comes into picture when needs leading to a better planning and
we realize that about 500 million people have to be implementation.
targeted in upskilling in India by 2022 in order to Social audits enhace public participation thus
narrow down the existing gap between demand bringing to life the idea of participative
and supply of skills and to bring up skill level of democracy.
our country to that of international standards.With
its installation five years ago, over 2 million people A social audit is an intervention by the society
have been benefitted directly.With an aim of through civil bodies like NGOs and Civil Society
skilling 3.3 million people by offering 720 courses Organisations.
in nearly 750 jobs roles in 27 important sectors These audits have shown its positive impact on the
through NSDC training centers set up in various areas like
districts in India,we realize he importance of 1. Helping the Government to find the priority
NSDC.This also will be a major boost for our work areas.

2. Better designing and implementation of dung cakes or for other purposes. Due to such
Schemes reasons, there is considerable gap between the number
3. Reduction in corruption of toilets constructed and those in actual use. As per
Examples the NBA scheme, a shift from motivating an
1. Social Audit in Midday Meal: Under the behest individual for constructing a toilet to covering whole
of Union Ministry of HRD, the Social Audit had communities in Gram Panchayat for holistic sanitation
been conducted in 2013 across 40 schools in outcomes is envisaged. A conjoint approach with
Andhra Pradesh. It inspected the food quality, the National Rural Drinking Water Program has been
hygiene level of cooking area, cost per children, undertaken to ensure availability of water for
cook appointment and salary. Based on its sanitation in Gram Panchayat. Incentives for
observation it recommended cost per children to construction of toilets have been extended to all APL
be increased by 50 paise and marginal salary households belonging to SCs, STs, marginal farmers
increase in cook salary. makes this program even more inclusive and thus
2. Social Audit in NREGA: In Durgapur District of raises the hopes of getting rid of the problem of open
Rajasthan the social audit on NREGA has been defecation a strong possibility.
conducted in 2006. Its observation says less than
2% corruption in fudging the master roll, water
harvesting in drought prone areas should be the What were the important findings and
priority and emphasised timely payment of wages. recommendations of Sachar committee report?
The Social audit involves the society directly and (200 Words)
makes them an active stakeholder. These audits
can certainly help society mitigate the risk of The Rajinder Sachar Committee, appointed in 2005 by
accidents like what happened last year in a Bihar our Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and was
School. commissioned to prepare a report on the latest social,
economic and educational condition of the Muslim
community of India .The Census 2001 data was taken
What are the economic, cultural and sociological as basis to understand the demographic profile.
reasons behind lack of proper toilets in the majority Key findings of the report:-
households in India? Do you think ‗Nirmal Bharat Rate of Literacy among Muslims is very much below
Abhiyaan (NBA) Scheme‘ would eradicate the open than the national average.
defecation practice? Comment. (200 Words) #Muslim parents are not averse to mainstream
education.
Open defecation has been a deep-rooted age old #Participation of Muslims in the professional and
socially inherited behaviour in rural India. The reason managerial cadre is low.
behind the lack of toilets in the country is that people Larger proportion of the Muslim households in urban
just do not follow the habit of using toilets because areas are in the less than Rs.500 expenditure bracket.
these lack the required privacy and availability of Recommendations of Sachar committee report:-
water. People are not aware about the benefits of #Need for effective mechanism to ensure equity and
sanitation. This is why sanitation is neither a felt need equality of opportunity and eliminate discrimination.
nor is open defecation a socio-cultural taboo. Investing #Creation of a National Data Bank (NDB) where all
on a toilet is not a priority as of now for many of them. relevant data for various Socio Religious Communities
Well over 600 million Indians continue to lack access are maintained.
to even the most basic of sanitation facilities forcing #Equal Opportunity Commission should be
them to defecate in the open. There is a considerable constituted.
gap between access and use of toilet in rural areas. #Promoting and enhancing access to Muslims in
This could be due to various reasons like lack of Priority Sector Bank Advances.
proper privacy-providing super structure, lack of Provide financial and other support to initiatives built
proper design, lack of maintenance or lack of required around occupations where Muslims are concentrated.
awareness to use toilets. Many of such toilets have Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Right to Education
been found actually dysfunctional. Many toilets have have improved their access to education and
been reported to be used as store houses for dry cow enrollment of Muslim children at primary level

have increased sharply and ―Aadhaar is the biggest anti-corruption

a new scheme – the Maulana Azad Taleem-e- platform.‖ Do you agree with this view?
Baligan – has been drawn by Govt for adults in Substantiate. (200 Words)
the 15-plus age group to increase enrollment and
reduce dropouts in Higher Education.
The Aadhar Scheme was introduced by the
planning commission to provide for a unique ID to
all resident of India and to maintain a detailed
Write a critical note on the importance and biometric database of each person.
methods of evaluating government schemes that This initiative aims to link aadhar number to their
are funded by the taxpayers‘ money. bank accounts so that all the benefits of different
government schemes like MGREGA, Old Age
India is having a number of schemes running and Pensions,Widow Pensions, Scholarships ,subsidies
many on the same problem area. The government accrue directly to the account holder .This
is looking towards better control and output, eliminates the chances of any duplicacy or ghost
hence the importance and methods of evaluation beneficiaries which are falsely created by
becomes very important unscrupulous middlemen transparency and
accountability to the process to the grass root
Importance levels.
1. Lead to better resource allocation This initiative has also plugged the loopholes in
2. Efficient way of merging, removing and adding banking system by streamlining the Know Your
schemes Customer system. Even some corporate houses are
3. We would be able to achieve the health, switching over to the Adhar payment bridge
employment etc. goals faster. We will not miss the (APB) for disbursal of salaries to their employees.
‗Sustainable Development Goals‘, the way we But, the huge population of our country , has
have missed many of the ‗Millennium made it very difficult for the timely and
Development Goals‘ comprehensive implementation of this scheme . It
4. It will lead to better and faster development, can has a plan to deliver aadhar number to about 60
help in achieving higher GDP and meet FRBM crore recipients by 2014 at the same time adhering
commitment. to stringent biometrics. Adding to it it the lack of
financial inclusion of the rural areas where most
Methods people donot have bank accounts. This might
1. Independent, apolitical agency should do the defeat the very purpose of the Addhar Card
evaluation (under evaluation office as per scheme if it doesnot cover the fringe communities.
Economic Survey) But slow and steady in its approach the Adhaar is
2. Report card should be developed by agency for definitely an anti-corruption platform.
an objective evaluation Cons-
3. Feedback loop should be created Adhaar can not check corruption at higher levels.
For instance practices like rent seeking by
Apart from the above methods the Government politicians (2g scam), judicial corruption, and
should also adopt the following measures corruption stems from corporate funding of
1. move from Cash based accounting from accrual elections which is beleived to be the biggest source
based accounting. It will portray a better picture of of corruption etc. There is a wider issue of culture
expenditure of corruption in India which can be eliminated
2. Shift from ‗input‘ as success to ‗outcome‘ as through holistic approach consisting legislation,
success. For example currently the success of awareness, effective implementation etc.
health scheme is measured by number of beds
added, hospital built. These should be considered How can India eliminate the practice of open
as input and health survey and results should be defecation in India? Suggest measures and give
considered as output. examples of any existing successful models. (200
words)

Ans. According to a UNICEF survey, over 50% of 2. The important features are that the gram
the total population of the country practice in Sabha will call for claims over forest land
open defecation. It is really a significant threat to which will be examined by the gram forest
the human capital of the country as it increase the right committee at the Panchayat level
instances of diarrhoea among the children. and than by the sub divisional level
Various government plans such as Total committee and finally by the district level
Sanitation Campaign have been launched to committee which will include atleast 2
tackle this problem, but still the instances of open members of scheduled tribe out of 3
defecation are very high in the country. Some members.
steps to improve the this situation could be:
3. Gram Sabha will be the competent
1. Educate the people. Only when people know
authority to give permission for diversion
the harmful effects of defecation in the open, they
of lands for development purpose. The
will be able to appreciate the use of toilets and
forest dwellers have right of the extraction
construct toilets in their home.
of Minor Forest Products. And most
2. This education could be imparted through
importantly the rights conferred are
Village Schools, ASHA workers and through
heritable.
PRIs.
3. One of the primary reasons behind not using 4. The main criticism of this act has been that
the toilet is the unavailability of water in homes. it has been the cause of delay in land
For this, water supply infrastructure should also diversion for developmental projects like
be strengthened in the villages. This can be done steel mills, roads and railway lines. But
by installing hand-pumps in identified areas of the fact lies that forest land graders have
villages where rates of open defecation are become afraid of the sudden rise of the
higher. gram Sabha as a protector of forest.
4. Construction of toilets should be linked to 5. Another criticism is that the process of
MGNREGA. claim of right is very much bureaucratic
One of the successful models of reducing open and tribal people may feel alienated in the
defecation is that of Indonesia. It is a community process.
based model where facilitators from different
communities are educated and provided training
and resources and they help in spreading the
awareness about toilets. They also help in the Q7. Analyze what systemic factors are
construction of toilets and in this way they also responsible for the poor quality of higher
get a living while fulfilling a social purpose. education in India. (200 Words).
Ans. India has the third largest educational

system in the world only behind the China and
What are the important features of Forest Rights the United States, but when it comes to
Act 2006? Bring out the criticisms against the transforming this human capital coming out of
bill. (200 Words) colleges into social capital as well as economic
capital, India lags far behind. Following are some
1. The Forest Rights Act (FRA) or Scheduled of the factors responsible for the poor quality of
Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Higher Education in India.
Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights)
Act, 2006 gives the right to cultivate forest Infrastructure Bottlenecks
land which was under occupation, the a) Absence of adequate classrooms and
right to own, collect, use and dispose of laboratories.
minor forest produce, rights inside forests b) Colleges also lack auditoriums, stadiums,
which are traditional and customary like libraries which contribute to overall intellectual
grazing. growth of young students.

c) India achieved near universal primary 2. The subsidy includes the Cooking LPG,
enrollments, but dropout rate remains high and, Scholarship, old age Pension etc. The
secondry and tertiary studies are not able to programme was enumerated from the
absorb all the students passing preceding stage. brazilian govt and these programme
avoids the leakage of the Govt subsidy
d) In India uneployement rate rises with the level
and bring about the transparency and
of qualification. For eg. More percentage of post
efficient way to transfer the subsidy
graduates are unemployed than illeterate people.
directly into the Beneficiary account.
It means markets don‘t have capacity to provide
jobs according to skill and knowledge. 3. And this also provide the Financial
inclusion to the system and give away the
access to door steps banking to the rural
Academic Issues:
people.
a) One of the major problem is the lack of
qualified teachers. 4. These programme has its own
b) Unlike the west where there is continuous disadvantages such as stakeholders of the
movement of talent from Industry to Academia programme have not been identified and
and Academia to Industry, teaching in India is a there is no compensation for the stake
full time profession. So, not many talented people holder. Risk of wrong identification
could come to teaching at later stage. results in wrong Beneficiary in such case
c) Syllabus is out of sync with the needs of the bank have refused to take the
industry. responsibility of recovering the lost
d) High End Research is often absent in Indian amount. More of the security is not
Universities due to lack of research facilities as included like bio metrics and storage of
well as talented students. Most of the students the data. It also need to be improved. If
passing out of prestigious institutes pursues their these task are met the DBt would be a
higher studies and research abroad thus leaving a successful project in tackling the
vacuum of cutting-edge research in India. corruption and improving efficiency
Highly politicized environment in Higher
Recent – Pardhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna aims at
Education which undermines the significance of
providing bank A/c to every Indian and inbuilt
studies.
facility of overdraft of Rs 5000 and Insurance of Rs
Absence of entrepreneurial spirit among the
1 Lakh. This is to facilitate Direct Banifit Transfers.
youths. Many join college just to get degrees and
search for jobs. If they enter the college with
mindset of gaining something valuable and
Question - ―The critical issue in India, where
applying that to create jobs in society, then the
the pentavalent vaccine is being rolled out, is
face of Higher Education will be completely raising the coverage levels of immunization.‖
different in India. Elucidate. (200 Words)
Answer - Immunization forms the major focus of

What are the main objectives of Direct Benefit childhood survival throughout the world. India
Transfer program launched by the government launched the Universal Immunization
of India? What are the drawbacks of the Programme in 1985 to protect all infants from six
program? Comment. serious but preventable diseases. The pulse polio
initiative was started in 1995.
1. DBT is one of the initiative which is take
Ideally about 90 percent of the country must be
by the central govt to provide the govt
immunised but we stand at a shameful average of
subsidy directly into the bank account of
60 percent, with the northern areas contributing
the beneficiary. It is one of the largest such
only a meagre 30 percent. This calls in for a
programme which is take by India.
retrospection of the infrastructure in place as
better coverage levels can only be achieved by a

routine immunisation, improved survellaince and amount of lives every year.Illeteracy among the
a better understanding of the supply chain. population keeps them away from being aware of
adverse health impacts like breathing problems
Since the roll out of the pentavalent vaccines have
etc which is further aggravated by poverty
been approved, the main concern of the
leading to neglect of health.Haphazard structure
authorities now should be to give a push to
of houses with no chimneys intensifies the
increase the system output(coverage levels) in
adverse impact on IAP.
even the most backward areas of the country.
Otherwise the whole exercise will be futile. Awareness needs to be created by the respective
governments among masses of the ill-effects of
The pentavalent vaccines are indeed easier to
cook stoves,chulhas and also providing them
manage and hence can increase the coverage. The
with alternatives like smoke free chullas,battery
storage, transportation and other operational
or solar power opearted chulhas,high subsidized
difficulties are solved since there is no need to
LPG to the targeted population will help in
manage 5 different vaccines separately. The target
improving upon the present situation.
population will also gain since they have to visit
the facility only once to get immunised for the
diseases covered.
Question - What are autoimmune diseases and
The eradication of polio have provided an
how they are caused? Examine the magnitude of
opportunity to introduce the same level of
its presence in India‘s population. (200 Words)
urgency in other vaccines as well. Revitalizing
and strengthening the immunization
Answer - Autoimmune diseases arise from an
programmes will help us combat the death of
abnormal response of body‘s immune system
thousands of children due to preventable
against substances & tissues normally present in
diseases.
the body.
Our immune system generates antibodies, a class
of proteins to neutralize foreign bacteria &
Question - ―The Global Burden of Disease viruses. When these antibodies attach themselves
Study 2010 has established that indoor air to membrane protein of a human cell & try to
pollution from cook stoves is a primary cause of destroy it, they cause autoimmune diseases.
disease and death in South Asia. ‖ Elaborate. Because of their abnormal behavior they are
(200 Words) (topics are health and pollution) called auto-antibodies.
For example in Myasthenia Gravis, these auto-
Answer - Toxic emissions from cook stoves apart antibodies bind themselves to Acetylcholine
from causing Indoor Air Pollution(IAP) also have receptors, which lead to reduced signaling
an adverse impact on the health of women between nerves & muscles. This reduced
leading to primary cause of disease and death in response causes weakness of select muscles.
South Asia as stated by Global Burden of Disease Reasons of this abnormal behavior of antibodies
Study,2010. are not well known. In some patients tumors, a
Majority of the population in South Asia are poor preceding infection or a preceding allergic
living in rural areas followed by low literacy reaction is thought to have caused the disease.
which amounts to increased use of cook In some brain related autoimmune diseases,
stoves,chulhas for cooking,lighting and quick response & severity may be treated. But
heating.Cheap and Easy availability of raw sometimes disease burns itself out, leading to a
material like firewood,animal dung,leaves is stage where treatment is not possible.
another reason for its wide penetration among In India, probably 10 patients per million per year
masses. get diagnosed with autoimmune diseases.
Though the quantity of patients is not at
According to WHO, 36 per cent of all Acute dangerous level, yet India is high risk country
Lower Respiratory Infections (ALRI) is attributed because of low quality of healthcare & lack of
to Indoor Air Pollution(IAP) which claim a huge sufficient research on these slowly growing

diseases. corners at 24×7 Primary Health Centres (PHCs)

Therefore the need of hour is to boost healthcare to provide new born and child care services,
& spread awareness about autoimmune diseases. Vitamin A supplementation and Iron and Folic
Recent lecture in Chennai dedicated to Acid supplementation, early identification and
autoimmune diseases was timely in this regard. appropriate management of Diarrhoea disease
and Acute Respiratory Infections, Improving
Infant and young child feeding practices
Question - What is Option B Plus under AIDS including breastfeeding promotion.
treatment? Explain its advantages. (200 Words) The different programs undertaken in this
regard include the Janani Shishu Suraksha
Answer - Although India has millions of AIDS Karyakram (JSSK) a programme for training
patients, according to the data released by health care providers on essential newborn care
NACO, India has seen a reduction of more than and resuscitation, Rashtriya Bal Swasthya
50% in the estimated annual new HIV infections Karyakram (RBSK), an introduction of child
among the adult population in the last decade of health screening for 4Ds i.e. defects at birth,
2002-2011. deficiencies, diseases, development delays and
Option B Plus is a WHO-approved drug regimen their management among the children 0-18 years
to drastically reduce HIV transmission from of age and so on.
mother to child. The HIV-positive woman is put Different states in India have different IMR rates.
on lifelong triple drugs administered as one pill The states having poor IMR are categorized as
per day also called anti-retroviral therapy. The High Focus States. Since 2009 and upto 2012 as
newborn is put under medication and given per the data released by the RGI the IMR in all
Nevirapine for six weeks. these states have declined. Even in non-high
With this treatment the mother can have a natural focus states it has declined, except for Kerala
delivery instead of a C section which puts a risk which has shown no change. In he N-E states
on both mother and child‘s life. The mother can which are classified separately, except for
breastfeed the child without fear of infecting it. Arunachal Pradesh which has shown an
She can even continue to have pregnancies later increase, all the states have shown a decline in
without the fear of transmission to the child. IMR. Even the UTs have shown significant
Under Option B+ the rate of infection has declines.
dropped to 2-5% among breastfed babies, which This shows the enormour success of the
without medication is as high as 30-40%. program. However, India still has to a long way
Also a study by the Ministry of Health in Malawi, to achieve the IMR target set by the UN MDG of
Africa has found the treatment to be cost- 27/1000.
effective.
Under the NACO-IV, Option B+ has been
adopted in the southern states and Maharashtra.
Critically discuss India‘s Universal

Question - India accounts for an astounding 29 Immunization Programme (UIP) and its success.
per cent of the global deaths of newborns on
their very first day of birth. What measures has The Universal Immunization programme (UIP)
government taken to address this problem? Has was initiated by the govt. of India in 1985 in order
it been successful? Examine. (200 Words) to minimize and later eradicate six Vaccine
Preventable Diseases (VPD). One more disease
Answer - There is a long list of initiatives taken was later in included into it.
up by the government to reduced IMR under the
NRHM. These include establishment of Sick The programme managed by Ministry of Women
New Born Care Units at District Hospitals, and Family welfare target mainly the children
newborn stabilization Units at Community including newly born and mothers to make them
Health Centres (CHCs) and New Born Care safe towards the diseases. The district wise

implementation considering it was declared a injection practice and proper waste

National Technology mission greatly got the disposal.
boost and millions were benefitted from the
programme especially in rural areas where The recent launch of four new vaccines as a part
private health care services are either absent or of UIP – Rotavirus, Rubella( covering children
negligible. from 9 months to 15 years), Polio(injectable) and
Japanese Encephalitis – for adults, are the latest
However, there are still many lacunas which were addition in this programme, which aim to follow
pointed out by the subject matter experts which a pan-India roadmap to achieve the vision.
still keep majority of the intended beneficiaries
excluded from it. Due to widespread corruption A strict monitoring and surveillance over every
complimented with already inadequate total area and providing the necessary skills to the
expenditure on health, makes it highly inefficient. nurses and medical officers are bound to have a
great impact overall.
The govt. recognizing the importance of Along with this, Increasing awareness with the
healthcare to the children has further decided to help of advertisements and campaigns, even in
add four more diseases into this programme the remotest area, will work wonders and hence,
which has given a new hope that more thrust and the goal of reducing morbidity and mortality will
energy will be now devoted by the bureaucracy be achieved.
into this hugely important component of National
Rural Health Mission Examine how India managed to eradicate polio
in the country. (200 Words)
Few objectives of the India‘s Universal
Immunisation Programme (UIP) are :
India owing to its huge diversity and large
1) Increase immunization coverage. population was considered to be the centre of viral
2) Achieve self-sufficiency in vaccine production. infectious disease Polio. The country has
3) Reduce morbidity and mortality successfully conquered the same with the
concerted international and domestic efforts and
The progamme impacted the country in many firm political determination.
ways. The polio eradication programme in India was
started in 1980s with the introduction of oral polio
Positive: vaccine. Country was signatory to WHO treaty of
1) Eradication of small pox (During its initial Rotary International‘s global effort to eliminate
launch) Polio.
2) Fall in the IMR from 125 to 50 deaths per However results were not visible and the number
thousand. of polio cases remained almost stagnant.
3) Decline in the cases of vaccine preventable Government focused on routine immunization
diseases (VPDs) has been observed. and later annual national immunization days were
4) Polio eradication announced.However there was only marginal
success. This led government to initiate National
Certain barriers restricted the speed of the Polio Surveillance Project and an expert advisory
operation being performed at a large scale. group was constituted.
Polio cases were thoroughly studied across the
Barriers: nation and specific strategy was adopted. States
1) Lack of quality surveillance throughout. like UP and Bihar was given more concentration as
2) Inefficient cold chain systems for storing and these states were having more poverty and also
transporting vaccine. higher migration of labours.
3) Coverage reported by districts are always There was significant success in the last decade
higher than actual. and polio cases dropped drastically. In 2011 only
4) Immunization staff often unaware of safe one case was reported all over the country.

However India needs to continue this effort for malnutrition illnesses by combating and
several more years to secure eradication, high level preventing micronutrient deficiencies of Vitamin
immunity and any case of re-emergence of this A, Iron and Folic Acid,
viral mishap. • Village Health and Nutrition Days and Mother
and Child Protection Card,
• Nutrition Education, Growth
A partnership between the Indian government, • Monitoring of children upto 3 years by
the WHO, Unicef, Rotary International and the promoting the use of Mother and Child Protection
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation raised more Card.
than $2 billion and an army of two million
vaccinators was deployed to reach more than 170
million children in polio immunization
campaigns each year. ―Overcrowding in hospitals, malnutrition,
unhygienic tropical environs heighten problem
New technological innovations like genetic of fungal infection in India.‖ Highlight the
sequencing helped us quickly identify where an magnitude of the problem, its causes and
outbreak of the virus originated, enabling us to measures that need to be taken to improve the
rapidly stop it from spreading. A system to track situation. (200 Words)
newborn babies helped health workers reach
them with the vaccine and other lifesaving
interventions. Apart from lethal diseases like TB and AIDS,
India, in particular, suffers from a serious problem
What are the causes of high infant mortality rate of fungal infections which is furthered by
(IMR) in India? Examine the measures taken by overcrowding in hospitals, malnutrition, and
the government in reducing IMR. (200 Words) unhygienic tropical environment of the country.
To top it all the country suffers from poorly
trained clinicians, lack of basic infrastructure and
The main causes of high infant mortality rate training in most of the microbiology labs and the
(IMR) in India are low awareness of health and high cost of antifungal drugs making them
reproductive rights, maternal anaemia and the unaffordable.
burden of malnutrition. The causes for infant To one‘s shock, among the three types of
deaths include perinatal conditions, respiratory infections, two, candidema and invasive
infections, diahorreal diseases etc. Factors muormycosis, involving brain and lungs have
contributing to above causes are home delivery by reached alarming proportions in the country as a
unskilled persons, lack of essential new born care result of unhygienic handling, untimely diagnosis
for asphyxia and hypothermia, poor child care and inappropriate treatment with the former being
practices, lack of early detection of sick newborn, reported at numbers even more than those
inadequate/delayed referral mechanisms, reported in the whole of Australia(300-500 cases
inadequate infrastructure at health care facilities per year at a tertiary institute with 1500 beds) and
for specialized care of sick newborn etc. India has the latter being reported at numbers more than
launched the National Rural Health Mission half the total cases reported annually from all the
(NRHM) under which the steps taken for reducing European countries put together.(50 cases per
IMR include: year).
• Promotion of appropriate infant and young child These infections lead to blindness, allergic asthma
feeding practices, and can also prove to be fatal.
• Management of malnutrition and common With a view to addressing these issues,
neonatal and childhood illnesses at community international experts have come together and
facility level by training service providers in launched two initiatives — Leading International
Integrated Management of Neonatal and Fungal Education (LIFE) and Global Action Fund
Childhood Illnesses training, for Fungal Infections (GAFFI) — to improve
• Treatment of children with severe acute fungal infections outcomes in patients through

awareness and education and access to legislation in the form of Disabilty rights act is in
appropriate antifungal therapies. In India, LIFE the anvil.
will offer educational material, conduct training Some of the defects of the present legislation are:
workshops for healthcare personnel, strengthen 1. Very constrained definition of disabilty listing
the network of laboratories and establish new ones specific conditions like blindness, motor
and provide better diagnostic tools. impairment, hearing imparement etc..The UN
convention has adopted a evolving and broad
Fungal infections are at par with other diseases definition which identifies multitude of physical
such as cancer , AIDS ,TB when it comes to kill the and mental disabilities.
people. In India , due to overcrowding of people in 2. Percieves disabled persons as passive recipients
hospitals , malnutrition , lack of awareness in of Govt support and only tries to eliminate few
people , unhealthy tropical environment the social and physical barriers. The UN provision
problem of fungal infection is very acute and takes a right based approach and empowers them
severe. to be active stakeholders in their development.
3. Only provides for reservations in education and
It has been seen that , the staff in clinics are poorly public employment. Post liberation private
trained due to which they can hardly detect and enterprises are thriving. Govt needs to provide
manage the disease . Lack of infrastructure in incntives like tax breaks to private firms to hire
clinical labs to diagnose the disease or monitor disabled.
anti-fungal resistance is another problem . Due to 4. The old law woofully fails to identify the civil
cost constraint , modern equipment are not and political rights of the disabled.
utilized and even research on these issues are not The PWD act 1995 did succeed to identify the
sufficiently done. Candidemia is one of fungal hitherto invisible group and helped them organise
infection which flows right up to the blood stream but has woofully failed on other counts. The
and causes blindness , asthma etc and unhygienic enrolment rate of disabled continue to be low and
handling by healthcare staff only adds the their drop out rates in schools are lamentably high.
problem to it. Huge proportions of them remain unemployed
and there is very less awareness about their rights.
To tackle the above said problem the international Hopefully the new law might plug the ―disabilty‖
experts have come together and launched two of the old law.
initiatives — Leading International Fungal
Education (LIFE) and Global Action Fund for
Fungal Infections (GAFFI) — to improve fungal In your opinion, what are the advantages and
infections outcomes in patients through awareness disadvantages of direct cash transfer to
and education and access to appropriate beneficiaries of various schemes? Should PDS
antifungal therapies continue in its present form? Explain why. (200
Words)
Analyze why India needs a comprehensive new

disability rights legislation. (200 Words) Direct cash transfer is being looked at as the
panacea for all the ills of social security schemes,
however it has had mixed results which has
The existing legislation the PWD act of 1995 has pioneered the scheme called Bolsa Familia.
become outdated with numerous loopholes and It has several advantages such as :
needs a complete overhaul. India ratified the UN 1. Reduction in leakages
convention on rights of PWD in 2007 which 2. coercive bribery
incorporates a social model approach in contrast to 3.no bureaucratic delays,
the medical model approach of the PWD act of 4.cash utilization to meet immediate needs,
1995. To make the national legislation consistent 5. May expedite Financial Inclusion.
with the UN convention a comprehensive Disadvantages can be severe as well :
1. Ghost beneficiaries may still continue.

2. Delays in transfer of cash may hit the • Mental Health Care and Specialized Care for
beneficiaries severely. Vulnerable Elderly
3. Lack of banking and postal facilities, leading to • Helplines and Counselling for Older Persons
travel. • Programme for sensitization of School College
4. Wrong usage of the cash such as alcoholism students
5. Unconditional transfers may not give the • Regional Resource and Training Center
intended results. • Training of Caregivers to Older Persons
Hence we need to sort out these issues before we • Awareness Projects for Older Persons
start disbursing cash. • Multi Facility Care Centers for Older Widowed
PDS even though has not been most effective, Women
studies reveal poverty has been reduced by about • Volunteers Bureau for Older Persons
15% over a decade or so. Inefficiencies and • Formation of Vridha Sanghas -Senior Citizen
leakages have been corrected. Following the Associatations Self help Groups
models of Chattisgarh which has used SHGs and
technology in PDS has made it efficient. With
similar practices it can be made more effective and Write a critical note on the role of bureaucracy
efficient. in improving the education outcomes in Indian
Kotkasim where a pilot has been conducted on schools. (200 Words)
DCT for kerosene has largely been a failure due to
various reasons. There can further be issues of Bureaucracy affects all fields of life from womb to
inflation etc. Hence we should make PDS more tomb. Education is one of these diverse fields. The
effective rather than DCT for these basic role of bureaucracy can be segmented into three
necessities. different sections.
The first one is Implementation, The second is

Write a note on Integrated Program for Older innovation and last one is inclusion.
Persons (IPOP) scheme. (200 Words) In the school education the bureaucracy has the
epitome duty to implement the legal provision like
admission of EWS of students in private school as
It is a Central Sector scheme implemented by the stated under the RTE act.
Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The
main objective of the Scheme is to improve the quality The next is innovation, because there are always
of life of the Older Persons by providing basic local specific problems which can only be solved
amenities like shelter, food, medical care and by innovating the prescribed methodology. For
entertainment opportunities and by encouraging example if there is poor mid day meal preparation
productive and active ageing through providing by the cook then it can be sourced out to any SHG.
support for capacity building of Government/ Non-
Governmental Organizations/Panchayati Raj The last one inclusion is that bureaucracy must be
Institutions/ local bodies and the Community. flexible enough to include parents, NGO and PRI
Persons above 60 years of age are eligible for the into the decision making process.
scheme. Under the Scheme of Integrated Programme Having said the role of bureaucracy, the outcome
for Older Persons, the following projects are taken has not been mostly encouraging leaving some
care of- pockets. For example there are at times when
• Maintenance of old age homes (OAH) bureaucrats with ulterior motive shroud their
• Maintenance of Respite Care Homes, Continuous activities behind bloated paper work. Further
Care Homes, Multi Service Center, Mobile Medicare there has been activities o0f leakage of funds and
Unit goods provided by the government for the
• Day care Centers for Care of Older Persons with students.
Dementia The bureaucracy of India can make or break the
• physiotherapy Clinic progress of school education of India.
• Disability and Hearing Aids for Elderly

―India‘s curriculum outpaces what pupils can poor staffing, ill-trained teachers, social -cultural
realistically learn and achieve in the time barriers to education etc.
given‖. Comment on the statement in the light
of recent findings by various reports about the The quality of education in India can only improved
poor quality of education in India. by increased political will and governmental support.
Implementing RTE at one hand and reducing budget
allocated for education at another won‘t help the
The Recent ASER and UNESCO‘s GMR reports on cause. Regulators with the authority of taking punitive
education highlight the fact that initiatives like RTE actions on schools not complying with RTE should be
and SSA have not yielded satisfactory results in terms set up. As India is already about to reach it‘s
of quality and outcome. The learning crisis can be enrollment goal, focus now should shift on providing
attributed to lack of trained teachers, obsolete quality of education. Educated and skilled youth, not
curriculum, deficient pedagogy, and infrastructural just literate, can participate in nation building.
shortcomings.
Although improvements in infrastructure like school
buildings, stationery etc. have been dealt with, the What are deemed universities and why were
major lacunae of the curriculum still persist to cripple they conferred that status? Comment on the
the system. First of all, the curriculum does not adopt state of higher education in India in the light of
teaching through innovative examples or connecting controversy surrounding these deemed
to the local environment or nature but forces children universities. (200 Words)The Hindu
towards rote learning. It also does not deal with what
the child actually wants to learn, instead forces on
him. Deemed universities are the higher educational
Coupled with the pedagogy of Age to Class matrix , it institutions, which are granted greater autonomy in
does not address the individual capabilities of each administration, under section 3 of UGC Act 1949. The
child. It means that even if a child missed school in the objective is to develop these as centers of excellence
primary years of his life, he would be admitted to the and innovation as per international standards. And to
same class even if he was incapable of understanding create de novo insititutions devoted to unique and
it. Too much stress on English as a medium of emerging areas of knowledge…..
learning , instead of promoting learning in mother
tongue is another factor The higher education in India is mainly consists of
Collaborative efforts between government and univestity afficliation system. The planning
teaching staff to reform curriculum to make it more commission has recommended more number of
holistic, child-centric which focuses on the autonomous institutions as a way to achieve high
foundations. Linking the curriculum directly to standards. Whlie there are institutions like TISS which
opportunities of income generation could make it used the autonomy to achieved word class excellence,
more appealing to the weaker sections. there are univestities which misused it. The Tandon
committee, appointed by UGC, has recommended de-
recognition of deemed status for 44 universities of 3rd
Over ambitious curriculum is one of the major factor category, which are not upto the standards or
held responsible in these reports. violation the UGC guidelines by establishing
There is little doubt over overbearing complexities in branches. Like more independent member than
the curriculum in Indian schools among intellectual trustee, rationalization of fee, courses related to field
,who deem it far from pragmatic and practical. It of expertise not just increasing courses to make more
theory centered with little focus on activity based or money via more enrollment……...
problem based learning. The situation is compounded While autonomy is proved to help in achieveing grater
by the fact that each state follow their own curriculum standards, as seen in the many cases, the mechanism
with a few central curriculums as well. Lack of of granting the status need to be strenghened and
uniformity and coordination among curriculum made transparent.
developer can be another factor for the poor show. It is
aided by other factors such as poor infrastructure ,

―The UGC is not able to do justice to its Under National education programme (NEP),
mandate in light of ‗massification‘ of higher India‘s education structure is of 10+2+3 form. In
education‖. Critically comment. general, Bachelor degree is received in 3 years
except certain cases such as B.Tech and Bachelor
UGC is mandated to set minimum standards in higher degree from Indian Institute of Science (IISc).
education and monitor the universities accordingly. It The Delhi university step to introduce FYUP last
needs to monitor and make sure that universities year is controversial programme. Various
maintain these standards. It is expected to co-ordinate arguments and counter-arguments were floated
higher education and interface between universities in this context.
and governments. It is ALSO supposed to disburse First, FYUP is not in accordance of NEP policy of
grants. Currently, this is the only function being done 10+2+3. But it is also aruged that it is not the only
adequately. bachelor programme of four years. Even students
can pass with bachelor degree in three years
Education has gotten to the masses resulting in under FYUP.
mushrooming deemed universities and self-financing Second, FYUP was not debated extensively
colleges. New courses have come up, rigorously among stakeholders – students, professor and
pegging education to industry through technology. parents. It was introduced with strong opposition
Old classification of Arts, Humanities and Science is and is recently withdrawn in a haphazzard
fast losing its relevance. manner without any proper debate.
Delhi University has autonomy to setup courses
UGC has neither expertise nor resources to deal with and their time period under Delhi university act.
these challenges. The mandarins there are not familiar However, university grant commission (UGC) is
with the realities of the new pedagogy. This is the over-arching autonomous body to look after
reflected in the out-dated benchmarks still pursued by university education in India. It is again
UGC. debatable whether DU can go against the UGC
guidelines or not.
The sheer number of, these new institutions, The FYUP could have been tested in certain
overpower the minuscule staff available. The paucity subjects as a pilot project that too after
of funds and staff, interferes with co-ordination and discussions. After analysing the success or failure
monitoring functions, on account of this large number. of this pilot project, FYUP could be extended or
The Tandon and then Thakur committee report have closed accordingly.
been blamed of adopting flawed method of university
evaluation by using wrong scaling and not visiting the
university but deciding based on presentation given
by the universities A strong policy on early childhood care and
education was long overdue because of the poor
A systematic reform of relevant laws has not performance of ICDS in many states.‖ Critically
accompanied the ‗massification‘ of education. This examine the key provisions of draft National
creates difficulties in imposing standards, and Early Childhood Care and Education policy
interfacing between institutions and government. (ECCE) in the light of the given statement. (200
Words)
Therefore the quote is a truism. Urgent reforms in Answer
underlying legislative and structural framework, fund India, despite its enormous growth in last decade,
allocation, procedures & functions, and choice of houses large number of malnourished children.
functionaries, is warranted. The ICDS has been criticised on its
underperformance in twin goals of nutrition
supplement and early education. The Anganwadi
centres lack basic infrastructure, like toilets and
Critically comment on the recent controversy drinking water. The letting in of private players,
over introduction of four year degree course by resulted in lack of delivery on the front of equity
some Universities in India. and inclusivity, showcasing their profit motives

and cashing on costly crèches and playschools.

The ECCE, was long overdue, and is step forward
in creating a broad framework in this field, It is not enough to talk about pursuing
involving all the sectors. The policy emphasis on excellence; to establish and build world-class
mother tongue followed by English and national universities of excellence, the ecosystem of
languages, thus signalling a positive tone. But it higher education has to change dramatically. ‖
still lacks a rights based approach, aiming to In the light of the statement, critically discuss
empower the children by giving them legal rights which are all the changes that need to be
towards care. The policy again follows traditional brought in the higher education sector.
approach of promote, follow and supervise,
rather than , legally empowering them. In The recent announcement by the ministry of HRD
absence of such approach, the proposed policy, for the establishment of IITs , IIMs and AIMs in
also remains vulnerable to the fate, which existing every state , though an appreciable step is far
ICDS has seen. Such welfare schemes, with much from solving the problems in the Indian Higher
dependence on private partners and faulty Education System . It should be noted that even
delivery systems are bound to unproductive. the existing and highly regarded elite institutions
Hence the need is to follow the lines of RTE,i.e. have not been able to find any place in top 200
86th constitutional amendment, so that the 157 universities . The research work in India is
million children of the country get adequate virtually non existent . Further the basic aim of
resources, asserted by them as their legal rights. any policy should be provision of higher
education to masses rather than classes . All these
factors which are the impediments in the process
of developing a world class framework for higher
Explain the importance of providing three education.
percent reservations to disabled persons in The government should focus on encouraging
government job. (150 Words) research works in the existing institutes . As per
12th planning commission , a national research
• Indian state is mandated under constitution and fund should be established for the purpose .
international treaties to provide for the Further the existing infrastructure , teacher
development of all its citizens. The disabled have student ratio and regulatory mechanism should
been at a perennial disadvantage partly due to be improved . Private players should also be
disability but more importantly due to social- encouraged via PPP to play an active role .
economic impediments. To make the higher education viable for masses ,
• By providing them reservation in jobs, it will innovative use of the technology should be
most importantly raise their self-confidence by encouraged like Stanford‘s online classes . Further
making them independent. Economic security the stigma attached with the distance education
will help in impeding socio-economic barrier and should be removed and it should be treated at par
will lead to the development of an active with the campus education .
citizenry. All these changes are required if the existing
• They will be able to voice their concerns better infrastructure of the higher education is to be
and will be able to secure rights mentioned in changed and the goals of Rashtriya Ucchatr
DPSP. This will also help the state in better Abhiyan has to be met.
targeted interventions for their betterment. With
their regular movement in economic domain,
disabled-friendly infrastructure will become a
common standard.
• Economic security will also lead them to dwell ― .Critically examine the various problems that
into political arena as securing basic rights will a small and marginal farmer faces in India
not be an issue. The move has the potential to be despite good monsoon and implementation of
used as a multiplying force and should be myriad farm related schemes.
pursued in sincerity.

Small and marginal farmers are those who have a behind the practice of open defecation in India
holding of less than 2 ha of land. The average and the policies needed to end this practice.
land holding in India has been decreasing
continually and is about 1.16 ha as per recent India is acutely facing the problem of open
estimates by NSSO. More than 50% of Indian defecation and more than 70 percent of rural
farmers are small and marginal, hence households do not have toilet facility. This leads
governments have rolled out many programs to to major health hazards and environmental and
protect these. Despite such efforts, they face a ecological imbalance. However, it has been
number of problems due to : realized that, despite having access to toilets, a
Lack of credit availability : Due to lower holdings, major portion of the population do not use it. It
banks may not be willing to give loans to these requires to put efforts in understand the
farmers. This pushes them to informal sources, behavioural mindset of the people.
who charge high interest rates, making them The practice of open defecation is closely
indebted perennially. Lower banking penetration associated with people‘s mindset in which
is anothe majoe issue. building toilet is important only for protecting the
Lack of mechanization : Capital inadequacy is one dignity of female members (especially the newly
major reason due to which, they cannot afford wedded daughter-in-law) or for emergencies.
technology. This results in lower productivity per Else, the people still prefer defecating in open
acre. Productivity of Indian farms is about 2/3 of citing it a pleasurable, healthy and fresh air
Chinas. activity.
Seeds : Seeds are the major input for agriculture, The unawareness of the rural population about
farmers are often dumped with seeds of lower the strong relationship of health and toilet is yet
quality, sometimes resulting in zero production. another reason behind open defecation.
This increases their debts. State and Union level Open defecation also traces its roots in people‘s
institutions set up to provide seeds have also not habit or tradition where toilets are not used to the
been effective. extent desired.
Climate change : Climate change impacts the The government policy of creating toilet in every
monsoons. Untimely monsoons and heavy household is indeed a good idea. However, citing
downpours sometime, affect the crop. Most of the tradition, habit and culture of people, it is
them cannot afford insurance. This results in pertinent to be complemented with adequate
higher loans. efforts in educating the people about usages of
Lack of market integration : Poor connectivity toilets and its close relation with health.
and lack of warehousing and other facilities
results in losses of the harvest. APMC rules have
also resulted in inefficient markets.
Agriculture is the prime moving factor of the What is ‗sex education‘? What are its objectives?
economy and about 2/3 rd of Indian population Do you think it is necessary to enforce it in
depends on agriculture. Hence the government schools as part of curriculum? Critically
has to take steps to ensure, effective comment.
implementation of existing schemes such as PSL,
crop insurance, reform of APMC acts etc. To Sex education implies to educate , inform ,
ensure the growth of farmers and the senstivize adolescent in schools over sex related
development of rural areas. concerns. Although it has been considered a
sensitive issue given indias social structure, thus
has become a controversial whether it should be
included in schools or not.
‖In the Indian context, building more and more Its objectives include to aware children about
toilets alone would not end open defecation in gender, sex, growth and dignity of opposite sex in
rural areas.‖ In the light of the statements, order to build a healthy society.
critically comment on the fundamental reasons ‗Sex education‘ refers to instructions related to
sexual anatomy, healthy sexual practice, birth
control, sexual diseases etc. It also deals with Obesity takes a toll on normal health of
various gender, emotional, psychological, individual, it affects not only physical but also
physiological issues related to it. Thus it should social mobility of the obese person. Such persons
be viewed as a broad health and hygiene finds it difficult to find life-partner, social
education. acceptibilty and dignity . The feeling of loneliness
Initially, in India its objectives were limited to creeps in and tendency of isolation develops with
population control and later extended to AIDS poor confidence. This affects psychological well
prevention. Now it also seeks to prevent teenage being and progression in their career.
pregnancies, spreading awareness regarding safe
sexual practice, use of condom and But considering all obesity as disability is not
contraceptives. In wake of the increasing cases of suitable, because all obesity are not involuntary.
sexual violence against women, sensitizing Disability invited diseases like heart ailment,
people of gender equality and sexuality is gastrointestinal diseases, hypertension and
expected to bring attitudinal change among diabetes. They creates unwarranted pressure on
people in our patriarchal society. This could also limited health infrastructure. They eats savings of
become a platform to remove various prejudices victims as well as his kins.
related to third gender, homo sexuality, sperm To overcome this disability we need to adopt
donation etc. preventive and curative approach. The junk food
Lack of proper and regular often leads teenagers habits, excessive spending of time on digital
to look for other misinforming sources of medium must be replaced by culture of healthy
information. Since more than half of the HIV food, playgrounds and workouts. Physical
patients in India belong to young group(15-24), a education still not taken seriously in school
formal early awareness is necessary. Gender curriculum. Children must be made realized
sensitization starting from high school days will there are Adventure sports beyond computer
reflect their behavior later in society. In rural games.
areas, this could really help girls dealing with Societal attitude restructuring is needed
early marriage and reproduction, mother and preventing obese person from becoming laughing
child care etc. stocks.
The criticism by some section that, this will make
teenagers promiscuous, leading to increased
sexual activity is lacking any evidence. In fact,
WHO survey revealed reverse behavior such as
delaying onset of sexual activity, reduced Q--Critically comment on the Social Progress
unplanned pregnancies etc. Imperative and explain how is it different from
Considering its manifold benefits in country‘s other indices that strive to measure
health, society and culture; it should be development.
implemented at the earliest.
GDP indicates the Economic growth of the nation
but doesn‘t portray the social progress. Many
countries have tried to measure it at there level,
.In your opinion, should obesity be treated as for example, Bhutan measures GNH (Gross
disability? Critically comment. National Happiness). A social Progress has
recently been developed by a group of academics
and institution. It tries to measure the Social
India today being paradoxical situation. 40% of its progress under three measure headers and have
younger population is malnourished and at the subsequently sub parameters
same time significant numbers are facing problem a. Basic Human Needs:
of obesity. Obesity is the consequence of either Nutrition and Basic Medical care, water and
excessive intake of food or inability of body sanitation, shelter and Personal Safety
enzymes to digest the food consumed. b. Foundations of well being:

Access to basic knowledge, Access to information Q--Examine the leading causes of high infant
and communications, Health and wellness and and maternal mortality rates in India. What
Ecosystem sustainability steps need to be taken and what is the cost of
c. Opportunity neglecting interventions to reduce these rates?
Personal rights, Personal Freedom and Choice, Analyse.
Tolerance and Inclusion and Access to Advance
Education
Based on these parameters New Zealand scores Causes of high Maternal Mortality Rates are:
maximum followed by Switzerland and Iceland. i. Maternal malnutrition due to lack of awareness
US falls at 25th even though having much higher and poverty.
per capita income then the first three countries. ii. Maternal anemia due to lack of iron
India lies way below majorly due to lack in the supplementation.
basic human needs. iii. Post partum hemorrhage, compounded by (ii)
When comparing it to other social indicators, we iv. Lack of trained birth attendants as in trained
find certain differences in the parameter and dais and institutional delivery, leading unsafe
objectives. For example GNH, it has got certain birth practices
difference. GNH has got the following headers v. Puerperal infections due to malnutrition,
a. Economic wellness: measures the debt level poverty, lack of hygiene and environmental
and the CPI, income distribution etc. pollution.
b. Environmental wellness:measures level of Causes of high Infant Mortality Rates are:
pollution, noise and traffic Maternal factors:
c. Physical wellness: measures physical health i. Anemia and malnutrition leads to IUGR and
conditions LBW babies.
d. Mental wellness: measure rise of the ii. Paucity in breast feeding
psychotherapy patients and the use of certain Infant factors:
medicines like anti depressant i. Lack of immunization leads to death by vaccine
e. Social wellness: Measures domestic violence, preventable diseases.
lawsuits, divorce, discrimination, crime rates etc. ii. Indoor pollution, lack of hygiene and non-
f. workplace wellness: Measures job claims, job immunized status leading to ARIs. Deficient ARI
change, work place environment and lawsuits at program coverage
workplace iii. ADD due to water pollution, lack of hygiene
g. Political wellness: Measures democracy, and lack of vaccination. Deficient ADD program
personal freedom and external conflicts. coverage
Clearly GNH measures more towards individual Steps that need to be taken:
more basic, varied and more aspects of wellness i. General poverty alleviation measures
than Social Progress Indicator. ii. IEC activities on nutrition in pregnancy,
However, there can be debate over inclusion of institutional delivery, hygiene and first aid for
some new parameter and exclusion of some from ADD
the Social Progress indicator or GNH, but overall iii. Immunization programme:
both gives a good picture to measure the social Strengthening with addition of IPV, rotavirus,
progress. The UN post 2015 can use these tools to HepB vaccines – already done.
pursue ―Sustainable Development Goals‖. Ensuring universal coverage.
individual countries should also adopt one of iv. Replacement of ‗Chulah‘ stoves with
these tools or develop for their own nation based smokeless type
on these parameters and pursue Social V. Universal coverage of ADD/ARI programs
Development along with Economic growth. and IMNCI.
Cost of neglecting interventions:
i. Avoidable loss of human life.
ii. Economic burden on state
iii. Detrimental to productivity in future

IMR is one of the best predictors of ‗state failure‘. among the tobacco workers and stringent laws
It is high time the nation took note of the would provide adequate safeguards to the
situation. workers.
Q--What is Green Tobacco Sickness? Examine Q-Critically evaluate how and with what results
its causes, symptoms and prevalence in India. the fight against AIDS was carried out by UN
and the global community with special
Green Tobacco Sickness is a mild and acute form reference to India.
of Nicotine Toxicity in the patient. It affects
tobacco workers who have direct skin contact
with tobacco plants during cultivation and The United Nation has supported a wide range
harvesting.The symptoms include Headache, of activities and initiatives around the world in its
Nausea, Vomiting, Giddiness, Loss of Appetite, battle against HIV and AIDS. The creation of a
Fatigue, weakness and fluctuations in blood coherent and effective long-term campaign
pressure. It may lead to fever and deteriorate the against the epidemic has been given new impetus
health of a gynae women . by the UN Secretary General‘s call to action
India ranks third among the tobacco producing against HIV/AIDS and the proposed global funds
countries. It accounts for 7.9% of total world on AIDS and health.
production. Around 7 lakh growers and 5 lakh 1. UN system recognizes the value of encouraging
curers are engaged in tobacco cultivation in India. volunteers in its outreach work against
Major states are Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, HIV/AIDS. The UN volunteers, together with
Karnataka, West Bengal, Odisha etc. UNAIDS and UNDP, has launched a unique pilot
Prevalence of GTS is fairly high in the tobacco project to enlist people living with HIV/AIDS to
harvesters in India. Use of Gloves is work as national UN volunteers in their own
recommended for preventing this disease, which communities.
should be promoted by the government. 2. The project helps set up support groups for
AIDS orphans and their foster parents.
Green tobacco sickness causes refers to the 3. Provides technical assistance to help
dermal absorption of the nicotine through the communities produce their own publications on
contact with wet tobacco plants. It is prevalent in HIV/AIDS.
the tobacco harvester who come in contact with 4. Supported by UNESCO, NAZ foundation
the wet tobacco leaves. (India) Trust is training young peer educators to
The workers are advised to let the leaves dry raise awareness on HIV/AIDS.
before harvesting them. It may also be the result 5. Young people who inject drugs and workers in
of the wet clothing coming in contact with the dry the sex industry are being targeted in
tobacco leaves. programmes run by UNICEF.
Dizziness,headaches, vomiting and nausea are 6. Policies focused on prevention and a huge
the common symptoms of the GTS. It may also social mobilization have allowed India to reduce
result into fluctuations in the blood pressure and new infections of HIV
heart beat. The difficulty in breathing , increased India has made a significant progress in fight
sweating and salvation are considered symptoms against HIV/AIDS in recent years. The number of
of GTS. The symptoms are visible in 1-2 days and annual new infections has decreased. Moreover,
may require urgent medical treatment. UN is hoping to beat this killer disease by 2030.
Gujarat is the second largest producer of tobacco
in the country accounting for 10.4 percent of the
global output. 47 percent of the state tobacco Q---Critically examine the reforms needed to
workers are effected with GTS, with 55% make healthcare affordable and universal in
prevalence in female and 42% in males. India.
Nicotine poisoning adversely effects the
development of the brain. Increased awareness

To make it affordable and universal reforms are needed. The government should
1. Improve existing infrastructure and make utilize the existing public health infrastructure
investment in new infrastructure. effectively . This can be done via community
2. Give good salary to doctors ,so that they get involvement making the system accountable(eg
attracted and work for government. :Tamilnadu).
4. Open more medical college ….so as to produce It may not be possible for the government to
more doctors and nurses . fulfill all the health requirement via public
5. Rural areas should be the focus. sector . Thus the private sector should be
6. Encourage Ayurveda medicine , utilized(better insurance schemes) and made
homeopathy,and some other traditional medicine accountable.
, according to needs of certain area,like few The government has taken some initiatives like
people prefer them over western medicine,and National rural health mission , Janani Suraksha
they are effective also ,but need to encourage Yojana , bharat nirmal abhiyaan ,ASHA,ICDS
their work shares etc. The requirement is religious
7. Effective governance so that those who found implementation of these schemes. The task may
absent from there duties,strictly punished….this be tough but the successful polio eradication
itself can lead to improvement in affordable proves that it is not impossible.
aspect.
8. Mobile health clinic concept to reach remote 2. There is a need to make people aware of
areas . simple hygiene practices such as cleaning
9. Insurance of all should also be one of the hands, cooking nutritious food, keeping
priority….so that poor can afford private health surroundings clean, prevent breading of
care too. mosquitos, proper waste disposal etc
11. Encourage foreign settled Indian doctors to 5. Proper regulators should be set up to
come back and work for their country,there are ensure that healthcare provided in country
many who wants to do a lot for society ,but fed is quality health care.
up with the red tapism do not want to come 6. The clinics and hospitals should be
back.. monitored so as to ensure governmental
12. Same way encourage FDI . rule and standards are followed.
Having strong bond with education &

India spends only 1.07% of its GDP on its economy, healthcare has emerged as
health sector . This is far less than the mainstay of India‘s inclusive development.
mandated threshold by the WHO(5%) , lowest To make it affordable, quality medical
among the BRICs and one of the worst in the colleges need to be established. Though it
world . In this meager expenditure also , the needs political will & large capital for
share of the government is only one third. The infrastructure, yet it is an investment for
apathy towards the sector is reflected in the bright future.
human development indicators of the nation . Primary healthcare centres (PHCs) at
India‘s 52% children are malnourished , 59% remote locations with appropriate medical
stunted and 49% women anemic (Hungama staff are badly needed. Further, existing
report) . She also account for 27% of world‘s TB PHCs are in dilapidated conditions. Thus a
patients and an increasing number of MDR dedicated task force for monitoring &
cases. Apart from this even the existing ensuring availability of drugs & medical
structure of public health care is not properly facilities is pre-requisite for universal
maintained forcing people ,even poor , to opt healthcare.
for the private health care(IHDS report – 70% Recent step by Delhi government of online
out of the pocket expenditure is on health). OPD registration may be extended to whole
All these factors indicate that there is a crisis India. Health kiosks in rural areas may be
situation in the sector and the imminent formed for awareness, information

dissemination & online OPD registration. during 1990-2011 is better than many high HDI
Grievance redressal mechanisms should be countries. In between 2000-2011 India(1.54%) has
made effective & feedbacks obtained must out performed China(1.43%).
be carefully analysed for improvement. HDI does not throw much light on poverty,
Some badly needed reforms like Insurance income inequality, gender inequality etc. India‘s
schemes for reducing out-of-pocket performance in gender inequality(127 rank) in not
expenses have been implemented. But they surprising since it‘s commonsense going by
are marred by irregularities in exclusion & appalling state of women. India accounting for
inclusion of beneficiaries. These schemes 40% of people with ―multi dimensional poverty ―
need to be made result-oriented, attractive might shift our obsession from poverty line.
& universal.
Irregularities, corruption & apathetic
attitude of doctors are to be eliminated for Q--Why do close to 70 per cent of India‘s sick,
affordable & universal healthcare. mostly belonging to the poor or lower middle
Accessibility of healthcare should be class, choose to go to the private sector when
improved through e-governance. In essence, there is ostensibly free healthcare in the public
healthcare must be based on 5 A- system? Critically comment.
Availability, Accessibility, Affordability,
Accountability & Absorptivity.
In the recent past, Bangladesh has improved
upon the following health indicators:
Q--How is the Human Development Index i. Lowering MMR: The rate of no. of maternal
calculated? Critically analyse India‘s ranking in deaths pet 1,00,000 live births have come down
the 2014 HDI report. by almost 66 % in span of last 20 years.
ii. Ahead of MDG target of 5.5 in reduction of
MMR.
Human Development Index is a measure of Reasons:
improvement in human capability to live a better i. Women empowernment due to access to
life. This is calculated and published every year education and finance which makes them aware
by United Nation Development Programme in its of their health care.
annual report called Human Development ii. Governmental policy to encourage education
Report. It has three components; health, among women and other people.
education and income. Health component takes iii. Family planning awareness among womens
into account average life expectancy at birth. which improves on the problems of malnutrition
Education head is measured by average years of and mental care of children which is not proper in
schooling by an adult aged 25 years and expected big families.
years of schooling of children just entering school. iv. Improved access and use of health facilities
Finally, gross national per capita income is the like safe delieveries of children and health
yardstick for the third component. The geometric nutrition.
mean of normalized indices of all three Making universal health coverage alongwith
dimension gives the value of HDI. affordable services their motive and cooperation
India ranks 135th among 187 nations with a score of the people in implementing these initiatives
of 0.586, placed among medium human makes Bangladesh ahead of India in health
development category. India is the worst indicators.
performer among all BRICS nations. India falls far
behind many developing countries such as China,
Thailand, Indonesia, Philipines and even Srilanka
and Vietnam! All this after two decades of high Q--- Examine the causes of obesity around the
growth rate, where as Egypt, marred by political world. Discuss its effect on health.
uncertainity has performed better. However, the
annual average annual HDI growth rate of India

People are considered obese when their body this will cause weight gain if it isn't
mass index (BMI),[3] a measurement obtained by balanced with physical activity.
dividing a person's weight by the square of the  Lack of access to healthy foods. Some
person's height, exceeds30 kg/m2. people don't live in neighborhoods
that have supermarkets that sell
Overweight and obesity happen over time when healthy foods, such as fresh fruits and
you take in more calories than you use. vegetables. Or, for some people, these
healthy foods are too costly.
Other Causes  Food advertising. Americans are
surrounded by ads from food
An Inactive Lifestyle companies. Often children are the
Many Americans aren't very physically active. targets of advertising for high-calorie,
One reason for this is that many people spend high-fat snacks and sugary drinks. The
hours in front of TVs and computers doing work, goal of these ads is to sway people to
schoolwork, and leisure activities. In fact, more buy these high-calorie foods, and often
than 2 hours a day of regular TV viewing time they do.
has been linked to overweight and obesity.
Other reasons for not being active include: relying Genes and Family History
on cars instead of walking, fewer physical Studies of identical twins who have been raised
demands at work or at home because of modern apart show that genes have a strong influence on
technology and conveniences, and lack of a person's weight. Overweight and obesity tend
physical education classes in schools. to run in families. Your chances of being
People who are inactive are more likely to gain overweight are greater if one or both of your
weight because they don't burn the calories that parents are overweight or obese.
they take in from food and drinks. An inactive Your genes also may affect the amount of fat you
lifestyle also raises your risk for coronary heart store in your body and where on your body you
disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, colon carry the extra fat. Because families also share
cancer, and other health problems. food and physical activity habits, a link exists
between genes and the environment.
Environment
Our environment doesn't support healthy Health Conditions
lifestyle habits; in fact, it encourages obesity.
Some reasons include: Some hormone problems may cause overweight
 Lack of neighborhood sidewalks and and obesity, such as underactive thyroid
safe places for recreation. Not having (hypothyroidism), Cushing's syndrome, and
area parks, trails, sidewalks, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
affordable gyms makes it hard for Underactive thyroid is a condition in which the
people to be physically active. thyroid gland doesn't make enough thyroid
 Work schedules. People often say that hormone. Lack of thyroid hormone will slow
they don't have time to be physically down your metabolism and cause weight gain.
active because of long work hours and You'll also feel tired and weak.
time spent commuting.
 Oversized food portions. Americans Medicines
are exposed to huge food portions in Certain medicines may cause you to gain weight.
restaurants, fast food places, gas These medicines include some corticosteroids,
stations, movie theaters, supermarkets, antidepressants, and seizure medicines.
and even at home. Some of these
meals and snacks can feed two or Emotional Factors
more people. Eating large portions Some people eat more than usual when they're
means too much energy IN. Over time, bored, angry, or stressed. Over time, overeating

will lead to weight gain and may cause 7.threat of kidney failure as elevated level of
overweight or obesity. ketons ,cretanin in blood
Solution lies with parental care,control on
Age calories intake,promoting sports among
As you get older, you tend to lose muscle, people of all age.
especially if you're less active. Muscle loss can  Type 2 diabetes
slow down the rate at which your body burns  High blood pressure
calories. If you don't reduce your calorie intake as  Metabolic syndrome — a combination of
you get older, you may gain weight. high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high
Midlife weight gain in women is mainly due to triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol
aging and lifestyle, but menopause also plays a  Heart disease
role. Many women gain about 5 pounds during  Stroke
menopause and have more fat around the waist  Cancer, including cancer of the uterus,
than they did before. cervix, endometrium, ovaries, breast, colon,
rectum, esophagus, liver, gallbladder,
Pregnancy pancreas, kidney and prostate
During pregnancy, women gain weight to  Breathing disorders, including sleep apnea,
support their babies‘ growth and development. a potentially serious sleep disorder in which
After giving birth, some women find it hard to breathing repeatedly stops and starts
lose the weight. This may lead to overweight or  Gallbladder disease
obesity, especially after a few pregnancies.  Gynecologic problems, such as infertility
and irregular periods
Lack of Sleep  Erectile dysfunction and sexual health
Research shows that lack of sleep increases the issues
risk of obesity.  Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition
in which fat builds up in the liver and can
cause inflammation or scarring
Obesity is a physiology condition when weight of  Osteoarthritis
body exceeds body (height-weight index) and  Skin conditions, including poor wound
symptoms of overweight tends to appear on healing
body.with the industrialisation and rapid Quality of life
modernisation of human civilisation ,more use of When you're obese, your overall quality of
technology in day to day activities life may be lower, too. You may not be able
increased,manual worked reduced gradually, to do things you'd normally enjoy as easily
with consumption of more nutritious food as you'd like, such as participating in
ultimately leading to obesity. enjoyable activities. You may avoid public
obesity is global threat with 30% population is places. Obese people may even encounter
fatty and no country is immune to it.highest rate discrimination.
of obesity is recorded among people of middle Other weight-related issues that may affect
east and northern Africa. your quality of life include:
there is a strong link between income and obesity  Depression
as people are getting richer,their waistline also  Disability
tend to start bulging.  Sexual problems
obesity is linked with various I‘ll effect on health.  Shame and guilt
1.type 2 diabetes  Social isolation
2. heart disease and hypertension related  Lower work achievement
disorders.
3.increase incidence of cancer
4.socially neglected particularly obese child Q--Write a note on the mechanism of AIDS
5.arthralgia pain in joints with age virus infection in humans. Explain the latest
6.lack of confidence personality disorder breakthroughs in AIDS treatment.

education coupled with poor health service

delivery continue to be major national concerns.
How HIV Affects the Body Discuss the reforms needed in the health sector
HIV is unique in its ability to compromise the to improve the standards of medical education
immune system. and health delivery.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects
the cells of the immune system. In particular,
HIV attacks and destroys the T helper India is home to ―officially‖ 30 Crore people and
lymphocytes, or T-cells, which are crucial to the same number in the lower middle class layer.
immune system and immune response. These are the people who are more susceptible to
the diseases because their work culture, amount
HIV (human immuno deficiency virus) infection they spent on health etc. With time no doubt the
to human occurs through several modes, quantities of the medical colleges and hospitals
prominent among them are through blood have been increased but quality remained status
transfusions, unprotected sex, spread from quo. There are number of reasons as follow with
mother to child through pregnancy, feeding and needed reform.
other related activities. It is pertinent, to Government Spending: Both on the educational
understand the life cycle of HIV/AIDS virus side and on health, government still spends less
when it infects human. compared to other developing countries.
HIV being a retro virus infects the human Government need to streamline delivery chain
immuno system called the CD4+ T-cells(the mechanism and regular inspection and
defence mechanism). After infecting the target accreditation renewal of institution.
cells, the viral RNA genome (HIV) is converted to High Fees for admission: With limited
viral DNA. The resulting viral DNA is imported government seat, students need to opt for private
to cell nucleus and integrated with the cellular institution for medical seat for which they need to
DNA, after this process the viral DNA and the spend exorbitant fee ranging in crores for their
host cell become latent and avoids detection from full course. After finishing student see Medical as
immune system. Subsequently this viral genome a profession but as a business and quality
replicates and thereby spreading through out the automatically decreases. Government need to
body. The lack of detection from the immune open more institution keeping eye on quality.
system and the loss of CD4+T-cells are the Further fee structure of private institution shall be
primary reason behind the struggle involved to scrutinized thru government lenses.
produce better drugs to cure this. Same old Syllabus: With changing time,
a)- HIV hides in a state of hibernation in CD4 globalisation and interstate, international
cells. Yet CD4 cells are unable to fight HIV exchange of people new diseases are getting
themselves. This can be done by immune introduced but to study the same equal focus has
system‘s killer T-cells. not paid to syllabus.
b)- But because killer T-cells can‘t detect the HIV Inadequate Teaching Faculty: The national
hidden within CD4 cells they are unable to attack Knowledge network established need to work on
and eliminate them from the body. war basis for having adequate teaching staff.
In latest breakthrough, an anticancer medicine is Without teaching facility all exercise will be futile.
used to activate HIV hidden in the cell of patients Vacancy: Vacancies in PHC as well as CHC need
taking anti HIV drugs. Once activated these to be filled urgently. Government need to make
particles will go to the surface & signal to PHC and CHC challenging and interesting
immune system that this cell is infected & needs profession with high pay, home posting etc.
to be cleared from the body. Regulatory Body: For checking admission
process, syllabus, fees structure etc a independent
body need to be created.
No doubt in country like India, every task is a
Q---According to reports and various mammoth one because of our numbers and size.
opinions, the declining standards of medical But it is not impossible to bring change. With

Polio eradication we have shown it. Now next Instead of sending students to foreign countries,
shall be reforming medical sector and increasing we will receive foreign students
quality of health facilities
Rashtriya Ucchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA)
scheme introduced by government of India for
Q-Critically comment on the design and the development of higher education in state/ UT
implementation of the Rashtriya Ucchatar , as the state/UT managed universities are not
Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) scheme. included in University Grants Commission
(UGC) of India. The education in India facing
many problems such as poor infrastructure and
Rastriya Uchhatara Shikshya Abhiyan (RUSA) is technology, inadequately trained teachers,lack of
a centrally sponsored scheme promoted by autonomy for institutions, absence of research
ministry of Human Resource Development, institute in universities, failure of develope
aimed at reforming higher education in India. Its international linkage etc. To deal with these
objectives are: problems RUSA is introduced so that a better
• Most of the colleges and education plateform will be develope.
universities are run y state
governments and hence always RUSA is lacking far behind in implementation
underfunded. RUSA will provide because it is still dealing with basic problems of
necessary funding for the reform education like enrollment , infrastructure etc. For
initiatives. this there is a need of proper management and
• Promoting autonomy of new policies and also need to free education
universities in academic, finance system from the control of bureaucrats. Its a time
and governance matter by doing to leave the blackboard age and enter into the
away with the bureaucratic world of connectivity because innovation will
control. comes with experience not by writing essays. The
• Improving the quality of education reason behind degradation of Indian universities
by making the institutes follow is not giving priority to research. Further the
certain standards and compulsory serious efforts should be taken to attract foreign
accreditation for quality assurance. students to India so that Indian faculties and
• Promote some institutes as students can easily go to abroad.
research institutes to promote a RUSA is still doing its best and it can do much
culture of research. This will make better by introducing some innovative planning
India a producer of knowledge and policies which can give a better future so that
rather than a consumer. India can touch the new heights of EDUCATION.
• Reform the affiliation system to
meet their resource and reform
requirement
• Availability of quality faculty Q) Do you think a repeal and re-enactment of
• Correcting regional imbalance in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of
access to higher education by Children) Act, 2000 (the JJ Act), the country‘s
establishing high quality primary law dealing with children in conflict
institutions in urban and semi- with the law and children in need of care is
urban area. needed? Explain why.
Implementation of RUSA will bring sea change in
higher education as per the demand of the
changing world and India‘s own need. In  The juvenile justice law 1986 deals with the
addition to enhancing the demographic dividend, crimes committed by the juveniles which
this will attract students and faculties across the are defined under the act as any person
world. This will be a boost for education tourism. below the age of 18. Thus juveniles are tried
by the special juvenile courts and are not

punished by the ordinary courts under the poor families, destitute etc in which
CrPc. Though the requirement of such a environment play the role and not the
system is beyond doubt due to the young biological factor.
and modifiable age of the child involved in Hence by just amending the age and not
a crime. But in the aftermath of the events focusing on the core issues which calls these
like Nirbhaya case and Mumbai Gang rape innocent lives to commit the crime will be a
case, where some culprits virtually went mistake in long term though it will be a
unpunished due their age, there has been soothing act for few. At the end we cannot
voices to repeal or amend the JJ Act in the have the right to snatch the entire life of
cases where heinous crimes like rape and child for which he was unknowingly
murders are involved. moulded.
The amendment to the JJ act which will
exclude the culprits of the crimes like
murder and rape from its purview is the
need of hour. Firstly the amendment will be
only for the persons above 16 years, thus
not having any significant effect on the Poverty and hunger issues
children below that age. Further there
should be a strong deterrent and no
exception for committing the grave crimes. Q. According to WHO, Vector-borne diseases
Many developed countries like the US and are adding to the vicious cycle of poverty and
UK have similar provisions and India have a significant impact of socio-economic
should move in the same direction. Because status of communities. Which are those
to protect the right of so called child at the diseases? How do they exacerbate poverty?
cost of right of justice of the victim when the Comment.
crime is so grave is not just.

ANSWER-
There are discussions about amending the  The diseases in which pathogen is
Juvenile Justice Act 2000 by the present transmitted by vectors(fly, mosquito etc)
government for the only purpose of from one source to another is known as
reducing the age for trying out children vector borne diseases.These includes
from 18 by one or two years. Recent rape Dengue,Malaria,TB,Yellow fever,kala azar
incident in Delhi and after which juvenile etc.
who left with the very minor punishment  Half of the population globally are infected
had made nervous the entire women centric with atleast one of these diseases.Out of this
organisation, media and politicians majority of the infected population lives in
according to their place in parliament. developing countries.These diseases affect
Issue cant be solve with the just lowering the poor maximum both economically and
when age itself is not the sole reason for socially.High population along with
carrying out various crime which have been inadequate health services complicates the
listed in the act. No doubt the act gives issue.As a result timely detection and
opportunity to the juvenile to live a life after treatment is not there which leads to
paltry punishment but it is warranted too. development of disease and further spread
The maturity in the child or the knowledge of it.
about the society starts to come from the age  Firstly, diseases are carried by vector which
of 11-12 in which he can be easily trapped are usually present in places that lack
by other disturbing entities to commit sanitation. These are mostly slums where
crime. bottom of society lives. So, one can say that
Further it is on record that the crime people fraught with poverty are mostly
committed by the children‘s belong to the prone to them.

 Since vector-borne, such areas could be Good governance, education, energy and
subjected to social exclusion. Hence poeple resources, telecom and technology,
are also socially-excluded from society infrastructure, healthcare, and financial
approved activities. Hence social inclusion are key levers for inclusion growth.
deprivation. All this lead to deprivation of
right to opportunity to choose own While assessing 11th FYP achievements, we can
livelihood. Thus, multi-dimenstional observe some evidences of inclusive growth as-
poverty.
 Employment guarantee schemes like
MGNREGS have performed so well to
 Once affected, they impact physical and reduce gender and social inequalities by
cognitive abilities. So, it imacts economic including more women in workforce and
livelihood activities. Thus worsens raised their economic status in the family.
impoversihed state.  Rural housing scheme IAY provided houses
to BPL families while urban housing
schemes like RAY helped to remove slums
from cities and provided pakka houses to
 This affects working efficiency of the urban poor.
infected people added with increased  There has been an increase in median real
expenditure on health.High costs of drugs income of nearly 5 percent. Growth has been
and medical services aggravates the burden noted more for Dalits and OBCs.
on families.Many a times they end up in  There is significant change in Gini
taking loans which is very difficult to pay in coefficient of India which suggests
their hand to mouth livings.Families often decreasing inequality.
have to cut down on other amenities.In  Backward region grant funds (BRGF) have
extreme cases death due to these diseases helped in reducing regional disparity in
ends the family in vicious cycle of poverty. India.
 Vector borne diseases are deadly but  Integrated rural development program
preventable.Better health services added (IRDP) and Bharat Nirman program helped
with sanitation,hygienic living conditions to increase rural income more compare to
and awareness in the masses about the do‘s cities. This has narrowing rural-urban
and dont‘s by the countries is the way divides.
through.  Income of Adivasis and Muslims also grew
in this period.
 The average household income in rural
India has increased 5.0 % almost twice the
2.6 % annual growth in urban India
Q. The recently-concluded India Human
But at the same time Sachar Committee for
Development Survey (IHDS) seems to suggest
minorities had suggested that Muslims are
that the inclusive growth policy implemented
lagging behind in growth even compare to SCs
during the 11th Five Year Plan may have been
and STs. 70% population still dependent on
working. How? Examine.
primary activities which contribute only 13% of
GDP. More than 80 % workforce is in
Inclusive growth means providing equal
unorganized sector and lacks provision of social
opportunities to people of every section of society
security. Women work participation in urban
in the process of growth to benefit everyone
areas is going down.
equally. 11th FYP envisages providing inclusive
growth to all including women, backward classes, Inclusive growth remains a mirage for India.
STs and SCs, differentially able, and minorities. Govt. formulated 12th FYP with the theme
―more faster, inclusive and sustainable growth‖
should be implemented with more enthusiast
and zeal for the development of all sections of consumption . Awareness about the
society. symptoms and causes of the incidences of
cancer would aid in reducing the losses .
Q. What measures can government take to stop

the spread of cancer in India? Examine.
Q. It is found that certain cancers are affected by
Answer-
the socio-economic status of individuals in
India. Elaborate with examples.  India witness nearly one million new
cases of different cancers every year.
Tobacco is singularly responsible for
 The incidence of certain cancers was found
nearly 40 per cent of all cancers.
to be affected by the socio-economic status
of individuals. For instance, oral cancer was  To control cancer, Govt. launched
widely prevalent in the low income group. National Cancer Control Program in 1982.
―Ninety per cent of rural patients with oral The program envisages control of tobacco
cancer are poor,‖ Similarly, a study in related cancers; early diagnosis and
southern India has found that women with treatment of uterine cervical cancer; and
breast cancer are from a low socio-economic distribution of therapy services, pain relief
background in rural areas. and palliative care through developing
health infrastructure.
 A significant portion of the adult deaths
across the world are attributed to cancer. 
Cancer is the unregulated growth of cells in  Prevention and early diagnosis is
the body.The imbalance in the genes could important for cancer treatment because
be effect the different parts of the body stage 3 and 4 cases have very low results.
through blood stream. Govt. can take many measures to control
 Cancer is caused due to increased exposure cancer as-
to solar and nuclear radiations, consumption  1) Govt. can consider primary prevention
of alcohol,smokeless tobacco and bidis, The by promoting hygiene and sexual
unhygienic conditions and lack of sanitation behavior reducing cervical cancer
also lead to certain types of cancer. Studies incidence.
have shown the greater incidence of the  2) Regular breast self examination needs
cancer in the lower socio economic sections, to be promoted for early detection of
with ninety percent of the oral cancers being breast cancer.
reported in this section.  3) The school curricula should involve
 The cervical cancer in the poor women due messages for a healthy life style and warn
to Human papilloma virus infection is about the harmful effects of tobacco and
largely attributed to lack of sanitation and alcohol.
hygiene. The unhygienic conditions lead to  4) Legislation has to be enforced for
aggravating the conditions and aid in the prohibiting tobacco advertisement and
development of cancer tissues. The low sale of tobacco to youngsters.
awareness about the symptoms and the  5) A multidisciplinary approach to cancer
causes leads to exposing the people in the treatment is essential and this has to be
lower strata to greater risks. The delay in the made available at all Regional Cancer
access to the medical services exacerbate the Centers. In a country of 1.2 billion people,
conditions of the patients. we have just 2000 cancer specialists:
 The government should make efforts to radiation and medical oncologists. The
increase the availability and accessibility of services of a trained surgeon and a
the medical services to all . Moreover, Clinical Oncologist are needed to plan the
emphasis should be made to increase the most appropriate treatment.
awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco

 6) An essential drug list has to be  Many of the tribal villages suffer form the
prepared for cancer chemotherapy. shortage of drinking water supply.
 7) A network of cancer registries have to  Flouride in water…..
be set up to maintain earlier data. 
 8) The treatment costs are so high that  In towns and cities of the country
mere diagnosis can land a poor patient sustainable supply of portable drinking
into debt trap. Govt. should take steps to water is a major problem, which is a
bring down the treatment cost. problem on the sustainabiliy of our cities.
 Last year Supreme Court rejected shortage in water supply and poor water
Novartis attempt to win patent protection quality are the twin problems here. water
for a major cancer drug Gleevec, was a contaminated with bacteria,iron,ammonia
landmark judgment to make cancer etc poses several health problems.
treatment cost effective.  In summer the situation gets worse and the
 WHO contributes in Tobacco Control, municipalities will not be able to meet the
Palliative Care and Human resource water needs of all the wards.
development . The International Union  Bore wells, wells have gone dry in many
Against Cancer (UICC) and other agencies areas due to over utilization of the ground
are supporting fellowships and India can water.
utilize these opportunities to get the much  The crisis of drinking water shortage is not
needed human resource for the country. insurmountable it reqires strong political
India could take up these programs and will and civic awareness.
demonstrate to the World that Cancer  - Awareness should be created about the
Control is feasible and become a model for benefits of rain water harvesting and it
Cancer Control Programs in low resource should be made compulsory to have rain
settings. water harvesting structures in all the
houses, apartments, educational
institutions, companies .
 - River linking in place where it is feasible.
Q. Comment on the nature and magnitude of
 1. Decentralised water supply system:
drinking water problem in India. What
Rather than diverting rivers, emphasis
measures would you suggest to overcome these
should be given on rejuvenating local
problems?
water bodies.
 The problem of drinking water in our  - Better water management

country is a growing challenge not just in systems,sewage management systems to
cities but also in many villages. check the water contamination.
 villages are also facing the drinking water  -water shed management programmes in
crisis and the situation gets wore in dry villages, building of water storage
seasons. women have to travel longer structures like ponds.
distances to featch water. well and ponds  - large scale afforestation on barren and
dry up and there will be lack of water for waste lands to improve the ground water
the livestock and deaths of livestock due to potential. measures to ensure tree cover at
nonavailability of water in dry seasons is the catchment areas..
common.
 Arid and semi arid regions of the country 1. ―Childhood obesity has become the most
like bundelkhand,chambal valley, parts of serious health concern – even in our part of the
rajasthan , deccan plateau region , parts of world, where malnutrition is a big concern. ‖
karnataka,andhra pradesh face acute Critically comment on the reasons behind this
shortage of drinking water. paradox.

Business Standard
Anything that is consumed in excess or less than Efforts at family, social and legislative level are
actual requirement both causes adverse effects on required to face this problems. Parents should see
health. This what actually happening in our that child is having balanced food with all
country where many children are facing necessary nutrition and regular exercise. At
malnutrition on the other hand large number of school level also, teaching importance of healthy
children are facing childhood obesity. Today diet and increasing physical activities can be
childhood obesity is as serius health concern as done. Experts are debating on banning junk food
malnutrition. in school canteen, also categorizing food as red,
Childhood obesity is unnecessary accumulation orange and green per food contents is nice
of fats in body of children. It leads to increase in approach. Strict laws and schemes should made
risk of developing high blood pressure, to provide healthy diet to malnourished children.
cardiovascular diseases, cancer and reduced life
span. There are many other problems such as
laziness, not able to mix up with children of same Ans--The unequal distribution of the fruits of
age, emotional suffering etc. It is observed in growth and development in a developing country
urban population and number of cases are has many problems associated with it. One such
increasing day by day. Reasons behind this can be problem is health problem where the problems of
stated as changed lifestyle, consuming junk food childhood obesity and malnutrition co-exist in the
with no or less percentage of nutrients, vitamins society. The various reasons behind this paradox
and protein and large amount of salt, sugar and can be attributed to the following-
fats, lack of regular exercise, eating food while • Economic- A large section of society lives below
watching TV which leads to often over- poverty line and cannot afford and meet the
consumption etc. Industry people are health, nutrition and sanitation requirements
emphasizing on lack of regular health where as which lead to malnutrition. On the other hand,
pediatrician and doctors are focusing on junk the easy way of life due to more money and less
food and unhealthy eating habits as reason of time in urban places have led to dependence on
childhood obesity. processed and junk food causing obesity.
• Lifestyle- The economic condition largely paves
Apart from poverty...in rich also...malnutrition of the lifestyle. Thus, the children in poor families
different type=====critical who are also involved in earning living engage in
Malnutrition is caused by insufficient large amount of physical activities. However, the
consumption of nutrients, although excessive or children in other places engage themselves in
imbalanced nutrient consumption can also lead to indoor activities and less exercise due to the
malnutrition and obesity at the same time. This is sedentary and busy lifestyle causing obesity.
the paradox of the food consumption. • Negligence- The illiteracy and unawareness
among the poor parents leads to negligence of
their child‘s health. While unawareness among
In modern times, nutritionists point to a condition the parents in other regions of the consequence of
called over-nutrition as one of the primary causes obesity and belief that the energy-dense food is
of malnutrition in mainly in developed nations required during the growing stage and health
and spreading in developing countries like India, would improve with age leads to negligence of
China now with increasing use of Junk food. childhood obesity.
These junk food items include sufficient calories, Thus, the problem of malnutrition and obesity
carbohydrates and processed sugar and fat, but among the future generation needs to be
do not include enough vitamins, minerals, fiber prioritized by providing low-cost high-nutrition
and other nutrients. This leads to obesity and food, effective regulation of junk foods and
malnutrition simultaneously and related increasing awareness.
conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.

Pasted from and growth of a country. It is the single

<http://insightsonindia.com/2014/04/28/insigh largest problem facing India in its
ts-secure-2014-questions-on-current-events-174/> development efforts and needs to be
addressed urgently
honest effort, but one thing for poor, government  The economic growth in the past decade
have many scheme like- Aganwani scheme, but not ensured increased levels of sanitation.
the implementation of these scheme is poor, these 57 percent of the Indians still resort to
marketed the things those get from govt.if we open defecation. The lack of effective
correct this in this way,we can provide food sewage management aggravates the
supplement to poor. problem by worsening the levels of
2 school-hood obesity due to over exposure or sanitation and hygiene.
aggressive ad strategy of these big commercial  Though the advances have been made in
entity. the technology domain, the application in
the social domain has remained low.
Effective usage of technology could be
lead to improved levels of sanitation.
Q. Explain how technology can be harnessed to Firstly, there is a need for technology
bring sanitation to Indian villages and cities induction in the construction and
accessibility to toilets. The high cost and
 As per the National Sample Survey (2012), unavailability of the water restrict the use
only 32% of families in India have their of the conventional toilets. Different
own toilets. And only an additional 9% models of the toilets such pit toilet , eco
have access to one. This is the shocking san toilets have been exhibited which do
state of Indian Sanitation. This crisis is not use water and are economic.
compounded by the lack of access to Moreover,the waste treatment leads to
water which further hampers hygiene and generation of fertilizers which could be
leads to various diseases and morbidity. used in the fields.
 Technology, harnessed intelligently can be  An effective sewage treatment plan by
a way out. It needs to be applied at all adopting modern technology and
levels in the sanitation chain – scientific methods would lead to
containment (toilets), emptying (septic increasing sanitation levels at reduced
tanks), transportation (to sewage facilities) cost. The technology could be used for the
and waste treatment and disposal. increasing the awareness among the
 Many international organisations and people and encouraging the use of the
private foundations are contributing toilets.
millions for innovative no-water required  Though the initiatives undertaken by the
solutions. DRDO has unveiled their bio- government under different schemes for
digestor toilets that convert waste into health and rural construction has led to
methane gas that can be further used. increase in sanitation, technology
Costing just Rs. 15000, they are an induction can lead to further gains in
economical alternative especially on a ensuring the sanitation and hygiene
community sharing basis. Scientific levels.
solutions to water management can also
be applied to traditional toilets. For
example, reuse of grey water for flushing.
We also need to Upgrade sewage facilities Q. Critically examine the problems being faced
and recycle waste, like the recent by the state and central governments in properly
breakthrough of using solar energy to implementing welfare schemes.
sterilize waste and covert it into charcoal.
 Poor Sanitation not only direct affects
health but indirectly inhibits productivity Answer

Govt. have been implementing many programs their power properly to tame the guilty
and schemes like MGNREGA, Mid-Day-Meal, officers
ICDS, IAY, RAY, old age pensions, slum 7) Lack of transparency and accessibility to
development etc. But many of these schemes are details and status of implementation
performing poor and facing many problems in 8) Prolonged departmental inquiries lead to
implementation. more opportunity for irregularity.
Lack of proper synchronization among state and
centre officials and machineries, Lack of
awareness among people and beneficiaries, Q. ―To improve overall health, the public health
ineffective monitoring of program sector will have to coordinate and collaborate
implementation and Improper resources with other sectors, nationally and regionally,
utilization, frequent transfers of program officers and with several stakeholders.‖ In the light of
also reduce the work willingness and the statement, critically comment on the role of
accountability, Lack of transparency and the governments, political parties in reforming
accessibility to details and status of this sector.
implementation, prolonged departmental
inquiries leads to more opportunity for
irregularity in many schemes. Answer-
many schemes like MGNREGS etc. suffers due to Health is an umbrella term in many ways. It
its dependency on the local self government primarily depends on many interrelated sectors at
(often the village panchayats) and faces caste national scale.
prejudices, politicization and a complete lack of Health is dependent on quality of water we drink,
accountability. People belonging to the lower air we inhale, sanitation, infrastructure available
castes suffer from discrimination and do not for treatment and quality of food we take.
enjoy equal rights of employment and wages they this requires coordination among various
are entitled to under the scheme. ministries of government for eg transport
Many old age pension schemes also witnesses ministry for air quality (EURO norms), sanitation,
cases where the pension gets disbursed to the food department etc.
beneficiary after his/her death and since there is Also any development at far away places like
nobody to claim it, that money ends up filling up new drug discovery, new practices and know
pockets of the officials in charge. This problem, how needs to be shared regionally and globally,
however, can be handled if funds are released in which requires coordinated effort on part of all
time and carefully monitored. stake holders.
Reluctant financial officers don‘t exercise their Government has initiated many schemes like
power properly to tame the guilty officers NRHM, primary health care system, janani
suraksha karyakrma, ASHAs to cater rural areas,
Immunization programmes to cater health related
 Main points : (in the above answer) services to people, but due to implementation
1) Lack of proper synchronization among issues, lack of trained manpower, proper
state and centre officials and machineries awareness, corruption schemes are not showing
2) Lack of awareness among people and proper results, so a revitalization of all is
beneficiaries required.
3) Improper or ineffective monitoring of NGOs and local level participation will certainly
program implementation and resources make way for good, politiciations with their
utilization wider reach may urge and mobilize people for
4) Insufficient fund allocation and misuses o better healthcare facility for masses.
diversion of the fund  India needs to expand its health sector
5) Frequent transfers of program officers because of increasing incidence of various
also reduce the work willingness and diseases and also to improve various HDI
accountability indicator.Expansion is taking place, but
6) Reluctant financial officers don‘t exercise because of investment in private sector,

usage of which pertains to huge cost, out only focus on BPL but also include the
of bound to many of country‘s population. APL in its domain. Also, Essential
 Public health sector has to collaborate medicines should be provided at
with private sector, to augment the subsidized rate to all.
capacity and expertise. It also needs to
work with NGO‘s and organization like  Including the private sectors is necessary
doctor‘s without borders. as they are the first-point contact of many
 The most basic requirement is of human people. Though autonomy for private
resources, which is what we are lacking in sector should not be disturbed yet the
pubic sector, we have to establish more government should monitor the quality
nursing schools and also medical school, and other services it provides.
so as to improve the healthcare facilities. Government should also invest in
 The above initiative will require infrastructure by including private
improvement at all the level of through PPP model.
government. If all these stakeholders are included, it is
 1. Primary health care center at rural and obvious that India can soon comply with
urban centers are required to be the MDG targets.
improved.
 2. State level hospital: For all the
secondary care and some tertiary care.
Q. Explain how technology can be harnessed to
 3. Central level: We need to establish
bring sanitation to Indian villages and cities.
super-specialty centers in various parts of
country.
 As per the National Sample Survey (2012),
 However, all these will require huge
only 32% of families in India have their
investment and such an amount can only
own toilets. And only an additional 9%
be made available if politicians root for it.
have access to one. This is the shocking
Investment in health care may not
state of Indian Sanitation. This crisis is
generate short-term electoral benefit, but
compounded by the lack of access to
in the longer run it will be beneficial to
water which further hampers hygiene and
country and also to politician.
leads to various diseases and morbidity.

 Technology, harnessed intelligently can be
 Diseases like TB show that the public
a way out. It needs to be applied at all
sector needs the help of different
levels in the sanitation chain –
stakeholders in tackling diseases, be it at
containment (toilets), emptying (septic
regional or national level or by including
tanks), transportation (to sewage facilities)
private sector.
and waste treatment and disposal.
The Political parties should try to tackle
 Many international organisations and
this issue. This can be done by
private foundations are contributing
coordinating the different sectors like
millions for innovative no-water required
water, food , pollution sectors that can
solutions. DRDO has unveiled their bio-
have effect on health of the people. Inter
digestor toilets that convert waste into
regional disparity in health should be
methane gas that can be further used.
reduced through targeted policies
Costing just Rs. 15000, they are an
formulated at regional and national level.
economical alternative especially on a
More number of health sectors employees
community sharing basis. Scientific
should be deployed . Here, Service by
solutions to water management can also
ASHA workers are commendable and
be applied to traditional toilets. For
they should be hired with proper
example, reuse of grey water for flushing.
incentives. Primary health centers need to
We also need to Upgrade sewage facilities
be boosted while the tertiary should not
and recycle waste, like the recent

breakthrough of using solar energy to Despite sufficient food production, India faces
sterilize waste and covert it into charcoal. food insecurity problem. Critically examine the
 Poor Sanitation not only direct affects important reasons behind this insecurity and
health but indirectly inhibits productivity throw light on upcoming challenges if this
and growth of a country. It is the single insecurity continues to persist.
largest problem facing India in its
development efforts and needs to be
addressed urgently With teaming millions and the population
 expected to cross China‘s population by 2028,
 ensuring food security is a persistent challenge to
 The economic growth in the past decade address. The main reasons behind the present state
not ensured increased levels of sanitation. of food mismanagement are:
57 percent of the Indians still resort to (a) Food production: Though our production is far
open defecation. The lack of effective greater than our need yet, the mismanaged
sewage management aggravates the subsidies are inhibiting production to match the
problem by worsening the levels of changing consumption pattern. Hence, cereals are
sanitation and hygiene. surplus while fruits and vegetables face constant
 Though the advances have been made in inflation.
the technology domain, the application in (b) Post harvest wastages: By all standards food
the social domain has remained low. loss post harvest accounts to approx. 40% of the
Effective usage of technology could be total production. Poor supply chain, lack of cold
lead to improved levels of sanitation. storage and near absence of food processing sector
Firstly, there is a need for technology are major infrastructural bottlenecks causing huge
induction in the construction and food loss.
accessibility to toilets. The high cost and (c) Accessibility. Food accessibility (according to
unavailability of the water restrict the use FAO) is the major cause of food insecurity. Our
of the conventional toilets. Different antiquated laws like APMC, Essential commodity
models of the toilets such pit toilet , eco act etc renders any development of pan national
san toilets have been exhibited which do agricultural market.
not use water and are economic. (d) Nutritional outcomes: Poor nutrition
Moreover,the waste treatment leads to knowledge has caused not only malnutrition and
generation of fertilizers which could be under nurishment but also lifestyle disease like
used in the fields. obesity. Nutri cereals like jowa, bajara, ragi are
 An effective sewage treatment plan by both cheap and nutritious and should be
adopting modern technology and promoted.
scientific methods would lead to Upcoming Challenges:
increasing sanitation levels at reduced With population expected to cross 1.7b by 2050,
cost. The technology could be used for the the major challenges regarding food security are:
increasing the awareness among the (a) Production: With shrinking area under
people and encouraging the use of the cultivation and stagnating outcome of green
toilets. revolution, constant rise in production is a major
 Though the initiatives undertaken by the challenge. BGREI along with R&D in high yield
government under different schemes for varities need focus.
health and rural construction has led to (b) Climate change: A monsoon dependent
increase in sanitation, technology agriculture faces great threat from climate change.
induction can lead to further gains in Holistic strategy consisting of R&D, irrigation
ensuring the sanitation and hygiene expansion, and containing global temperature rise
levels. is an area to focus on.
(c) Food processing: Changing life style favours
processed foods. Challenge lies not only in
developing food processing sector but also

sticking to CODEX, GHP,GMP standards. line with relative poverty line. Its recommendation
(d) Food wastages: 40% food loss and high of linking welfare schemes to particular
inflation reflects poorly on our supply chain and deprivations rather than poverty line is also
processing activities. Pan national agrimarket, commendable.
supply chain development, cold storage,
reforming and legislating new agri laws will There is an urgent need to simplify this complex
determine the outcome on this front. statistical exercise so that people are able to
(e) Awareness: Awareness towards safe and identify themselves as poors or not, and apply for
nutitious food to realise the dream of healthy India entitlements. A multidimensional aspect of
needs aggressive IEC activities. poverty should also be accounted in any
estimation.
Critically comment on the approach taken by ( Some gyaan on Ranga poverty estimates )
the Rangarajan committee to measure poverty
in India. (Regarding doubling of urban poverty line.
Increase in rent of house and education is always
more in urban compared to rural so.
Poverty estimation is a important socio-political
exercise. Different expert groups like: Y K Alag, D For reducing calories. Use human shift machines,
T Lakdawala and Suresh Tendulkar have tried energy requirement automatically comes down.
time and again to solve this riddle. The latest such
attempt is made by C Rangarajan. Observe that Ranga reduced the calorie
requirement- why?
C Rangarajan has reverted back to food intake
norms. It used the per capita expenditure data of  Because ICMR study report said so.
NSS using ―modified mixed reference period‖. The Besides, over the years use of machinery
result added 100 million people over Tendulkar and vehicles has increased, so today‘s
estimation of 270 million poors in 2011-2012. generation doesn‘t require that much
―calorie‖
Rangarajan estimates set minimum requirement of
calories ( protein and fats) but missed the nutrition Poverty in India: Year 2011
outcome which itself depend on a number of Formula # of BPL in crores
factors like health, sanitation, drinking water etc. Tendu 27
Ranga 37
Secondly it failed to explain its arbitrary difference 10 crore = 100 million BPL increased.
discounting of calorie norm by 10%. ( it said that
increased mechanization has reduced the calorie publicity because:
needs of a human  )
Use of NSS mmrp expenditure data has doubled
o He kept poverty line to be ridiculously
the urban poverty while rural poverty are much
low – Rs.32 for rural and Rs.47 for Urban.
similar to Tendulkar estimation, an anomaly
o Therefore He is insensitive towards the
difficult to understand.
poor.
Access and delivery of public service, an
important determinant of poverty, is not taken
had given combined poverty line for a family of
into account.
five members- Rs.7035 (Urban), which is a
plausible number. After all, if you live in a family
Yet, the credit goes to Rangarajan group for
of five, then some costs will get reduced per head
delinking poverty estimation from fixed
(e.g. rent, lightbill, LPG etc.)
consumption level and replacing absolute poverty

under-nutrition of women and children, especially

= their income would be definitely above 7000. So the female child, continues to be a major issue.
in reality, Ranga has not ―insulted‖ the poor.
Infact, He has tried to cover more poor under BPL [Relevant efforts by govt.: Integrated Child
& Sarkaari schemes. Development Scheme or ICDS (1975) and National
Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Antyodaya Anna Yojana,
Expenditure figures (Rs.33, Rs.47) by dividing the Targeted Public Distribution Scheme (TPDS)]
monthly Expenditure of five people, then further Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education
dividing that number by 30. c) Target 3- to ensure all boys & girls complete a
full course of primary schooling is ON TRACK.
The primary completion rate of both the sexes has
into purchasing power parity (PPP), it‘s $2.44 per increased significantly from 55% in 1993 to 85.7%
person, per day. And that figure even higher than in 2006.
World bank estimate. In other words, Ranga [Relevant efforts by govt.: Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
included more poor in BPL, than even World (SSA), Prarambhik Shiksha Kosh (PSK), District
bank would! Primary Education Programme (DPEP) ]
Goal 3: Promote gender equality and women
Critically examine India‘s achievements in empowerment
meeting the targets of the Millennium d) Target 4- To eliminate gender disparity in
Development Goals. primary and secondary education, by 2005, and in
all levels of education by 2015 is ON TRACK.
There has been an appreciable increase in the
The MDGs adopted by the United Nations in the gender parity index at all levels of education. The
year 2000 project the efforts of the international share of women in wage employment in the
community as an effort to free people from nonagricultural sector and proportion of seats held
miserable and dehumanizing conditions of in Parliament has risen
extreme poverty. The MDGs are eight goals to be [Relevant efforts by govt.: National Programme for
achieved by 2015. Corresponding targets and the Education of Girls at the Elementary Level
achievements by India are: (NPEGEL), Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya
Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger (KGBV), Mahila Samakhya (MS), National policy
a) Target 1- To reduce by half the proportion of for the empowerment of women]
people living on less than a dollar a day is ON Goal 4: Reduce child Mortality
TRACK. According to national estimates e) Target 5-To reduce by two thirds the mortality
population below poverty line came down from rate among children under five is MODERATELY
36% in 1993 to 25% in 2008 which should be ON TRACK. With current rate of decline of IMR
further reduced to 18.75% by 2015. and U5MR India could not catch up this target.
[Relevant efforts by govt.: Child health
[Relevant efforts by govt.: National Rural interventions under the Reproductive and Child
Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), Health (RCH) Programme]
Swaranjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY), Goal 5: Improve maternal health
Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY), Jawahar Lal Nehru f) Target 6- To reduce by three quarters the
Urban Renewal Mission, Integrated Housing and maternal mortality ratio is SLOW or OFF TRACK.
Slum Development Program and Swarna Jayanti MMR declined to 200 per 100, 000 live births in
Shahari Rojgar Yojana (SJSRY)] 2007 but it should reach 109 by 2015. The progress
toward reaching this estimated goal appears to be
seemingly slow.
b) Target 2- To Reduce by half the proportion of [Relevant efforts by govt.: Janani Suraksha Yojana,
people who suffer from hunger is NOT ON (JSY) which is a safe motherhood scheme under
TRACK. Though proportion of undernourished NRHM, round-the-clock delivery services at PHCs
people decreased from 25% in 1991 to 20% in 2002, etc.]

Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and other Goal 8: Develop global partnership for
diseases development
g) Target 7- To have halted by 2015 and begun to l) Target 18- To make available the benefits of new
reverse spread of HIV/AIDS is ON TRACK. technologies, especially information and
[Relevant efforts by govt.: Condom Vending communication, in cooperation with the private
Machine (CVM) Project in collaboration with sector is ON FAST TRACK. India‘s diverse
Hindustan Latex limited, School Based economy ranges from traditional village farming
Adolescence Programme, Free anti-retroviral to a wide range of modern industries, and a
treatment (ART) centers] multitude of services. India‘s increasing
h) Target 8- To have halted by 2015 and begun to participation with the world economy is evident
reverse spread of Malaria and other diseases is from the trade to GDP ratio. The promotion of e-
MODERATELY ON TRACK. Malarial and TB governance on a massive scale is one of the
cases were brought down. Malarial death rate also important areas of concern of the National
declined. Common Minimum Needs Programme of the
[Relevant efforts by govt.: National Vector Borne Government.
Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) for control Despite the existence and launch of various
of malaria, drug distribution centers (DDCs), fever programs and policies to address the major areas
treatment depots (FTDs) and malaria clinics; of concern under the MDGs, the progress toward
Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) achieving these goals appears to be rather slow in
strategy for TB] most of the areas, with the exception of education
Goal 7: Ensure Environment sustainability and global economic progress. It has been
i) Target 9- To integrate the principles of observed that the utilization of services offered by
sustainable development into country policies and different programs is rather low. With only about
programmes and reverse the loss of environmental an year more to go for achieving these goals, the
resources is ON TRACK. The proportion of land only way to do so would be to further intensify
covered by the forest area has shown a very our efforts in reaching out to the unreached
marginal increase. In terms of the per capita populations and ensuring uniform distribution of
consumption of ozone depleting substances (ODS), resources.
India seems to have taken effective measures.
[Relevant efforts by govt.: Joint Forest
Management scheme, Rajiv Gandhi Grameen ―It is imperative that the government reviews
Vidyutikiran Yojana] the methods of gathering data on poverty
j) Target 10- To halve, by 2015, the proportion of estimates without further delay and
people without sustainable access to safe drinking significantly retool its development schemes.‖
water is ON TRACK and basic sanitation is NOT Comment. (200 Words)
ON TRACK. The proportion of people with access
to safe drinking water increased to 89% in 2006 It is beyond any doubt that data gathering plays
from 62% in 1991. While Basic sanitation to be on an extremely role in helping the policy makers
low pace. design appropriate policies, allocate funds, and
k) Target 11- To have achieved a significant putting thrust upon the implementation. The data
improvement in the lives of at least 100 million gathering assumes an even more important role
slum dwellers is NOT ON TRACK. Posses major when it comes to find out the number of poor in
challenge with rapid growth in urban slums with the country. As India continues to act as a welfare
no sanitary facilities. state, the major emphasis of the government is to
[Relevant efforts by govt.: National Urban alleviate the poor out of the poverty via numerous
Renewal Mission, Valmiki Ambedkar Awas schemes on food security, employment generation,
Yojana (VAMBAY) and National Slum primary and higher education, health and
Development Programme (NSDP), Rajiv Gandhi sanitation and so on.
National Drinking Water Mission, Total Sanitation
Campaign (TSC)] However, it is increasingly being realized that the
data gathering process by several departments of

state and central governments such as National child in school and at home to implement the best
Sample Survey Organization (NSSO), survey practices and adopting long term measures as part
department of Ministry of Housing and Urban of their life. For this many factors work like
Poverty Alleviation, The Census etc. is not illiteracy of parents, insensitivity in teachers,
coherent and many times reflect major differences overburdened schedules, widespread corruption
in the data of the same set of samples. and poverty overdues of two-meal syndrome.
Also recently highlighted issues are education not
For example, the data gathering of urban slum according to situation, non-preference to
households conducted by different organizations continuity of education in all circumstances
have shown significant variations and there are according to regional realities, non-maintainance
different procedures they have followed to come of infrastructure, deficit of good teachers, non-
to the numbers. recognition of teaching as a credible profession,
inadequate proper skill based job oriented training
Hence, It is quite imperative that there should be a in education so that a child can bring expertise into
single framework of collecting the data for a the learning and practical orientation towards
particular set of people in order to enable our entrepreneurship, absence of strong education
policy makers to design good policies and mentorship so that child can recognise its interests
implementation gets eas and arrive at meaningful career choice, non-
compatibility of education sector with the
changing trends in the job sector, absence of a
Poverty and education are critically linked but not scheme where women are given priority to learn
much recognised. Reason is incompatibility of skills along with the children, proper education
long term investments and impact of education insurance schemes, etc. All these need to be taken
and short term issues of survival in poverty. Poor into account if education has to become productive
children face issues of discrimination, facilities, and effective in elimination of poverty
hunger, inadequate concentration, house help in
income, etc. In rural areas they face further issues
of distances, transport, infrastructure, calamities, Q---―When it comes to economic matters, the
agriculture help, displacement on land acquisition government is an enabler and facilitator. Its
and other issues of health and sanitation. Esp girls primary job is to develop and maintain a system
become more vulnerable when no toilets for them in which people – the rich and the poor – can
are in school as indicated by a study showing less take steps by themselves to better their lives. ‖
than 10% schools having it. Issues of health In the light of the statement, critically examine
hazards like mixing of urinal and faecal bacteria the nature of poverty removal programmes in
into water and food consumed causing severe India.
diarrhoea and other ailments of worms and
intestinal problems. These cause disruption in Economy of a country and its well-being surely
studies and deterioration of health and decrease in depends on all the stake holders involved in it
nutrition status along with defence strength of a like the Government, Investors(Public + Private),
child. Another poverty related issue is awareness Human Capital) and if one overlaps the other the
of teachers and parents which is seriously lacking economy will go down. This was the attitude of
on all above fronts. all the governments in power. The state is acting
Govt has taken many steps like ICDS, mdm, as a mediator between the so called poor and the
deworming, vitamin tablets, telling children about capitalists/investors. The policies were biased
handwashing, mosquito nets, bicycle schemes, towards just the so called peoples well-being.
subsidised books and dress , Right to Education
This is where all the governments are going in a
for 8 yrs till 14 yrs age, etc but still the measures
wrong way designed by politicians and
are either partially applied or inadequate
bureaucrats. The state should only be a facilitator
monitoring left the measures ineffective. Also part
and enabler. It should not try to give the needy
of the issue is non-involvement of parents and
what they want instead teach the person to come
teachers into the whole process of well being of a

out of their misery on their own.(Teach to catch MIE's uniqueness is its ability to attract children
Fish instead of giving them the fish). – provide towards the Learning Station driven purely by
the right impetus to the industry and right skills their own interests.
to the human capital so that they can earn on
their own. Conventional pedagogy, on the other hand,
focuses on the teacher's ability to disseminate
But off-late government policies are recognizing information in a classroom setting. MIE thus
this, with the introduction of Rashtriya krishi complements the formal schooling system by
vikas yojana and few others of the same. But if we providing a much needed balance for a child to
see other schemes like MGNREGA-scheme learn on her own and provides for a holistic
designed to uplift the poor, Food Security scheme learning experience.
though started on a good note are major factors
for rising fiscal deficits. It has gone on to become an important project
with the formation of Hole in the Wall Education
On this note, it is high time that the new govt in Limited (HiWEL), a cooperative effort between
place should review these policies without NIIT and the International Finance Corporation
affecting the beneficiaries much and sending the which is employed in some 300 ‗learning stations‘
wrong signal among the masses. covering around 300,000 children in India and
various other nations.
Q-Explain the importance of minimally invasive
education concept and its application in Importance for India
India.(200 words)
-- Level of education in Government schools
(Quality, Teacher-pupil ratio)
Minimally Invasive Education is defined as a
pedagogic -- Increasing population = need for education
(the function or work of a teacher; teaching.)
method that uses the learning environment to -- Tapping the demographic dividend = for their
generate an adequate level of motivation to timely contribution in the economy
induce learning in groups of children, with
minimal, or no, intervention by a teacher. -- For inclusive development and growth
Today‘s children do not need only basic -- will fill the gap between traditional ongoing
education, but also the ability to deal with an education system and requirement of todays
increasingly complex and connected world. generation.
We need to create inclusive educational solutions

that address all sections of society and help
transform them. Q- Critically analyze the role of ASHAs as an
interface between the community and the public
MIE uses children's natural curiosity and focuses health system. Have they been successful in
on providing an enabling environment where their mission? Give your views. (200 Words)
they can learn on their own. Children, in the
process of freely experimenting with the Learning ASHA = introduced to bridge the gap between
Station, pick up critical problem solving skills. Gov. Health services in rural areas and their
(very similar to Tagore‘s idea of education – intended beneficiary.
―Learning from Nature‖ )
Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) = key
It also provides a collaborative setting where components (women form community itself) of
children can share their knowledge and in the the National Rural Health Mission.
process, develop better group dynamics, all in a
highly natural environment. ASHA= trained community health activist = first
port of call for any health related demands of

deprived sections of the population, especially -- Despite the training given to ASHAs, lacunae
women and children. still exists in their knowledge regarding various
aspects of child health morbidity.
ASHA is responsible for promoting universal
immunization, referral and providing escort Improvement in performance incentives required
services for RCH and other health programmes that will encourage ASHAs for more effective
and construction of household toilets results = Government must try to strengthen this
by proper appraisal, feedback mechanism, and
Nearly 8.85 lakhs ASHA are now covering 70% of better fresher and periodic training to the
the rural area. recruited ASHA workers.
According to the NRHM guidelines, ASHAs are
Q-Comment on the recommendations of High
paid performance-based incentives Selected from
Level Expert Group on Universal Health
the village itself and accountable to it.
Coverage of the Planning Commission. (150
Positives Words)
-- Utilization of healthcare services at the --will address the question of criminal culpability
peripheral level has improved. of medical practitioners.
-- According to a report released by the State --will be good where the health care system — in
Institute of Health & Family Welfare, Rajasthan, the public and the private sector — functions
ASHA workers have brought an increase of 80.7% under sub-optimal conditions; while the entire
in institutional deliveries. medical profession operates within the purview
of the Consumer Protection Act.
-- has helped in improved immunization,
institutional deliveries and post neonatal care. --There is, above all, a need for mandatory
accreditation of all medical facilities in the public
-- They are instrumental in decreasing mortality and private sectors and an independent
due to malaria and other infectious diseases.( evaluation of their performance.
diarrhoea etc. )
--A health regulatory authority to develop legal,
-- have helped reducing infant and maternal financial and regulatory norms is the other
mortality. proposal in the report.
Negatives -- India‘s doctor-to-population ratio is well below
the World Health Organisation stipulation of one
-- needs to be done like increasing
per one thousand and calls for urgent corrective
remuneration,quick reimbursement
intervention.
-- lot of overload on one ASHA worker at ground
The recommendations of the HLEG, inter-alia,
level.
include:
-- recent research has found that ASHA‘s are not
aware of their role as given in the NRHM (i) Increase public expenditure on health to at
guidelines. least 2.5 percent of GDP by the end of the 12th
Plan and to at least 3% of GDP by 2022.
-- none of the ASHAs are involved in village
level health planning programmes such as (ii) Ensure availability of free essential medicines
construction of toilets, promotion of hygienic by increasing public spending on drug
practices etc. procurement.
-- ASHAs are institutionally limited by the (iii) Purchase of all health care services under the
outcome-based remuneration structure and poor Universal Health Coverage (UHC) system should
institutional support be undertaken either directly by the Central and
state governments through their Departments of (xv) Introduce All India and state level Public
Health or by quasi-governmental autonomous Health Service Cadres and a specialized state
agencies established for the purpose. level Health Systems Management Cadre in order
to give greater attention to public health and also
(iv) All government funded insurance schemes strengthen the management of the UHC system.
should, over time, be integrated with the UHC
system. All health insurance cards should, in due (xvi) Establishment of National Health
course, be replaced by National Health Regulatory and Development Authority
Entitlement Cards. The technical and other (NHRDA).
capacities developed by the Ministry of Labour
for the RSBY should be leveraged as the core of (xvii) National Drug Regulatory and
UHC operations – and transferred to the Ministry Development Authority (NDRDA): The main aim
of Health and Family Welfare. of NDRDA should be to regulate pharmaceuticals
and medical devices and provide patients access
(v) Develop a National Health Package that to safe and cost effective products.
offers, as part of the entitlement of every citizen,
essential health services at different levels of the The recommendations of the High Level Expert
health care delivery system. Group (HLEG) are considered by Planning
Commission, for formulating the 12th Five Year
(vi) Reorient health care provision to focus Plan which has to be approved by the National
significantly on primary health care. Development Council (NDC).
(vii) Strengthen District Hospitals. Q-Critically examine India‘s Revised National

TB Control Programme (RNTCP) (200 Words)
(viii) Ensure adequate numbers of trained health
care providers and technical health care workers The Revised National Tuberculosis Control
at different levels by a) giving primacy to the Programme (RNTCP), although pilot-tested in
provision of primary health care b) increasing 1993, began large-scale expansion in late 1998. By
Human Resources for Health (HRH) density to early 2001, more than one third of the country
achieve WHO norms of at least 23 health workers was covered by RNTCP, making it the second
(doctors, nurses, and midwives). largest such progrmme in the world.
(ix) Establish District Health Knowledge Although the diagnostic and treatment policies of
Institutes (DHKIs). RNTCP are technically very sound, perhaps its
greater strength lies in its system of reporting.
(x) Establish the National Council for Human
The DOTS strategy along with the other
Resources in Health (NCHRH).
components of the Stop TB strategy, implemented
under the Revised National Tuberculosis Control
(xi) Transform existing Village Health
Program (RNTCP) in India, is a comprehensive
Committees (or Health and Sanitation
package for TB control.
Committees) into participatory Health Councils.
Every day in India, under the RNTCP, more than
(xii) Ensure the rational use of drugs. 15,000 suspects are being examined for TB, free of
charge.
(xiii) Set up national and state drug supply
logistics corporations. The diagnosis of these patients and the follow-up
of patients on treatment are achieved through the
(xiv) Empower the Ministry of Health and Family examination of more than 50,000 laboratory
Welfare to strengthen the drug regulatory specimens.
system.

As a result of these examinations, each day, about Imposing conditions like compulsory vaccination,
3,500 patients are started on treatment, stopping schooling can be included in schemes like Food
the spread of TB in the community. Security, MGNREGA, Direct Benefit Transfer
started recently. Already, Mid Day Meal uses
In order to achieve this, more than 600,000 health such dual targeting of education and food
care workers have been trained and more than provisio. But proper feasibility study needs to be
11,500 designated laboratory Microscopy Centers conducted for the success of such schemes in
have been upgraded and supplied with binocular Indian conditions and system. Hence,
microscopes since the inception of the RNTCP. undoubtedly, Bolsa Familia presents a role model
for Indian policy makers.
As a result of rapid expansion in diagnostic
facilities, the proportions of sputum- positive
cases confirmed in the laboratory are double that
of the previous program and are on par with Q-Bring out the importance of social prescribing
international standards. in providing a healthcare solution to patients
suffering from mental health problems. (150
Despite the rapid expansion, overall performance Words)
remains good and in many areas is excellent.
Treatment success rates have tripled from 25%in Answer)
the earlier program to 86%in RNTCP.
Social prescribing aims to expand the options
Q-Critically evaluate Brazil‘s Bolsa available in a primary care consultation. This
Familia program in eradicating poverty. expansion is in the direction of strong choices-
Examine in which schemes this program can be options that make available new life
adopted in India successfully. (200 Words) opportunities that can add meaning, form new
relationships, or give the patient a chance to take
Bolsa Familia (Family Grant) is a direct cash responsibility or be creative, which typically
transfer scheme of Brazil started in 2002. It includes activities from dance classes to knitting
provides money to the 14 million poor families of groups and cookery clubs.
Brazil. Conditions for getting this benefit are Usually these services need to be available locally
compulsory vaccination of children and their and often within the voluntary, community, and
attendance in schools. According to a recent social enterprise sector.
report by UN, Brazil has seen significant fall in
In all cases, social prescribing is a formal means
the poverty numbers in the last decade, owing to
of making links to locally accessible opportunities
this scheme.
for patients. Where there is nothing appropriate
Bolsa Familia not enhances the incomes of poor, (especially in rural areas) it can provide a
but also target menace of illiteracy and child framework for getting something started. Once
mortality. Although some criticisms are thrown the facilitator and supporting network is in place,
like being populist and affecting the labour force making the ‗prescription‘ is quick and easy.
requirements , but its benefit towards poor
Social prescription is claimed to have a range of
overshadow such allegations. The success of
positive outcomes for individuals including
scheme is immense.
enhanced self-esteem, improved mood,
India also stations large numbers of poor, opportunities for social contact, increased self-
undernourished and illiterate. Thus Bolsa Familia efficacy, various transferable skills and greater
presents positive opportunities to adopt in Indian confidence.
schemes. Specially, the conditions which
Developed societies around the world are
empower Bolsa Familia and make it multi-faceted
struggling to provide universal health care at an
can be adopted in India. Indian parents,
affordable cost. Population growth, longer life
especially poor, often discourage their children
expectancy for some, increasingly expensive
from education due to economic and social
factors.

technology, and rising patient expectations are immunisation along with a feedback system for
widely expected to make this problem worse. the ANM, ASHA etc to ensure that all pregnant
women receive their Ante-Natal Care Check-ups
At the same time a recent World Health
(ANCs) and post-natal care (PNCs); and further
Organization report underlines how powerfully
children receive their full immunisation.
social determinants contribute to shortened life
expectancy in the poor. In short, society is not The Janani Suraksha Yojana is the key strategy to
meeting our needs despite (perhaps because of) achieve this reduction which is a modified
the most important ones being simple and few. scheme of National Maternity Benefit Scheme. In
JSY the dominant explanation became one of a
Social prescribing has been shown to help some
cash transfer that hinged on a condition -whether
individuals and is an option we should
the pregnant woman chose to deliver in an
embrace. This requires a shift in medical culture
institution or not.
towards a closer identification with the public
health of the local community. Also other parallel schemes were planned to meet
increasing deliveries. JSY achieved scale in terms
Q- Critically examine the steps taken by the of increased volume of intuitional deliveries in
government in ensuring safe institutional health facilities, but a number of major concerns
delivery for pregnant women in India. (200 began to emerge no proper clinical and
Words) supportive care, reaching the poorest and most
marginalised, and Persistence of home deliveries
–40% in most districts. Hoping current incentives
Institutional deliveries help pregnant woman by ministry to improve infrastructure would
further help in institutional deliveries.
accessible to skilled attendants and also helps
during emergency to combat maternal deaths.
Q-In your opinion why India has high rate of
Due to poor economic conditions and lack of MMR? (150 Words)
proper transportation facilities,
underdevelopment of hospitals and its equipment
people prefer to undergo in homes as they cannot India joined with international community in
affordable to private institutions. millennium development programme, as a part of
Government incentives to promote deliveries in which reduction of 2/3rd mortality deaths by
institutions include 2015 was one of the prescribed goals.
--National Rural Health Mission and Jan Despite of all this still India is having high MMR
Suraksha Yojana is due to
-- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has -poor infrastructure facilities in hospitals,
drafted protocols on improving the condition of
labour rooms in public-funded hospitals. -not aware of medical necessity and also
--ASHA role haemorrhage,
-sepsis,
National Rural Health Mission (NRHM) launched
in 2005 provide equitable accessible and -obstructed labor and unsafe abortions remain the
affordable health care by reduction in MMR is biggest direct preventable medical causes,
one of its goals. -Teenage pregnancy is one of the major area of
In NHRM there is seperate program for pregnent concern,
women, i.e MCTS(mother and child tracking
system). -poverty,
The goal of MCTS is pregnant women and - human resource paucity,

children can be tracked for their ANCs and

-Gov. spending below 1% They are strangled in the vicious circle of poverty.
To facilitate proper institutionalized delivery to

curb maternal death GOI initiated certain Furthermore there are many people in backward
schemes like National Rural Health Mission, Jan classes who do not deserve positive
Suraksha Yojana Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog discrimination as they are well off and sustain
Yojana (IGMSY) and the Pradhan Mantri Gram themselves but hey still seek benefits, hence the
Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). parameters that define the affirmative actions has
to re-examined and more comprehensive
These schemes contributed to reduction of MMR mechanism to include all desirable people should
in appreciable percent but still India ranks 142 be added based on their financial status rather
among 176 countries in MMR. than their lineage of caste.
This is because of poor implementation and many
Q-Do you agree with the view that
times it doesn‘t reach the gross roots like
Karnataka‘s Shaadi Bhagya scheme is
panchayata and block level and lack of
unconstitutional? Substantiate. (150 Words)
coordination between GOI, private sector and
NGOs.
Shaadi Bhagya scheme for women from all
Therefore immediate attentions are need to make economically weaker sections of society.
our policies to adopt modern technology,
The government had announced Rs. 50,000 to
implementation targets at local levels, record
poor girls at the time of their marriage.
keeping, reporting monitoring, and developing
infrastructure.
Q-Comment on India‘s efforts to protect
children under five from deaths caused
Q-Has affirmative action affected wellbeing of
by preventable diseases. (200 Words)
people belonging to forward classes? Critically
comment if there is need to introduce the policy
India‘s current position on the child death caused
of affirmative action in favor of forward classes
too. (200 Words) by preventable diseases,
1. India is currently topped the list of countries
with most of child deaths due to pneumonia
Affirmative action is also known as positive
along with Nigeria
discrimination. Affirmative action by the state is
2. India losses 4 lakh children due to pneumonia,
an endeavour to provide a helping hand to those
diarrhea before they turn age of 5 based on 4th
sections of the society which has been facing
Pneumonia and Diarrhoea Progress Report 2013.
social ignorance since ages.
3. In 2013, India lost 436 children below 5 yrs/
As most of these people belong to SCs STs and 1000 livebirths due to pneumonia and diarrhoea.
other backward sections of the society, the state 4. In 2012, India‘s coverage of Pertussis measles
has taken care to include measures to make these vaccine – 72%, Measles vaccine – 74%, Exclusive
people on par with the advanced sections of the breastfeeding for 6 months – 46%.
society.
But in this attempt a slight strand of section went => These figures are based on based on
missing that is the forward classes with ‗Pneumonia and diarrhea Progress Report‘.
economical backwardness. There are many such => India placed with lowest GAPPD (Integrated
classes who are advanced by social status but Global Action Plan for Prevention and Control of
very backward in all other spheres. Pneumonia and Diarrhoea) scores and not met
any of 9 targets in the 2013 report.
These people can neither enjoy the benefits from => In 2012, India jointed UNICEF and with US
govt as received by backward classes nor can they and Ethiopia to start an global effort ―Committing
have advancements as other forward classes do. to Child Survival: A Promise Renewed‖ and this
year reaffirmed its commitment through a
national event ―India‘s Call to Action Summit for 3. States will be incentivised to bring
Child Survival and Development‖. amendments in their higher education
=> India has made some progress in coverage of organisations and working.
pneumonia interventions since last year‘s IVAC‘s 4. Key problems which this scheme targets are :
report. Access, Equity and Excellence
=> India made some progress on introducing new 5. Funding to the state universities will be
vaccine and improving coverage during this year. performance and result oriented.
1. Hib (Haemophilus influenza type B ) 6. More autonomy and accountability to be fixed
containing pentavalent vaccine to protect from on state universities.
pneumonia going to be introduce all over country 7. Emphasis to be on quality enhancement.
through the Universal Immunization Programme Curriculum revision, research, innovation and
(UIP). expansion to be envisaged in contrary to
2, Recently India developed 1st indigenous traditional approach.
vaccine against Rota virus through PPP (Public-
Hence RUSA will bring paradigm shift by
Private Partnership) mode to protect child from
targeting higher education specifically, so that
diarrhea.
India can build an asset of its bright demographic
=> Even though there is some progress, India‘s
dividend.
current vaccine coverage, treatment interventions
are lesser than the targeted 90%.
=> India need more comprehensive integrated
efforts to develop new indigenous low cost Q-What are the important schemes undertaken
vaccines for various preventable diseases, by the government to improve the socio-
improve Universal Immunization Programme to economic condition of the tribal population in
increase vaccination coverage and more India? Do you think those schemes have made
importantly creating awareness about importance positive impact? Examine. (250 Words)
of clean, hygienic practices, breast-feeding among
people to achieve the target of ending child Answer)
mortality caused by preventable disease in The constitution of India has special provisions to
successful manner. increase the socio-economic development of the
scheduled tribal people by following art 342,164,
Q-Do you support more government spending 244, 275, 330 and 332, also it directs the state
on social sectors schemes? Analyze the benefits government to implement article 42 of the
or drawbacks of such spendings taking cue from ―Directive principles of the state policy‖.
past and present performances of many high
budget social sector schemes. (200 Words) The ministry of tribal affairs is the nodal ministry
for overall development of the scheduled tribes
Answer) http://www.thehindu.com/todays- which focus on the integrated socio and economic
paper/tp-opinion/tightrope- development.
walking/article5353221.ece Even though government endeavor to increase
socio-economic aspects of the particularly
Q-Salinet features of Rashtriya Uchchatar vulnerable tribal groups (PVTG) they have
Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) (100 Words) started the integrated tribal development
project(ITDP).
The salient features of Rashtriya Uchchatar
Shiksha Abhiyan(RUSA) are: They are given subsidies , and encouraged for the
small production of forest produce. But the main
concern with respect to these community people
1. This flagship scheme will focus on higher are the health and education.
education .
2. Centres of higher education in states will be the The government of india has given free
main focus scholarship and free health check facilities but
these are scarce to the people living in the forest

regions. The recent survey by the UNICEF(united How does the proposed Prevention of
nations international children‘s emergency fund) Communal Violence (Access to Justice and
in Attappady village in pukkad district of Kerala Reparations) Bill proposes to deal with communal
where health facilities are failed in these areas, the violence in the country? Why is there controversy
children and new born babies are died due to regarding the bill? Do you think objections raised
malnutrition. against the bill are justified? Comment. (200
Words)
The reasons for this is the encroachment of land
by the private and government agencies, this will Ans. For dealing with instances of communal
affect the economic conditions of these hamlets violence in the country, following provision have
which will have an impact on their families. So been made in the Communal Violence (Access to
the government should restore the land of the Justice and Reparations) Bill:
scheduled tribes and making ASHA workers to 1. State Government can declare an area as
work to their full potential and increase the communally disturbed. In that case, the DM can
malnutrition level of these people. take measures such as regulating assembly,
directing persons to deposit arms, searching
premises etc. to control the communal violence.
2. The Bill seeks to double the punishment as
Important aspects of governance provided by the existing laws. The State
Government shall establish special courts to try
Discuss community policing as a tool for better offences under this law. These courts may direct
policing. (150 words) the convicted persons to pay compensation to the
victims or dependents.
3. A Communal Disturbance Relief and
Ans. Community Policing is a mechanism that Rehabilitation Council will be formed at National,
encourages increased interaction between the State and the District level.
people and police to identify various security 4. The district council shall pay at least 20% of the
issues proactively and take time bound measures compensation as immediate relief to the victim.
to address them. This also helps the police to Bill is also being opposed for it treats different
identify the criminals. In this mechanism, police communities differently.
is no longer the only guardian of law and order
and all members of the community become active The key issue in the opposition to the Bill is that
allies to enhance the safety and quality of many of the provisions are vaguely worded
neighborhood. It helps to break down the barrier which could rise to different interpretations. The
of apathy and mistrust between community and Bill is also opposed because it is said to encroach
the police and mobilize the sources of community on rights of States, since law and order is a subject
to help the police personnels to solve the of the state.
problems and enhance the quality of life. Without
trust between police and citizens, policing is
impossible and community policing is aimed to What is a Cabinet Committee? What is the
fill this trust deficit. Local communities or composition and functions of Cabinet
resident welfare associations can thus play an Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA)? (200
important role in increasing the effectiveness of Words)
police in the society.
Community Policing is used widely in the Cabinet Committees on economic Affairs is a
Western Countries and is also being adopted specific mandate committee set up by the Prime
slowly in India. It will help the people to become Minister to provide recommendation and
more responsible towards their safety and allow decision making on issues of economic affairs of
the police to effectively perform its functions State. The Composition of CCEA will be more
understandable once the major functions of
CCEA are enumerated. The main functions of

CCEA are: can be go for delegate legislation under which

1. To continuously review the economomic trends certain authorities can be assigned to Panchayats,
2. To coordinate on activities in economic Gram-sabha and local authorities to admire the
relations such as FDI etc doctrine of check and balance.
3., To deal with fixation of prices of agicultural
products etc Social audit can also be prominent in this regard
4. Policy control over price rise in essential .Karnataka model was exemplary in assigning
commodities such delegate authorities.
5. Lay down guidelines for Public sector
Notably, there is empirical evidence that the local
investment etc
thesils are just like the hub of corruption as they
The composition of CCEA thus include Prime are also have great authorities to implement such
Minister, Minister of Defence, Finance Minister, schemes the situation become quite vulnerable. In
Home Minister and other Cabinet Ministers of this regard ITC and technology driven e platform
various Departments relating to Economic can be a important source .As it has been observe
development such as Agriculture Health, Poer, in many states that the computerization of
Urban development, Power etc, Additionally, it records eliminate the middleman and the
may have as its special invitees the Deputy corruption to the larger extent. Furthermore some
Chairman of Planning Commission and Minister stringent laws and regulations are also essential
of State for Consumer Affairs. to mitigate the corruption. Thus with the help of
It must be noted that a Prime Minister may open proper vision ,accountability, global knowledge
the decisions of CCEA to full Cabinet for and moral leadership this prevailing corruption
deliberation can easily be eliminate from the government
sponsored schemes and thus it will serve the
With an example, examine how corruption can larger national interest.
be reduced in government sponsored schemes.
―The quality and volume of public goods and
A recent global report clearly revealed that the services supplied by the government as well as
corruption in India reached to alarming the effectiveness and efficiency of welfare
proportions . Report further exposed that the transfers determine the voter behaviour in
government sponsored schemes become the India.‖ Analyze. (200 Words)
major apparatus behind such prevailing
corruption. The Indian Express
It should to be noted that the GOI is investing is Voter behavior in India is a complex function of
huge sum of GDP in such schemes to adhere to several factors. People tend to vote on caste and
it‘s constitutional obligations ,but the prevailing religious lines, especially rural and uneducated
corruption has not only led to the financial crisis voters. Money and muscle power of the
but it has also overshadowed the basic objectives candidates continue to be key determinants of
behind these schemes that the welfare of subjects. winability of candidates.
To mitigate such incidence of corruption
government first of all take initiative for direct But an analysis of elections over the last couple of
cash transfers. decades point at the declining influence of the
above stated factors and greater influence of
As the research done by PC itself revealed that governance. A greater number of voters now
the direct cash transfer schemes have great compare governments on the basis of their
potential to revoke such tendency of corruption. performance with regard to matters that affect
Infact such scheme adopted by government in them on a daily basis. Standard of living, quality
certain domains like scholarship, subsidies shows and volume of public goods and services such as
the tremendous result. It has been also observe public transport, electricity, education, health etc
that certain programs like PDS are the prominent and welfare are key performance indicators.
source of corruption. In this regard government

Some analysts have been able to correlate the

performance of the incumbent governments in
elections to quantifiable indicators such as the rise 2. This Bill may create a parallel grievance
in standard of living. The widely unexpected redressal mechanism as many central and
performance of the AAP in Delhi Assembly polls state laws have established similar
is testimonial to the fact that corruption which mechanisms.
disregards good governance can be a key election
issue. +
3. Lack of clarity on the meaning of public
How to sell your welfare policies among the
authority It is not clear whether the Bill
masses also a new factor because of fast
applies to private entities only if they are
communication era and media trials……
established or constituted under a
Governance is not the sole criteria. However, its notification. The term ‗public authorities‘
growing influence on the voter behavior is a has been defined broadly to mean
welcome change, which can be fast-tracked by authorities constituted under: (a) the
educating the masses. Constitution or under any central or state
law; (b) an agreement between the
Analyze the important provisions of the draft government and a private entity as a PPP;
Right of Citizens for Time Bound Delivery of and (c) any entity established under a
Goods and Services and Redressal of their notification or order of the government.
Grievances Bill, 2011. (200 Words) This definition also includes: (i) non-
governmental organizations that receive
government finances either directly or
indirectly, and (ii) other companies that
Bill seeks to create a mechanism to ensure timely are supplying goods or services to fulfil a
delivery of goods and services to citizens. statutory obligation, or under a license or
authorisation by law. It is not clear if
♦ Every public authority is required to publish a these organisations are required to be
citizens charter within six months of the established under a notification. It is
commencement of the Act. pertinent to note that the Right to
Bill requires all public authorities to appoint Information Act, 2005 includes private
officers to redress grievances. Grievances are to entities as long as they are controlled or
be redressed within 30 working days. financed by the government. Private
sector companies are covered by other
The Bill also provides for the appointment of laws such as
Central and State Public Grievance Redressal
Commissions. Consumer Protection Act, 1986 and the
Competition Act, 2002. Inclusion under
♦ A penalty of up to Rs 50,000 may be levied this Bill may lead to multiple dispute
upon the responsible officer or the Grievance settlement forums being available for the
Redressal Officer for failure to render services. same dispute. For instance, grievances
related to services to be provided under a
contract would fall under the Consumer
Key Issues and Analysis Protection Act and this Bill.
1. Parliament may not have the jurisdiction

to regulate the functioning of state public
4. The Commissioners may be removed
officials as state public services fall within
without a judicial inquiry on an allegation
the purview of state legislatures.
of misbehaviour or incapacity. This
….Preventable wrong under concurrent
list….
differs from the procedure under other land acquisition will be functions after they have
legislations. received all the clearance starting from the
environ ministry to the gram Sabha of the
affected region. The growth will be not only
measured by the growth figure but the number of
5. Only citizens can seek redressal of
people getting benefited by the activity.
grievances under the Bill. The Bill does
Transparency will not only benefit the masses but
not enable foreign nationals who also use
also the investor as decision will be fast without
services such as driving licenses,
the hindrances faced when decisions are taken
electricity, etc., to file complaints.
behind doors. For transparency to creep in the
institutions which are vested with the duty to see
that transparency and accountability is secured
6. Inconsistency between the powers of the they must function without any partisan supports
DA and the Commissions The Bill or fears. Some these institutions are CAG, CBI,
provides for two levels of appeals by a CVC, Green tribunals to name a few.
complainant: first to the DA, and then to
the Commission. So strong impartial institutions will help in
establishment of transparent ways to growth
There is an inconsistency between the powers of which will ultimately help all
the two. If there is a prima facie indication of
corruption, the DA may either refer the matter to ―Populist anarchy cannot be a substitute for
the appropriate authority or initiate proceedings. governance. ―Comment in the light of recent
However, if the political developments in the country. (200
Words)
complainant appeals against the DA‘s decision to
the Commission, it can only refer the matter to Incidents of protests by political parties are not
the new phenomena. They have been happening in
India even before it gained independence from
appropriate authority. Unlike the DA, the
the British. In fact the most popular mode
Commission does not have the power to initiate
adopted by Mahatma Gandhi to oppose the
proceedings.
British was protest and that is how we attained
our independence. Political parties have resorted
―…governance cannot simply mean growth any
to protests even for petty and strange issues such
more but means the way it contributes through a
as securing release of their party worker or leader
discourse of accountability, institutional
procedures and transparency to widening who is allegedly involved in criminal activities or
economic opportunities and a more inclusive to fulfill some demand which would be in their
democratic order.‖ Elaborate. (200 Words)The own party‘s interest.
Hindu
Sometimes the protests would even take violent
turns such as vandalizing private and public
We have seen the growth in the past; the pre-2008
property, causing disruption in road and rail
period was the period of economic growth and
transportation, city or state-wide bandhs for petty
post 2010 the period of inflation. Now India
reasons and so on. They would cause huge losses
slowly limps back to its past growth trajectory.
to the state, disruption of normal life such as loss
But will this new growth become development
of productive office hours, closure of schools and
for the masses. The answer will lie in how much
colleges which would affect studies and so on.
is the growth is inclusive, transparency,
Extreme forms include causing riots, arson more
accountability and ultimately who are benefitted
specifically is the case of the Sikh riots or Gujarat
and who are affected.
riots were loss of human life took place in active
Now growth will be measured by the connivance with the state‘s political and
transparency and accountability for example any administrative machinery. This is anarchy.

Whereas, the Delhi CM went on a peaceful scale corruption in the implementation of

protest, for a just and a valid cause, without MGNREGS, it also redefines and strengthens
declaring any bandh which was branded by the people‘s engagement and participation. Thus, in
mainstream media as anarchist. assessing the credibility of social audits, it is
imperative to look at these through a qualitative
The Indian constitution guarantees every lens throwing light on people‘s engagement with
individual the right to express our concerns on the state at the grassroots level, beyond
various social and public issues through peaceful measuring corruption.
means. But the onus lies on civil societies, and
people who should control their actions if they The public hearing forum in the social audit
want the government to be accountable to them. process is one of the few platforms at the
grassroots level where beneficiaries can voice
People's voice through NGO's civil society need their concerns and negotiate their entitlements
to be Institutionalized…. directly with senior state officials. In Andhra
Pradesh, where the process of social audits has
‖The lack of involvement of beneficiaries, who been institutionalised
are systematically dis-empowered and
discouraged from questioning service delivery training in filing RTIs, accessing scheme-related
and holding implementing agencies records, verifying the records and conducting
accountable, is one of the key reasons for door-to-door beneficiary verification, alongside
implementation failure of various government worksite verification. . It brings the local
schemes.‖ Elaborate highlighting the government and implementing agencies directly
importance of social audits. (200 Words) under the radar for provisions, such as the
number of works completed, quality of work
undertaken, expenses incurred on projects,
appropriate facilities offered at worksites, etc, by
The mere provision of a scheme does not
bringing in credible and well-scrutinised
necessarily guarantee its access, and certainly not
evidence.
where the awareness on rights and entitlements is
lacking. participatory democracy. Alongside unearthing
corruption related to labour and material, social
in the case of India, which has a set of well-
audits offer the finer details of corruption, such as
designed social policies suffering from major
specific tasks where delays have been observed,
implementation failure. Among other things, it is
tasks not recorded, or reasons for payment
a stark manifestation of the existing top-down
delays.
approach that has failed to deliver at the
grassroots level and needs to be addressed on It is true that social audit is an excellent
priority. community monitoring tool, but judging its
effectiveness by looking only at corruption data is
It is important to differentiate between the
to overlook the process of gradual empowerment
structural- and the process-related barriers to
it brings about at the grassroots level. It provides
implementation that lead to financial and non-
a mechanism to those currently not getting
financial irregularities and the scope of social
served, or are underserved, and negotiate services
audits to impact them. Structural barriers arise
meant for them. Field observations also suggest a
from within the social, economic and political
phenomenal lack of awareness about scheme-
contexts within which the scheme operates,
related entitlements that social audits address.
which shape and define the constraints of
Particularly, in door-to-door verification, social
implementation. On the other hand, process-
audit gram sabha and public hearings creates
related barriers refer to issues of awareness,
awareness regarding rights and entitlements. It
access to information and overall participation
also serves as an empowering tool that
that impact implementation. As a community
encourages rural citizenry to participate in local
monitoring tool, while social audit reveals large-

governance and creates a sense of civic

responsibility.
Quote: - Daniel Kauffman (in "Growth without
Judging the credibility of the social audit process governance", a World Bank discussion paper
led by beneficiaries by analysing it against the from 2002) defines a measure of governance that
post-audit follow-up led by the state and its considers a basket of six things: voice and
larger impact on the scheme‘s workability is a accountability; political stability and the absence
short-sighted proposition. of violence; government effectiveness; regulatory
quality; rule of law; and control of corruption.
Accountability is one of the pillar of governance
without which a country can not achieve its
intended objective of welfare state that is
inclusive development of all its citizen.
Success or failure of government schemes • In simple words governance is the vital

depends upon its achievement of its objective compliance of all citizen-centric services of
means whether the intended service has reached government, which will deal in mitigating
its beneficiaries in a effective or efficient manner the grievances of citizens and adhere to
or not. Therefore efficient working of schemes the constitutional obligation of welfare
requires its scrutinisation at each level of its state.
implementation by involving the targeted people • It should to be noted that the good
in the process of scrutinisation. governance plays a pivotal role in the
economic growth of the country. As the
Although by showing financial and political basic philosophy of good governance
commitment , the government has succeeded in deals with the noble ideas of global
removing the structure related barrier to knowledge, moral leadership, and
implementation but lagged behind in removing collective action. All these are also the
the process related barrier such as issue of prominent apparatus behind the full-
awareness, overall participation. Therefore to fill fledged working of an economy.
the gap between the structure and process related • It has been also observe that for the better
barriers social auditing plays a crucial rule. flow of economy transparency and
accountability are essential and the
It is a tool for empowerment and helps to involve governance can be only consider as good
the people at grass root level in the process of governance if it is accountable and
implementation by making the authority transparent.
accountable to any mismatch in intended and real • Furthermore the concept of good
outcome of any scheme. governance was also rely on the efficient
use of ICT and such conceptual use of e-
By providing RTI , government has taken a step
technology forum also pave the sound
forward to involve all sections in the process of
economic flow. If we analyze the Indian
implementation.But the real outcome will depend
scenario we can easily find that the new
upon the awareness, access , infrastructure
initiative taken government like single
development at grass root level which can be
window clearance, filing of e- taxes etc.
achieved only by effective participation from
proves very significant in elaborating the
NGO , people and government agencies.
economic growth. Such vibrant use of
technology not only mitigates the
incidence of corruption and red tapism, it
What do you understand by governance? also make feasible environment for the
Discuss its relationship with economic growth. new investments in nation.
• More on the basic agenda of good
governance is the emancipation and
upliftment of marginalized sections of the

society and the economic obligation of the parking lot for retired politicians, loyal party
constitution of India was also same. Infact workers. Highly politicized.
the new economic goal of nation is
inclusive growth which again closely The above examples suggest that governance
related to good governance. structure of the organisation has a bearing on its
• So while visualizing all these arguments it outputs. A transparent, independent, accountable
is apparent that the good government is bodies have fared well over politicized and
not only a political phenomenon which controlled ones
led to crystallization of democracy, it also
has a miraculous potential for economic
―Key to sustaining economic growth and
advancement of nation.
promoting development is good governance and
Globally, there is widespread evidence that quality decision-making.‖ Examine the factors
establishes the strong effect that governance that affect good governance and ethical decision
structure has on research output.‖ In the context making in the higher echelons of government.
(200 Words)
of India and its institutions of national
importance, critically comment on the statement.
• Indian state has been mired in a lot of
Governance structure of any organisation has an controversy due to its decision making –
impact on its working. Efficiency, effectiveness, characterised by slow pace, reversal of decisions,
transparency, work culture imbibed, monitoring lack of clarity and ambiguity. This has adversely
and evaluating mechanisms, it‘s financial viability affected the policy scenario contributing to fall in
and sustenance are all determined by its growth rate and development process.
organizational structure. • Good governance and quality decision making
is the key here, which is affected by the quality of
In the Indian context and with special reference to personnel, information availability, creative
research, the following analysis can be made control, discussion with stake holders, awareness
of various aspects of decision and issues arising
1) The atomic energy commission and space out of its implementation, clarity over grey areas
commission are the nodal agencies for the in policy making etc.
respective sectors. They are headed by the prime • Honest and upright persons are the key to good
minister. Our success in these sectors is owed to governance. They have the ability to provide a
the functioning of these bodies. They have a self- moral backing to the decisions and motivate other
fulfilling prophesy, independence and self- employees. Ministers, bureaucrats and
accountable. The organizational structure of these technocrats constitute this echelon and their
bodies has a great beating on their success. integrity has been increasingly questioned.
2) Whereas, the DRDO, the nodal agency for • Being a developing state, not all the institutions
defense research works under the defense are well developed and several areas are
characterised by overlapping or absence of
ministry. The defense services sets targets and
goals. Due to its political nature is prone to legislation. Non-availability of raw data also
lobbying by vested interests, adversely affecting hampers the decision making ability. The
controversy about deciding the poverty line us a
DRDOs working.
case in point.
3) The planning commission, one of its roles is to • Decision makers have to be provided creative
plan strategies for optimum utilization of control over the process and they have to be
resources. Very powerful body with immense provided some legal protection so as to exercise
resources. Even then the strategies and research their functions effectively. Transparency,
output is substandard as evident in the statistics discussion are also vital ingredients of this
of our countries human development. This has to process. Awareness of grey areas in decision
be attributed to its structure. It has become a making and understanding conflicting claims for
an unbiased analysis is needed to provide colour
to decisions. Ordinance or no ordinance still
remains a question. Benefit Transfer (DBT) linked with the Aadhar

• Healthy and effective implementation card was a major step forward in this direction.
mechanism is also imperative as decisions are to Online applications, Mission mode projects and
be made analysis the competence of the existing many e-governance schemes have been launched
machinery. India‘s colonial mind set based by the states and central govt.
bureaucracy has been unable to adapt to It also recommended the adoption of the self-
changing circumstances. certification provision to simplify procedures,
• What is needed is an overhaul of the existing minimizing the paper work, containing the govt.
system so as to make it more responsive to the forms in single page formats by doing away
needs of nation and help it regain its moral unnecessary information and reducing the By-
authority. laws to provide effective governance.
There is need for good understanding between
states and center and among different dept. of the
govt. to better implementation of many of these
.Examine what measures were recommended by good recommendations.
the Second Administrative Reforms
Commission to bring speed and efficiency in
governance.
.Examine in what ways India can do away with
unwanted archaic laws.
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission
(ARC) was constituted in 2005 to suggest India has been infamous for its red tape for long.
measures to achieve a proactive, responsive, Before 1991′s Economic reforms India was
accountable, sustainable and efficient characterized with ―Inspector Raj‖.
administration for the country at all levels of the There were too many laws which necessitated too
government. many permissions to start an enterprise.After
2nd ARC prepared 15 reports for the 1991 and the opening of India‘s economy
consideration of Govt. It made following main government did away with many such laws.But
recommendations for effective governance- Even then that‘s not enough. Even today India
1) Citizen-centric administration is the heart of rank very low in the global list of ―countries with
the governance. Rajasthan‘s ‗Right to hearing‘, ease to work‖.
‗Jan-Sunwayi‘ by many state govt. and Some of the ways that can be used to do away
‗Administration at your door‘ are many different with them are:-
models working effectively to take public views 1. Creation of an institutional mechanism such as
about the govt. policies and their implementation. that in UK and Australia. These executive bodies
2) Right to information will be a master key for are required to continuously review legislations,
public to keep an eye on the govt. functions and assess their impact and recommend those that are
will prompt public servants to deliver the speedy unwanted.
services and justice. It will also bring the 2. Sunset clause in laws that prescribe the time till
transparency in govt. office work and will result which the law would be active.
in the effective utilization of the public fund.
3) Empowering the Local Government in both 1. More Delegation to departments...But it
rural and urban area will help in decentralization can lead to more discretion and poor Rule
of decision power and will increase responsibility of law.
on the local administrator to act and make
policies according to the local requirement. This
will fasten the service delivery to public.
4) Promoting e- Governance is the smart way Analyse the lacunae observed in urban
forward in good governance. Use of ICT in govt. governance in India.
work will improve effectiveness, speed, accuracy,
transparency and will minimize arbitrage. Direct
The Urban governance ,vis-a-vis. Rural local self It is no denying the fact that concentration of
governance has not yet been rooted seriously. powers in a single authority tends to increase the
Control over urban bodies by State government authoritarian character of any government. But
and unwillingness to bring in concrete scheme of the moot question is whether there is any
implementation is a cause for concern. probability of concentration of power in one‘s
Though 74th amendment act constitutionally hand in Indian context. The constitution framers
legitimized Urban Local bodies,it is the of India were very much aware of the inherent
‗Implementation Part‘,which was divested to the strengths and weaknesses of India as a nation.
respective state governments is affecting the This is the reason why they rejected the
Urban governance. Presidential form of government ( which has a
The definition of ‗Urban Area‘ itself is relatively higher shade of authoritarianism) and
controversial. Moreover,urban areas are dynamic selected a parliamentary form of governance for
so their size keeps on varying. Further, there is India. Besides these they ensured that the level of
absence of uniform 3-Tier structure of urban decentralization defined in the constitution is
governance amongst states. Most of the states maintained by putting in various check and
missing the intermediate level. balances. Firstly, the executive is collectively and
Number of subjects restricted for the Urban directly responsible to the elected representatives
bodies(19 presently) are of local nature. Most of of the people, the Parliament. Secondly, the
subjects overlaps with state or central subjects federal structure of our polity ensures that there
creating ambiguity in jurisdiction. Further,in the is no overlapping and encroachment of powers
wake of unwillingness of state governments to between different tiers of government. Thirdly,
divest financial resources,inability of Urban the ever active and independent judiciary is there
bodies to levy taxes on their own leaves its plan to confine the actions of the government within
on paper only. the four corners of the constitution. Fourthly, the
The bifurcation of urban population into different fourth pillar of our democracy – the media is
wards is criticized on ground on non-uniformity highly alert and maintains a tight oversight on
of population size. The elected bodies and their the actions of the government. Fifthly, the civil
tussle with bureaucracy further creates woes for society of our country is increasingly active and is
Urban governance. Role of District collector and now claiming its participation in the governance.
his relationship with the Mayor have generated Sixthly, the non-partisan character of our
friction in some states. bureaucracy is a strong factor in dissuading any
In most of the Metropolitan cities,the ‗Parastatals‘ kind of authoritarianism. Besides these, there are
like Water Board,Electricity Board,Housing Board independent institutions like Election
are responsible for basic services. However,their Commission and CAG which are not bound by
‗Autonomous status‘ makes them non- the powers of the head of the government i.e. the
responsible to Urban Bodies. This results in Prime Minister and legislations like RTI Act
blame-game with shirking of responsibilities,with which are capable to nip the rise of
urban population at suffering end. authoritarianism in the bud.
JNNURM is seen as an encroachment of Centre However, there can be shades of grey where the
over Urban Local Bodies bypassing states. What very primus-inter-parse (first among equals)
we need is incorporation of successful features of character of the Prime Minister may tend towards
Rural Local self governance for improving Urban an authoritative one. This includes bearing more
Governance. influence in decision making , especially in
cabinet committees and institutions like Planning
Commission and NDC where the PM is the de-
Do you agree with the view that centralisation facto chairman, imposing a particular style of
of decision-making powers and concentration of governance, reducing the interaction of the
more powers with the Prime Minister would council of ministers with the media, bypassing
eventually lead to an authoritarian system of the ministers while interacting with bureaucrats
governance? In the context of India, critically etc. But till all such modes of governance are
comment. within the four walls of the constitution and all

other constitutional mandated checks and of public services have given rise to diversions,
balances are working properly there is absolutely ghost beneficiaries, misappropriation.
no way of the highest office of government Recent efforts of the GOI through Aadhar
becoming an authoritarian one. platform, use of telenetworks, panchayat
empowerment seems to address lacuna-es in the
public delivery of services.
Public services include education, healthcare,

Q--India‘s inability to provide public services to water, sanitation, providing driving
its masses is hindering its growth. Why do you licenses/passports etc. by government. Even after
think India is unable to deliver public services 66 years of independence, India‘s public services
efficiently to all its citizens? Critically comment. delivery system remains inefficient.
Firstly, too many central flagship schemes make
The thumb rule for the governance is the capacity efficient implementation difficult. Rather,
of the government to deliver the public services trimming the more than 100 schemes to 10 will be
to its masses effectively. Government of India easier to control and more successful. Secondly,
seems to be falling behind in this aspect. Though government programmes rather than being
by various legislation and initiatives such as Food outcome-oriented and data driven, are simply
security mission, NHRM, IAY, SSA among-st made rigidly on political whims. These must
other the government has increased the services have limited objectives which can be measured.
under its disposal. But failure to derive any Example: MGNREGA has about 7 objectives, and
effective mechanism to provide these services to no tangible measurement metrics are in place.
the needy has questioned the propriety of the Thirdly, rigid allocation of funds for ‗plan
government. The inability of government has expenditure‘ to states by Planning Commission
affected growth in following ways. needs to be modified. States prefer their own
Firstly, Lack of basic services that are essential for models of development. Lumpsum allocation by
the human capital such as education, health, food Finance Ministry and Finance Commission will
have negated any advantage of the demography help states engineer their own growth.
for India. Fourthly, outsourcing of public services to NGOs
Secondly, The inability of the government to alongwith use of e-governance to monitor their
provide infrastructural facilities such as road, outcomes will introduce better efficiency in
houses, irrigation have tended to keep the delivering services like education, health etc.
economical sector below its potential. Also, more financial and functional autonomy
Inability of India to deliver public services may cum flexibility to local bodies/district
arise due to the following reasons. administrations will lead to better
Firstly, The rampant corruption in governmental implementation, as exemplified in Bihar where
machinery sucks much of the benefit meant for Panchayat Sarpanches could effect better outcome
the poor. As per one estimate in the PDS system of education by recruiting para-teachers.
only 42 percent grain reaches the real Therefore, public services delivery can be
beneficiaries. improved to a great degree by being outcome-
Secondly, Lack of transparency and oriented, using technology, efficient grievance
accountability, pressure from below, illiteracy, redressal, training personnel to be service-
negligence tends to promote inefficiency and oriented, punishing corrupt people etc. Passage of
diversion of the public services. Public Service Delivery Acts by about 14 states is
Thirdly, The ineffective grievances redressal a step in right direction. Effective implementation
mechanisms have tended to provide blankets to will bring about better service delivery at all
wrong doings. levels of government.
Fourthly, Failure of the government to properly
integrate the technology in its overall framework

Q--In your opinion, what are the major reasons judgement said that these two clearances
behind delays in project clearances in India and should be simultaneously given.
what are its consequences? Critically examine. And when critical analysis is done in your
second point related to promoters you could
 India ranks among the bottom 50 nations in have added that when development and
terms of ‗ease of doing business‘, and one of envt are at loggerheads, it is the envt that
the main reasons is the prolonged delays in have to suffer modification and not
project clearances. Project clearances are development. Just tweaking a line or two
needed mainly to ensure that the project makes your answer more appealing.
does not excessively harm the environment. And in consequences, stalled projects
The main reasons behind delays in project directly leads to rising NPA crisis for banks
clearances are and hence economy as a whole goes spiral
a) inefficiency on the part of clearance down.
agency And another consequence is that this
b) poor project formulation on the part of attitude on part of promoter further
the project promoter. promotes apathetic attitude towards envt in
Ministry of Environment and Forest is in society.
charge of granting environmental Its a very basic consequence but since you
clearances. The environmental impact of will point it in ur answer relating points to
projects is assessed by the Expert Appraisal it, it will definitely fetch good marks.
Committee which then forwards its
recommendations to the ministry. The 
ministry often takes a lot of time to grant the Delays in project clearances especially green
clearance even after the recommendations clearances are cited as one of the reasons
of the EAC have been received. that have stalled growth and raised costs of
Poor project formulation is the second main various infra projects. Such delays could be
reason. The promoters of the project do not due to various reasons.
design the project keeping in view the One is built up inefficiencies in appraisal
environmental impacts of the project. This process. This may be because of excessive
results in the ministry asking the promoters red Tapism where projects are stuck at
to redesign the project to minimize the multiple layers due to delays in data
environmental impact. collation from different source or lack of
Delays in project clearances have serious inter sectors of inter ministerial
consequences for the economy. In India, coordination over big ticket projects
stalled projects in critical areas are one of spanning multiple sectors.
the prime reasons for slowdown in Second, due to disagreements among
industrial activity and thus the economic various agencies involved in appraisal.
growth. Delays due to inefficiency on part Projects requiring forest clearance under
of clearance agency also affects the investor FCA 1980 and EPA 1986 are appraised by
sentiments negatively which leads to expert advisory committee based on EIA
slowdown in investment which further reports. Disagreements over EIA report or
aggravates the problem of slowdown in delay in preparing EIA reports can also
growth. The government must ensure that cause delay.
there are no delays on its part. Finally judicial and social activism can stall
projects in many cases. For eg ban on iron
 ore mining imposed by SC in goa can also
The main hurdle is clearances required result in delays.
where a project is in forest areas are Th immediate consequence is the
environmental and forest clearance and this continuous rise in cost of projects. Scarce
leads to massive delay as often one is given capital resources of private sector and govt
and other is held back, and SC in its recent alike gets locked up due to want of

clearances. If loans are raised through

banks, they risk of turning into bad assets Mee Seva project of Andhra Pradesh Government
increasing the provisioning costs for banks is one of the largest e-governance or e-service
and erosion of their profitability. The stalled delivery projects by a government in the world. It
projects in core sectors like mining, power saves almost Rs 1000 Cr per year (Rs 1000 saving
plants and infrastructure sectors reduces the for 10 million annual transactions) for citizens
gross capital formation and hence and businesses. Hence, it has been hailed as a best
negatively affects the investment climate practice model, for emulation by other states and
and GDP growth. governments in the world.
It is no surprise then that India ranks at As per Mee Seva, a number of government
more than 100 globally for ease of doing services (delivery of driving licenses, birth/death
business. certificate etc.) are being provided via Internet to
In all, streamlining the appraisal process by the citizens. Digitally signed document copies are
eliminating inefficiency should be the provided. Private-public partnership model is
priority. The proposed national leveraged in this innovative system, whereby
environment appraisal and monitoring 25,000 trained youth have become digital agents
authority ( NEAMA ) in noteworthy in this to provide these services for a nominal fee
regard. However the quality of appraisal throughout the state.
must not be compromised. Overcoming attitudinal lethargy was a hurdle at
the beginning, yet with speedy implementation of
the project every nay-sayer was enthusiastic and
political will also saw this project through.
Q---Write a note on ‗Mee Seva‘ project of Therefore, this project recently won an excellence
Andhra Pradesh government. award for E-governance. Such public service
delivery projects using ICT must be leveraged for
Business Standard efficient governance throughout India, so that
Ans. ‗Mee Seva‘ is an e-Governance initiative of citizens are benefitted by minimising of red-tape
Government of Andhra Pradesh, which aims to and adherence to service time limits.
bring citizen-centric services to their doorsteps
through the use of information technology.
This initiative works on Public-Private
partnership model, where a large number of Transaparency and accountability
citizen centers are run by self-employed youths. (institutional and other measures)
Citizens can avail various government services
such as payment of taxes, issue of telephone Comment on the Section 8(1)(i) of the Right to
connections, driving license etc through these Information Act (100 WORDS)
centers. The requests made through this channel Ans.
is available in public domain, so that the time 1. Section 8(1))(i) of RTI states that an authority
taken to dispose applications could be tracked shall not be in any obligation to give information
and transparency could be introduced in the over cabinet papers including records of
working of the Government. deliberations of the Council of Ministers,
This initiative has helped in taking the Secretaries and other officers.
government closer to citizens, saving time and
money of citizens to avail these services, 2. However, the decision taken, the reasons for
improving coordination among various decisions and material on the basis of which the
departments for the delivery of services. Besides decision was taken can be made public after the
this, it has also generated a large number of decision has been taken or the matter is over.
employment opportunities for educated youth to Also only those matters can be disclosed which
get employment through the citizen centers, thus do not come under any exemption under the RTI
contributing to the inclusive growth of the Act.
society.

Do you think Indian media needs regulation? whole of india.

Comment why? (200 Words) The SPE acquired its current name by a Home
Ministry resolution dated 1 April 1963, and the
bureau was consolidated and came to be known
1. There have been various incidents where as CBI.
media failed to distinguish between its
There were two petitions which challenged the
freedom and moral responsibility. One such
legal stature of CBI.
incident was the live coverage of security
• Firstly there is no co-relation between the DSPE
operation during 26/11 which created
Act and CBI as the word ‗CBI‘ is, nowhere,
problems for our security personnels.
mentioned, even though the DSPE Act has
2. The recent buzzword in India, media-trial is
undergone several amendments
also an example of this where a strong public
• Second, the plea, that the CBI is merely a
opinion is created against a person who was
change of name of the DSPE, does not have legal
yet to be declared guilty by a court
standing as the DSPE Act, 1946. Petitioner said
3. There are alegations that some media houses
that though the CBI has been empowered to
are entering into ‗private treaties‘ with big
‗investigate‘ crimes, no power has been
corporates. Under this they are issued shares
specifically provided for ‗prosecution‘ of
and in turn they provide positive publicity
offenders by the CBI. The DSPE can merely
which increases shareprices held by them
‗investigate‘ a case and lay charge-sheet and,
4. They are also said to be running paid news, in
hence, the CBI‘s role shall come to an end once
favour of selected politicians and
‗investigation‘ is complete
businessman.
The bench noted the amicus curiae had been
5. Various business groups and politicians hold
correct in his submission that the Centre has
stake in media houses. And there is serious
constituted a body called ‗CBI‘ but the
conflict of interst and news can be tampered
investigating agency does not have any legal
to suit them.
sanction till date
The court declare that the DSPE Act, 1946, was
TRAI in recent report recommended that
not valid, it held that the CBI is neither an organ
entry of politicans and big businessmen in
nor a part of the DSPE and the CBI cannot be
media needs to be checked.
treated as a ‗police force‘ constituted under the
DSPE Act.
Why some Sections of the Delhi Special Police
Establishment Act were recently in news?
―The provision of negative voting would be in
the interests of promoting democracy and is a
The Delhi Special Police Establishment Act was giant step forward in push for more electoral
recently in news due to Guahati high court reforms.‖ Critically analyse. (250 Words)
verdict that quashed the stature of CBI ,which • Supreme Court recently recognised the right of
was constituted by an executive resolution of casting a vote as a constitutional right under
home ministry dated 1 april 1963. Article 19. It has thus provided a major thrust to
The Central Bureau of Investigation traces its Indian democracy by recognising the none-of-the
origins to Special Police Establishment (SPE) –above [NOTA] or negative vote as a
established in 1941.SPE was mainly established to constitutional right.
investigate bribery and corruption cases by GOI • Democratic politics in India is characterised by
during WW2.However Sardar Patel wanted to division on ethnic, religious, caste driven lines.
continue this Establishment to weed out This has forced parties to cultivate such
corruption form earstwhile princely states .This candidates which has led to increased use of
establishment or deptt was was transferred to the money and muscle power, candidates cultivating
Home Department by the 1946 Delhi Special short vote banks based on such fractures to gain
Police Establishment Act and was extended to via first-past-the-poll system. Citizens have been

unable to reject candidates and a whole ensuring electoral consequence in case NOTA
ecosystem of politics has emerged around such receives the maximum number of hits. As per the
factionalism. present provisions, candidate getting highest
• NOTA can prove to be the falling boulder from votes after NOTA will be declared winner. but
hill which can eradicate such falsifying structures. that need to be changed for meaningful effect of
It can lead to political parties choosing honest and introducing negative voting. one way is to cancel
upright candidates, force them to cultivate a the election in which NOTA receives maximum
national vision going beyond narrow gains, work number of votes and re -election be held with
for welfare of all and not just one community. earlier candidates barred from re contesting.
Candidates will be forced to participate more in This will force political parties to think about
their constituency. Candidates wielding money fielding candidates with better image and no
and muscle power will slowly fall behind. criminal background. With better people entering
• The winner will be the democratic tradition as our parliament and assemblies, democratic
more grassroot leaders will emerge. Puppet institutions will be cleaner and strengthened. so
leaders in the form of wives, relatives will no In a way such electoral reforms will put more
longer tolerated. The role of ethnic/religion/caste power in to the hands of general people to elect
based politics will be superseded by development better government. For time being NOTA is right
based inclusive politics. step in right direction and more electoral reforms
• However, NOTA has to be contextuated to are expected in times to come
emerge as an enabling force. Currently, it will not
be counted and if a candidate receives only 1%
vote and rest is NOTA, he/she will be elected. ―The recent controversies involving sports
Next series of reforms should be built around administrative bodies in India calls for integrity
ensuring genuine participatory politics. First- and transparency in their decision making
past-the poll system should be scrapped and process and overall functioning.‖ Critically
comment. (200 Words)
developmental issues will automatically gain
• India with more than one billion population has
currency. NOTA has the potential to be a
not been able to produce world class athletes
phenomenal development and it should not be
barring a few exceptions. The primary lacuna
allowed to go waste.
seems to be a missing nurturing environment
coupled with colonial-style managed sports
administrative institutions.
What is the principle behind introducing None
• India‘s sports administrative bodies have been
Of The Above (NOTA) in the Electronic Voting
Machines and ballot papers? Is it enough to in the limelight for all the wrong reasons. Indian
radical reforms in the electoral system? Analyze. Olympic association has been run like a fiefdom
with utter disregard to calls for more
For the past one years civil rights groups has been transparency in decision making. It was
demanding to introduce the option of NOTA as a suspended by International Olympic Association.
part of electoral reforms. After no response from Hockey federation has been running under a
Government they moved to Sc to ensure adoption chairman for many years. Badminton association
of NOTA in EVMs.SC recently instructed the has placed life ban on a player as per whims.
Election commission to introduce it in the coming • Players also complain about the shady selection
elections. Earlier cases of invalid votes were procedures, lack of facility for training and
possible when paper ballot voting system was misuse of funds meant for sports. The needs of
there. Ever since EVMs, Elector was forced to these organisations are chosen as per political
choose one of the candidates, after registering patronage and not for their interests and
name in electoral register. NOTA they have got commitment. This has nipped in the bud Indian
the option to not to choose any of them. sports sector will and ability.
It is expected that it will act as stepping stone • It is necessary to bring fundamental changes in
towards more radical electoral reforms which are their functioning. While an interested
long due. one way to achieve that will be parliamentarian should be appointed at their

helm, a players committee should be the main Law Commission and the 2nd
decision making emulating the President-PM Administrative Reform Commission‘s
model of Indian democracy. The minutes of report
meeting should be openly accessible and they  -The CVC itself cannot serve penalties or
should be audited by CAG and external bodies. punishments. It is advisory in nature.
• These are professional institutions and they -The bill unlike its counterparts in UK, US
should not be run in bureaucratic style. Sports and Canada define ‗disclosure‘ very
have the unique ability to forge unity among a narrowly despite amendments to it recently
plethora of people cutting across religious, and doesn‘t even define ‗victimisation‘
cultural and ethnic lines. It should be seen as a Despite such loopholes however, the
nation-building and morale raising tool and whistle blower‘s act is definitive step
should be shielded from political influence. forward and along with the RTI can shift
our present culture of zero tolerance of
Q--Comment on the highlights of the whistleblowing to a culture of zero
Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2011 tolerance of whistleblower retaliation.
 Whistleblowing is the act of disclosing

information by an employee or any Whistelblowers Protection Bill, 2011 which
stakeholder about an illegal or unethical recently got passed in the parliament and
conduct within an organisation. The whistle received President‘s assent is a powerful
blowers protection bill, 2011 seeks to protect legislation which provides for
such whistleblowers. institutionalised mechanism to protect and
The provisions of the bill are encourage those who disclose information
 Any public servant or any other person on corrupt practices and/or abuse of power
including a non-governmental organisation by government officials.
may make a disclosure related to an act of 
corruption, misuse of power, or criminal  India , a signatory of United Nations
offence by a public servant to the convention on corruption , passed the
Central(CVC) or State Vigilance whistle blowers bill ,2011. This bill protects
Commission. the public servant who discloses any act of
 Every complaint has to include the identity abuse /misuse of public servant leading to
of the complainant. self-aggrandizement or loss to the public
 The Vigilance Commission shall not disclose exchequer .
the identity of the complainant except to the a. The bill tries to balance between any
head of the department if he deems it undue harassment of a public servant for
necessary. The Bill penalises any person frivolous complaints and protection of the
who has disclosed the identity of the complainant from extraneous forces or any
complainant upto Rs 50000) vested interests.
-The Bill prescribes penalties for knowingly
making false complaints 
-An aggrieved party by an order of the  The Public Interest Disclosure and
Vigilance Commission may file an appeal to Protection to Persons Making the Disclosure
the High Court. Bill, later renamed as Whistle-blower
Issues Protection Bill, 2011 was passed by
-It only regulates Government of India‘s parliament recently. Main highlights of the
bureaucracy and not the private sector and bill are-
State governments. 1) This Bill seeks to protect whistle-blowers,
-it does not provide any penalty for i.e. persons making a public interest
victimising a complainant nor does it disclosure related to an act of corruption,
include anonymous complaints. These are misuse of power, or criminal offence by a
against the recommendations of Bill of the public servant. Any public servant or any

other person including a non-governmental 1861 and section 377 of IPC are two such
organization may make such a disclosure to examples.
the Central or State Vigilance Commission. Police act 1861 was enacted in response to the
2) Every complaint has to include the sepoy mutiny of1857 to prevent another revolt.
identity of the complainant. The Bill does This became an instrument of terror to perpetuate
not provide for admission of anonymous colonial rule. This authoritarian attitude still
complaints by the competent authority. The conspicuous in police. Moreover, our police
Vigilance Commission shall not disclose the recruitment, appointment, promotion, training,
identity of the complainant except to the resources are still archaic; our ex- colonial master
head of the department if he deems it has overhauled its police force. Keeping in mind
necessary. It could have gone a step further the new and important role of police the current
in protecting the complainant‘s identity statute needs to be replaced.
permanently and ensuring protection. Inspired by Voctorian mores, section 377 of IPC
3) This Bill seeks to protect whistle-blowers criminalises any ―Carnatic intercourse against the
but does not provide for any penalty for order of nature.‖ It means anyone, not necessarily
harassing a public servant/ any other transgenders, indulged in any kind of ―unnatural
person making a disclosure. sex‖ has committed a criminal offence. Since
4) The Bill penalizes any person who has LGBT communites have no other choice but to
disclosed the identity of the complainant. It indulge in unnatural sex, they are the prime
prescribes penalties for knowingly making victim of this draconian law. This is indeed a
false complaints. This will create fear and breach of privacy of an individual and an assault
act as hurdle to the complainants, thus on human rights of LGBT community. Again, UK
many offenses may go unreported. has recently legalized same sex marriage, moving
5) An attempt to commit a criminal offence away from its own regressive thought.
by a public servant is also covered under Repeated direction by honorable Supreme Court
this Act. Judges of the Supreme Court and to bring comprehensive change in police act has
high courts are, however, not covered by the fallen on deaf year, which is concerning. Apex
definition of a public servant as given under court verdict on section 377 came as a shock but it
the Bill. can be changed by an amendment by Parliament
7) Other probable flaws in the Bill would be Third======Section 124-A IPC: Offence of
that it differs on many issues with the sedition under 124A is the doing of certain act
proposed Bill of the Law Commission and which would bring the Government established
the second Administrative Reform by law in India into hatred or contempt, or create
Commission‘s report. This bill has not disaffection against it.
mentioned the time limit, burden of proof,
definition of victimization etc. which may
create ambiguity later. E-Governance (applications, models,
The Bill is expected to establish an effective successes, limitations, potential)
mechanism in checking and eradicating
corruption in the country. Only time will Write a note on the National Population
prove whether this is possible or not. Register (NPR) scheme.
Q--Which two colonial era laws would you like National Population Register (NPR) is the biggest
to see repealed or replaced and why? Critically security and e-governance initiative of the world
comment. started by the government of India in 2010 after
the amendment in Citizenship Act, 1955 to
Business Standard compulsory register every citizen under NPR.
Sadly after seven decades of many colonial era The scheme envisages various category of
laws are waiting to be replaced. Indian Police Act demographic and biometric data to be collected
from all citizen with the register prepared at the

local, sub-district, district, state and national level. The project is among the second place winners of
The objective of NPR is creating a national citizen the 2014 UN Public Service Awards.
register which would help in improving security The initiative provides a one-stop solution for all
by checking illegal migration and help in e- mobile based public delivery needs through
governance by providing services to the citizen mobile based channels including SMS,
under government schemes. voice/integrated voice response system and
The NPR is being designed and maintained by mobile applications
Registrar General and Census Commissioner of
India, MHA. The enrollments are being carried
out through house to house canvassing. The
Department of Information Technology, GoI has Role of Civil Services in a democracy
been entrusted with collecting and digitizing data
in various states and UTs. The collected
information then will be approved by the local ‖ Fixed minimum tenure would not only enable
gram sabha or ward committees to make it more the civil servants to achieve their professional
transparent and accountable. targets, but also help them to function as
NPR is similar to the another scheme i.e. UID effective instruments of public policy.‖
which also takes demographic and biometric data Critically evaluate. (200 Words)
and provide a unique number. However, the
difference lies in compulsory registration (NPR) Answer)
and volunteerly registration (UID). Also, the NPR
is legally backed whereas UID is an executive --The main role of bureaucracy envisioned is to
decision. implement the laws, schemes, programs, policy
which are formulated by the legislatures. To run
an impartial and vibrant government at the centre
it is very much essential it to be backed by an
equally efficient and noble administration at the
Write a note on Mobile Seva initiative of the
district and block level for a vast nation like India.
government of India.
So the role of civil servants in the nation building
is very important
The Hindu
Mobile Sewa project was launched by --But there role has been time to time being
Department of Information and Technology manipulated by the political executive to gain
(DEITY) of the Government of India in 2012. selfish objectives. The ways of manipulation are
The project mainly develops and provides mobile untimely transfers, interference in official
apps for government and citizen use. functioning, delayed promotion, and unwanted
It is a platform to deliver government services on vigilance raids.
mobile phones considering the penetration of
mobile technology focussing on rural areas. --The result of these manhandling of civil
This makes the services readily accessible to the servants are bad implementation of government
citizen. programs and laws which ultimately results in
The mobile apps are available on mgov.gov.in increased misery of people. These abuses affect
and includes services like passport, election the efficiency and effectiveness of the
related and more. performance of the bureaucrat.
Citizens can also calculate fees for a particular
public service , track application status and more. --Fixed tenure will help government to have an
There are other apps like intra-departmental use objective way in assessing the performance of
like the Employee Leave Management System bureaucrats and take effective decision in
app , currently live only for Rajasthan. promotion. This will enhance the faith of the
The project covers over 1000 departments and public in the local administration
agencies across the country.

--This reform ensures the accountability of 5. fostering accountability and inculcating ethics,
Bureaucrat as they can perform their duty more integrity, professionalism, efficiency and good
efficiently without fearing of the consequences. governance.
This will minimize the corruption to ensure that Steps taken by govt to reform civil services:-
govt. policies and programmes reach to poor
people in more transparent manner. 1. in Jan 2012,a proposal to retire and remove
incompetent, unproductive and inefficient IAS
--The civil servants will have more liberties and a officers after 15 years of service was accepted.
fixed tenure to plan their professional targets and but there is a possibility of misuse of this provision
implement them effectively without any political to target good officials.
pressure. 2.in order to recruit better candidates for various
services, UPSC brought about changes in civil
-- The recent judgment of Supreme Court for
service examination in 2011 and 2013.
constitution of Civil Services Board, under Art
But the new pattern has received wide criticism for
309 of the constitution, which will look into
being biased and for improper translations.
management of transfers, postings, inquiries,
3.other reforms include creation of separate
process of promotion, reward, punishment &
department for administrative reforms, setting of
disciplinary matters if implemented with right
Indian Institute of Public administration, focus on
spirit will help in better implementation and
training and capacity building of civil servants etc
functioning of govt machinery
as suggested by by 2nd ARC report.
--The SC directions came after recent
controversies in the transfer of IAS officers Ashok Most of these reforms done by govt have produced
Khemka and Durga Shakti Nagpal. more problems than they have solved – protest
against the changed pattern ,
suspension/retirement/transfer of honest officials
who dared to take action against corrupt politicians to
What are the objectives of civil service reforms name a few.
in India? Critically examine the various steps the most recent example being suspension (later
taken by the government and judiciary in revoked) of MS. Nag pal and transfer of Sanjeeev
bringing civil service reforms in India. Chaturvedi.
Reform steps taken by judiciary:-
In case of TSR SUBRAMANIUM & OTHERS vs
Civil Service is an integral part of the institution of UNION OF INDIA & OTHERS in 2013, the SC
administration, and responsible for delivering ordered -
governance . The civil service has long been regarded 1.union and state govts to ensure fixed tenure to
as the ―STEEL FRAME‖ of administration in India civil servants.
from colonial era to present era of globalization.It is in 2.setting up of an independent Civil Service Board
this context that reform in civil service forms a for mgmt. of transfer ,promotion, posting ,reward
quintessential part of good governance. ,punishment &disciplinary matters regarding civil
servants.
Objectives of reform:- 3.SC also advised bureaucrats not to act on verbal
1. eliminate abuse of power and corruption orders given by politicians.
among government officials. But even after a year , these orders remain
2. building a motivated and capable civil service unimplemented.
force through a merit based and non As a result this institution of administration and
discriminatory recruitment process. implementation remains vulnerable to
3. eliminate rot learning and providing level idiosyncrasies of political class.
playing field in civil service examinations.
4. provide proper training at induction level.
Critically comment the role of media in
influencing the public opinion, especially in

India. Is it good for the country? Explain. (200

Words)
Media can be broadly classified into print media,

electronic media and social media. While print media
has played an important role in our national struggle
and forming a strong public opinion against colonial
government, the power of media has increase
manifolds with the coming up of electronic and social
media.
Now with coming up of 24 hours news channels and

deeper penetration of social media among the citizens,
any issue in any part of the country soon becomes a
national issue. A good example of this is the public
support that the Anti-Corruption Movement by Anna
Hazare received all over the country. Similarly, the
exposure of various scams and irregularities in
government business soon became a national issue all
over India.
Although these developments are good and

strengthen the resolve of people in democracy, there
are some side-effects too of excess media coverage.
The term ‗Media-trial‘ explains this concept well
where a strong public opinion is already formed
against a person or a body even when the matter is
under consideration in a court. This is quite harmful
especially when the person is proved innocent in the
court. Similarly, the power of media can be used by
vested interest to bend the public opinion in their
favor and hence get undue advantages

INSIGHTS
http://insightsonindia.com
PART - TWO
[INSIGHTS SECURE Q&A

COMPILATION GENERAL
STUDIES PAPER-2]
Topics Covered: All International Events from October

2013 to August 2014
Insights Secure Q&A Compilation General Studies Paper-2
Q- ―South Asian unity is essential if we are to

deliver an improved quality of life to hundreds
of millions, through growth made possible by
Table of Contents economic efficiencies and commerce.‖
India and its Neighbourhood Comment. (200 Words) ...................................... 25
(relations) ............................................... 19 INDIA-CHINA ..................................... 26
Q---Critically examine water related disputes Q--Comment on the areas of cooperation
between India and its Eastern Neighbours between India and China. Do you agree with
including China. .................................................. 19 the view that strong trade relations would
Q--Critically comment on the relevance of eventually make border disputes irrelevant in
Gujral Doctrine to India‘s foreign policy vis a the future? Comment. ........................................ 26
vis its neighbours. ............................................... 19 Q-Write a note on the cultural ties between
Q-What is the difference between border and India and China................................................... 26
frontier? Highlight the importance of effective Q-Critically compare and contrast India‘s
management of border security for India. (200 economic relationship between China and
Words) .................................................................. 20 Japan. .................................................................... 27
Question - Write a note on the Bangladesh- Q-Critically comment on China‘s increasing
China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) corridor plan. presence in the Indian Ocean and ‗string of
(200 Words) .......................................................... 21 pearl‘ theory that has been used to explain
Q-Analyze the possible impact of the BCIM intent behind China‘s expansion. ..................... 27
corridor project on the regional economic Q-Critically comment on the border dispute
growth. (200 Words) ........................................... 22 between India and China. .................................. 28
Q. Critically assess the nature of Indian Q-Critically comment on the nature of trade
diplomacy with its neighboring countries in relations between India and China................... 29
South Asia since Independence. ....................... 22
Q-Write a critical note on the visa controversy
Q-- In your opinion what role should India between India and China. .................................. 29
play to have a friendly relationship with its
Q-What is the root cause of border dispute
neighbours, especially with SAARC members?
between India and China? Discuss the
In the light of its policy towards its neighbours
important measures taken by both countries so
in recent years, critically comment. .................. 22
far to maintain peace at the border. (200 Words)
Q---The Northeast can be rejuvenated by ............................................................................... 29
making the region a focal point for growth.
Q-What are the seven practical principles of
Analyse in what ways NE region can be made a
engagement as envisioned by India and China
focal point for growth and how. ....................... 23
between them during the recent visit of India‘s
Q-Critically evaluate the success of the South PM to China? (100 Words) ................................. 30
Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
Q-India-China ties cannot be hostage to the
(SAARC) as political and economic entity vies a
boundary dispute.‖ Should boundary dispute
vis its objectives ................................................... 24
be sidelined and cooperation in other areas of
Q-Write a critical note on India‘s energy ties mutual interests be promoted between India
with the SAARC members. ................................ 25 and China? Comment on the importance of

border dispute resolution between the two Q--Critically discuss India‘s border problem
countries ............................................................... 30 with Pakistan. ...................................................... 36
Q-Write a critical note on China‘s visa policy on Q-Critically comment on the issue of Sir Creek
Arunachal Pradesh and India‘s response to it. between India and Pakistan. ............................. 36
What measure you think India should adopt to Q- Should India and Pakistan talks be held
deal with China‘s ambiguous visa policy with hostage to border skirmishes and terrorist
respect to Arunachal Pradesh? (200 Words) ... 31 attacks? Comment. (250 Words) ....................... 37
Question - ―In boldly re-engineering the Q-Do you agree to the proposal that a neutral
subcontinent‘s physical environment, Beijing is monitoring by a third party such as UN at the
behaving much like the British Raj.‖ Comment border in Kashmir is required to bring peace to
in the context of growing presence of China the region? Substantiate. (250 Words) ............. 37
across the region and consequent Indian
Q-Do you think there is a need to replace 1960
concerns. (200 Words) ........................................ 31
Indus Water Treaty to suit the present demands
Q-Critically discuss the Tibet issue and its and to address emerging ecological problems?
influence on the relationship between India and Analyze................................................................. 38
China. .................................................................... 32
Q- ―The best hope for better relations between
Q-Examine the roots of China – Tibet conflict India and Pakistan lies in the strengthening of
and explain the importance of this issue for democracy in Pakistan.‖ Analyze.................... 39
India. ..................................................................... 32
Q-Critically comment on the underlying
Q- What were the circumstances that led to the philosophy on which relationship between
1962 Indo-China war? Write a critical note on India and Pakistan is founded. ......................... 40
India‘s preparedness in its borders to avoid
Q-Comment on the present visa policy between
1962 like situation................................................ 33
India and Pakistan. (200 Words) ....................... 41
Q-Do you think India and China could jointly
Q-Why Kishenganga hydro-electric project was
combat terrorism? Explain how? (150 Words) 33
in dispute recently? Do you think that there is a
Q. Explain the contentious issues and claims of need to revise Indus Water Treaty? Comment.
both India and China in their border disputes (200 Words) .......................................................... 41
talks. ...................................................................... 33
Q-Critically analyze the importance of dialogue
Q-Write a note on terrorist threats to China. and constant engagement between India and
Compare and contrast China‘s anti-terrorism Pakistan to resolve bilateral issues. (200 Words)
policy with that of India‘s. (200 Words)........... 34 ............................................................................... 42
INDIA-PAKISTAN............................... 34 Q-Comment on the nature of trade relations
Q---Critically comment on India‘s policy between India and Pakistan since Kargil War.
towards Pakistan during last ten years. ........... 35 (200 Words) .......................................................... 42
Q-Why did agreement on Iran-Pakistan-India Q-What is Most favoured Nation (MFN) status?
gas pipeline fail? Examine. (150 Words) .......... 35 Examine the trade relations between India and
Pakistan in the light of MFN controversy? (200
Q-What implications does US withdrawal from
Words) .................................................................. 42
Afghanistan have on India-Pakistan relations?
Critically analyze. (200 Words) ......................... 35 Q-Write a critical note on India – Pakistan trade
relations. (200 Words) ........................................ 43

Answer) ................................................................ 43 you place Bangladesh vis a vis India?

Question - In your opinion how will the Substantiate.......................................................... 48
transition in Afghanistan would affect India – Q--Critically examine the Permanent Court of
Pakistan relationship? Comment. (200 Words) Arbitration verdict on the India-Bangladesh
............................................................................... 43 maritime dispute and its implications for India
in future. ............................................................... 49
INDIA-AFGHANISTAN ..................... 44
Q-Critically comment on the efforts made by
Q--Critically examine the geopolitical interests
India and Bangladesh to resolve contentious
of China in Afghanistan. Do you think a major
issues between them. .......................................... 49
role played by China in Afghanistan would be
a concern to India? Comment............................ 44 Q-Critically discuss why a stable Bangladesh
with a strong democratic government and
Q-What are the highlights of strategic
institutions is important for India. (200 Words)
partnership agreement between India and
............................................................................... 49
Afghanistan? Do you think it is prudent for
India to have a deep military ties with Q-What are the objectives of the proposed Land
Afghanistan? Comment. (200 Words) .............. 45 Boundary Agreement (LBA) Bill between
Bangladesh and India? Explain its significance
Q-Should India fill the vacuum created by the
and also throw light on controversy
withdrawal of troops by the USA in
surrounding the bill. (200 Words) .................... 50
Afghanistan by actively participating in Afghan
affairs? Critically comment. ............................... 46 Q. Discuss important recent developments in
bilateral relations between India and
INDIA-BANGLADESH ....................... 46 Bangladesh. Are they mutually beneficial?
Q-― The Land Border Agreement and the Comment. ............................................................. 50
Teesta agreement are now a litmus test of Q-Evaluate the performance of India –
India‘s willingness to have good relations with Bangladesh security cooperation
neighbours.‖ Critically comment. .................... 46 measures. (150 Words) ....................................... 51
Q-―India should press for a comprehensive INDIA-MYANMAR ............................. 51
bilateral – or possibly trilateral, involving
Bangladesh – treaty with China on water Q-What are the challenges before India in
sharing that is open to international scrutiny fostering long term goodwill relationship with
and adjudication.‖ Comment why. .................. 47 Myanmar and what should be its strategy to
deal with these challenges? Examine. .............. 51
Q- Critically comment on the issue of illegal
migration from Bangladesh into Assam and the Q-Evaluate India – Myanmar relations of last
resultant problems in many reasons of Assam. two decades. (200 Words) .................................. 52
Do you think grievances of native people of Q-What repercussions does ethnic problems in
Assam who are against Bangladeshi migrants is Myanmar have on India? Explain. (150 Words)
justified? Explain why. ....................................... 47 ............................................................................... 53
Q--Examine why Bangladesh is ahead of India INDIA-MALDIVES .............................. 53
in many health indicators. What lessons can
Q-Highlight the importance of stable
India learn from Bangladesh? Discuss. ............ 48
democracy in Maldives to India. (150 Words) 53
Q--Differentiate between ‗natural ally‘ and
‗strategic partners‘. To which category would INDIA-NEPAL ..................................... 54

Q--Critically comment on the rise of opinion what should be India‘s policy towards
communism in Nepal. What is its present this issue? Comment........................................... 61
ideology? What is India‘s position vis a vis Q-What is Sethusamudram project? Why is
Nepal‘s communist parties? Explain. ............... 54 being opposed? (200 Words) ............................. 61
Q-Comment on the nature of economic Q-Do you think escalating conflicts between
relations between India and Nepal. (200 Words) fishermen between maritime neighbors across
............................................................................... 55 the world is an indication of deteriorating food
Q-Why should Chinese presence in Nepal security situation? Comment. (200 ................... 62
concern India ?..................................................... 55 Q-―The problem with the Palk Bay fishing
Q-Should Chinese economic presence and conflict is precisely its interstate character.‖
strategic influence in Nepal worry India? Comment. (200 Words) ...................................... 62
Comment. (200 Words) ...................................... 56 Q-Bring out the causes of frequent arrests of
Q-Critically comment on the criticism over the fishermen between India and Sri Lanka. How
1950 ―India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and do you think both countries should resolve the
Friendship‖ and examine why there is a call for issue? Comment (200 Words)............................ 63
its revision ............................................................ 57 Question - Write a critical note on Kachatheevu
Q- What mechanisms have been put in place by island controversy involving India, Sri Lanka
India and Nepal to curb illegal trade and and Tamil Nadu. (200 Words)........................... 64
improve security in their borders. Have they Q. Which are the main areas of concern for
been successful? Examine. (200 Words) ........... 57 India within Sri Lanka? How can India help Sri
Q-What role did India play during Nepal‘s Lanka address these issues amicably? Explain.
recent constitutional crisis? Explain. (150 ............................................................................... 64
Words) .................................................................. 58 Q. Critically comment on Sri Lanka‘s policies
INDIA-BHUTAN.................................. 58 towards its Tamil population post – 2009
victory over LTTE. .............................................. 65
Q-Critically evaluate the evolution of
relationship between India and Bhutan since Q-Comment on the growing relationship
India‘s independence.......................................... 58 between China and Sri Lanka. Should India be
worried? Why? Substantiate. ............................ 65
Q-Comment on India‘s policy towards Bhutan
since 1947.............................................................. 59 Q-Examine why there is an escalation of
tension between Indian and Sri Lankan
Q-Analyze the recent developments in India –
fishermen in the Palk Strait. (150 Words) ........ 66
Bhutan relationship. Do you think India is
acting like a ‗big brother‘ towards its Bilateral, Regional, Global groupings &
neighbors? Comment. (200 Words) .................. 60 Agreements (involving and/or
INDIA-SRI LANKA ............................. 61 affecting India) ...................................... 66
Q--Comment on the maritime boundary and GENERAL INDIAN DIPLOMACY... 66
sovereignty over islands issue between India
Q--Why is India projected as a soft power? Do
and Sri Lanka. ...................................................... 61
you think this image has helped India to
Q-Critically comment on the contentious issue advance its foreign policy goals? Critically
of fishing between India and Sri Lanka. In your analyse. ................................................................. 66

Q--Critically comment on India‘s doctrine of Q--Do you think the doctrine of South – South
‗strategic autonomy‘ and its efforts towards its cooperation is still relevant? Comment. .......... 73
pursuit................................................................... 68 Q-- ―India‘s silence on critical global issues fits
Q--―The Ministry of External Affairs needs to poorly with its global aspirations.‖ Critically
consider internal affairs and engage important comment. .............................................................. 74
players within the country too.‖ In the light of
INDIA-NORTH AMERICA ................ 74
giving consideration to federal compulsions in
the foreign policy, critically comment on the Q-Write a note on India-Canada trade relations.
statement. ............................................................. 68 (200 Words) .......................................................... 74
Q-Critically comment on India‘s relationship in Q--Critically analyse important areas where

the light of ongoing geopolitical developments constructive relationship between India and
in the Asia-Pacific region. .................................. 69 USA would mutually benefit the two countries.
............................................................................... 75
Q. Do you think India‘s foreign policy and
service needs its own reforms? Why? Critically Q- Critically examine trade related disputes
comment . ............................................................. 69 between USA and India. How does India seek
to address these? ................................................. 75
Q. Should India shift towards ‗first use‘ policy
of nuclear weapons? Substantiate your answer Q. Comment on the changing contours of
with examples. ..................................................... 70 relationship between India and USA in last ten
years. ..................................................................... 76
Q What is India‘s nuclear doctrine? Does it
need a revision? Substantiate. ........................... 71 INDIA-SOUTH AMERICA................. 77
Q-In the light of India‘s ‗soft power‘ status, Q) Write a critical note on India‘s relationship
evaluate the principles of ‗Multi Alignment‘ with the South American nations. .................... 77
and ‗Non Alignment.2.0′ put forward by some
Q-Explain the areas of interest and cooperation
intellectual in recent years. ................................ 71
between India and Cuba. Is Cuba conducive for
Q--Critically analyse efforts made by major Indian investments? Examine. .......................... 77
economies of Asia to position themselves as
regional powers with international ambitions. INDIA-EUROPE ................................... 78
............................................................................... 72 Q-In the light of recent reports on the plight of
Q-―The single most important objective of Indians working in foreign countries, critically
Indian foreign policy has to be to create a evaluate the effectiveness of the Emigration
global environment conducive to the well- Act, 1983 in safeguarding the interests of these
being of our great country.‖ How far has India Indian workers. ................................................... 78
been successful in its foreign policy as Q--Write a critical note on the relationship
suggested in the above statement? Critically between India and the United Kingdom. ........ 78
evaluate. (250 Words) ......................................... 72
Q- Explain how Eurozone crisis affected the
Q-What do you understand by Free Trade Indian economy? What are its aftershocks? (200
Agreement? Do you think bilateral and Words) .................................................................. 78
regional trade agreements are diminishing the
Q---Write a note on relationship between India
role of multilateral fora? Discuss. (200 Words)
and Germany in the filed of science and
............................................................................... 73
technology. ........................................................... 78

Q---Critically evaluate India‘s strategic Q-Do you think India should be worried
partnership with France. .................................... 79 because of the Islamic State in Iraq and the
Q-Write a note on the defence cooperation Levant‘s (ISIL) recent activities in Iraq?
between India and France. ................................. 79 Critically examine why? .................................... 87
Q-Throw light on India – UK relations in Q-Critically analyse India‘s interests in the

R&D. (150 Words) ............................................... 80 West Asian region. .............................................. 88
Q-Analyze trade relations between India and Q- Write a note on the economic cooperation
UK. (200 Words) .................................................. 80 between India and Egypt. Do you think
political instability in Egypt has affected ties
Q-Write a note on cooperation between India
between two countries? Substantiate. (200
and France in space technology. (200 Words) 81
Words) .................................................................. 88
Q. In the light of recent decision by the
Q-Write a critical note on India-UAE relations.
government to not to sign aircraft deal with
Is there a mechanism between two countries to
France, critically comment on what should be
dealt with the issue of migrants‘ abuse in UAE
India‘s strategy when it comes to acquiring
? Explain. (200 Words) ....................................... 89
advanced defence capabilities, especially
superior and affordable air power.................... 81 Q-What are the important regional issues of
concern between India and Iran? How do both
INDIA-RUSSIA ..................................... 82 countries seeks to address these issues?
Q-Discuss the relationship between India and Analyze. (200 Words) ......................................... 89
Russia in the energy sector. Write a note on Q-―The relationship between India and Iran has
future prospects. .................................................. 82 become transactional, rather than strategic.‖
Q--Examine how and why India and Russia Comment. (200 Words) ...................................... 89
came together to form a strategic and friendly Q. Why is it important for India to have a
partnership? ......................................................... 82 strong and friendly relationship with Iran?
Q-Do you think the relations between India Critically analyse................................................. 90
and Russia is ‗strategic‘ in its true sense? Q-Critically evaluate the strategic significance
Critically examine. (200 Words) ........................ 83 of the Indo – Israeli relationship. ...................... 91
Q-Write a note on the energy relationship Q--Comment on the nature of relationship
between India and Russia. ................................. 84 between India and Israel. Do you think Israel
Q-Write a note on India-Russia defence can be India‘s natural ally? Examine................ 92
cooperation. (150 Words) ................................... 84 Q---In your opinion what are the common
Q. Critically examine the nature of economic areas upon which India and Israel can take
relationship between India and Russia. ........... 84 their relationship to the next level? Critically
examine. ............................................................... 93
INDIA-MIDDLE EAST AND
INDIA-SOUTH EAST ASIA ............... 93
CENTRAL ASIA ................................... 86
Q--Critically comment on recent political crisis
Q-Does India need a ‗Look Middle-East
in Thailand. Examine what role can India play
Policy‘? Explain why .......................................... 86
to resolve this crisis in Thailand. ...................... 93
Q-Critically examine the importance of stable
Q-It is arguably better to be Hindu in
Middle East to Indian economy. In your ......... 86
Indonesia, than Muslim in India.‖ Do you agree

with the view? Critically comment. (200 Words) Q-―The healthy state of India-Japan relations is
............................................................................... 94 best seen in its own terms rather than as a
Question - Explain the significance of having a result of a shared wariness of China.‖ Do you
strong maritime cooperation with South ......... 95 agree with the statement? Justify. (200 Words)
............................................................................. 101
Q- Analyze the factors that make the Northeast
India as the gateway to Southeast Asia. Asses Q- Do you think India and Japan are Asia‘s
how far this region has been tapped as gateway natural-born allies? Critically analyze the
to South East Asia by the government of evolving relationship between India and Japan
India. (200 Words) ............................................... 95 in trade and strategic affairs. (250 Words) .... 101
Q-What are the important areas of cooperation Q-Is it in India‘s interest to forge deeper
between India and Indonesia? Examine the relationship with Japan and Korea to counter
recent developments in these areas of China? Critically comment. (200 Words)....... 102
cooperation. (250 Words) ................................... 96 Q-Critically analyse the nature of bilateral
Q-Examine the nature of bilateral relationship relationship between India and Japan. .......... 103
between India and Singapore. Explain India‘s Q-Write a note on the defense cooperation
contribution in Singapore‘s growth.................. 97 between India and japan. Do you think it is in
Q-Write a note on security ties between India India‘s interest to forge stronger strategic ties
and Vietnam......................................................... 97 with Japan? Comment. (200 Words) .............. 103
Q-Analyze India‘s defence and security Q-Critically comment on the Japan‘s ‗the Arc of
relationship with Vietnam. (150 Words) .......... 98 Freedom and Prosperity‘ strategy and its
implications on India-Japan relations. (200
INDIA-EAST ASIA............................... 98 Words) ................................................................ 104
Q-Compare and contrast India‘s relationship Q-Examine how India and Japan, as leading
with North Korea and South Korea. (200 ―maritime democracies‖, can play a decisive
words) ................................................................... 98 role in promoting peace and prosperity in the
Q-Examine the implications of deeper strategic ‗Indo- Pacific‘ Region?. (200 Words) .............. 104
ties between India and Korea in the Asia-Pacific Q- ―The India-Japan partnership is yet to move
region. (200 Words)............................................. 99 beyond the economic to the strategic.‖ Analyze.
Q-Should India be more assertive in the South (200 Words)The Indian Express ...................... 104
China Sea region? Substantiate. (200 Words).. 99 Q-―Between India and Japan, the strategic
Q-―India and Japan share the goal of total component of the relationship has increased
elimination of nuclear weapons.‖ Looking at dramatically over the last four years.‖ Examine.
the nuclear policies of both the governments, in (200 Words) ........................................................ 105
your opinion, do you think both ....................... 99 Q-Critically comment why Japan is keen to
Q - ―China is the unwitting cupid that has have a deeper strategic relationship with India.
brought about the India-Japan honeymoon.‖ ............................................................................. 106
Do you agree with the statement? Comment. Q-―To India‘s national security interests,
(200 Words) ........................................................ 100 Japan is irreplaceably valuable.‖ Comment.
Q-What implications does China‘s Air Defence (200 Words) ........................................................ 106
Identification Zone (ADIZ) have on India? INDIA-AFRICA .................................. 107
Comment. (200 Words) .................................... 100

Critically comment on India‘s diplomatic Q-Do you think the Commonwealth is an

policies towards West Asian and North African anachronistic neo-colonial institution with no
region. ................................................................. 107 spine? Comment (200 Words) ......................... 113
Q-What is round-tripping? Analyze the trade Q-Discuss the areas of concern in trade
relations between India and Mauritius. (200 between India and the European Union.
Words) ................................................................ 107 Examine the impact of these concerns on the
Q-Critically examine the overall policy of India growth of trade between these two. ............... 114
towards African nations. Do you think India‘s Effect of Policies & Politics of
policy towards Africa needs review? Comment
Developed and Developing countries
why...................................................................... 108
on India (India's interests, diaspora)114
INDIA-AUSTRALIA .......................... 109
United States of America .................. 114
Q-Nuclear cooperation between India and
Australia – important issues (150 Words) ..... 109 Q-Examine how the US govt shutdown can
have negative effect on US and world economy
Q-Write a note on trade relationship between
? ........................................................................... 114
India and Australia. (150 Words).................... 109
Q-Suggest measures to decouple the world
GROUPINGS INVOVLING INDIA. 110 from American‘s internal economic and
Q. Examine the contentious issues between political dynamics. (200 Words) ..................... 114
India and ASEAN in finalising Free Trade Q-The American foreign policy transition to
Agreement between them in services. ........... 110 diluted ‘Rebalance to Asia‘ from ‗Pivot to Asia‘
Q-Examine the status of Regional has helped China to reassert its influence in the
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Asia-Pacific region.‖ Comment....................... 115
of India with ASEAN countries and the India- Q-―It is said that what is good for the U.S. will
European Union (EU) trade agreements. ...... 110 be good for other economies as well.‖
Q-Explain the different types of Trade Elaborate. (200 Words) ..................................... 115
Agreements and differences between them. Q-With special reference to India, examine the
Examine the status of India‘s trade agreement issues related to immigration reforms in USA.
with the ASEAN group. ................................... 111 (200 Words)The Hindu .................................... 116
Q-If India‘s services and investment trade pact Q-Suggest measures to decouple the world
with Association of Southeast Asian Nations from American‘s internal economic and
(ASEAN) becomes reality, who benefits and political dynamics. ............................................ 117
why? Examine. .................................................. 112
United Kingdom ................................. 117
Q-Discuss the importance of India – ASEM
cooperation to India. Examine if the present Q-What were the consequences of UK‘s
level of cooperation should be enhanced for proposed immigration policy of subjecting
tangible outcome. (200 Words) ....................... 112 visitors from six ―high-risk‖ Commonwealth
countries to a certain bond plan? Examine. (100
Q-Why is India not a signatory to the NPT?
Words) ................................................................ 117
Has it affected India‘s nuclear ambitions?
Evaluate. (200 Words)....................................... 113 Q-Immigration issue, especially in the case of
highly skilled professionals, is a thorny issue
between India and the European Union. What

steps has EU taken to address India‘s concerns an IMF approach that has not worked well
in this regard? Examine. ................................... 118 elsewhere in the world.‖ Explain the approach
of IMF in fighting inflation. ............................. 124
Asia ....................................................... 118
Q-Examine how India without compromising
Q-Write a critical note on China‘s Air Defence
its independent foreign policy, can utilize
Identification Zone (ADIZ) and its implication
international fora and groupings to secure its
on the regional security. (200 Words) ............ 118
cyber space from external threats. (250 Words)
Q-―China will be increasingly judged by its ............................................................................. 126
partners and the international community by
Q-What do you understand by Diplomatic
its actions and not by its rhetoric.‖ Comment
Immunity? Is it absolute? Comment. ............. 126
on the statement in the light of recent
developments in the South China Sea and Q-Highlight the importance of Track-III
elsewhere. (200 Words) .................................... 119 Diplomacy in fostering good relations between
countries. (150 Words) ..................................... 127
Middle East .......................................... 119
Q-―In severe international conflict scenarios, to
Q-How does the interim nuclear deal agreed resolve an issue, often the solution can be
between Iran and P5+1 countries affect India? found through diplomacy, not by intimidation
Examine. (200 Words)....................................... 119 or war.‖ Comment. (200 Words)..................... 127
Q- ―Syria is coming close to shifting from an Q-Supreme Social Happiness Department (50
India-friendly regime to a possibly hostile, Words) ................................................................ 128
Islamist regime.‖ Comment and highlight what
Q-Write a critical note on the scramble for
should be India‘s approach. (200 Words) ...... 120
Arctic resources and the associated conflicts in
Q-What is the rationale behind Saudi Nitaqat the international arena. (200 Words) .............. 128
policy? What is its implication on Indian labour
force working in Saudi Arabia?(150 Words) . 122
UNITED NATIONS ........................... 128
Q-Critically analyze the relations between Q-Critically evaluate the role and relevance of
Saudi Arabia and India in the light of recent UN peacekeeping missions in Africa. ............ 129
major events in the Middle East region. (200 Q-Explain the structure and mandate of
Words) ................................................................ 122 UNICEF (United Nations Children‘s Fund) (150
Words) ................................................................ 129
Important International institutions,
Q-Enumerate any ten important rights declared
agencies, fora (structure, mandate).. 123
in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Q. Examine the structure, mandate and document. Do you think India has succeeded in
importance of International Finance granting all of its citizens these rights fully?
Corporation (IFC). What is the criteria being Examine. (250 Words) ...................................... 129
followed by IFC when it lends money?
Q--Critically comment on the functioning of
Critically examine. ............................................ 123
UN Security Council......................................... 130
Q--Examine the objectives of G-20 for which it
Q) From India‘s perspective, explain why is it
was set-up. Do you think the group has met its
important to reform both UNSC and IMF..... 130
objectives? Comment. ....................................... 124
Q--Write a note on the U.N. Convention on the
Q. . ―Fighting inflation first through
Law of Sea (UNCLOS) and its relevance to
stabilisation and worrying about growth later is
India. ................................................................... 131

Q---Critically evaluate the contribution of UN Q-Write a short note on 7th United Nations
Peacekeeping missions to world peace. ......... 131 Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the
Q---Critically comment on India‘s Treatment of Offenders (100 Words) ............. 137
achievements in meeting the targets of Q- What is the mandate of UNHRC? Critically
Millenium Development Goals. ...................... 132 comment on its functioning citing any two
Q--Write a note on the UN Convention on the recent examples. ................................................ 138
Law of the NonNavigational Uses of Q-What efforts have been made by UN and its
International Watercourses. ............................. 132 agencies to protect children and women in war
Q) ‗Asia wants a new specialized bank to fill affected countries like Afghanistan? Examine
the gaps left by the World Bank and the Asian (200 Words) ........................................................ 138
Development Bank.‘ Comment. ...................... 133 Q-The U.N. principle of Responsibility to
Q--In your opinion, what India needs to do to Protect (R2P), a form of humanitarianism is
get a permanent seat at UNSC? Comment. ... 133 only useful when it suits western interests.‖ In
the light of ongoing conflict in the Middle East,
Q-What is Law of the Sea? Explain provisions
critically comment. ........................................... 139
of UNCLOS in relation to recent developments
with respect to India. (200 Words).................. 134 Q-In the light of some of the international
developments in past fifteen years, critically
Q-Comment and the Convention on the
comment on the use of ―responsibility to
Elimination of Discrimination against Women
protect‖ – or R2Pprinciple by some of major 140
(CEDAW) role in eliminating violence against
women. ............................................................... 134 Q-Explain the strategy or road map expounded
by the WHO in moving towards zero
Q-What are the mandates of ICC and ICJ?
childhood TB deaths. What should be India‘s
Explain (100 Words) ......................................... 135
priority in fighting TB in children? ................ 141
Q-Integrated Global Action Plan for Prevention
Q-The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists
and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea .... 135
traffic-related accidents as one of the top health
Q-What is the role and mandate of UNESCO? agendas of the world. In the light of this fact,
Do you think its role should be expanded? critically examine why road accidents are
Analyze. (200 Words) ....................................... 136 frequent in the country and India‘s approach
Q-U.N. International Convention on the towards ensuring road safety.......................... 141
Elimination of All Forms of Racial Question - Why is qunioa being promoted by
Discrimination and India (100 Words)........... 137 the WHO across the world? Examine. (200
-- Prevention of discrimination ................... 137 Words) ................................................................ 142
-- Condemnation of apartheid ..................... 137 Question - Critically comment on the need for
nuclear disarmament around the world.
-- Prohibition of incitement .......................... 137
Explain the role of UN towards and highlight
-- Promotion of tolerance ............................. 137 India‘s stance on the issue. (200 Words) ........ 142
-- Dispute resolution mechanism ................ 137 Question - Why is there a need for UNSC
-- Individual complaints mechanism.......... 137 reforms? Examine. (200 Words) ...................... 143
Q-What were the major outcomes of the UN Q- International Security Assistance Force (50
climate negotiations in Warsaw? (150 Words) Words) ................................................................ 143
............................................................................. 137

Q-Why does India aspire to become permanent Q) ―The Indian government has made it clear
member of UNSC? Do you think time is ripe that the Bali agreement will not be ratified
for India‘s ascension into permanent member unless Indian demands are met. This is both a
of UNSC? Comment. (200 Words) .................. 143 strategic and a tactical mistake.‖ Critically ... 149
Q-Explain the significance of United Nations Q- Critically comment on India‘s stance on all
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) WTO related issues. .......................................... 149
in recent times citing few important examples. Q-Write a critical note on the barriers to trade.
(200 Words) ........................................................ 145 How does WTO address to remove such
Q. In recently released Social Progress Index, barriers? (200 Words) ....................................... 149
Bangladesh ranks ahead of India, and USA, Question - Throw light on the new trade
most powerful nation ranks 16th. Critically facilitation deal signed by WTO members at
explain why some countries with rich resources Bali in 2013. Examine the other areas of
and stable governments are ranked low in the negotiations that are currently going on in
index.................................................................... 145 WTO talks and explain their effect on India if a
Q-The multi-stakeholder model of Internet final deal is struck on those issues. (200 Words)
governance in the 21st century is exceptionally ............................................................................. 150
important.‖ What do you understand by this Q--―While harmonising the patent law in the
statement? Explain in the context of India. (150 country with the provisions of the TRIPS
Words) ................................................................ 146 Agreement, India has attempted to balance its
Q-Throw light on recent controversy regarding obligations under the international treaty and
allegation of human rights violation by Sri its commitment to protect and promote the
Lankan army during 2009 war against LTTE. public health considerations of people in the
What is the response and role of International country and elsewhere.‖ Critically comment.
community and organizations including ............................................................................. 151
India on the issue?............................................ 146 Q-Examine what flexibilities are allowed under
Q-Write a critical note on the geopolitical TRIPS agreements for developing countries to
aspirations of EU in the Eastern Europe continue with their development agenda and
region. (150 Words)........................................... 147 domestic imperatives? Do you think TRIPS
Q-How does the success of nuclear talks in norms should be further diluted against the
wish of developed countries? Critically
Geneva between Iran and p5+1 countries ties
between Saudi Arabia and Iran? ..................... 147 comment. ............................................................ 151
Q-―Parties in Nepal must not be diverted again Q--In the light of recent court judgements on
by short term issues of power-sharing.‖ the issue of granting compulsory licences to
Indian companies to manufacture generic
Comment on the statement in the light of
Nepal‘s recent failure to form it constitution on drugs, critically discuss the associated IPR
time. (150 Words) .............................................. 147 issues and significance of these judgements. 152
Q-Explain the significance of Geneva deal Q-―While the differences between India and the
between Iran and p5+1 countries. (150 Words) U.S. over intellectual property rights (IPR) have
............................................................................. 148 threatened to derail economic relations, it
should be possible to sort them out through
Question - Can we have models such as GAVI discussions.‖ Comment on the controversy and
Alliance in other social sectors too? ................ 148

the way forward in resolution of differences Critically comment why India‘s position is poor
between two countries...................................... 152 in this Index. ...................................................... 157
IMF ........................................................ 153 Q-Write a note on the Asian Infrastructure

Investment Bank (AIIB) initiative. .................. 157
Q-In the light of recent financial crises around
the globe, critically comment on the role played Q-Explain the role played by OPCW in
by IMF in resolving these crises. ..................... 153 defusing the Syria crisis. (150 Words) ............ 158
Q-What is ‗Washington Consensus‘? What Q-The International Criminal Court (ICC) has
were its effects? Do we have any alternative to transformed itself into a political instrument
Washington Consensus? Examine. ................. 153 targeting Africa and Africans.‖ Critically
comment ............................................................. 158
Q-If anything, the New Development Bank
(NDB) must be a template for change, not a Q-Why does India rank low in the ‗ease of
mirror to the existing hegemony of money.‖ In doing business‘ list? What measures
the light of existing models of multilateral government has taken to speed up the process?
banking systems, critically analyse the (150 Words) ........................................................ 158
statement. ........................................................... 154 Q-Write a critical note on the role played by
Q-Examine the World Bank‘s Purchasing OPCW and IAEA in international conflict
Power Parity (PPP) index, its poverty resolutions with suitable examples. (150
estimation method and its impact on India... 154 Words) ................................................................ 159
Q-Examine the causes of recent civil war in Q-Commission for the Conservation of
South Sudan. What has been the international Antarctic Marine Living Resources
response to the crisis? Explain with special (CCAMLR) (50 Words) .................................... 159
reference to India‘s response. (200 Words).... 155 Q-What are the challenges being faced
Q-Write a critical note on the 13th Amendment by Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)
and its relevance to the settlement of Sri countries in Indian Ocean region? Elucidate.
Lanka‘s internal crisis between Sri Lankan (200 Words) ........................................................ 159
Tamils and ruling parties of Sri Lanka........... 156 Q-Explain the composition and mandate of
Q-Evaluate how far has AU mission to Somalia IAEA. Do you think it has succeeded in its
(AMISOM), established under UNSC missions? (200 Words)...................................... 160
resolution and mandated to conduct Peace Q-What are the types of loans provided by
Support Operations in Somalia, been successful World Bank, IMF and ADB respectively to poor
in its mission ...................................................... 156 and developing countries? Does India need aid
Q-The Peace Clause in Agreement on from these institutions? .................................... 160
Agriculture (AoA) (wto) .................................. 157 Q-What are the benefits India would get if it‘s
Q-Analyse the significance of ratification of the made the member of Asia-Pacific Economic
Additional Protocol (AP) to the India-specific Cooperation (APEC)? Elucidate. (200 Words)
nuclear safeguards agreement with the ............................................................................. 160
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) by Q--Why was the European Union established.
India. ................................................................... 157 Critically examine why it expanded towards
Q-In the World Bank‘s ―Ease of Doing Business East and with what consequences. ................. 161
Index‖ report, India‘s rank is abysmal.

Q--Critically evaluate the role played by the Q-―Some of the strategies adopted by USA in
European Union in bringing about the combating terrorism might foment further
European integration within Europe and with instability in the affected regions and prove
rest of the world. ............................................... 162 counterproductive.‖ Analyze (200 Words) ... 168
Q) Critically analyse the role of BRICS alliance Q-Critically examine what actions has USA
in the changing global order. ........................... 162 taken so far to mitigate climate change. ........ 168
Q--Examine the objectives of establishing Q- ―USA is following a policy of protectionism
a New Development Bank by the BRICS through immigration rules.‖ Comment in the
countries. Do you think there is a need for context of India – USA relations. (200 Words)
another world financial institution? Comment. ............................................................................. 169
............................................................................. 163 Q--Write a note on the United States Trade
Q-- Why does India want to become member of Representative‘s (USTR) ‗Special 301′ report.
APEC group? Analyse benefits of joining the Explain why was it controversial with reference
group. .................................................................. 163 to India................................................................ 169
Q) Radical plans by the World Bank to relax the Q-Critics call ‗Special 301 Report‘ as a public
conditions on which it lends up to $50 billion a law devoted to the service of private corporate
year to developing countries have been interests. ............................................................. 170
condemned as potentially disastrous for the Q--Critically comment on America‘s recent
environment and likely to weaken protection of foreign policy initiatives. Do you think its
indigenous peoples and the poor. Critically supremacy as sole superpower in the world is
examine............................................................... 164 waning? Comment............................................ 170
Q--Critically evaluate the idea of BRICS Bank Q--Discuss why immigration issue in USA is a
and its significance to India. ............................ 164 very sensitive issue. .......................................... 170
Q. Why was NATO set up? Critically comment Q- Critically analyze the nature of relationship
on its role and activities after the end of cold between USA and Saudi Arabia since 2001
war....................................................................... 165 terrorist attacks on World Trade Centre in New
Q-Write a short note on EU Blue Card........... 165 York. (200 Words) ............................................. 171
Q-What are the concerns of the Gulf Q- Critically comment on
Cooperation Council on the issue of recent US‘ pivot to Asia strategy. ............................... 171
Geneva agreement between Iran and P5+1 Q-What is the strategic importance of raising
countries? (150 Words) ..................................... 166 energy boom in USA? Comment. (200 Words)
Q- ―The G-20 group has been increasingly ............................................................................. 172
challenged to retain its relevance and
Africa .................................................... 172
effectiveness in dealing with a host of global co-
ordination problems that are more structural in Q-What strategic interest America has in
nature.‖ Comment. ........................................... 167 Africa? Comment. (150 Words)....................... 172
Other International Devlop[ments .. 167 Q-Write a critical note on the economic

progress of Africa in recent years and its
North America .................................... 167 integration with the rest of the world through
Q-What is European Reassurance Initiative by trade. ................................................................... 172
the USA? Why is it controversial? Examine. . 167

Q-Africa is seen as a potential destination for catastrophic consequences.‖ Do you agree with
future investments and business by both the this statement? Substantiate. ........................... 179
developed and emerging economies. Give a Q-Critically comment on the historical reasons,
reasoned account for this shift in opinion. (200 especially related to World War events, that led
............................................................................. 173 to strain in China – Japan relationship. ......... 180
Q-How Apartheid in South Africa was ended Question - ―Territorial sovereignty, contention
and who were the protagonists in anti- on energy, significance of the geographic
Apartheid movement? Explain. (200 Words) 173 location, threat to maritime security and
Q-Write a short note on the recent crisis in the overlapping maritime claims are at the core of
Central African Republic. How was the ........ 173 the South China Sea dispute. ‖ Elaborate. (200
Q-Explain the growth of Boko Haram in Words) ................................................................ 180
Nigeria. Comment on its ideology and its effect Q-What is the bone of contention between
on Nigerian society. .......................................... 174 China and surrounding countries in the South
Q. Write a note on Takaful Insurance of Africa China Sea? Explain the response of concerned
which was in news recently ............................. 175 regional multilateral organizations on the
dispute. (200 Words) ........................................ 181
Q. Critically examine the causes and
consequences of Rwandan genocide of 1994. 175 Q--Comment on China‘s relationship with
South East Asian countries. ............................. 181
Q--Write a critical note on the reasons behind
increasing ethnic and religious clashes in Q--Discuss the contours of China – Russia
different parts of Africa. ................................... 175 relations post – communist takeover of China
in 1949. Do you think a close relationship
East Asia ............................................... 176 between these two countries is beneficial to
Q--Explain how and why Deng Xiaoping India? Comment. ............................................... 182
brought economic reforms in China. What were Q. It is said that the success of the proposed
its consequences. ............................................... 177 Maritime Silk Route initiative by China will be
Q--Critically comment on South China Sea consequential to regional stability and global
dispute in the light of international laws related peace. Analyse the objectives of this initiative
to seas. ................................................................. 177 and critically evaluate the assessment made in
the given statement........................................... 183
Q-Comment on China‘s ‗Panda Diplomacy‘. 178
Q-‗The History weighs heavy on Japan – Korea
Q-Critically comment on the significance of the
relations.‖ Comment (200 Words) .................. 184
Tiananmen Square incident of 1989 to China
and the World. ................................................... 178 Answer) .............................................................. 184
Question - ―To ensure China chooses the Middle East & Central Asia .............. 184
―trading state‖ strategy as it rises
Q-Beneath the chaos in Egypt‘s post Arab
geopolitically, rather than one based on
Awakening lies a complex power struggle
aggression, it is imperative that the United
between generals and Islamists.‖ Analyze. (200
States, as the sole superpower, follow a policy
Words) ................................................................ 184
of deterrence.‖ Examine. (200 Words)............ 179
Q-‖The current situation in Iraq is the making
Q. ―China cannot copy the political system or
of US invasion in 2003.‖ Critically comment. 185
development model of other countries because
it would not fit us and it might even lead to

Q-Critically comment on the causes and development to the Heart of Asia region. (200
consequences of America‘s invasion of Iraq in Words) ................................................................ 189
2011...................................................................... 185 Q-Critically analyse India‘s stand towards
Q-The present crisis in the West Asia is the various developments that are taking place in
product of past wars, including the First World the Arab world. ................................................. 189
War. Critically examine. ................................... 185 Q- Is Arab Spring a failure? Comment. (250
Q-Do you think the Carter Doctrine is still Words) ................................................................ 190
relevant? In the light of recent developments in Q--Critically discuss how recent developments
the West Asia, critically comment. ................. 185 post-Arab Spring in the West Asian countries
Q-Critically examine the causes behind the have given rise to new terrorist outfits and the
religious divide and tension between Sunni and dangers they pose to the security of the region
Shia sects of Islam in many parts of the world. and beyond. ....................................................... 191
............................................................................. 186 Q-Critically analyze the latest developments
Q-Explain how a regional war in Syria was that have taken place since Arab Spring
averted in the last minute? Who were the key revolutions. (200 Words).................................. 191
players and what was their role? (250 Words) Q-Critically analyze the implications of
............................................................................. 186 thawing relations between Iran and USA on the
Explain how a regional war in Syria was geopolitics of West Asia. (200 Words) ........... 193
averted in the last minute? Who were the key Q-Compare and contrast how Russian
players and what was their role? (250 Words) economy grew since the inception of
............................................................................. 186
communism and its subsequent fall later. ..... 194
Q-The crisis in Syria is more the result of
Q-What are the possible national interests at
external factors than internal ones.‖ Critically
play in Russia‘s pursuance of proactive
comment. ............................................................ 187
diplomacy in the middle East region?
Q-For the establishment of full diplomatic Comment. (200 Words) .................................... 195
relationship between USA and Iran, apart from
Q-Write a critical note on the causes and
their mutual mistrust, there are other external
consequences of the Suez Crisis of 1956. ....... 196
forces within the region which are acting as
roadblock.‖ Comment. (200 Words) ............... 187 Q. Critically comment on the recent political
developments in Egypt. In your opinion, what
Q-Do you agree with the view that if Iran
these developments indicate about the nature
develops nuclear bomb, it would bring peace
of governance and institutions in Egypt? ...... 196
and avert future wars in the region? Critically
comment. (200 Words) ..................................... 188 Q-Why Turkey is keen on joining EU? Explain
............................................................................. 197
Q- ―The Syrian situation has been called a
proxy war involving many players.‖ Comment. Q. Critically comment on the recent
(200 Words) ........................................................ 188 developments in the polity and economy of
Turkey................................................................. 197
Q-Write a note on the Kurdish movement with
special reference to its present status in the Q. What were the reasons behind 1973 Arab oil
region. ................................................................. 188 embargo? What were its consequences?
Examine .............................................................. 198
Q-Critically analyze the role of the Istanbul
process in bringing about stability and

Q-Critically comment on the outcome of Arab themselves to resolve their differences since
Spring revolution. ............................................. 198 2000. .................................................................... 204
Q-What are the geopolitical implications Q-Analyze the efforts being made so far to
of normalization of ties between Iran and the broker a peace deal between Israel and
............................................................................. 199 Palestine. (200 Words) ..................................... 204
Q-East Turkestan Islamic Movement South Asia ........................................... 205
(ETIM) (50 Words) ............................................ 199
Q---Critically examine the changing role of
Q-Critically comment on the nature and form military in Pakistan‘s domestic and foreign
of Palestinian Movement with a note on latest affairs in recent years........................................ 205
developments..................................................... 199
Q--Critically evaluate Pakistan military‘s
Q. Explain India‘s position vis a vis Israel- ‗strategic depth‘ doctrine. Do you think it‘s
Palestine conflict. In recent years India has relevant in the light of recent developments in
grown closer to Israel because of commercial the region? Examine. ........................................ 206
interests. Do you think India is right in having
Q-What are the main threats to democratic
closer relations with Israel? Comment. .......... 199
processes in Maldives? Analyze in the light of
Q--Do you agree with the analysis that Israel is last two year‘s developments in the island
facing existential threat and it is using nation. (200 Words)........................................... 206
disproportionate force to thwart this threat?
Q-On one hand Pakistan appears to be
Critically comment............................................ 200
stabilizing because of stable transition of power
Q---.Do you think Israel‘s violent actions in political and military circles, but on the other
against Palestine and the subsequent reactions hand there is an increase in sectarian and
of the West are justified? Critically comment. terrorist violence undermining the democratic
............................................................................. 201 processes.‖ Reflect on the causes for this
Q--Do you agree with the view that Israel is growing contradiction in Pakistani society. .. 207
using extreme violence against Palestine in self- Question - ―It is in Pakistan‘s best interests to
defence? Critically comment. .......................... 201 help stabilize the situation in Afghanistan.‖
Q-Why does Israel and Iran have a strained Elaborate. (200 Words) ..................................... 207
relations between them? Examine. (150 Words) Q-Maldives is experiencing a series of political
............................................................................. 202 uncertainties in its quest for strong
Q- Critically examine why peace talks have democracy.‖ Comment.(200 Words) .............. 208
failed between Israel and Palestine over the Q-For meaningful devolution of powers and
years. What efforts were made by the more autonomy to Tamil regions in North and
international community to establish peace East Sri Lanka, the solution lies in the
between them? Explain. ................................... 202 constitutional reform and political will from the
Q) ―The recent hostilities between Israel and Sri Lankan government and not in the 13th
Palestine are not rooted in only the immediate amendment alone.‖ Comment. (200 Words) 209
tensions between them; they are a product of Q-―13th Amendment is like a vessel with a hole
recent changes that have taken place in the and seems good for nothing,‖ Comment. (150
region.‖ Examine. .............................................. 203 Words) ................................................................ 209
Q. Critically evaluate the efforts taken by the
international community and Israel – Palestine

Q-Critically comment on Sri Lanka‘s policy the implications of such an agreement to the
towards its minority communities.................. 210 regional security.(200 Words) ......................... 215
Q- ―The recent talks between Pakistan and the Question - ―At the end of 12 years of American
Taliban is driven by Pakistan‘s desire for occupation, Afghanistan has not emerged as a
influence in Afghanistan, plus the delusion that more secure place; nor has the U.S. had much
it can somehow control the Taliban and other of a success in nation-building.‖ Comment. (200
militants on both sides of the Durand Line.‖ Words) (topic converges with India and its
Comment. (200 Words) .................................... 210 neighbours) ........................................................ 215
Q- ―South Asian unity is essential if we are to Q- Critically comment on the plight of women
deliver an improved quality of life to hundreds in Afghanistan and possible threats they might
of millions, through growth made possible by face once US withdraws its troops from there.
economic efficiencies and commerce.‖ (200 Words) (this question has also an ethical
Comment. (200 Words) .................................... 210 face) ..................................................................... 216
Q-How would the proposed economic corridor South East Asia ................................... 216
between China and Pakistan impact the region?
Q--Critically comment on Sri Lanka‘s efforts of
Examine. (200 Words)....................................... 211
reconstruction in its Northern and Eastern
Q-Do you think Taliban has become existential regions post 2009 war on LTTE....................... 216
threat to Pakistan? Comment on the evolution
Q--Critically comment on Rohingya related
of Taliban movement and its threat to world
controversy in Myanmar ................................. 217
peace. (200 Words) ............................................ 211
Q--Write a critical note on the recent political
Q-Critically examine the challenges that
crisis in Thailand. .............................................. 218
Afghanistan faces in its efforts towards
achieving domestic stability. ........................... 212 Q-The current crisis in Thailand is an extension
of the same partisan deadlock that has
Q-What possible role can China, India and
characterised the country‘s politics for years.‖
Russia together play in Afghanistan once US
Elaborate............................................................. 218
withdraws most of its troops? Comment. (200
Words) ................................................................ 212 Europe .................................................. 219
Q. What are the main challenges that Q-Do you think the European Parliament is
Afghanistan would face in coming days in its truly a democratic institution? Critically
quest to become democracy and a stable evaluate its success as a representative
country? Analyze. ............................................. 213 institution of diverse European citizens. ....... 219
Q-―Afghanistan faces war on many fronts, and Q- What possible options are there between EU
the deadliest might be on the narcotics front.‖ and Russia to resolve the crisis in Ukraine? In
Comment. (200 Words) .................................... 214 your opinion what should be a plausible
Q-―Once USA pulls out of Afghanistan, the solution to end the crisis? Comment. (200
new great game in Afghanistan is going to be Words) ................................................................ 219
between India and Pakistan.‖ Do you agree Q- Why is anti-immigration a hot political issue
with this view? Explain why. (200 Words).... 214 in many EU and non-EU countries in Europe?
Q- Why is there an opposition to the proposed Explain. (200 Words) ........................................ 219
Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) between
Kabul and Washington? Examine highlighting

Question - Why is there a demand for revision Russia in its sphere of influence. (200 Words)
of certain treaties of the European Union? ............................................................................. 225
Examine. (200 Words)....................................... 220
Q-What are the strengths and weaknesses of
Eurozone? What were the causes of recent
Eurozone crisis? Analyze. (200 Words).......... 221
Q-Post- Eurozone crisis, analyze how the
measures of austerity had an effect on the
economies of Greece and other PIIGS
countries? Do you think austerity measures
yielded the desired results? Comment. (200
Words) ................................................................ 221
Q- Orange Revolution ...................................... 222
Q-―The escalating political crisis in Ukraine has
cast a deep shadow over Russia‘s relations with
Europe.‖ Comment. (200 Words).................... 222
Q-What‘s happening in Ukraine is also about
Yanukovych‘s failures to fix the economy and
his draconian restrictions against basic
freedoms. but its more prominent identity crisis
conflicts are creating a rift between Europe and
Russia. ................................................................. 222
Q-What are the reasons behind protests against
the government in Ukraine? Comment on the
external factors in causing the protests. (200
Words) ................................................................ 223
Q-What is the significance of local elections
held in Kosovo? Briefly explain the causes of
tension between Serbia and Kosovo ............... 223
Q-Comment on important issues that decided
the outcome of recently held elections to the
European Parliament. ....................................... 224
Q-As two Communist states, what has been the
relationship between China and Russia since
the break-up of USSR. Examine. (200 Words)
............................................................................. 224
Russia ................................................... 225

Q-Critically comment on the recent assertive
and independent foreign policy stance of

to absence of fresh water supply because of

India and its Neighbourhood (relations) farakka dam.
ASSYMETRY OF SIZE AND RESOURCES :
Q---Critically examine water related disputes Bangladesh, being lower riparian and a water‐
between India and its Eastern Neighbours abundant country faces seasonal shortages and
India being the upper riparian with larger
including China.
population, this situation has the potential to
cause insecurity and friction between the two
Water conflicts within and between nations are
countries.
endemic all over the globe where water demand
CLASSIFICATION OF INFORMATION: All the
is high because of population growth and
information regarding flows and releases is kept
development needs. India‘s partition after
secret. The river disputes lack the reliable data in
independence and the integration of its princely
terms of river flow rates and water utilization. It
states resulted in redrawing of our map, giving
lacks coordination between the respective
rise to new disputes over water rights.
governments.
In most of the water issues with our neighboring
ABSENCE OF INSTITUTIONALIZED
nations, it has been observed that they are
STRUCTURE: The entity that is responsible for
essentially the result of the political deficit
overseeing any water issues between the two
between the nations which hampers a resolution
countries, the JRC (Joint Rivers Commission) , is
of even minor water issues between the two.
considered to be without much strength, as its
For instance;
powers are ultimately determined by the political
INDIA-BANGLADESH Relationship revolves
leaders of the two countries.
more around the issue of illegal immigrants,
DOMESTIC POLITICS: Another problem is the
Chakma refugees, insurgency operations, border
sharp polarization of domestic politics in various
demarcation, trade balance; etc which are the
countries. Unless, domestic politics are resolved
actual hurdles for the resolution of water issue.
and all parties realize the importance of
Teesta river and Ganges river dispute ( farakka
cooperation on water, within the country,
barrage)- still exist despite various treaties signed
bilateral cooperation on water will be difficult to
for Ganges in the past. One of the reason for this
achieve.
being trust deficit among both the nations.
Hence to conclude, a collaborative effort is
INDO- CHINA Relationship : China has several
required between India and its neighbors
projects in west-central Tibet that may reduce the
including China, Bangladesh and all other
river water flow into India & Bangladesh. There
neighbors to study the Himalayan glaciers as
are reports that China is planning to divert huge
they are the source from where the rivers
amount of the Brahmaputra from south to north
affecting all these countries, originate. Moreover,
to feed the Yellow River. If this is true, India will
great care and a broad consensus will be
face a severe crisis once the Chinese projects are
required, for water is life and none will give up
completed. Many of the hydel projects in the
water easily.
Northeast India may have to be shelved.
There are a number of FACTORS RESPONSIBLE
Q--Critically comment on the relevance of
for continued water disputes between the nations:
Gujral Doctrine to India‟s foreign policy vis a
LACK OF POLITICAL CONSENSUS between the
nations is a big hurdle for any resolution to be vis its neighbours.
passed.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS : Another bone Gujral Doctrine was propounded by the former
of contention b/w countries has been the nature Prime Minister I. K. Gujral when he was the
of hydroelectric projects and devastation they external affairs minister in 1997. The Gujral
inflict upon the environment. For instance, doctrine was a five-point roadmap which sought
SUNDERBANS, the world‘s largest coastal forest, to build trust between India and neighbors, of
a world heritage site shared by India and solution to bilateral issues through bilateral talks.
Bangladesh and vital for fish, are drying out due

The ‗Doctrine‘ emphasizes on the importance of 5. They should settle all their disputes through
unilateral accommodation for friendly and warm peaceful bilateral negotiations.
relations with India‘s neighbors. India has used Overall, Indian economy needs to be integrated
Gujral Doctrine in many matters like sharing and SAARC FTA needs Gujral Doctrine to
Ganga water with Bangladesh, settle border become a success.
dispute with china, confidence building talks and
people to people contact with Pakistan.
For India and Neighbors, Gujral doctrine is still Q-What is the difference between border and
relevant today. The rising of China‘s influence in frontier? Highlight the importance of effective
the region can‘t be controlled without the mutual management of border security for India. (200
cooperation between south Asian countries. To Words)
become global power in sync with its stature, A border is the clear line of demarcation between
India needs a peaceful neighborhood. two territories. It‘s the definite edge. A frontier on
Today, Afghanistan is resisting radical forces
the other hand is the area around the edge or the
functioning from across the Durand Line. And in border. Normally when boundaries are not
the wake of US forces withdrawal in 2015, Taliban clearly demarcated between territories, the area
forces are getting stronger day by day.
near their perceived border is known as frontier
Bangladesh is engaged in power struggle areas. The un-demarcated border between India
between secular and radical illiberal forces. Both
and China is a classic example of frontier region.
these states need India standing alongside them
in their struggle to construct a stable and plural
Effective border management is crucial for the
democracy. countries security and stable economic growth.
Engaging a civilian Pakistani regime may become
part of a wider approach to control extremism Examples-
and militarism in the subcontinent. Beyond
 Apart from Bhutan India is facing serious
terrorism, India has a willingness to establish
concerns at its borders with their neighbors.
non-discriminatory trade relations with Pakistan.
This doctrine aims at confidence-building,  It has a standing border dispute with China
changing mindsets, placing procedures and even and has recently signed the BDCA which
issues against a larger and longer perspective of institutionalizes mechanisms to diffuse border
national interest. India‘s vast physical size, large tensions in the short term. However India needs to
population and its economy and military power iron out a permanent solution and make sure that
in relation to its smaller SAARC neighbors can be
the border dispute does not derail the excellent
intimidating. Hence, Gujral doctrine may help
smaller partner to feel comfortable relationship trade relations with China.
with India.  India‘s border with Pak is the most
problematic and in the past year witnessed serious
case fire violations. Resolving border issues which
Extra (explanation): is only among the various interlinked issues with
The five principles are:
Pakistan is vital for overall stability and peace of
1. With neighbors like Bangladesh, Bhutan,
Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka, India does not the South Asia region.
ask for reciprocity, but gives and accommodates  India‘s border with Bangladesh is porous and
what it can in good faith and trust. has led to passage of Bangladeshi immigrants to
2. No South Asian country should allow its NE causing lot of unrest. Also they have become
territory to be used against the interest of another shelters for anti-India insurgent activities.
country of the region.
 Open border with Nepal has also encouraged
3. No country should interfere in the internal
anti- national activities from across the border as
affairs of another.
4. All South Asian countries must respect each witnessed by the arrest of Yasin Bhatkal and
other‘s territorial integrity and sovereignty. Tunda.

Some concerns that opening up of the northeast

Along with dialogue and diplomacy at the
would flood the Indian markets with Chinese
highest level efforts should be made to
improve infrastructure like roads and out goods and another that the same prospect would
posts at the borders to efficiently and make the northeastern border security vulnerable.
effectively manage the borders One another issue which could emerge with
serious implications that the line dividing
―internal affairs‖ and ―external interference‖ may
Question - Write a note on the Bangladesh-
China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) corridor plan. narrow and if not handled carefully, could even
(200 Words) threaten relations among the countries involved.
But by mutual trust and cooperation between
Answer - The Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar
china and India, these concerns can be resolved.
(BCIM) economic corridor is a test case for
Also despite having enough potential, South
cooperation between India and China in regional
Asian Association of Regional Cooperation
development as well as addressing common
(SAARC) failed to grow up as an effective
challenges.
regional institution. The BCIM economic corridor
the Corridor is expected to ease the flow of goods has the potential of transforming a conflict zone
between two of the world‘s largest economies in into a cooperation zone. This can happen only if
India and China, while providing greater adequate measures are taken to check any
economic resources to the burgeoning markets of possible negative impacts of the corridor by
Bangladesh and Myanmar. The proposed involving all of the key stakeholders.
corridor will cover 1.65 million square km,
Criticism – Informative and structured in line
encompassing an estimated 440 million people in
with the requirement of the question.
China‘s Yunnan Province, Bangladesh, Myanmar
and West Bengal in India and 7.3 per cent of the Some other benefits of subject plan : Harnessing
global gross domestic product (GDP) through the complementary capabilities of diverse countries
combination of road ( 2,800-kilometre highway), in the group, Enabling India to forge ties with
rail, water and air linkages in the region. ASEAN countries, Development in the region
shall quell local support to left wing extremists,
Direct investment by the two Asian giants China
will go long way in curbing state sponsored
and India is low in Bangladesh and Myanmar.
insurgency, economic equality in the region will
Improving trade facilitation and connectivity will
reduce influx from Myanmar and Bangladesh,
have the strongest effect on building regional
percolation of development will eliminate
production networks. India‘s north-east will
superstitious practice and brings the community
benefit from FDI. Bangladesh is poised to become
to join mainstream, promote inclusive
a hub. For that matter, multimodal connectivity
development, development will shift
should be established.
employment base and improve environment by
This project will also ease the way for various reduction in Jhum cultivation which is turning
India Bangladesh settlements like Land Boundary unsustainable etc.
agreement, Teesta water treaty and setup of
Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna (GBM) Basin
Regime. It will serve India‘s ‗Look East‘ Policy
and China‘s ‗Going Out‘ Policy well.

Q-Analyze the possible impact of the BCIM Basically India is considered as the big brother in
corridor project on the regional economic the south Asia region and from Independence
growth. (200 Words) India has played important role at many levels.
The BCIM corridor which envisages a multi From leadership point of view
 During Nehru‘s time his policies of NAM
modal connectivity between Bangladesh, China,
helped carving out a space for South Asia.
India and Myanmar has huge positive
 During Indra Gandhi‘s time India
externalities on economic growth of the responded to massacre of people in East
subregion. Firstly, the corridor utilises the Pakistan and military intervention led to
principle of economic complementarities which creation of Bangladesh.
means each of the 4 nations will be contributing  Rajiv Gandhi send Indian peacekeeping
in parts to the sum of the whole in their force in Sri Lanka during the terror reign
of LTTE.
respective competitive advantages. Secondaly,
 Now even the states like Punjab, TN and
the corridor aims to achieve increased people to
West Bengal also play an important role in
people contacts which will facilitate trade in foreign policy due to coilation politics.
services besides leading to cultural exchange At regional level
which will boost economic integration in the  India has taken active part in SAARC,
subregion. Thirdly, the bilateral trade is at present BIMSTEC and IORA and has been
distorted in the subregion with China prevailing forefront in mitigating the disputes
between the neighbouring nations.
a huge trade surplus with India, Bangladesh and
Myanmar at the receiving end. The corridor
Also apart from these steps India has given
attempts to balance the trade flow by way of preference to South Asian nations for FTA and
encouraging investments and economic flow by other economic concessions and the present PM
utilizing the dormant potential of economies of has taken a keen interest in making better
Bangladesh and Myanmar in areas ranging from relations among the neighbors.
textile to tourism and thus the coprridor can
make the subregion a strong economic hub. Q-- In your opinion what role should India play
to have a friendly relationship with its
Although the corridor faces certain bottlenecks neighbours, especially with SAARC members?
such as security issues in Myanmar which may In the light of its policy towards its neighbours
come in way of project and the yet to be decided in recent years, critically comment.
principle of project financing and resource
allocation given the vastly different economic The word SAARC captures association only in
sizes of the 4 nations. still the BCIM corridor shall letter not in spirit. Formed to cohese the region, it
has far from doing it. Primary reason for it is
be a meaningful step ahead towards the economic
mutual antagonism arisen between mostly India
development and integration of the South Asian
and other countries from the time of
sub-region. independence and also for natural resources.
The geographical location of india is such that
each country borders only india and has to pass
india in order to reach other country. This places
Q. Critically assess the nature of Indian
india in central location.
diplomacy with its neighboring countries in However successive governments have failed to
South Asia since Independence. leverage its size and location to its advantage.
Foreign policies have been guided by different
Answer- bordering states, rather than centre.
SAARC dialogues have been overwhelmed by
india Pakistan issues, so the other constituents

feel let down. Dialogues have been continuous engage with the SAARC members. Hence as a
with few breaks, but largely with no fruit. first step, india should step up its diplomatic
The new government‘s move is been hailed by engagements with the member countries to revive
many. It is just the kind of start the country was the institution of SAARC. india should not leave
looking for. The dialogue process should be any opportunity to engage with member
intense and should respect the sovereignty of countries at bilateral and regional level.
each nation. Above all, panchsheel principles Second, with broad objectives of providing
should be the mantra in every talk and treaty.+ energy security, investing in cross border
gujral doctrine connectivity infrastructure, opening up
Mutual benefit will appease as well as encourage communication channels , electricity transmission
others to follow the same suite. networks should be on priority basis.
Third, as world grapples with adversities of
India‘s foreign policy till recently was mostly climate change, a SAARC coastal plan with
focused on the relations with the west(Europe detailed mitigation and adaptation measures,
and US) and ,Pakistan and, China , ignoring preparedness for climatic adversities etc. should
other neighbors . Thus SAARC did not become a be prepared at the earliest.
cohesive economic union like ASEAN and merely Finally, pursuing cooperative security through
remained a talk shop.the following issues remain: platforms like maritime security council both in
1.India voted against Srilanka in UNHRC in arabian sea and bay of bengal to tackle the threats
2009,11,and 13. of piracy, marine terrorism should be expedited.
2.GMR Issue with maldives and asylum to the ex The SAARC platform can also provide an
president Naseed. opportunity to resolve key outstanding issues
3.Inability to resolve the Teesta river water among member nations to pursue regional peace
dispute and Land Boundary agreement with and security.
Bangladesh.
4.Removal of the grant given to Bhutan which Q---The Northeast can be rejuvenated by
was seen as an attempt to affect the election making the region a focal point for growth.
outcome of the country. Analyse in what ways NE region can be made a
5.The above issues and permanent belligerent
focal point for growth and how.
attitude of Pakistan act as a hindrance in the
formation of a cohesive SAARC.
North East of India comprising the seven states
With a strong government at the center and
has been lagging behind in terms of economic
without the burden of a coalition, India has an
development, infrastructure, educational and
excellent opportunity to resolve these issues .
health facilities and job opportunities. Many
India should go an extra mile to ensure the
factors are to be blamed for this lacunae in
development of its neighbor even if the
development between the mainland India and the
reciprocation is not equal . This approach , known
North east India. The measures that can help in
as Gujral Doctrine, will be a key instrument to
making North East India a focal point of growth
enable the SAARC to realize its potential.
are:
1) Change in viewpoint in Policy Making
Pursuing regional peace and security while NE region has several complex factors for
promoting measures for the economic example militancy and violence, illegal migration
development of the region should guide the etc that drives the policy making of the region.
foreign policy of India towards SAARC Proactive policy making is required rather for the
members. region rather than a reactive one. Infrastructure
South Asia houses 36 percent of the world most development, repealing of unnecessary
absolute poverty stricken people. Lack of energy Restrictive laws, boost to local entrepreneurs and
security, volatile security environment, risks financial help to start ups are a few of the
related to climate change etc provide not only big measure required to be undertaken.
challenges but also an opportunity for India to 2) Tapping the vast natural potential :

NE India has a vast potential in power generation  To promote welfare and improve quality of
and infrastructure sectors. If dealted with life: there is no SAARC program that substantially
productively while keeping the ecological factors contributes to poverty alleviation.
in mind, the North Eastern region can generate
 To accelerate growth, social progress and
enough power for local support as well as export.
This will help in increasing the revenue of the cultural development: SAFTA is the only
state while providing job and energy security. achievement. Cultural exchange programs do
3) Trade opportunities : happen, but with dubious real outcomes.
The long borders of this part of the country can be  To promote collective self-reliance: 28 years of
used to its advantage by facilitating cross border existence and SAARC still has a limping FTA. The
trade.
EU became a ‗Monetary Union‘ in nine years.
4) Educational Hub:
If the educational sector is properly invested in  To enhance mutual understanding and trust:
the region, it can provided an educational hub to Indo-Pak relations are still what they were. Sri
not only the local population but also to the Lanka doesn‘t trust India any more with its
neighboring countries like Mayanmar etc. insurgency. India votes against them in UNHRC.
The North-Eastern states share 98% borders with So much for mutual co-operation!
neighboring countries but only 2% with other
 Collaboration in science: Marginally
Indian states. To convert this location
successful, thanks largely to ITEC program, a
disadvantage into an opportunity, promoting
Indian investment infrastructure in partner purely Indian initiative. SAARC countries are the
countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, in major beneficiaries though.
Sittwe port, international highways to connect the  Co-operation with other developing nations,
Northeast Region with ASEAN, BCIM corridor international organizations and co-operate among
etc. will be a positive step. themselves in international fore: SAARC rarely, if
ever, deals in diplomacy as a bloc.
Take the region out of its insurgency grip, plan a
decentralized multi-level development strategy
aimed at fostering the region‘s growth. So, it is clear that SAARC is a resounding failure.
It‘s current utility is as a representative example of
Thus we need to focus on the grassroot level pre-Gujral ―rhetoric diplomacy‖ practiced by
development and not on superficial policies. The India, with the exception of Indira Gandhi.
awareness that North Eastern India is as much a
part of the country as any other state, with Another answer..
increased cultural awareness and acceptance can
be a big step in the forward direction.
objectives and evaluation of of SAARC
1.Increasing quality of life and economic growth

Q-Critically evaluate the success of the South :Although SAARC have ratified the Convention on
Asian Association for Regional Cooperation food security reserve the definitions are vague and
(SAARC) as political and economic entity vies a the south Asian region has the biggest deaths
vis its objectives caused due to hunger and starvation.
The following are the eight objectives of SAARC, 2.collective self-reliance: Though SAARC have
extracted from the high rhetoric of Article I of SAARC Convention on suppression of terrorism Pakistan
charter. as a nation is still struggling to get rid of the
terrorist bases.

3. collaboration in economic, technical and Pakistan, India had withdrawn from this due to
scientific fields: pressure from US on nuclear issue and security
India is pioneering in collaborating its space concerns, but have started the talks again.
research program but lack of growth models in 2. TAPI: The project will transport the natural gas
respective countries is proving as the anchor . from Caspian sea in Turkmenistan to Pakiatan and
India via Afghanistan
4.increasing people to people contact and sharing 3. India will set up pipeline to supply diesel and
of information among the SAARC members: Lack kerosene from Bhatinda refinery to Pakistan
of consistent follow up on confidence building India would need around 21000 MW additional
measures is hinging to the people to people energy by 2021, hence these energy tie ups with
contacts SAARC nation is very important in not only meeting
the demand but also bringing harmony, peace and
5.other than these objectives :SAARC have ratified building economic ties.
Convention on suppression of terrorism. 1991 was
SAARC Year of Shelter and 1992 as ‗SAARC Year
of the Disabled. Last decade of the twentieth
century as ‗SAARC Decade of the Girl Child‘ But Q- “South Asian unity is essential if we are to
in the respective areas not enough has been done deliver an improved quality of life to hundreds
except the blame game. of millions, through growth made possible by
economic efficiencies and commerce.”
SAARC as a concept has not failed us. But we as Comment. (200 Words)
the citizens of this sub-continent have failed on Answer - In this inter-connected world, where
the objectives countries in different parts of the globe form
Q-Write a critical note on India‟s energy ties regional fora for mutual cooperation and
with the SAARC members. development, the South Asian region risks being
India is currently dealing with Pakistan, Bhutan, left behind, unable to realize its potentials
Nepal for energy related matters among the SAARC without much cooperation.
countries
With Bhutan Not only history, culture and geography, but also
1. India is already purchasing 1400 MW electricity poor quality of life binds us all together. Along
from projects like Tala and Kurichu with Africa, the South Asian region is one of the
2. Expected to buy another 2900 MW by 2018 from the most backward regions of the world, with
under construction projects and discussing to start rampant poverty, illiteracy and poor health
2100 MW new projects in 2014. conditions making life miserable for millions.
With Nepal That should be reason enough to start regional
1. The country is having a huge 40000 MW untapped cooperation with a renewed emphasis. However,
hydal Energy capacity but still they are required to low level of mutual trust, spillover effects of the
buy from India for their basic needs. India has shown ethnic and religious conflicts and the magnitude
its interest in starting projects on this and buy the of bilateral disputes in South Asia makes it
electricity generated unrealistic to believe that any substantial growth
2. India has also extended a support of Rs. 100 crore to of regional cooperation is possible without easing
build the petroleum pipeline from Raxual to political tensions.
Kathmandu in 2 phases
Given that political disputes take time to be
With Pakistan
resolved, it is mutual economic interdependence
1. IPI: The Pipeline is under construction from Iran to

laid on the bedrock of historical and cultural Global geopolitics of climate change ,
continuity that can build trust. The India-Sri human rights violation in Syria and
Lanka Free Trade Agreement and open borders heightened terrorist risk from Afghanistan
has united the two nations and such
with Nepal can be a lesson towards the need for
cooperation is essential in the fight against
more cooperation. At the same time, more
discriminatory policies of the developed
cooperation is necessary among regions having nations.
more commonality such as subunits of India and On the domestic front the Border
adjacent countries, such as between the two Agreement signifies willingness to sort
Punjabs and between Bangladesh and West disputes by conciliation and talks instead of
Bengal/North East, which can be in the field of aggressive nationalism. Strong and
equitable trade relations with greater
culture, cinema, sports, etc. in addition to
deepening of ties shall definitely help in
economic interdependence. defusing the border disputes as in todays
world economic considerations sit at the
Commercial meshing in the whole region
heart of political deliberations.
bringing together stakeholders from different
countries is the need of the hour who will act as
 China excels in the manufacturing industry ,
buffer in times of geopolitical turbulence, giving
infrastructure development and India needs
backbone to the politicians who need to fight
both . Thus Chinese FDI can play a vital role
populism and make the tough decisions
. Similarly India‘s private corporate sector
can boast about having world class
INDIA-CHINA
management practices while China still has
to work in this direction . Thus both
Q--Comment on the areas of cooperation
countries can compliment each other in their
between India and China. Do you agree with development.
the view that strong trade relations would In most of the international organizations
eventually make border disputes irrelevant in like WTO , UNFCCC , G20 etc both the
the future? Comment. countries have similar concerns and often
take a similar stand(Syria , Iran , Crimea
2014 has been designated Year of India etc.).
China Friendship in the spirit of deepening
the cooperation between the nations on all Q-Write a note on the cultural ties between
fields to ensure inclusive sustainable India and China.
development and peaceful rise respectively. The Cultural ties between India and China can be
On the economic front India provides a traced to the early phases of civilization and its
huge market for China‘s export based continuation till the recent times. Even before the
economy which is now ready to provide
spread of Buddhism, there are few evidences of
greater access to India to offset the trade
imbalance. India can also benefit from the conceptual and linguistic exchanges during the
massive infrastructure and manufacturing ancient Vedic period.
capabilities of China which are imperative
for the Indian growth. The advent of Buddhism in India and its
Development of the North East is acutely subsequent spread to China is one of the most
linked to ASEAN and success of projects important cultural and religious instances in the
like the BCIM corridor where China plays a relationship between the countries. Many
significant role .Both the nations need to Buddhist travelers from China visited India and
cooperate to benefit from the strategic
valuable exchange of information and sacred text
location of the Indian Ocean today and this
was made and their account of India visit helped
is being achieved through the Maritime Silk
Route. the country constructing its history.

The passing of ‗Silk Route‘ from China to Central Recent steps to invite Chinese industry to set up
Asia via India became the medium of further industrial parks in India can reduce this deficit.
exchange of cultural ties along with economic and
Also Chinese companies like Huawei, ZTE etc.
trade relations. It provided the scholars of both
are investing in India. Indian IT companies and
the countries to visit each other.
some other service and manufacturing companies
The visit of Huen Tsang in 07th Century to bring have also set up offices in China. Also, Chinese
the Buddhist Scriptures to china is marked as an help in setting up high-speed railway should be
important event. Afterwards, many scholars such taken.
as Xuan Zang, Kumarjiva etc visited each other‘s
Leveraging each other‘s strengths in
countries and left valuable historical accounts.
manufacturing and services (China and India
The modern day cultural exchanges include respectively) can build stronger relation.
cultural delegations, teaching of Chinese and
Economic Relation with Japan:
Hindi, Cultural wing of Indian mission in China
etc. The cultural relations are expected to plug the In contrast, with Japan India has a more
gap between the political relations. cooperative relationship. JICA(Japan
International Cooperation Agency) is investing
• Mauryan King Ashoka played a great role in
billions in DMIC and other infrastructural
taking Buddhism to China and so was promoted
projects. Recently, Japanese retailer met Indian
during the time Kanishka.
PM for sourcing Indian textiles and setting up
• There are evidences of strong educational ties stores in India.
as many ancient Chinese scholars are found to
Japnese automakers and electronic device makers
have read in universities like Nalanda.
have factories in India. This must be encouraged
• They share scientific knowledge as well eg. further.
Translating of the astronomical signs of
India should allow held-up Japanese SEZs to be
Aryabhatta in Chinese in book
set up. Other pending matters should be settled
as Japan has been a patient business partner of
India, having put up with project delays.
Q-Critically compare and contrast India‟s
economic relationship between China and Therefore, while with China India looks forward
Japan. to a more engaging economic relationship, with
India has thriving economic relationship with Japan India needs to smoothen some rough edges
both China and Japan. India needs to ‗turn east‘ to make the relation bloom.
further to leverage the positive benefits that
active economic engagements with both countries Q-Critically comment on China‟s increasing
presence in the Indian Ocean and „string of
can bring us.
pearl‟ theory that has been used to explain
Economic Relation with China: intent behind China‟s expansion.
The post cold-war world is seeing a gradual
India-China trade is about $70 Bn. However, huge transformation into a multi-polar world order. In
trade deficit of India is hidden in this figure. This this new order China has emerged as the biggest
needs to be corrected. stake holder. To consolidate its position as one of
the fastest growing economy , sooner-to-become

the largest one, it has embarked upon a drive to Q-Critically comment on the border dispute
secure and expand its interests in Indian Ocean between India and China.
region. This region holds strategic importance as India and China shares physiographic boundary
the majority of the world trade takes place in which crest of mountain summits is recognized
through the maritime routes of Indian Ocean. as the ‗hypothetical boundary line‘. This absence
Moreover, with the arrival of India on the world‘s of permanent boundary line coupled with china‘s
stage as a significant stake-holder in the economic unwarranted claims gives rise to the border
and geo-political world order China sees India as dispute between the two nations. Siachen
potential threat as well as strong competitor. To sector,Tawang tract and whole of Arunachal
eliminate the possible threat to its rising Pradesh claimed by china as ‗southern part of
supremacy by India or any other world power Tibet‘ are especially contentious.
China is developing its military presence by
With India's recognition of Tibet as a part of china
trying to establish ‗naval‘ bases in various
the 'buffer' between India and china disappeared
strategic locations on the periphery of Indian
and china's china's aspirations increased. Capture
Ocean in the garb of helping the host nations
of siachen sector after aggression in 1962,issuing
build their maritime infrastructure. These include
of stapled visa to 'Indian citizens' from Arunachal
Gwadar in Pakistan, Hanbantota in Sri Lanka,
pradesh thereby disputing their citizenship and
Sittwe in Myanmar. Since, these locations are
statehood of Arunachal,Obstructing the progress
surrounding the Indian main land , this strategy
of any infrastructure development project in
has derived its name as the ‗string of pearls‘
Arunachal Pradesh are some of its 'modus-
theory.
operandis' to keep border issue boiling.
But it is quite natural for a nation of more than
Although we have instituted a joint Border
1.35 billion people to make all attempts to ensure
Dispute Redressal Mechanism'and even after 6
the interests of its people. Traditionally and
rounds of talks no conclusive progress have been
historically all the world powers of posterity have
made so far. China is not ready to give up its
followed a similar strategy. Britain established its
position. Contrarily it has started strengthening
base in Aden and Singapore to ensure safety of it
its military infrastructure in border areas and Pok
interests in India. Today USA is maintaining its
(Pakistan occupied Kashmir).
base at Diego Garcia islands in Indian Ocean to
dissuade any threats to its strategic and economic By waging psychological warfare china wants
interests. The idea lies in the strategy of counter- this issue boil in perpetuity. Its a political tactic in
balancing such theories. For example to balance which china wants India to engage and prevent
the string of pearls theory India also is building its resurgence in Asia,as it will hamper china's
its assets in South China Sea and improving own interests. Otherwise,on many world
strategic relations with countries like Japan and platforms be it IBSA,BRICS,WTO or climate
Vietnam which have traditionally been wary of change negotiations china has grouping with
rise of Chinese expansionism. India for mutual benefitts. With change of regime
in both nations and nationalist ones the issue has
very remote chances of getting resolved in
coming days.

Q-Critically comment on the nature of trade

relations between India and China.
There exists a yawning gap between India and Q-Write a critical note on the visa controversy
China when it comes to trade. Over the last three between India and China.
years, India‘s trade deficit with China has China and India due to their long standing
averaged around $35 billion. China is not only conflict has led to the controversy in issuing the
India‘s largest importer, India imports around 25 Visas.
per cent of all its products from China. Whenever a citizen travels to other other country
The nature of trade is more worrying. While, it is expected to issue a sealed visa that means the
India largely exports raw materials such as iron traveler passport will have the permitting seal of
core, cotton, etc, it buys from China the country to which he travels.China also follows
manufactured goods. The implications of this the same process for Indian citizen except JK and
trade deficit needs to be understood from the AR Pradesh. For these two states it issues Stapled
impact it has on the overall Indian economy. Visa. This has seriously annoyed India.because It
First, since India is largely exporting raw clearly shows that China treats differently to the
material, the opportunities for employment JK and AR Pradesh people.It is a passive way of
generation are limited as compared to those China to assert its claims on part of JK and whole
which would have been there had India been a arunachal pradesh.
leader in manufacturing products. Then, the issue On the same lines China also has some concerns
of dumping has caused much concern not just in on the Indian X-entry Visa policy. This policy
India but worldover. Though India has on few prevents Indian citizens who marry to Chinese
occasions imposed anti-dumping duty, the sposes from raising their families in India.This
indigenous industry has felt the impact. Lastly, a visa is valid for 5 years and it has to be renewed
huge trade deficit has a big strain on the foreign every year.but while renewing the Visa they face
exchange reserves. inordinate delay and bureaucratic hurdles.Some
However, trade deficit with China has its times they suffer from Visa vacuum. Since these x
advantages too. Primarily it shows that Indian entry citizens are not allowed to work they face
businesses are searching for the cheapest lot of economic hardships.
products from around the world. By doing so, Thus the need of the hour for both the countries is
they are making our exports more competitive. to sort out these controversies through dialogues
Second, the Indian industry will be forced to find for the mutual benefit and long term interest.
innovative solutions to meet the challenge which
China poses.
How can India bridge the trade deficit? FIrst, Q-What is the root cause of border dispute
Indian pharma and IT companies should expand between India and China? Discuss the
their presence in China. It should take advantage important measures taken by both countries so
of the rising income of its workforce, by far to maintain peace at the border. (200 Words)
migrating more manufacturing jobs to India. The root cause of border dispute between India
Lastly, India should sell itself as a young nation and China is the absence of clear boundaries
with a huge human resource potential, and rule present between India and China since the British
of law which is less arbitrary and more open than time. The Johnson line in the west and Mc-Mohan
China‘s. line in the east were asserted by India to be the

boundaries. But both of them were rejected by 4. Maintaining transparency in strategic

China after India attained independence. As a consultation on our region and periphery in order
result, tensions mounted and finally the 1962 war to eliminate misunderstandings.
between the two took place.
5. Convergence on broad range of global issues
38000 sq -km area of Aksai Chin was captured by and enhanced policy coordination at multilateral
China and ceasefire was declared along Line of forums.
Actual Control (LAC). In the east, China
6. Reaping benefits with full cooperation in
advocates its claim over the state of Arunachal
Economy, and
Pradesh, erstwhile North East frontier Agency.
But India denies such claims. 7. Increasing people to people contact
Since then, incursions from both the sides are Q-India-China ties cannot be hostage to the
claimed by both countries. Chinese, started giving boundary dispute.” Should boundary dispute
stapled visas(symbol of own citizens) to the be sidelined and cooperation in other areas of
people from Jammu & Kashmir and Arunachal mutual interests be promoted between India
Pradesh. Similarly, recent incursions and heavy and China? Comment on the importance of
infrastructure development along borders in both border dispute resolution between the two
fronts have been done by China. countries
―History can change but geography cannot‖.
Both countries signed a Peace and Tranquillity
India and China have shared strong cultural ties
Agreement in 1991. Recently, a Border Dispute
but also bitterness of war of 1962 exists. Both
Cooperation Agreement was signed between the
countries today have moved on.
two on 23rd Oct 2013. Number of Confidence
Building Measures were accepted in this India and China today are considered as two
agreement. Both countries re-iterated the diffused Asian giants which have the capacity to lead the
tensions on the border dispute. ―RE-emerging Asia‖. Considering two big
potential neighbours living side by side both
Q-What are the seven practical principles of
countries do have issues of confrontation, co-
engagement as envisioned by India and China
operation and competition to co-exist .
between them during the recent visit of India‟s
PM to China? (100 Words) 1> economic relations : China is India‘s largest
These seven principles of engagement has been trading partner. Increasing trade deficit is a
described as contemporary development of worring factor to India. Internationally, both
Panchseel agreement between the two countries countries co-operate at to call for IMF, WB
in 1950s. They are- reforms. But at the same time compete for
resources in Africa and else where.
1. ‗Peace and tranquility at border‘ a topmost
priority for a smooth bilateral relation. 2> international trade: eventhough both countries
co-operate in fighting piracy on high seas in west
2. Mutual confidence building measures and
africa. Both have conflicting issues on disputes
expansion of relations.
related to spartly island w.r.t. UNCLOS . India
3. Cooperation on issues like trans-border Rivers had been given permission by the vietnam govt to
and trade balancing. explore.

3> meantime, chinese policy of ―string of pearl‖ policy of china in regard to aruncahl Pradesh is
around India and India‘s inclination towards US very ambiguous. India‘s plocy so far has been
policy of ―Pivot to Asia‖ is a cause of concern. disallow travel on stapled visa.Allowing travel on
stapled visa will be paramount to conceding
thus, the relations with china is much more
Arunachal Pradesh a disputed territory.
complex than any other country. We share
spheres of co-operation and confrontation in each Various propositions has been made by intellects
sector we interact. But, it only wrt to Border of india to deal with ambiguous policy of china.
issues we face a severe direct threat of One of them is to start issuing stapled visa to
confrontation. The recent incidents of Chinese people originating from Tibet Autonomous
incursions along Depsang is a cause of concern. Region(TAR) of china. But keeping in mind that
india now recognizes Tibet to be part of China, it
However, sidelining border talks is not at India‘s
wont be right step. India should Continue with
national interest as it is a question on sovereignty
the current policy of denial to travel on stapled
of the nation. The Defence minister made a
visa and at the same time should engage Chinese
statement in monsoon session that India has 2
leadership on this issue diplomatically. In the
pronged strategy to deal with CHina. Approach
past india has been successful in changing
One, talking to each other to know . thus we have
Chinese policy of issuing stapled visa to J&K
special representative and working mechanisms
Residents when china had started issuing stapled
on question border affairs. The recent BDCA
visa to them in 2009.
encourages not to use force at any instances of
face off. Approach TWo, strengthen border
security- Mountain Strike Corps approved by
cabinet committee on security, India landed C-
130J super hercules.
Question - “In boldly re-engineering the
Panchasheel between iNdia and CHina needs to subcontinent‟s physical environment, Beijing is
be Hounoured by both the countries. Peaceful behaving much like the British Raj.” Comment
negotiations bilaterally and co-operation among in the context of growing presence of China
the two large developing countries is not just across the region and consequent Indian
necessary but an essential aspect. concerns. (200 Words)
China is playing an major role in influencing the

physical environment conditions prevailing in the
subcontinent. This role is being compared to the
Q-Write a critical note on China‟s visa policy on
role played by the British raj while they ruled in
Arunachal Pradesh and India‟s response to it. the subcontinent.The British rule was
What measure you think India should adopt to instrumental in increasing the connectivity within
deal with China‟s ambiguous visa policy with the region as well as increasing the trade relations
respect to Arunachal Pradesh? (200 Words) of the subcontinent with the world. Since late
China has policy of issuing stapled visa to nineties , China had made the proposal for the
resident of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. BCIM corridor which connects the eastern part of
As per Chinese authorities it is its policy to issue India with Bangladesh, Myanmar and the south
western China. This corridor would facilitate the
stapled visa to people from disputed territory
trade and investment relations among the
.Although in past China has issued regular Visas countries. The modernization of the trans
also to arunachal Pradesh residents. So current karakoram highway and proposal for the Kashgar

corridor made by China recently to ensure the

connectivity with the western part of the
subcontinent. The maritime silk route , recently
proposed by China , will play a dominant factor
in the dynamics of the Indian subcontinent. China-Tibet conflict dates back to 1950 when the
Thus, China has been playing a dominant role in Chinese civil war winner CPC intruded free Tibet
determining the connectivity within the region as and occupied it. The root causes of China -Tibet
well as that with the world. This could be conflict are:
compared to the role of the British Raj in the (a) Historic claims: The occupation of Tibet was
subcontinent. India should neither remain based on historic claims of Great China empire of
reluctant nor consider economic cooperation as 9th century. Tibet, on the other hand, exert the
the complete solution.India should consider the claims of independence of Tibet since the fall of
future endeavors in the view of the geo-political Mongolian empire.
imagination and lay down pragmatic (b) Geography of Tibet: Tibet has historically
implementation plans to ensure its objectives. being seen as buffer state whether between India
Q-Critically discuss the Tibet issue and its and Mongol empire or used by British empire as
influence on the relationship between India and buffer against Japan. China too tries to establish
the same buffer.
China.
(c) Sovereignty issues: Grant of Tibet autonomous
region status is just a tokenism devoid of any
Q-Examine the roots of China – Tibet conflict powers.
and explain the importance of this issue for (d) Ethnic issue: Tibet is inhabited by ethnic
India. tibeteans against majority Hans of China
mainland. China‘s record with ethnic minorities
is poor.
China had invaded and annexed Tibet in 1950s. (e) Religion: Religion is often seen as a challenge
Dalami Lama that time had asked India‘s help to to communism. Buddhist following and unity in
protect defenseless China. However, Tibet Tibet is seen as potential threat to communism.
couldn‘t be protected against Chinese (f) Dalai lama: Dalailama‘s proximity with splitist
expansionary ambitions. Dalai Lama and his section attracts warth of China.
followers fled to India. India as a part of their (g) Governance: China‘s policy in Tibet have
philosophy of anti-imperialism and non-violence promoted Hans immigration in Tibet, accruing
had given the exile and protect them. This event economic benefits to them and disenfranchising
had made the relationship between two nation ethnic Tibetans.
sour. China Tibet ambition to grow its influence
in Tibet had also caused boundary dispute IMPORTANCE TO INDIA
between India and China, China wanted Askai
Chin area to build roads for easy access to Tibet. Tibet is critical to India‘s bilateral relation with
However, this area was lying in India, this China. India being a birth place of Buddhism
became one of the prime reason for the Indo owes a historic responsibility for peace and
China war. stability in Tibet. Dalailama‘s stay in India and
The issue and the sour relationship has not been Tibet government in exile being run from
solved till date and there is always the boundary Dharamshala and Hindu‘s holy place Mansarovar
issue emerging between two nations. However, lying in Tibet creates a perpetual dilemma in
the growing economic interest and Chinese train India-China relation. Hence, Tibet is a perfect
network to Tibet gives the hope for resolution ground for the test of Indian soft power and
soon. diplomatic ability. Tibet also host a fragile, sterile,
Beyond this, the issue regarding Tibet and Dalai yet a vital ecosystem to the integrity of
Lamba demands should also be resolved on Himalayas. India agricultural and climatic
amicable terms. This would further sweeten the requirement makes it onerous for India to prevent
relation between two nations. Tibet from turning into a battle field that will
have disastrous consequences for the ecology.
Q-Do you think India and China could jointly

Q- What were the circumstances that led to the combat terrorism? Explain how? (150 Words)
1962 Indo-China war? Write a critical note on India and china are both affected by terrorism
India‟s preparedness in its borders to avoid 1962 and the terrorist creating havoc in both the
like situation. countries are, mostly from the same area i.e. from
Pakistan or around.
The circumstances that led to Sino-Indian War of Both could combat terrorism jointly by not
1962 were: allowing each other‘s territory to be used by
1. Chinese attack and occupation of Tibet in 1950. terror organization, further by exchange of
This move wasn‘t welcomed by India but wasn‘t information and jointly taking actions where ever
criticized publicly either. possible will help in control of terrorism.
2. Revolt in Tibet for liberation in 1959 peaked, If we take the terrorism emitting from the
Dalai Lama fled Tibet and took Political asylum northern Pakistan, if here China takes this matter
in India. However, Dalai Lama also setup a sincerely with its all-weather friend Pakistan and
Tibetian government in exile in India. This helps India in monitoring the POK area which
created suspicion in China about motives of China has got access by the Karakorum highway.
India.
3. Border skimmers between forces of two sides. Same thing can be said about the terrorist of
North east area along the Arunachal Pradesh
4. Alleged ‗forward policy‘ of India as per China,
in which Indian military build outpost on eastern border.
side of Line of Actual Control (LOAC). In international forum especially in the post
Attack of Chinese troops on India was sudden America withdrawal from Afghanistan India &
and highlight of the war was that it was fought China can jointly help in establishment of a non-
on mountainous terrain of Aksai Chin and North fundamentalist government and tightening the
East Frontier Area (NEFA). Indian troops suffered international pressure on Pakistan which houses
a disastrous defeat and severe setback to our many terror outfit.
national pride.
India‘s preparedness in Sino-Indian border is
Q. Explain the contentious issues and claims of
based on deterrence and ―no first attack‖
both India and China in their border disputes
principle, following steps are taken:
1. Military personnel on Sino-Indian border have talks.
been increased.
2. Para-military forces and Central armed forces
like Indo-Tibetan Police Force and Sashastra Answer-
Seema Bal have been incorporated to be vigilant
• There are two main contentious issue
on border areas and support Military.
3. India has recently developed ―Mountain Strike between India and China.
Corps‖ which is expected to take fight into
• 1) Issue of Aksai Chin: Western most
Tibetan mountainous areas in wake of Chinese
attack. Aksai Chin is considered as the part of J&K and
4. Roadways and railways development along claimed by India in its map but admistered by the
borders and updation of Border Roads China practically.
Organisation(BRO).
However, India‘s military preparedness face • 2) Issue of NEFA(Arunanchal Pradesh):
crucial limitations due to financial constrains and The southern part of Mc Mohan Line is North
incomplete infrastructure as timelines are not East Frontier Agency( which also called
met. Arunanchal Pradesh) which is also a bone of
contention between India and China.

• The Mc Mohan line is the result of Shimla China‘s approach to counter-terrorism is the
Accord 1914 among the India, Tibet and China Three Evils doctrine, the Three Evils are defined
but China rejected the legitimacy of Mc Mohan by the Chinese government as ―terrorism,
separatism and religious extremism.
Line and incursions can be seen from China side
on border. Though China‘s anti-terrorism has won support
from the International community, some
• As the main objectives of Sino-Indian war countries have opposed China‘s ―crack down on
1962 was border dispute and new governmental ethnical dissidents‖ because of ―human rights
settlement in China. Several bilateral agreements concerns.
were made between both the countries but final China has carried out a number of important
settlement is still pending. This could only be steps in support of counterterrorism by
settled only the equal high level initiative by both partnering with neighbouring countries and
regional security organizations, especially in
sides.
Central Asia, South Asia, and Southeast Asia.
• In 1996, one agreement to resolve border
dispute which were led by confidence building Particularly the bordering Indian states with
measures and several bilateral talks but no different cultural and ethnic composition from
concrete result achieved. the heartland have suffered from a real or
perceived sense of neglect and misgovernance.
• China claims that the state of Arunachal As Inimical powers exploited this aspect and
Pradesh specifically the tawang region is an sowed seeds of sedition and secession amongst
inherent part of china and as a result has been some sections of society of these states-
giving staple visas to its residents. particularly the states of the North-East, Punjab
and Jammu and Kashmir-by providing them with
• Brahmaputra River water sharing arms training and financial support and
transparency instigated them to take up arms against the state
machinery.
• The repercussions of disputed border can India‘s experience in combating
be seen in the form of incursions initiated by insurgency/terrorism in these states has mostly
China in Daulat Beg Oldi region of Laddakh in been of finding a military solution to a political
which Chinese troops entered many Kms inside problem.
the our region and finally our government agreed Central and state governments have responded
to break bunkers made in the region which is with various actions, mostly military, within own
threat perceived by the China. borders but lacked a coherent counter terrorism
policy.
Q-Write a note on terrorist threats to China. In India and China this problem has now grown
Compare and contrast China‟s anti-terrorism beyond internal conflict with involvement of
policy with that of India‟s. (200 Words) foreign terrorists who organize terrorism from
Answer) outside the country, giving it a transnational
character. There is a requirement to address the
The separatist East Turkistan Islamic Movement
problem through international cooperation.
(ETIM) in China has been seeking ―independence
of Xinjiang‖ and its links with Al Qaeda and
other Islamic fundamentalism movements in Asia
have escalated this problem to a transnational INDIA-PAKISTAN
threat in Central Asia.

Q---Critically comment on India‟s policy Secondly, the pipeline was poise to pass through
towards Pakistan during last ten years. unstable region of Baluchistan. Pakistan
government has been reluctant to bring ground
India- Pakistan issue is not a conventional foreign situation under control. That would have created
policy problem; it has historical roots, a security implication on India‘s energy security.
psychological barriers and elicits passionate
domestic public responses. Thridly economic sanctions by US and Civil
India‘s response to Pakistan has been both
nuclear deal rendered the project unviable.
cautious and conciliatory. Last decade or so saw
Payment in dollars was stopped by US and
some positive developments in the relationship:
Ceasefire agreement, trade, confidence building accounts of Iran were seized.
measures at borders and civil talks between the
It can be advocated that delays, pricing issues as
two governments. But despite of all these
measures the headway created towards a well as security glitches made the project
permanent settlement has been very little. unwarranted.
India‘s policy towards Pakistan has been more or
less consistent and a realist one. But fragmenting
domestic polity in Pakistan, non- state actors and
asymmetrical civil-military relationship in Q-What implications does US withdrawal from
Pakistan have derailed the peace talks and civil Afghanistan have on India-Pakistan relations?
engagements at the highest level. Critically analyze. (200 Words)
Pakistan is a multi-layered power structure; the US is slated to withdraw from Afghanistan in
power is distributed disproportionately among 2014 end. That opens a new political dimension to
army, civilian government, non-state actors, security concerns as well as influence over
clergies etc. This complicates things for India as to
Afghanistan due to its strategic position.
who to engage with. And because civilian
government does not command as much India and Pakistan concerns are driven by their
authority as it should, there is a little credibility in
own perception. While Pakistan considers
any engagement with it.
Recent diplomatic engagement between the two Afghanistan as its influential sphere, India is
countries during Indian Prime minister swearing mainly concerned about the security issues in
in ceremony leaves one hopeful of a new fillip to Afghanistan. India is apprehensive that
peace talks. Afghanistan will loom back to old days of
terrorism and will come as a stronghold of
Taliban and other militant groups with support
Q-Why did agreement on Iran-Pakistan-India
from Pakistan. Further India is keen on
gas pipeline fail? Examine. (150 Words)
developing relations with Afghanistan in order to
IPI pipeline was considered as one of the geo
strategic project in dynamic political environment balance china- Pakistan influence in the region.
of the region. However India withdraw from the While Pakistan things that India is providing
project for various reactions. defense training and enhancing cooperation with
Firstly, coat of natural gas supplied was at par Afghanistan which will later be used for
with that of international crude oil prices. That encircling Pakistan. Further, it thinks India will
would have rendered the end users at the create more instability in the Baluchistan region.
receiving end of high prices without any That will make the relations worse between the
competitive advantage. two countries with explicit rivalry.
The two countries must work together to rebuilt a

democratic stable Afghanistan that will be in the

interest of both countries. Both shall not make it a Q-Critically comment on the issue of Sir Creek
fighting arena for petty political interest rather between India and Pakistan.
they should take into consideration the wider Sir Creek is a 100 km long estuary situated
implication of strong Afghanistan. between marshy Rann of Kutch (India) and Sind
(Pakistan). The issue is complex and composite
consisting of territorial waters, economic
Q--Critically discuss India‟s border problem
resources and livelihood of fishermen around the
with Pakistan.
Creek.
Indo-Pak relation has been hold hostage to Pakistan claims that the Creek is part of its
various border disputes since independence,
territorial waters in accordance to 1914 treaty
some of the major issues are:
1. Kashmir Conflict: It is a major bone of between Governments of Sind, Bombay and
contention causing harm to relation of both the Kutch. India does not recognises the map in the
countries. It is a border as well as ideological treaty and claims the boundary settlement as per
issue. Pakistan considers Kashmir as its own Internationally recognised ―Thalweg doctrine‖
being majority Muslim state and India its own and claims boundary to be set at the middle of the
because of Kashmir‘s accession to India. A LOC creek. The said region is also rich in petroleum
has been demarcated dividing Kashmir, various
resources and making a compromise difficult for
solution has been proposed for resolution of
issue. However, the best outcome can be both sides. In absence of mutually agreed
marking LOC as international border. boundary, both sides are suffering as none can
2. Siachein issue: It is an area overseeing the claim its 200 nautical miles Exclusive economic
Karkoram range and is under Indian possession zone unless the issue is settled. Another issue of
since 1980s. The dispute arises because of concern is related to fishermen from both sides.
improper demarcation of LOC in Shimla
Fishermen unable to apprehend the invisible
agreement.
maritime border and the officials unable to
Sir- Creek issue: It is a marshy area in the Rann certain their jurisdictions lead to imprisonment of
of Kutch, more than the strategic important the poor fishermen of both the regions. Pakistan has
area is important because the resource rich two concerns which give India an upper hand.
Exclusive economic one which comes with it. First the creek is changing its course and moving
westwards towards Pakistan and Second,
Pakistan has limited capability for exploration
The disputes have adversely affected the
development of the region. The threat of and production of petroleum resources as
terrorism and militancy in the region have compared to India.
reduced the growth potential. The presence of the
armed forces under the AFSPA in the region has India can utilise its upper position and conclude a
worsened the condition of the people in the treaty with Pakistan which could help India not
region. only with Energy Security and Fishermen release
There have been efforts undertaken to increase but also could give a positive push to India-
the cooperation by trade normalization and Pakistan bilateral ties.
starting bus services across border.
The people of Kashmir have been denied their
right to develop due to acts of terrorism in the
region. It would be essential for the two sides to Resolution of sir creek dispute may benefit both
agree on a peaceful resolution for the stability in nations as
the region.

Firstly, EEZ can be demarcated further promoting However, the talks and dialogues should not be
investment and exploitation. Issue of held hostage to these violations as this would
unintentional crossing of territorial waters by amount to dwarfing of the six decade long
fishermen from both countries can be checked. engagement, commitment and developments of
bilateral relations.
Secondly, smuggling, trafficking, drug trade can
be effectively checked if borders are declared as It is further necessary to strengthen the existing
international borders. mechanisms of problem solving including regular
meeting of DGMOs, trade and commerce
ministers and high level exchanges. Both
countries has to resolve their differences through
bilateral channels without engaging any third
Q- Should India and Pakistan talks be held party as this can introduce an additional
hostage to border skirmishes and terrorist dimension of favourtism and influence and
attacks? Comment. (250 Words) thereby can add fuel to the fire.
or
Q-Do you agree to the proposal that a neutral

monitoring by a third party such as UN at the OR
border in Kashmir is required to bring peace to
the region? Substantiate. (250 Words)
India and Pakistan has been at loggerheads since Kashmir border surveillance by a third party
1947. The long land boundary with some part of it may bring peace if no other bilateral solution is
unsettled between the countries has created possible but paradox is that un mediation in
tensions now and then between the two armies recent times has been in question due to excessive
leading to frequent skirmishes and few wars. impression of usa and eu in it due to their
However, the political leadership, right from Pt. funding dominance. Though un is doing good
Nehru to Dr. Manmohan singh has sought to work in many areas of conflict resolution and
deescalate the tensions through meaningful hunger reduction but the case of kashmir
dialogues and discussions. They stressed that deserves special significance. It is not only a
better relationship with neighbours not only historic but also a cultural issue where people
provides a secured environment but also aids faced eviction, displacement and mass killings
economic and social development of the country. along with post independence wars between
india and pakistan. So this is a complicated issue
Both countries have been engaging among
though solvable by mutual understanding and
themselves in finding solution to various
continued talks and political will. UN
problems like border disputes (Kashmir issue, Sir
surveillance on border can help in keeping both
creek issue, etc), trade problems (MFN status,
countries it their toe to keep the ceasefire active
trade imbalance, trade across border, illegal
without violation on a temporary basis but long
trade), terrorist infiltration, security, etc.
term solution requires proper bilateral
The recent border skirmishes and terrorist attacks negotiations. If sovereignty sentiments are not
have once again portrayed the persisting allowed like in Geneva talks on syria which led to
volatility between the two nations. Such resolution of the matter then some third party
violations are often orchestrated by the terror mediation can be seen as a prospective solution to
groups to deter the peace making process.

bring certainty of solution of kashmir issue on There is definitely the need of Indus Water Treaty
table. II taking into account to the problems associated
with the present treaty. The treaty must be
Q-Do you think there is a need to replace 1960
formulated with the help of Social scientist,
Indus Water Treaty to suit the present demands
Environmentalist, Economist, etc. However the
and to address emerging ecological problems?
present situation of unfriendly environment
Analyze
between India and Pakistan is not suitable for the
purpose.
Indus water treaty came into force in 1960 after
the nine decades of negotiations between India
and Pakistan. The treaty did not paved the way == about the impact of IWT on the issues of the
for the Kashmir solution, but proved to be the downstream community and the larger role it
best water sharing treaty. Indus water treaty was would have played in strengthening our
best however at the time of its formulation, but relations.
not suitable for the recent time period and needs
revision. It needs a multi disciplinary approach
formulation.
=== IWT signed in 1960 between India &
The clause of partition of tributary rivers between Pakistan discretely shared water of rivers (Sutlej,
India and Pakistan has divided the basin and Ravi & Beas for India and Chenab, Jhelum &
hence ended its wholeness. It is required to treat Indus for Pakistan) and created PIC (Permanent
as a whole as the natural entities like basin cannot Indus Commission) to sanctify the treaty.Five
work separately. A single drop of rain water decades hence, many imperative factors like
falling in a watershed changes the configuration environmental, climate change and ecological
of whole water shed. It is required to understand balances have gained ground making it necessary
its ecology as a whole which require a proper to revisit certain clauses of IWT.
Environment Impact Assessment.
J&K presently imports nearly 75% of its energy
Climate Change is a new concept which can have requirement & stands as disadvantaged as far as
its own impact on the basin. Further there is the IWT is considered owing to its inability to store
issue of change of course of rivers. These water & generate hydroelectricity as per its
problems should be taken into consideration and potential. For a federal nation like India, state‘s
should be reflected in the Indus water treaty in say should be considered in an International
the form of solution. treaty.
Over and above Indus water treaty has not taken The building of irrigation structures on upstream
into account the issue of rising population and its side has made the insecure downstream
affect on sharing of water resources. The population all the more vulnerable owing to
population growth of the affected area belonging floods during rain, shortage of water during
to both Pakistan and India is required to summer and other hazards.
appropriate water between both the countries.
The confluence of fresh water at Indus delta has
The water has a great social need and required
been a source of rich bio diverse marine life since
from domestic to agricultural needs.
1960s. However owing to diversion of water from
upstream for productive purposes like

agriculture, industrial and allied sectors had led ravaged the country. Its about supporting
to less fresh water at downstream side. democracy, decreasing the influence of army over
foreign policy issue, latter can‘t be done from
The more saline water has had its effects in form
external forces.
of fertile deltas turning saline, depletion of fishes
and mangrove destruction. Sharif has recently concluded the SEZ agreement
with China with a view to boost economy. Both
The treaty thus has influence on livelihood of
countries needs to follow up the New York
citizens, rich biodiversity and negative
summit with improvement in trade relations and
externalities on environment. The recent
people-to-people contact. However, all this this
Uttarakhand flash floods had partial bearing of
depends on how Pakistan deals with terrorists,
construction of irrigation structures.
mainly post-2014 withdrawal of NATO from
Thus IWT needs to be revisited keeping in view Afghanistan.
federalism, interests of nationals, relationship of
India and Pakistan and more importantly
ecological effects in mind. ===As our former PM remarked, ‗You can
change your friends but not your neighbours‘,
Q- “The best hope for better relations between
proves that cordial Indo-Pak relations are the
India and Pakistan lies in the strengthening of
desideratum for peaceful coexistence of both the
democracy in Pakistan.” Analyze
countries. Despite of many setbacks, a formal
dialogue seems to be the only way out, but for
India and Pakistan became democracies on the that to happen strengthening democracy in
same day, but the journey of Pakistan as a nation Pakistan and making army take a back seat are of
went into ill path. Pakistan saw many military utmost importance.
rulers. In current context, the two countries are
Currently Pakistan is dealing with floundering
trying to improve relations, but the terrorists
economy, crunching forex, very high
trying to create hurdles in negotiation process.
unemployment, increasing population of working
Pakistan developed terrorism and extreme age. All these problems can be tackled only when
communalism as a security strategy towards socio-economic development takes place within
India. This is mainly designed and developed by the country, and for that it needs sound policy
Army. Today, the army stands ahead of civilian structure. But the economic policy initiatives of
government. the civilian government are intricately linked
with foreign policy where army calls the shots.
The recent elections results in Nawaz Sharif Better relations with India have been set as a high
government. Many are of the view that, there is a priority by Pakistani PM, but past efforts to
need to strengthen civilian government in negotiate peace with India have always been
Pakistan for improvement in relation. It shouldn‘t actively sabotaged by the army. The need to
be forgotten that the Kargil dispute took place, rescue Pakistan‘s flagging economy has made the
when the democratically elected government was army more amenable to the idea, but Pakistani
in place. PM will need to tread with caution to secure their
backing. Large numbers of Indian goods are
Having said that, the current scenario calls for a
being sold in Pakistan via Dubai, which shows
different view. The cleansing of religious
they prefer Indian products, but they can‘t avail it
minorities, sectarian minorities, Pakistan Taliban
due to the governmental turf wars. This year first
Pakistan has emerged on the other side of its first of perpetual hostility as a sine qua non of its
attempt to transfer power from one civilian existence. Pakistan claim on Kashmir, its
government to another through the ballot box inordinate intrest in Indian muslims and fostering
of terrorist groups by successive government, all
(relatively) successfully. This shows the
sprout from this theory.
aspirations of the people for a democratically
elected government. INDIA‘s PHILOSOPHY
A well functioning democracy in Pakistan though India engagement with Pakistan saw a paradigm
sounds like a distant dream can help in social, shift post liberalisation and end of cold war. It is
economical and political empowerment of the based on cherished principle of Gujaral doctrine
masses and there by help it to tackle the home ie ―NON RECEPROCITY‖. This philosophy
grown terror networks targeting not only Indians emerges from three key perceptions of India
but also Pakistanis. which are:
(a) India‘s image globally is judged by its
engagement with Pakistan.
(b) India‘s security rest squarely on Pakistan‘s
=====Focus should be stability factor that comes stability.
with robust democracy. Then on military and (c) India shares a cultural responsibility being the
parent nation to Pakistan.
political relationship. True democracies have
military control under political leaderships. This
Sharm-el-Sheikh statement, offering of MFN
is an important factor considering how status, CBM, continous engagement and dialouge
destabilizing factor military has been in India Pak (despite Pakistan army‘s aggression) to weaken
relations.Consider recent example of military army‘s control over civilian government are all
incursion into Kashmir while its PM was talking extension of Non receprocity.
peace with India at UN.
Thus, India‘s foreign policy philosophy is based
One more factor is people to people exchanges. on pragmatic neoliberal rationalism while
Stable and inclusive democracy in Pakistan will Pakistan still beats the drums of bygone era.
help in more such exchanges and help build
The underlying philosophy of Indo-Pak
mutual trust among people.
relationship is ‗Neoliberalism‘ and ‗Democratic
Peace Theory‘. India engages Pakistan on a non-
reciprocal basis. The unilateral MFN status is a
Q-Critically comment on the underlying case in point. Why because, Neo-liberalist
philosophy on which relationship between thought dictates that nations would work for
India and Pakistan is founded.
‗absolute gains‘ and not ‗relative gains‘.
The philosophical ground for engagement

between India and Pakistan defers depending on This is with a view to strengthening democracy
each country‘s political perception. there. Why because, Democratic Peace theory
states that ‗two democratic nations are less
PAKISTAN‘s PHILOSOPHY probable to war with each other. Another basic
assumption in Indo-Pak affairs is that, this
Two nation theory responsible for Pakistan‘s birth relationship has a bearing on India‘s relationship
still determines the contours of Pakistan‘s
with the rest of the world, especially west.
engagement with India. Pakistan percieves
secular India as a threat to its raison detre based
on two nation theory. It therefore adopts a policy

While these principles were relevant in the past, basis of misplaced notions of security and
the realities of the new world make them mistrust.
indefensible. Empirical evidence proves that
India has a huge potential of tourism income
Pakistan is not interested in ‗absolute gains‘, but
from Pakistan. Pilgrimage sites, Taj Mahal and
is interested predominantly in ‗gains relative to
many other engineering feats will not only bring
India‘. If not, it would have simply reciprocated tourist income but also increase people to people
the MFN status. interaction. India has a huge infrastructure to
provide cheap and quality education and medical
It would be a fallacy to think that Pakistani facilities. This could be leveraged for increased
democracy can be strengthened by India being educational and medical tourism.
supportive of a democratic civilian government
A stable Pakistan is in India‘s interest too. With a
there. The policy has had no impact yet and no huge export lead, India can unilaterally declare
comparable phenomenon has taken place relaxing visa norms, increasing liberals faith in
anywhere in the world. Pakistan who want friendship with India. After
all a nation well equipped with latest missile
Also, to think that the relationship between the technology must not succumb to medieval tactics
global north and India – 3rd largest economy, 3rd and notions of security.
largest military and master of the Malacca Strait –
is contingent on how it deals with a neighbor who Q-Why Kishenganga hydro-electric project was
exports terrorism to the same global north, is in dispute recently? Do you think that there is a
ludicrous. need to revise Indus Water Treaty? Comment.
(200 Words)
Q-Comment on the present visa policy between Kishenganga also called nelam is tributary of
India and Pakistan. (200 Words) Indus. India has started construction of a
hydropower station at the Bonar Nallah. For the
water it diverted water from Kishenganga by
The visa policy between India and Pakistan has building a dam at a place called ―Gurez‖.
always been made keeping in mind its
Diverted water feeds to the turbines at the head
implication on national security, reflecting the
trust deficit between the two nations. The current of bonar Nallah. Ultimately this bonar Nallah
visa policy though a huge step forward from joins Kishenganga downstream. Pakistan objected
regressive stands of earlier times, the mistrust is to this diversion on the basis that this diversion
self evident. will reduces the flow so resulting in less water for
irrigation and lower power production. Pakistan
Recently certain norms for issuing business or
took this matter to the International Court of
tourism visa have been relaxed. Multiple entries
Justice which decided in favor of India as India
has been encouraged, and time frames for issuing
visa have been laid. Thus increasing transparency has not violated any provision of the Indus Water
in visa issuing is indeed a welcome step. Treaty. Thus giving India go ahead signal to
completed the dam but India has to release a
However, these steps still fall short when we minimum of nine cubic metres per second
consider the difference between the actual and downstream of the project at all times to maintain
potential of Indo-Pak bi-lateral trade. Visa
environmental flows.
restrictions can act as non-tariff barrier. With
limited permit to banks and expansion of Pakistan has repetitively used the
business both the nations are suppressing the
misinterpretation of treaty to stall our hydro
entrepreneurship of their countrymen on the
projects. May it be Kishenganga, Dulhasti,
Baglihar. At the same time China has started goodwill. The agreement for a liberalised visa
building dams like the Zada Gorge project in regime is also a positive development.
upper Sutlej and Senge Ali project in the upper
Neither trade, economic co-operation nor socio-
Indus, without consultation with India or
cultural harmonies can yield any dividends in the
Pakistan. So to remove problems like the repeated
absence of peace and stability. India and Pakistan,
delaying tactics of Pakistan, the unilateral dam
therefore, need to remove the causes of the
construction by china, the near defunct
tensions underpinning their relations by constant
Permanent Indus Commission, India need to
compel Pakistan to revise the Indus treaty engagement and dialogue process.
according to the present level of geopolitics and
hydropolitics.
Q-Comment on the nature of trade relations
Q-Critically analyze the importance of dialogue between India and Pakistan since Kargil War.
and constant engagement between India and (200 Words)
Pakistan to resolve bilateral issues. (200 Words) Ans. The relations between India and Pakistan
In the last 65 years, India and Pakistan have been have been full of ups and downs since Kargil
unable to resolve their differences and develop a War. India accorded MFN status to Pakistan in
normal good neighborly relationship, which 1996 without any reciprocating commitment from
could have benefited people on both sides of the Pakistan. However, after the Kargil War of 1999,
border. There have been several attempts to the trade relations between the two countries
initiate a sustainable peace process, but most worsened. All sorts of economic ties were cut off
were either stillborn or abandoned in their and whatever the trade took place, it was through
infancy. In this scenario dialogue process b/w informal channels only.
two countries seemed urgent importance.
The relations resumed after some time, but were
After the 1971 war, Pakistan and India made slow cut off again by the Mumbai attacks. In 2011,
progress towards the normalization of relations. there were talks of Pakistan giving MFN status to
In July 1972, Indian Prime Minister and Pakistani India but that was never materialized. Off late,
President met in the Indian hill station of simla. the relations between the two countries are
resuming again which can be emphasized by the
The 1999 Lahore MOU was the first Indo-
recent proposal to open Attari-Wagah trade
Pakistani effort to come to grips with their mutual
route. The trade between two countries has
problems and to explore measures to reduce
increased from $250-300 million in 2003 to more
tensions in a nuclearised South Asia. Though the
than $2 billion today. The opening of trade route
process was interrupted by the Kargil episode,
will provide further impetus to the trade and
the proposed confidence-building measures
investment relations between the two nations.
(CBMs) were taken up when the composite
dialogue resumed in 2004, resulting in some
significant bilateral agreements.
Q-What is Most favoured Nation (MFN) status?
The efforts at building confidence and trust and Examine the trade relations between India and
seeking resolution of disputes can only bear fruit. Pakistan in the light of MFN controversy? (200
Words)
Regular exchanges between the people of the two
1. MFN status is according
countries can create better understanding and
nondiscriminating trading status with respect to

its trading partners and between its own and like SAARC, SAPTA, SAFTA under which India
foreign products.Granting MFN means has provided various special trade concessions to
Pak along with other member countries. India &
a) lowering of Tariff and non Tariff trade Pak are also member of WTO were India already
barriers, gave MFN status to Pak but Pak doesn‘t.
Moreover, there are illegal trade prevails between
b) increasing import quotas thereby enabling both the countries.
a competitive,fair & mutually beneficial trade. India recently expressed its willingness to export
LNG gas to Pak and both working on it as well.
2. India Pakistan trade had not been reached Both sides also desired to open doors to set up
to its fullest potential till date due to its troubled banks, telecommunication links, and road
relationship.Off late its been on a positive connectivity for effective trade.
plane.Last year Pak moved from positive list to a
negative list regime increasing tradable To achieve this economic goal both the countries
items,which led to increase in trade. should follow the Chinese suggested Sino-India
model i.e. to keep aside the disputes from trade
3. Though India had granted Pak MFN
and economic relations. India is already the
status way back in 1996,it did not reciprocate the
‗Asian Tiger‘ and Pakistan also has immense
move yet, thanks to Pak‘s reservations that this
potential to emerge as a strong economic force.
move may lead India sweeping its textile and
Therefore, they should try to build strong
other markets.But now due to ADB‘s
economic relations while gradually work on
conditionality this may materialize.India agreed
sorting out of disputes.
to give preferential access to pakistani products
by bringing down its sensitive list under
SAFTA,if done so.
Question - In your opinion how will the
4. Pak has to realize that it would be transition in Afghanistan would affect India –
mutually beneficial as it get access to 1.2 billion Pakistan relationship? Comment. (200 Words)
market,access to technical knowhow etc.,So in the Answer - Afghanistan is geared up for a
era of Globalisation regional trade and economic transition with three major developments on the
integration is the only way for prosperity.In cards. One, the impending US led NATO troop
whole it would be a positive sum game for both. withdrawal, Two the upcoming presidential
elections and three, the rising political legitimacy
of Taliban with both US and Pakistan engaging
Q-Write a critical note on India – Pakistan trade them.
relations. (200 Words)
India-Pakistan relationship is going to be affected
Answer)
by all the above three developments in a
Indo-Pak relation is one of the most challenging
aspects of Indian Foreign Policy. Irony lies in the significant way. First, the US led NATO troop
fact that both the countries shares similar history, withdrawal which is certain in 2014 will create a
geography, demography, culture, language, security vacuum and India and Pakistan both vie
religion and economy still their relationship is to fill the space. India, with its massive
characterized more by various disputes and development aid is attempting a headstart while
conflicts. Pakistan yearns for more influence in
Afghanistan and less of India‘s diplomatic
Both the countries tried to build confidence establishments and embassies in the region. This
through various economic and trade initiatives
conflicting stand is further tilted with the coming Q--Critically examine the geopolitical interests
of China into play which is avowedly trying to of China in Afghanistan. Do you think a major
build connectivity with Afghanistan and seeks role played by China in Afghanistan would be a
Pakistan as ally in securing thus. concern to India? Comment.
Second the upcoming presidential elections, Afghanistan is in a transition phase. This

while India‘s concerns relate to ensuring that the transition phase is marked with great uncertainty
elections are free and fair, Pakistan concerns regarding what it holds in future.Afghanistan
relate to the presidential frontrunner Karzai who issue concerns the entire region; there are
is considered more pro-India. The Pakistan aim to multiple state and non-state actors working to
achieve their goals.
play a patronizing role in Afghan polity depends
on the results of Afghan elections springing up an China, due to its proximity to Af, has legitimate
Islamic hardliner. While India can integrate with concerns in the region. The Chinese interests are
Afghanistan if a liberal ideology gradually sinks two-fold- security and investment. China is
in Afghan polity. facing internal security threats from the Uighar
militancy on its western parts.A destabilized Af
The third point of contention in India-Pak acts as a breeding ground for militant groups. So
relationship within the ongoing transition in China has great stakes in a state controlled Af
Afghanistan is the inceasing engagement of which can ensure that non-state actors do not
flourish on its land. The second interest is in
Taliban by both US and Afghanistan. While US
terms of investment. China‘s economic model is
sees no issues with Taliban as long as it does not
based on investment in neighbouring countries,
associate with Al-Qaeda, Pakistan harbours which require foreign assistant for their
further strategic motives such as greater control developmental process. Af has some of the
over Taliban as peripheral player pressurizing world‘s biggest Iron ore mines. natural resources
Afghanistan and hence using it as buffer state. like gold, iron ore, copper etc The country is also
India‘s concerns rel;ate to connectivity with west starved of power.
India has to take a well-nuanced and measured
Asia, energy needs and security and stability in
position on Af issue for the following reason.The
region which means lesser role for Taliban in issue is very critical for the entire region; China
Afghanistan. like India has legitimate interests in the country.
India has a great goodwill in Af due to its sincere
Conclusively, a constructive relationship between contribution in the development of the country
India and Pakistan over Afghanistan needs and training to its human resources.India can
dialogue and mutual convergence of interests on build up on that goodwill and can act as a force
Afghanistan such as ensuring democratic for multilateral action. That will ensure that no
elections. protection of human rights and country can take advantage of the vulnerable
position of Af. Pakistan and China share a
cessation of violence.
deep,multi-faceted bond. And both this countries
have historical friction with India in terms of
border disputes.India, while working for the
INDIA-AFGHANISTAN peaceful transition of Af, has to make sure that
China and Pakistan do not use this vulnerable
and uncertain situation in the region for
encircling India.
China has several interests in Afghanistan.it has

invested considerably in Afghanistan‘s natural
resources like copper. The Chinese mining

companies would help Afghanistan‘s economy. Q-What are the highlights of strategic
Other than economics, china also has to keep a partnership agreement between India and
stable Afghanistan and prevent Taliban from Afghanistan? Do you think it is prudent for
coming back to power. Such scenario will lead to India to have a deep military ties with
exporting of terrorism to china‘s vulnerable
Afghanistan? Comment. (200 Words)
Xinxiang region. Uyghurs are coming under the
Ans :
influence of terrorism threatened by han
domination. A peaceful Afghanistan would
To strengthen the regional stability, India has
ensure that terrorism and Muslim radicalisation
does not destabilise china‘s south west region entered into strategic partnership agreement with
given the fact US will withdraw in late 2014. Afghanistan in 2011. According to which, India
has been assisting Afghan in variety of matters.
India also would want a peaceful Afghanistan as
its security would be undermined in Jammu and Highlights are as follows:
Kashmir with the influx of foreign fighters. The
Indian government should actively promote and a) Infrastructure development : Construction
cooperate with china to help the afghan of Road project to connect their Iran boarder for
government by joint financial aids, promote their trade, Construction of transmission lines for
regional security etc. while it may be a concern of uninterrupted power supply to Kabul, parliament
Afghanistan coming under Chinese influence. etc.
India would lose much more without a stable
Afghanistan. The afghan government will be b) Humanitarian assistance: Distributing
careful of china as Chinese relations are severely calore biscuits to children on daily basis under
strained with its neighbours. India enjoys more or
school children feeding program. Assisting in
less cordial relations with its neighbours which
give India better credentials as a long term medical field, distribution of grains at free of cost.
alliance partner and to check Pakistani influence
c) Small and community based development
in Afghanistan as Chinese shares good relations
with Pakistan.although concerns do exist india board:So far around 100 such boards have formed
can keep a watchful eye by joint cooperation and in various field like agriculture,rural
by promoting itself as a better partner then development,art etc.
chinese.
d) Education and capacity
building:Scholarship programs annually, training
- Afghanistan is also a potential trade transit hub to the students , providing learning in various
to Central and West Asia. fields by CII etc.
- any Chinese help in augmenting the Afghan
forces‘ capacity, human and machine, will e) India promised to assist training,
directly help our interests there (energy, equipping and capacity building programmes for
economic and security).
Afghan National Security Forces. In the
- to insure against its policy backfiring, it will
seek India‘s involvement too. This can help us upcoming visit to India Afghan‘s president will
enter fora like SCO (Shanghai Cooperation renew his request for Indian supply of lethal
Organisation) and have a say in their anti-terror military equipment such as helicopters, aircraft
mechanisms. for the future of Afghan‘s security. so far India
- It will lead to greater cooperation between India has agreed to provide cheetah light helicopters.
and China which can help us settle our other
issues peacefully. However, due to the contingency involved in the
siging of Bilateral security arrangement between
Afgan and US, it is important to strengthen the
security forces of Afgan on their own from
international fund. Hence, it is prudent to have India‘s provision of training to ANSF , aid ,
military ties with Afghan. building Parliament of Afghanistan etc. India also
has certain economic interest in rich minerals of
Q-Should India fill the vacuum created by the Afghanistan . It has already started iron mining in
withdrawal of troops by the USA in Hajijak and an attempt for the TAPI pipeline is in
Afghanistan by actively participating in Afghan progress. But more than economic India‘s
affairs? Critically comment. concerns are security related.
The security concerns of India can be only
addressed by a stable Afghanistan but India can‘t
With the withdrawal of the international security
afford a US like investment , either economic or
forces from Afghanistan a vacuum gets created in
military , in the region . Thus India can and
Afghanistan. With a young government and
should act with the cooperation of other players
weak Afghan security establishment and the
in the region. Since the interest of Pakistan is in
stage would be perfect for the resurgence of the
an unstable Afghanistan , hence much can‘t be
radical Talibans. At this crucial juncture the
expected from it . China , though a strong partner
Afghan govt. is looking at the international
of Pakistan , is also suffering from the terrorist
community and India in particular to play an
activities in its Xinjiang province . Hence it may
active role in stabilizing the situation.
also be interested in a stable neighborhood . Thus
India has historical and cultural links and is
China and India via some organization like SCO
probably the closest stable nation. In addition to
(though India is yet not a member) should play a
the benevolent aspects of security and future of
major role in Afghanistan.
Afghan locals India has economic and strategic
Thus it would be naive to think that India alone
interests involved. Afghanistan is the gateway to
Central Asia which holds answers to our energy can fill the vacuum created by the USA in
security problems. Afghanistan is also a resource Afghanistan . But India should leave no stone
rich land with the value of its mineral deposits unturned to make Afghanistan a secure and
estimated at $1 trillion. These resources can be stable region with the help of the other regional
tapped and Afghanistan function as a transit to players.
Central Asia only if it transforms into a stable
democracy. Also, an unstable Afghanistan can INDIA-BANGLADESH
become a sanctuary for Pak terrorists and this can
revive insurgency in Kashmir, pose serious Q-“ The Land Border Agreement and the Teesta
security threats for India and disturb regional agreement are now a litmus test of India‟s
stability.
willingness to have good relations with
neighbours.” Critically comment.
The withdrawal of the NATO forces from After the coming in power of Awami League in
Afghanistan creates serious concerns for the Bangladesh, India witnessed a period of relative
region in general and India in particular . Though stability in its north-eastern region. Govt. of
Afghanistan has moved towards democracy but Bangladesh acted quickly against the insurgents
its state is still fragile . Further the ability of who were getting safe haven in Bangladesh. It
Afghan national security forces to inhibit revival also moved forward to curb illegal immigration
of the Taliban is still uncertain . If Afghanistan and smuggling across the border. However for
goes back to the days of a Taliban rule managed last couple of years issues of Land Border
by Pakistan , then it may have serious Agreement and Testa water agreement have
repercussions for the security of India. Hence plagued the bilateral relations. There is a feeling
India has no option but to support and work for a in Bangladesh that despite Bangladesh‘s good
stable and strong government in Afghanistan. action India is not returning the favour.
India shares a warm cultural relation and good The issue however is not just limited to Indo-
will of the people of Afghanistan. It is evident by Bangladesh relations but also reflects upon
India‘s willingness to give allowances to its
smaller neighbors, as stated in the Gurjal Q- Critically comment on the issue of illegal
Doctrine. Despite its best efforts central govt. migration from Bangladesh into Assam and the
failed to conclude these agreements because of resultant problems in many reasons of Assam.
political and regional compulsions. Failure in Do you think grievances of native people of
concluding these deals after getting a strong
Assam who are against Bangladeshi migrants is
majority will only reflect the weakness of central
justified? Explain why.
government in the matters of immediate national
interest.
The migration in Assam from Bangladesh has
Q-“India should press for a comprehensive been going on since hundreds of years (earlier
part of India) especially after the British started
bilateral – or possibly trilateral, involving
tea plantation which required large scale cheap
Bangladesh – treaty with China on water
labour. The illegal migration from Bangladesh is
sharing that is open to international scrutiny largely the culmination of partition in which
and adjudication.” Comment why. people from east-Pakistan flowed down in fear of
getting killed.
China is planning a south-to-north water Large influx of bangladeshi migrants in to india
diversion project. This involves diverting waters as a result of indo pakistan war in 1973 has led to
of Brahmaputra. a considerable instability in Assam
Brahmaputra is the life-line of Arunachal The locals of Bodoland who are demanding for a
Pradesh, Assam and Bangladesh. A severe great state in the northern part of Assam are
restriction of flow, it is argued, may render these numerically outnumbered by these settlers and
areas arid or semi-arid. Besides the obvious socio- hence consider the migrant community a threat to
economic repercussions, the geological, their aspirations.
hydrological and ecological impact it will have on the insecurities of the native people are taken
lower riparian states, is huge and negative. advantage of by the political parties and the
Currently the UN convention on trans-border animosity between the groups is being flared up
water is not yet in force. Though India can take for narrow political gains that have led to riots in
up this matter under customary international law, the recent times
no enforceable dicta can be obtained with out the Though there are a few legitimate grievances of
concurrence of China. China‘s stand that only 1% the tives against Bangladeshi migrants, but with
of water is being diverted cannot be blindly the involvement of political elements for serving
trusted. their own narrow needs the bangladeshi migrants
And the opportunity cost is humongous. This are increasingly threatened and hence insecure.
Chinese Dam will generate more hydro-power As there is no more influx of migrants into the
than the total installed capacity in India. This dam country, the government of the day should take
will pre-empt a possible large project by India. necessary steps to ensure safety of the migrants as
Indus also originates in China. A similar Chinese well as address the concerns of the local people,
design on its waters is possible. which is its are minimum duty
A tri-lateral treaty will make it more equitable
and globally significant. International scrutiny Illegal migration puts pressure on the existing
can ensure better transparency and adherence. resources,employment opportunities also leading
It has been predicted that the wars of 21st century to forceful land acquisition in few
will be ―water-wars‖. Nobody wants a war. instances.Further it leads to development burden
Therefore, India should press for a by the government along with sharing of benefits
comprehensive treaty. in government schemes by the migrants.All this
along with communal issues leads to conflicts
and other law and order problems as seen in the
Assam recently.
On the other hand illegal migration also brings
problems for the migrants.These include human

rights violation,health issues along with they queue and waiting time makes experience of
being exploited as cheap labor,non-contractual visiting govt. hospital unwelcomed.
risky jobs. b. Poor hygiene – Due to lack of focus on
Therefore illegal migration brings problems for cleanliness govt. hospitals are unhygienic. People
both the native population(Assam) as well as avoid this because at times they might contract
migrants.There is a need for quick administrative diseases from such environment.
actions in case of conflicts in the region.This can c. Lack of discipline –
be substantiated with more patrolling on the
borders. d. Poor infrastructure – Govt. hospitals in
comparison to Private hospitals have failed to
update in terms of technology and services. This
As much as grievances of natives in Assam are results in poor medical service and patient care.
justified, the fact remains that migration is an Not easily approachable-
irreversible fact of geography, of history and of
the contemporary world. The region of North • Lengthy procedure- documentation work,
East shares 96% of its borders with countries visiting 3-4 tables to reach doctor adds to the
other than India and as such attempts to shun it nervousness of poor.
off from migrants will always prove inadequate.
For some of those affected, crossing over to the Q--Differentiate between „natural ally‟ and
other side is a matter of very survival. „strategic partners‟. To which category would
For long solutions attempting to block of you place Bangladesh vis a vis India?
immigration like barbed wires, policing etc have Substantiate.
proved futile and indeed counterproductive with
case of corruption and human rights violation
Natural allies are normally ‗birds of the same
coming to fore. Therefore more innovative and
feather‘, while strategic partners are often
practical ways of managing them in the short and
‗strange bedfellows‘.
medium terms must be developed.
Instead of a deliberate neglect of migrants,
The term ‗natural allies‘ can be referred to the
plausible ways such as work permits backed by
countries sharing a common culture ,
smart I-cards like the Aadhar, can be allotted
geographical proximity and similar form of the
confirming their temporary status of migrants
government . On the other hand the term
without allotting rights of citizens
‗strategic partners‘ would be more apt for the
A long term solution to migration needs
countries cooperating for some leverage on
management with sensitivity, competence,
economic or security front .
realism and understanding
In case of India‘s alliance with the Bangladesh , it
can be said as both natural and strategic . India
Q--Examine why Bangladesh is ahead of India
and Bangladesh have a common history
in many health indicators. What lessons can ,geographical proximity and people having
India learn from Bangladesh? Discuss. similar culture . Both the countries share a secular
Government of India has increased expenditure framework and have a democratic form of the
in healthcare to more than 2% of the GDP. With government . These factors make India and
programs such as National Rural Health Mission Bangladesh natural allies.
it is providing free medical facilities as well as In addition to the above factors , Bangladesh
medicines to the rural masses. Despite this there shares the border with several north eastern
is a preference for private hospital among people, states of India . After giving a step motherly
even for those belonging to poor and lower treatment to its north eastern states for decades ,
middle class. Reasons for this are : India now wants to fulfill its responsibility of
a. Inadequate staffing – Due to lack of doctors development in theses states . For this purpose
most often patients are not attended well. Long India needs an easy access to its north eastern
states, which are an important component of the

look east policy, via Bangladesh . Further to Two most important ones are
inhibit the growth of the insurgency in the north
eastern states , it is important that Bangladesh Resolving issue of enclaves, wherein parts of
does not provide a safe haven to the insurgents. Bangladesh were completely surrounded by
And India would also not want an aggressive and Indian territory. However this is still to be
strong China use Bangladesh as its alibi to rectified by the parliament. There is some 3
encircle India via so called ‗String of Pearl‘ . All
beeeghas of land that GOI has to provide
these factors make Bangladesh a strategically
important neighbor to India. Bangladesh with 24 hour access so that the 51000
bangladeshi population may benefit.
Q--Critically examine the Permanent Court of Providing electricity supply to power starved
Arbitration verdict on the India-Bangladesh bangladesh.
maritime dispute and its implications for India
Unfortunately, due to lack of political consensus,
in future.
the majour issues could not see see the light of
Permanent Court of Arbitration‘s judgement day. These are
resolved a long standing dispute between India
Ganga water sharing, wherein bangladesh has
and Bangladesh on maritime EEZ. The verdict
awarded 4/5th of the dispute area to Bangladesh some reservations which are not adequately
leaving 1/5th for India with a grey zone in addressed.
Bangladesh over which India holds suzerainity.
Providing northeast corridoor to India.
The verdict has both immediate and long term
consequences. Though India lost a potential oil & The problem of illegal migration and BSF border
gas reserve, and a large fishing zone, it removed shoot to kill policy.
ambiguity around exploration and fishing
activities. Now it is upto the new govt to take the otherwise
The verdict may bring India and Bangladesh good relationship to a whole new level.
closer paving way for ―transit corridor‖ to India
to access North east. India learnt a lesson to
resolve important border dispute on bilateral
term rather than opting for uncertain PCA
verdict. Q-Critically discuss why a stable Bangladesh
In future India should opt for ―purposeful
with a strong democratic government and
litigation‖ to solve petty but festering issues.
Bilateral negotiation and non- receprocity with institutions is important for India. (200 Words)
long term gains for India should guide border Ans.
dispute resolutions.
1. A stable neighborhood is always desirable
for a country. India always had a close and
historic relations with Bangladesh right from its
inception. Apart from sharing our largest border
Q-Critically comment on the efforts made by with Bangladesh, we also have have extensive
India and Bangladesh to resolve contentious
trade relations with it.
issues between them.
The current bangladeshi government is videly 2. Our bilateral trade with Bangladesh stood
believed to be an India friendly one. The outgoing at around USD 5 billion out of which USD 4
Indian government has also in its capacity taken billion were of Indian exports. A strong and
various confidence building measures.

democratic government in Bangladesh will lead Bangladesh permission. This ultimately results in
to increase in this trade with Bangladesh. 150,000 people getting their rights. With
continuous territory and better demarcated
3. Bangladesh also finds an important place
boundary we can better administer the area and
in India‘s Look-East policy. patrol the boundary line. Bilaterally this is an
4. India is connected to its North-Eastern overdued matter lingering from 1971 and
part through a narrow stretch called Siliguri completions of it will only strength the mutual
Corridor which is bordered by Bangladesh on one confidence. As the boundary demarcation getting
side and Nepal on other side. Stability in clearer and peace prevails the border trade will
countries on both sides this stretch is vital for the flourish.
security of this vital corridor.
The controversy around the bill arises as there are
5. North-East is going to play a vital role in 3 states which are going to exchange their land
coming time, with India‘s emphasis on increasing territory West Bengal, Assam, Tripura. These
trade with its Eastern Partners and creation of a states feel that they will loss land but this is a
trilateral highway from India to Thailand through misconception, enclaves in these states were
Myanmar which will be completed by 2016. never under their jurisdiction. So the controversy
over the 10,000 hectare loss is an illusion. And
6. There are also apprehensions about there cannot be a rise in secessionist tendencies as
revival of anti India/Inslamic Jehadist feelings in said by some because instead those Indians living
Bangladesh in case of unstability. Current Sheikh in Indian enclaves will now be included in
Hasina Govt. had act decisively against radical democratic process, will benefit from different
groups. welfare scheme and have full access to India‘s
resources.
7. In case of Unstability China can gain
influence in the area by supplying Waepons, Note - Indian parliament can secede any of its
investing in Infrastructure etc. territory Only by a constitutional amed.(Berubari
Case)
Q-What are the objectives of the proposed Land
Boundary Agreement (LBA) Bill between But a notable judgment by SC in 1969 ruled that
Bangladesh and India? Explain its significance ,settlement of a BOUNDARY DISPUTE b/w india
and also throw light on controversy surrounding and any other country does not require a const.
the bill. (200 Words) amnd. It can be done by executive action as it
does not involve cession of indian territory to
foreign country.
The Constitution (119th) Amendment Bill also
called Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) Bill
between Bangladesh and India. Both countries
have agreed to exchange their respective land Q. Discuss important recent developments in
enclaves and better demarcate the land boundary bilateral relations between India and
between them. The significance of the bill is Bangladesh. Are they mutually beneficial?
multifaceted it caters to humanitarian, Comment.
administrative, bilateral and economic needs.
Recent developments-
Let‘s first see the humanitarian needs; take the
 The arrest and extradition of ULFA leader
example of Indian enclave in Bangladesh, Indian
and other insurgent groups has signaled a
authority cannot enter this territory without

positive sign of credibility in the new Security issues etc. and noted that these regular
relationship arrangement. exchanges helped to enhance understanding and
 Indian BSF and the Border Guards of resolve issues to mutual satisfaction.
Bangladesh have even begun a series of The level of cooperation in the seizure and
coordinated patrols which would reduce prevention of trafficking of drugs has been
insurgents and ease the tension between
appreciable.
both countries.
 India also promised to fund the There are many issues, whose resolution is
construction of a 14 km Akhaura-Agartala bedevilled by differing perceptions as well as
railway between Bangladesh and India outright denials. One such issue is assaults on
with a future goal of extending it to BSF personnel by cattle smugglers. This issue has
northeast India near the Chittagong port. been raised by the BSF with their Bangladeshi
A mutual transit system could give India counterparts during various interactions with the
and Bangladesh a much shorter route to request to rein-in the cattle smugglers.
China, while linking northeast Indian The response of the BGB, however, has not been
states with Myanmar, Thailand, and encouraging primarily because unlike the BSF
Bangladesh. who see them as criminals, the BGB treats them as
 Reduction in trade barriers has increased legitimate cattle traders since cattle trade is legal
bilateral trade and encouraged private in Bangladesh.
investments in both countries.
 However, on the other side the Teesta Another issue is of illegal migration, which has
treaty and settlement of enclaves would been plaguing India since independence with
give connectivity to India‘s northeastern disastrous political and security implications,
states and provide a strong backing to its does not seem to lend itself to resolution any time
Look East Policy, which attempts to soon, because of Bangladesh‘s unwillingness to
develop India‘s trade and security acknowledge that it is a source of illegal migrants
relationships with Southeast Asian states. .
Bangladesh has persistently denied that its
citizens have been surreptitiously entering India
Q-Evaluate the performance of India –
for various reasons. It argues that since
Bangladesh security cooperation measures. (150
Bangladesh‘s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is
Words)
growing at a higher rate than India‘s, there is no
Answer)
reason for Bangladeshis to sneak into India to
Implementation of 3 agreements (Mutual Legal seek a better life. But Bangladesh does admit that
Assistance in criminal matters, Agreement on
economic migration is taking place from its
Transfer of sentenced persons and combating
terrorism, organized crime and illicit drug territory but asserts that such migration takes
trafficking) signed during the visit of prime place to European and Gulf countries rather than
minister Sheikh Hasina in India in 2010 have been to India‘s ‗impoverished‘ Northeast.
satisfactory as bilateral cooperation in the field of
security and border management has INDIA-MYANMAR
strengthened. Q-What are the challenges before India in
Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) fostering long term goodwill relationship with
which was signed in 2011 has resulted in reduced Myanmar and what should be its strategy to
number of border incidents. deal with these challenges? Examine.
Both the governments are satisfied with the
regular interaction of different bilateral Challenges and according strategies for Myanmar
mechanisms including BGB-BSF DG level
are imp not only strategically but also
meetings, Narcotics DG Level meetings, JWG on

geopolitically. Myanmar being an eastern responsible stakeholder so that India can gain
neighbour after Bangladesh is a contact way to proper legitimacy in the ASEAN group as
ASEAN group of nations. It also is a great link observer when many other countries are eying on
towards south china sea and the oil reserves the the region‘s resources which are unexploited and
sea has. Another is Myanmarese resemblence to India can get leverage to enhance its relations
Indian Culture which brings closeness to India. with other rising ASEAN nations like Indonesia
Challenges in relations lie in handling Chinese and Vietnam to diffuse Chinese dominating
influence, chinese aggression and diplomatic influence which most countries do not like. India
manoeuvrings, infrastructure issues, connectivity, can cash on its own image by helping the ASEAN
people-to-people contact, terrorism and anti-india get their proper dues by mediating if required for
activities intelligence, border surveillance, South China Sea issue to develop a joint
difficult terrain, issues of Myanmarese mechanism to resolve the issue of oil and gas
dictatorship, Muslim Rohingya issues and issues resources creating a cheaper resource base for
of refugees and infiltration of rebels and border itself. Fostering relations with Myanmar is an
demarcation issue. Another challenge is trade advantage also to get greater control over Indian
liberalisation and tariff barriers along with the Ocean on which USA has made its policy of ―shift
entrepreneurship and skill development in in pivot to asia‖. India has to understand the
Myanmarese people and their education so that issues of democracy in Myanmar and has to bring
the trade balance could be maintained. its expertise on board in election machinery and
management and other institutional issues so that
The strategies could be figured out in ways of
Myanmar can benefit from the smooth change
mutual cooperation and benefit sharing and
and India has a great chance to become its biggest
diplomatic tactics of support to democracy and
regional partner which resembles Indian position
stability and focus on poverty alleviation and
with Afganistan on account of proximity opening
infrastructure development for exchange of
new vistas of engagement with improving
resources and market opening. Myanmar can be
relations with long term view.
engaged militarily and internationally on global
issues. India recently helped Myanmar on
education, skill development, Moreh-Naypitaw
road connectivity, Dam development on
Irrawady river, support on border surveillance,
line of credit to the govt, cultural contacts and Q-Evaluate India – Myanmar relations of last
parliamentary delegations along with civil society two decades. (200 Words)
and industry collaborations, push for FTA with
ASEAN in pursuit of a trade corridor, etc. But still
more negotiations are needed on border Myanmar‘s is India owing to its shared
historical, ethnic, cultural and religious ties.
demarcation and fencing, cross border trade and
Also, both countries share a 1643 kilometer-
proper inspection and surveillance mechanism on
long land border and strategic waters of Bay
the open border areas and tresspassing. Another of Bengal with Myanmar.
is issue of refugees into NE states and proper
identification and their expatriation. Also The 1962 coup in Burma, which heralded
imprisoned people can be exchanged to build military rule, brought complete disruption in
faith and trust in each other‘s govt and focus relationships. Throughout 60s and 70s ethnic
Indians were expelled out of Myanmar.
must be mutual benefit and development of the
Indian leadership has had deteriorating
region as a whole making Myanmar a strong and
relationship with Military Junta rule of --political ramifications for the neighbouring
Myanmar and has constantly opposed the countries like Bangladesh, Thailand and & India
human rights violation.
--The EU, United States and Canada imposed
economic sanctions on Myanmar, and among
But since 1990s, India started constructive
major economies only China, India and South
engagement with the de facto military rulers
Korea have invested in the country.
of Myanmar. India decided not to interfere in
Myanmar‘s internal matter anymore. Since --The Kokrajhar riots in July-August ,2013
then both have worked together to eliminate resulted in people from Northeast India being
cross border insurgency and arms smuggling. targeted by Muslim groups in Mumbai,
India has trained their anti-narcotics officials Bangalore and other places and being forced to
and Myanmar has worked to dismantle the flee back home. Muslim ire was driven not just by
network of NE secessionist groups in their the violence in Kokrajhar which led to thousands
soil. of people fleeing their homes but also to the
conflict in Rakhine.
The first decade of the 21st century witnessed
growing strategic and economic engagement Apparently, the plight of the Rohingya Muslim
with cooperation in roads, power, hydro- can ignite passions in some parts of India and
carbon, oil refinery, transmission lines, lead to violence being orchestrated against the
telecommunications and information state. This would need to be guarded against and
technology. March 2006, President Abdul instigators of violence dealt with firmly at the
Kalam visited Myanmar to sign an agreement very first instance.
on cooperation in remote-sensing technology,
petroleum, and in Buddhist studies. A more serious concern is however the issue of
refugees. Policies of the Myanmar Government
There have been increased understanding on could lead to a mass exodus of Muslims to
border management issues and to express its Bangladesh. With limited opportunities in that
trust, India has recently decided to deploy country, a northward push by the Bangladesh
BSF on its border with Myanmar, calling back government could find the Rohingya landing up
the Assam Rifles which is seen as an extension in Assam.
of Army.
India‘s national interest is best served by a Vote bank politics may well result in their being
strong and stable Myanmar that observes absorbed in the country which would further fuel
strict neutrality between India and China. animosity in the region and lead to an escalation
of conflict in the Northeast. This is a challenge
which would require sensitive and delicate
Q-What repercussions does ethnic problems in handling and would need constant monitoring.
Myanmar have on India? Explain. (150 Words)
Answer)
INDIA-MALDIVES
Violence between Buddhists and the Muslim Q-Highlight the importance of stable democracy
Rohingya, inhabit Rakhine state (formerly
in Maldives to India. (150 Words)
Arakan province) which stretches along most of
Myanmar‘s coast up to the Bay of Bengal and
The deficiency of democratic rule in the
borders the Chittagong province of Bangladesh,
neighbouring regions of India has proved
erupted in 2013.
acrimonious to India. Be it Pakistan or
Afghanistan on one side and China or Bangladesh
-Trans-country migrations as a result of on other.
continuing political turmoil and economic
Several risks and hindrances to India‘s progress
hardship,
have emerged from them. Besides wars,

terrorism, extremism, migration, insurgency

continue to haunt India‘s security new issues The unified communist party of Nepal (maoists)
such as Marine security and piracy have added was formed in 1994 after a prolonged civil war in
fuel to the fire. nepal .It was launched to uproot the monarchy
and feudalism from the country.It started as a
In this regard, a stable democracy in Maldives is
guerrilla warfare and is now a political party in
highly desirable for India‘s interests. Democratic
nepal.
regimes fare much better in terms of negotiations
The ideology of the communist party was
and understanding. The aspirations of people do
influenced by the china‘s communist revolution
not go unchecked and government in power
under mao zedong.The Maoists announced a
abstains from radical decisions.
‗People‘s War‘ , under the slogan: ―Let us march
Culturally and economically India has the second ahead on the path of struggle towards
largest expatriate community with 28000 Indians establishing the people‘s rule‖
constituting doctors, nurse, engineer and tailors
there safety depends upon the type of There has been a radical shift from its policy of
government in Maldives. Trade and investment the past where it has embraced the democratic
in Maldives by India in Maldives consists of long values and norms.It is now actively partcipating
term credits, bank loans to hotels and resorts, in the formation of new constitution and the
trade agreements so a stable environment is a policy process of nepal .however the recent trend
must. indicates a turnaround where the party president
has called for a‖social revolution‖.
Also, in regards to India‘s good relations with
Maldives in past, it is important that such Today, the communist forces in Nepal are
relations continue. And democratic institutions divided over the way forward. While their leader,
provide much needed continuity. Business and Prachanda, wants the country to developing
Government level contacts, People to People economically using capitalist approach while
contact through tourism will further help in ensuring social development, others such as
strengthening SAARC and the peace of south Bhattarai insist that completing the social
Asian countries. revolution must be the first priority.
Observers thought that India would never accept

The Indian Ocean has important Sea lines of Maoists in Nepal as Indian government was
communication. With regular eruption of deeply worried about the Maoists strong anti
disputes with Sri-Lanka, it is imperative for India India dialects. And moreover, the linkage
to have good relations with Maldives to secure between the Nepal ‘s Maoists and Indian Maoists
the Indian Ocean region. was also causing a headache for India . But
contrary to all the popular beliefs, india changed
INDIA-NEPAL its outlook and supported the Maoists party
Q--Critically comment on the rise of alliance.
communism in Nepal. What is its present
Indian administration sensed that Nepal was
ideology? What is India‟s position vis a vis
slowly inching towards a failed state status. They
Nepal‟s communist parties? Explain. feared that a failed Nepal poses a serious threat
for India , which is affected by Maoist movements
Communism in Nepal originated against the then of her own, than a stable Nepal with Maoists in
feudal society under monarchy. It grew up as an the mainstream of Nepalese politics.
armed rebellion which was ultimately successful.
Then it opted to reconcile with the constitutional
democracy model of government. But the party
ideology and internal dynamics are yet to change
in line with this new situation.

Q-Comment on the nature of economic relations of Tibetans taking refuge in Nepal. By

between India and Nepal. (200 Words) aligning Nepal with it, Chinese have
succeeded in a change in Nepalese policy
India and Nepal has unique relation from ancient towards Tibetans fleeing from Tibet and
times. The geographical , historical and economic convinced Nepal to take strong action
factors have shaped their relation from time to against anti-Chinese activities in Nepal.
time. After independence , the Treaty of Peace 2) Possibilities are that China might be
and Friendship have enhanced their relationship undertaking such massive investments in
to great extent which provided Nepal , the the Nepalese side bordering India to
preferential treatment from Indian side. monitor the movements of the Indo-
Tibetan refugees, intelligence collection as
Nepal‘s economic development has been the border is open or aiding the Maoists in
inextricably linked with India . India is largest their war against the Indian
partner in Nepal‘s foreign trade and Nepal‘s establishment.
independence upon India for essential 3) Ending Nepal‘s overdependence on India
commodities has been immense. Nepal provides by providing economic ,military
lots of opportunity for India to invest in ,technological and education cooperation
Infrastructure . Climate change and tourism , to Nepal would weaken India‘s hold on
Hydro power projects , education , culture etc. Nepal. This would erode India‘s long term
influence and balance India‘s growing
A number of policy initiatives have been taken by power in south Asia.
India such as trade liberation , utilization of river 4) China has also pushed forward its strategic
water ,transit facilities which indicates positive interests through infrastructural projects
attitude towards Nepal . However , the relation and FDI in Nepal. An enhanced Chinese
between them strained when Nepal demanded presence in Nepal will mean increased
separate trade and transit treaties from India and vulnerability of our northern states from
following which lead to economic trouble in Himachal to West Bengal.
Nepal and finally caused renewed relation with 5) The point to be considered here is that all
India by renewing Treaty of peace and friendship these activities are being done very close
treaty. to the Indian border with Nepal, precisely
near the states of UP and Bihar.
Due to porous border between india and china , The internal security (Maoism) and border
illegal trade and terrorism have impacted the security will be at risk. Illegal drugs and
economy of both countries for which both arms smuggling might be eased via
countries have deployed forces to counter the China‘s presence.
activities which has minimized them to great
extent but still prevails. Moral of the Story :-
Both countries should help each other in stopping This influence till now is at infant stage but once
illegal trade and terrorism across border which there is victory of Communist party of Nepal
will increase their trade and hence will forge [Maoists] in the future elections this influence will
good for their economic relations, mature. This rise of Nepal will be harsh for India,
for example our long term investments in hydro
power may be cancelled and given to China as
has been seen in Maldives.
Q-Why should Chinese presence in Nepal
concern India ? All these factors and the recent acts of Chinese
territorial aggression in J&K and Arunachal
1 ) Securing China‘s interest in Tibet-after Pradesh should definitely be a cause of concern
China occupied there were a large number for India. It should effectively start taking steps to
curb these activities before its too late.

will be a security threat to india.now india has to

To achieve modernization, China needs to secure take a proactive step in helping nepal to form its
a peaceful international environment to develop constitution and technically help nepal in
itself, and safeguard and promote world peace governing itself.
with its development.‖ Comment. (200 Words)
Encompassing a large part of the Himalayas
In today‘s era of globalization, modernization is ,Nepal, possesses a very strategic buffer location
possible only via cooperation and not by creating sandwiched between two South Asian powers ,
islands of hostility especially around ones India and China‘s Tibetan Autonomous Region.
neighborhood.
Modernization is the intellectual, cultural, Although India shared a very harmonious
economical and militaristic growth of a nation . relation with Nepal, the countries have an open
These vital ingredients of modernization require border by the Treaty of Peace and Friendship
a healthy environment for exchange of ideas that signed in 1950. Till 1995, 99% of Nepal‘s trade
strengthens research and development. Good was with India. And India was the largest source
economics is a function of good peace. of investments for the landlocked kingdom of
Nepal. The open border between the two
countries facilitated exchange economic,
But a peaceful China is not just important for educational , cultural , occupational opportunities
China but for the whole world. China today is not .
a country world can ignore and in today‘s nuclear
age no one want to go out for a war (whether Over the past decades China has tried to show
stronger or not). What China and the world today proactive concern for Nepal . Reasons can be
needs is cooperation, mutual respect, non- classified into 3 parts:-
interference and respect for territorial sovereignty 1 ) securing China‘s interest in Tibet-after China
of each other. occupied there were a large number of Tibetans
taking refuge in Nepal. By aligning Nepal with it,
There in enough in this one for everybody's need Chinese have succeeded in a change in Nepalese
but not for everybody's greed. policy towards Tibetans fleeing from Tibet and
convinced Nepal to take strong action against
anti-Chinese activities in Nepal.
Q-Should Chinese economic presence and 2) Ending Nepal‘s overdependence on India by

strategic influence in Nepal worry India? providing economic ,military ,technological and
Comment. (200 Words) education cooperation to Nepal would weaken
India‘s hold on Nepal. This would erode India‘s
China with its aggressive foreign economic policy long term influence and balance India‘s growing
is gaining recognition in india‘s neighbourhood. power in south Asia.
Pakistan is the largest importer of arms from 3) China has also pushed forward its strategic
china and a naval base in gwadar port ,a natural interests through infrastructural projects and FDI
gas pipeline from Myanmar to china and naval in Nepal. An enhanced Chinese presence in
base in sittwe port and china is the largest fdi Nepal will mean increased vulnerability of our
investor in Nepal surpassing India. northern states from Himachal to West Bengal.
increasing economic presence of china in nepal In the light of above points, we can conclude that
can have a strong hold on nascent democratic China‘s growing presence in Nepal is a concern
politics in nepal and this could affect india nepal for India and should not be left unaddressed.
relationship.
as the border between india and nepal is open All these factors and the recent acts of Chinese
and porous ,we can expect smuggling of arms territorial aggression in J&K and Arunachal
,drugs ,counterfeit currency into india and this Pradesh should definitely be a cause of concern

for India. It should effectively start taking steps to to revise the treaty is both rational and
curb these activities before its too late. undelayable considering the emerging political
situation in Nepal and our own security concerns.
Q-Critically comment on the criticism over the The Nepalese elite consider the 1950 treaty as an
1950 “India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and expression of Indian hegemony. It specifically
Friendship” and examine why there is a call for points to the clause on defence cooperation,
its revision which requires Nepal to consult India on its
national defence.
India–Nepal relations are regulated by the
bilateral Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950, This and other clauses that gave whatsoever
whereby the two countries agreed to grant each advantage to India, has long fell into disuse. The
other‘s citizens national treatment in all matters, mutual national treatment of citizens and an open
including taking up jobs, doing business and border has seen the growth of Nepali workers,
owning property. This was ensured through an civil servants, soldiers and business-men in India
open border and the free circulation of Indian and money flowing to Nepal. Reciprocal benefit
currency in Nepal. The benefits were obviously to India is minuscule. So Nepalese have no real
more for Nepal, whose citizens could take excuse to ask for annulment.
advantage of India‘s big market and higher level
of development. However, India needs a revised treaty right now.
The open border is a ‗terrorist highway‘ put to
The treaty evolved in the back drop of rise in good use by ISI. Fake currency flows into India
communist regime in China and Nepal‘s need to through this open border. China and Nepal are
secure help from India. Change in the political not mutually hostile any more. This new strategic
realities has called for a review of its major reality has to be factored into Indo-Nepal
provisions which are: relationship.
(a) Open borders: besides providing jobs to India should regulate the border, even at the
nepalese and promoting trade, the open borders expense of a little discomfiture on Nepali side.
has led to infiltration of fake currency, arms, Then India will be able to engage Pakistan in,
spies, terrorists and fundamentalist creating a their own game of counterfeiting. Nepal will
security threat for India. probably witness ―proxy politics‖ between India
and China. Therefore, It is important to mollify
(b) Defence decisions: Nepal acceding its defence Nepali opinion.
decisions and purchase of arms to India is often
seen as intrusion in its sovereignty by Nepalese.
Maoist have utilised the issue to espouse anti
Indian feelings in Nepal.
Q- What mechanisms have been put in place by
India and Nepal to curb illegal trade and
(c) Trade: National treatment in trade has
benefitted Nepal more though some marwaris improve security in their borders. Have they
have been able to carve a space for them in Nepal. been successful? Examine. (200 Words)
India enjoys a close relationship with Nepal that
(d) Political basis of treaty was to guard that has been fraught with problems inherent to
monarchy. Its replacement by a republic state has all big power-small power relations with Nepal
made it meaningless. striving for more financial and economic
independence from its neighbor and India vary of
Since the begining of decade the treaty if more
violated in spirit and words. While gains for India its growing relationship with China. India has
are minimal losses are major. Thus, the demand always linked economic relations with security

and has put forth many a measures to prevent and government structure. Now Nepal is going
illicit trade,trafficking of drugs and narcotics,fake for election for setting another constitution
Indian currencies, arms and ammunition etc assembly after five years. Recent times India is
handling its relation with Nepal carefully as one
across the borders.
of its political party motivated by china is
India has signed a Treaty of trade and Agreement opposing India Nepal peace and friendship treaty
saying it is curbing Nepalis sovereignty and
of Co-operation to control unauthorized trade in
questioning India interference. In such case India
2009 basis which Sahastra Seema Bal ( SSB ), one watching situation without expecting anything
of the armed police forces that mans the border and influencing the outcome.
areas are authorized to conduct raids and
crackdown on illegal trade and trafficking.
Routine inspections are conducted and borders INDIA-BHUTAN
are tightened with goods allowed to pass only
through a few authorized routes. Q-Critically evaluate the evolution of
relationship between India and Bhutan since
However even with all the measures, it is difficult India‟s independence.
to contain the illegal trade due to difficult India and Bhutan though share an ancient
geographical terrain and difficuty to man all the relation in the form of economic, social and
unauthorized points of exits and alternate routes. religion, it has been further strengthen after the
In order for the measures to be fully effective, Independence of India. India, so far, has been
strength of the deputed forces needs to be playing an important role in the political as well
increased with a clear strategy on tackling the as economic matter of Bhutan with huge grants
numerous un authorized passes and routes for this Himalayan nation.
through with trafficking could take place.
Infrastructure and machinery used by our forces The formal diplomatic relations with Bhutan was
to track the illegal trade and immigrants needs to initiated in 1971 when Bhutan was admitted to
be improved. This is really important as India- the UN with India‘s help. However, a treaty of
Nepal border provides opportunities for terrorist friendship calling for peace and tranquility
infiltration and support for non-state actors in between the countries was signed in 1949. The
India aggressive stand of China towards another
Buddhist country Tibet brought the nations more
closer.
Q-What role did India play during Nepal‟s But then Bhutan has also cooperated with India
recent constitutional crisis? Explain. (150 Words) by not allowing ULFA insurgents to use its
Answer) territory for anti-India activities. Both the
countries have renegotiated the Friendship
Nepal and India are holding good relations with
mutual cooperation. In 2010 Nepal faced political Agreement in 2007 after which Bhutan no longer
instability. Decided to frame and adapt new requires to consult India in the matters of foreign
constitution. In order to resolve its difference of affairs and also while importing arms. In 2013,
opinion and help to restore the political stability Indian government had held back the supply of
India sent its expertise to combat the crisis. In aid and fuel supposedly as a fall out of its
2011 both countries signed MoU to mutually reaching out to China without taking India into
cooperate in election management.
confidence.
The 2008 first constitutional committee failed to
agree two basic issues federal nature of Nepal

Bhutan acts as a buffer state between India and India offers unilateral concessions for trade with
China hence it is strategically important to India. Bhutan as well as free port facility. India
Moreover, Bhutan currently supplies 1500 MW of represents Bhutan at Global financial institutions
hydroelectric power to India and there is like World bank and Asian Development
potential of more supplies. It also serves as Bank.Bhutan too acknowledges India's legitimate
another communication route to India‘s north interest at global platform.
east. Besides this Bhutan being a traditional
Bhutan being a Buddhist state, Indian culture
supporter can help India rise up as a leader of
have left imprint on lifestyle of Bhutanese
South Asian region and assert her prowess at
Nationals. It is this sharing of similar values that
international level. Keeping above points into
brings our interests in synergy and helps mutual
consideration it is imperative for India to
prosperity. Our foreign policy for bhutan will be
maintain healthy relations with Bhutan.
guided by this mutual faith and concern for years
to come.
Q-Comment on India‟s policy towards Bhutan

since 1947. India and Bhutan shared a very cordial
Bhutan is trusted Indian Neighbor in relatively relationship based on the treaty of friendship
hostile Northern borders. India‘s policy towards 1949 . The location of Bhutan as a buffer state
Bhutan has always been that of ―Elder Brother‖ between India and China makes it very important
safeguarding interest of Bhutan for mutual for the security of India . Thus according to the
benefits. friendship treaty , India guided Bhutan in its
foreign and defense policies . And simultaneously
Bhutan is a buffer state between India and hostile India provided a huge aid to Bhutan(1/3 of
China. This has conferred 'Geo strategic India‘s foreign aid go to Bhutan).
significance' to this Himalayan kingdom.
The transition of Bhutan to a democracy , nearly a
India enforces its soft skills while dealing with decade ago , had some change in the existing
Bhutan. A peaceful,prosperous and non-aligned relationship as was governed by the treaty of 1949
Bhutan is in India's larger interests. These are the . Though India welcomed a democratic transition
cornerstone that guides our foreign policy for of Bhutan and simultaneously amended the
bhutan. treaty of 1949 ( 2007). As per current friendship
treaty , Bhutan has complete sovereignty over the
Ageneration,dams,sharing of river data,we are
matters of foreign and defense policy . But the
striving to achieve win-win situation. Since
economic relations between the two nations have
Bhutan is a power surplus and we are power
remained , more or less, same . And Bhutan
deficit state,Chukka project,a joint venture
assured India that it would not take any decision
between the two epitomises this.
undermining defense concerns of India.
India offers training to human resources of
The meeting between the ex Bhutanese prime
Bhutan civil services and Royal Bhutanese army.
minister ,Jigme, and his Chinese counter part
Further,scholarships and accommodation for
without any information given to New Delhi
bhutanese students in Higher Educational
created some concerns in India. In the after math
Courses bringing healthy ties between two
of the above event , India withholded the aid to
nations.
Bhutan . This resulted in a huge inflation in

Bhutan and subsequently led to the defeat of the India has resulted in violation of treaty signed
incumbent government . India clarified that the between them. Hence , India should resolve
decision to withhold the subsidy had nothing to issues with Bhutan to prevent it from looking
for alternative source for imports .
do with the elections in Bhutan . But its timing
certainly put a question mark on the India‘s
India has been seen as ‖ Big Brother ‖ by some
intention. nations due to growing economic strength as
compared to its neighbors. India has trade
In the current situation when Bhutan has become relation with all its neighboring countries but
a democratic country , India‘s position of has failed to implement its foreign policy in
preeminence may not remain . With increasing case of srilanka over CHOGM issue ,
interest of China in the region and Bhutan‘s bangladesh over Teesta river , nepal over its
strategic location for the security of north east elections issues and even in bhutan over
region of India(Chiken neck) , it is important that removing subsidy at time of elections,
India maintains a cordial relation with Bhutan
Hence if India has to boom in its neighboring
irrespective of the party in power . India‘s region it has to overcome of its domestic
relationship with Bhutan,till now , has been influences over foreign policies otherwise its
described as an ideal. Now , it will take more neighbors will find the hand of its regional
efforts on the part of India to maintain it that way rival which will harm its interest.
. The recent decision of the India‘s PM to visit
Add on
Bhutan as his first foreign destination seems a
right step .
India and Bhutan have had a long standing
relationship with each other, while both
countries have signed several ―treaties of
Q-Analyze the recent developments in India – peace‖ since India‘s Independence; the recent
Bhutan relationship. Do you think India is agreement has allowed Bhutan to widen its
acting like a „big brother‟ towards its neighbors? scope in foreign policy and relations with
Comment. (200 Words) other nations.
India and Bhutan shares cultural , political India is the major trading partner of Bhutan
relation since several decades. The new treaty and one third overall foreign aid of India
of friendship signed between them revived reaches Bhutan. India has also signed an
the old one which had established peace , agreement with regard to development of
trade and non – interference in each other hydel power projects, and by providing
matters and it was first Bhutan who several grants and loans for development of
recognized the India as independent after power plants. It will also import 10,000
1947.India has remained influential over megawatts of power by 2020 from Bhutan. All
Bhutan‘s foreign policy , defense and these investment from India has eased up the
commerce . It has given military support to economic crisis prevalent in Bhutan whose
Bhutan against china. India has built several CAD had reached 20% of GDP.
hydro power projects and has always
supported the democracy in Bhutan. India‘s recent move to cut of oil subsidies
during Bhutan general election, ended up
However the relation between them soured being disastrous for the ruling party which
when India unilaterally decided to stop lost the election. This move by India was seen
subsidy on petroleum to Bhutan when by many as a lesson to Bhutan for opening up
elections was going on there which resulted in diplomatic ties with China.
some economic crises in region. This stance of

During Nehru era when there was threat of forcefully and International law needs to be
China annexing Bhutan, India promised respected. So, India should take steps with care
military support and action considering any and diplomatically.
aggression against Bhutan would be an
aggression on India. our relation has evolved
since those days. India having a colonial Q-Critically comment on the contentious issue
history knows the value and respects of fishing between India and Sri Lanka. In your
freedom. Critics calling India a ―big brother‖ opinion what should be India‟s policy towards
or ―protectorate‖ of Bhutan are uncalled for, this issue? Comment.
even though we have lent a helping hand to The issue of fishing in the International waters
the land locked country, we have always
between India and Sri Lanka has always been a
respected the sovereignty and independence
of Bhutan. matter of concern due to frequent arrests of
Indian fishermen.
INDIA-SRI LANKA Fishing is an important source of livelihood for

people living in coastal areas of both India and Sri
Q--Comment on the maritime boundary and Lanka. Due to unsustainable fishing practices,
sovereignty over islands issue between India most of the important fish species on Indian side
and Sri Lanka. of International maritime boundary line(IMBL)
have declined. Thus, Indian fisherman, with their
Sri Lanka is India‘s southern maritime neighbor, trawlers venture into high seas on the other side
and both have a thin strip of water between them, of IMBL. This, in turn majorly affects livelihood
known as Palk strait and Gulf of Mannar.
of Northern and Eastern people of Sri Lanka,
The maritime boundary between both countries
has been derived according to International Laws. mostly Tamils. Often, the issue takes an ethnic
But, serious disputes have arisen due to following angle, helped in part by politics.
factors –
(1) Coastal fisherman issue – Traditionally people Thus, the issue needs a strategic solution which
living on coastal Tamil Nadu and Costal Sri- takes into account the livelihood concerns of both
Lanka have been navigating the whole maritime sides of people, while at the same time respecting
area and fishing freely. Creation of two nations IMBL and respective rights of sovereign
and separate boundaries have resulted in governments. A long term policy addressing
livelihood issues for these fisherman with
sustainable development of fishing off Tamil
constant arrests being made from both sides of
those fishermen who cross maritime boundaries. Nadu coast, provision of rehabilitation for
(2) Island issue – There is dispute over affected fishermen and cooperation with Sri
Kacchatheevu Islands which come under Sri Lanka is the need of the hour
Lanka‘s maritime boundary and its sovereignty
was accepted by government of India during
1970′s. Island is barren but according to
International rule, ownership of such Islands Q-What is Sethusamudram project? Why is
results in considerable Maritime boundary being opposed? (200 Words)
advantage. So, this resulted in new demand by
Tamil Nadu to take back the Islands due to Sethusamudram Project is a proposed project
fisherman problems. that would link Palk Bay and the Gulf of Mannar
Both these problems can be solved by talks and between India and Sri Lanka by creating a
dialogue, which should include the fishermen shipping channel through the shallow sea called
who are severely affected from any agreement Sethusamudram and through a chain of islands
from both sides. Also, Islands can‘t be taken collectively called Adam‘s Bridge, Ramar Palam,
Ram Sethu and similar names. This would
provide a continuously navigable sea route in and animal protein supply; in many parts of the Asia-
around the Indian Peninsula. Pacific region, the importance of fish to food
supplies is even greater.
It is bring opposed on different grounds like
economic, environment impact ,and religion. Specially after climate changing
Economic effects……………..
Experts suggest that the project is unlikely to be The impact of global overfishing is typically
financially viable or serve ships in any significant measured in environmental and economic terms,
way. More over the canal is designed for ships of but often overlooked is the threat depleted fish
30,000 metric tonnes and lighter. Most new ships stocks pose to the millions of people around the
weighing more than 60,000 tonnes and tankers world who depend on fish for food.
weighing above 150,000 tonnes cannot use this
canal. According to the World Resources Institute,
about 1 billion people largely in developing
Environmental impact countries rely on fish as their primary animal
protein source. Fish is highly nutritious, and it
The project would disturb the ecological balance serves as a valuable supplement in diets lacking
and destroy corals. Opposition to the canal‘s essential vitamins and minerals.
planned route has come from local fishermen
who are demanding alternative channels, which During much of the last half-century, the growth
are available. Deposits of thorium would be in demand for animal protein was satisfied in
affected, which are too important for our nuclear part by the rising output of oceanic fisheries.
fuel requirements. On the other hand, deepening Between 1950 and 1990, the oceanic fish catch
the Sethu Canal might provide a more direct increased roughly fivefold, from 19 million to 85
route for the tsunami and this could impact south million tonnes. During this period, seafood
Kerala. consumption per person nearly doubled,
climbing from 8 to 15 kilograms.
Religion
Unfortunately, the human appetite for seafood is
Opposition to the project also came from Hindus, outgrowing the sustainable yield of oceanic
who see the Rama Sethu or Adam‘s Bridge as the fisheries. Today, more than 70 per cent of the
remains of a bridge created by Rama. world‘s fisheries are either fully exploited or
depleted. Production levels in many fishing
nations have fallen to historically low levels,
confirming that some fish stocks are in a fragile
Q-Do you think escalating conflicts between state.
fishermen between maritime neighbors across
the world is an indication of deteriorating food Therefore, the rise in population and more
security situation? Comment. (200 Words)
importantly the rise in the awareness among the
people about the benefits of sea food is what is
Sustainable agricultural development, including
driving its demand to the extreme, leading to
the essential contribution of the fisheries sector,
food scarcity which in turn leads to skirmishes
has become of utmost importance, both to ensure
between countries in the sea.
adequate supplies of food at affordable prices,
and as the main source of economic and social
Q-“The problem with the Palk Bay fishing
progress for the rural poor. Food security is now
dependent upon a set of circumstances that has conflict is precisely its interstate character.”
political, social and economic dimensions at the Comment. (200 Words)
national, regional and global levels, on average,
fish currently provide almost one-fifth of the total

The Palk Bay region, which separates the coastal Violation of maritime border by Indian trawlers
regions of Tamil Nadu from northern parts of Sri has affected the livelihood of aggrieved Sri
Lanka, has been in the headlines during recent Lankan fishermen who are recovering from the
years. The rich fishing waters, especially lucrative restrictions imposed on them during the Eelam
on the Sri Lanka side of the maritime boundary, wars which had led to negotiations in 2004 and
became a bone of contention between Tamil 2010 to end trawling by Indian fishermen in Sri
Nadu fishermen and the Sri Lanka Navy during Lankan waters but the implementation is in vain.
the years of the ethnic conflict. The situation was further aggravated when the
Indian fishermen were arrested and held in Sri
Because of India‘s deep trawlers Sri- Lankan Lankan jails, prior to which they were detained
fishermen are feeling insecure. Sri-Lankan army by the Sri Lankan navy and subsequently handed
arrested many Indian fishermen and so did over to Indian Coast Guards, which has been
Indian army. criticized as a vindictive action by Sri Lanka for
India‘s stand on devolution of power due to 13th
Because of these conflicts the only means of Amendment, subsequent demilitarization and
livelihood of fishermen from both side is getting human rights issue in UN further straining the
affected badly and to get rid of from these relations.
conflicts both states felt the need of exact solution.
In this context, there have been two significant Though confidence building measures like release
rounds of talks between Tamil Nadu and of arrested fishermen by both sides and the recent
Northern fishers in 2004 and then again in 2010. negotiations on trawling are welcome steps but
The agreement reached in 2010 called for a the needs of hour are multi level deliberations
complete end to trawling in Sri Lankan waters and negotiations considering the livelihood of the
within a year, giving Indian trawl fishers time to fishing communities of both the nations,
shift to other forms of fishing. The agreement has adherence to international laws of sea and
not been implemented by either country across protection of the ecological balance for rebuilding
the Palk Straits, and three and a half years later, the fractured relations between the two nations.
the situation has reached crisis proportions. The
irony of the tragedy facing the Northern fishers is
that the Tamil Nadu polity, which claims to
champion the rights of the Sri Lankan Tamils, has Q-Bring out the causes of frequent arrests of
been complicit in the dispossession of the Sri fishermen between India and Sri Lanka. How
Lankan Tamil fishers. This hypocrisy also extends do you think both countries should resolve the
to the Sri Lankan Tamil middle class, the Sri issue? Comment (200 Words)
Lankan Tamil media and the Tamil National
Alliance. Sri lanka is one of the most strategic neighbor for
India,peace full srilanka and cordial relation with
In the light of above talk it becomes clear that the her is crucial for Indian security and peaceful
conflict of fishing is interstate character where regional politics (tamil nadu) but a long term
both states are trying to impose their policies on irritant is ―fishermen issue‖ which is linked to
each other without paving a path for peaceful livelihood of poors on both sides of maritime
solution which is affecting livelihood of only border.
fishermen and common peoples of both side.
Traditionally fishermen on tamil coast and
The Palk Bay fishing conflict has taken the guise srilanka were same community with common
of ecological and livelihood problem where as the fishing zone but post Independence maritime
crux of the conflict lies in the interstate issues due border has divided this zone which is not
to the arrests of fishermen, interlinking equations accepted by many.
due to involvement of fishermen of northern
Tamil territories, etc.

Due to a high population dependent upon fishing was deployed to prevent smuggling of weapons
in a close 12 nautical mile wide ―palk stait‖ is root
by the rebel group LTTE.
cause for regular violation of maritime rules
under UNCLOS causing arrest of poor fishermen The island is culturally important to fishermen of
, Tamil Nadu and has led to agitations by Tamil
politicians demanding that India should claim
Since these are poor people with primitive fishing
boats without GPS or RADAR so mostly the sovereignty.
unknowingly cross the border and get arrested. But of recently, the frequent arrest of of fishermen
After 2009 LTTE war huge migration from north
in Sri Lankan waters have have raised the issue.
eastern province to Tamilnadu was causing Law
order problem to tackle issue stringent patrolling Now the Tamil Nadu government has raised this
has resulted in increased number of arrest,with a serious issue and wants control over
mumbai 26/11 adding further tightened coastal Kachatheevu back. Also, said that the parting
security. with Kachatheevu to Sri Lanka by the then Prime
India Sri-Lanka has already made a joint work
Minister Indira Gandhi in 1976 by a treaty which
group to address this issue but need of the hour is
more active Central Govt engagement with Sri- was not ratified by Parliament becomes
Lankan counterpart ,regular bilateral discussion unconstitutional.
on the issue with stake holder.At the same time
India should push for modernization of fishing
vessel through finance services this not only
increases fish capture but also better navigation Q. Which are the main areas of concern for India
and border rule compliance within Sri Lanka? How can India help Sri Lanka
address these issues amicably? Explain.
Answer-
Question - Write a critical note on Kachatheevu  India and Srilanka are at loggerheads
island controversy involving India, Sri Lanka mainly since the start of LTTE war, things
and Tamil Nadu. (200 Words) have worsened there on. The main area of
India‘s concern is the welfare of Tamil
Answer - Katchatheevu is a controversial
people in Northern and Eastern Provinces
uninhabited island administered by Sri Lanka. of Sri Lanka.
But, historical evidence abounds that  The main contentious issues between
Katchatheevu was the zamindari of the Raja of India and sri Lanka are as follows:
Ramnad, and subsequently became a part of the - Issue of 13th amendment to the Sri
Lankan Constitution that provides for
State of Tamil Nadu.
devolution of more powers to the
This island was given to Sri lanka by India on provinces.
conditional basis that the indian fishermen have a - The centre of Sri Lanka taking away
powers of provinces over land and police
right to rich fishing ground in territorial waters of
making provinces vulnerable.
Sri Lanka around Kachatheevu island. - Post Eelam war settlement of people
affected in these provinces (Mainly
But Indian fishermen do not have rights to fishing
Tamils).
around the island as it is within the territorial - Issue of thousands of people missing till
waters of Sri Lanka. And, as part of the Sri date and detention since the
Lankan civil war, this arrangement has led to commencement of war.
many difficulties with the Sri Lankan Navy that - War crimes- Gross violation of human
rights in these provinces by security

agencies. Emergency were transported to

- Implementation of recommendations of PTA(Prevention of Terrorist Act). The post
the LLRC (Lessons Learnt and war reconstruction efforts particularly
Reconciliation Committee). resettlement of IDPs(Internally Displaced
- Close relations with China. E.g: Persons) also seem to take place at snail
Launching of Sri Lankan satellite with pace.
China‘s assistance.  Srilanka setup LLRC(leasons Learnt and
 India has been extending support to Sri Reconciliatory Commission) for
Lanka to deal with these issues. investigating war crimes and provide
India can use the goodwill obtained by its rehabiitation measures. But the
abstention at the Geneva UNHRC implementation measures has not been
voting,and persuade Sri Lanka to satisfactory. International criticism led to
implement 13th amendment. UNHRC resolution against Srilanka.
India is helping Sri Lanka by building  It seemed that Colombo could not garner
houses to the people in the war affected much trust from tamils. Immediate need
areas. ( Target-43,000 houses). of thr hour is transparent and accountable
India can provide technological assistance implementation of recomendations of
to Sri Lanka in areas of LLRC. Only such transparent mechanism
space,education,medicine etc. to fulfill its can reduce trust deficit with in Srilanka
ambitions. and also from international community.
More economic and political relations so
that there can be no gap other countries
like China to enter in between, which is in Q-Comment on the growing relationship
consistency with India‘s policy of between China and Sri Lanka. Should India be
―peaceful Indian ocean‖, in which Sri worried? Why? Substantiate.
Lanka is a key player owing to its
geographical location. China and Sri Lanka has been very old allies and
this relationship is continuing on an upward
trajectory even today, probably because of
Q. Critically comment on Sri Lanka‟s policies geopolitical location of Sri Lanka in the Indian
towards its Tamil population post – 2009 victory Ocean.
over LTTE. The relations have been strengthened after the
support of China in final war against the LTTE.
Answer- The economic and political cooperation has
 First and foremost towards integration of ensured amicable relations between them.
tamils into mainstream Srilankan
nationhood, as part of implementation of recently both countries signed a FTA for closer
13th amendment, elections to north economic cooperation. china is also increasing its
provincial councils have been succesfully influence in S.L by space
conducted. There has been delegation of diplomacy,infrastructure developmetn especially
legislative powers to provincial councils of ports(hambantota,). It plans to establish
and executive powers to Board of railway network in sri lanka.China has always
ministers and chief ministers. supported S.L. on interational fora like UNSC and
 However, it was alleged that there has UNHRC by opposing the resolution of
been more tendency towards international enquiry against S.L.
centralisation of authority by Colombo,
expansion of millitary and hence Though its a matter of concern for India but India
devolution did not happen in real term. should not be paranoid as Hambantota port was
 Though Emergency Regulations(ER) post offered to india but only after delay by indian
war were removed, the powers under authorities it was passed to china. Also as more

than 60% of china‘s trade ad oil imports comes Both governments should seriously consider
via indian ocean china has legitimate interest in training fishermen in deep-sea fishing techniques.
safeguarding SLOCs via S.L. Recently by The governments of the two countries must took
propounding Maritime silk route China want to this issue very seriously and have to train their
allay india‘s fear regarding string of pearls theory fisher men to adopt to techniques like deep-sea
and want active cooperation of india in the fishing, which may reduce the tensions in the
project. Palk-Strait area.
So,India should be cautious but not fearful of
any project or investment by china in S.L. as
diplomacy is not a zero sum game.
Bilateral, Regional, Global groupings &
Q-Examine why there is an escalation of tension Agreements (involving and/or affecting India)
between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen in
the Palk Strait. (150 Words) GENERAL INDIAN DIPLOMACY
Answer)
Q--Why is India projected as a soft power? Do
For past three decades Tamil Nadu fishermen
have been ―traditionally‖ fishing in Sri Lankan you think this image has helped India to
waters when the northern fishermen of Sri Lanka advance its foreign policy goals? Critically
kept away from the sea due to the ongoing war analyse.
that ended in May 2009.
Despite several arrests, trawler seizures and India is projected as a ‗soft power‘ based on two
different yet somewhat complementary
attacks by the Sri Lankan Navy, Tamil Nadu
fishermen prefer to go far till Analativu, a tiny interpretations- (a) India‘s rich cultural heritage
of over four thousand years, gives India position
island off Sri Lanka‘s northernmost tip Sri Lankan
waters which is a better fishing zones with more of a unique civilisation. India‘s liberal democracy,
varieties in shrimps and prawns. food, music, dance, multi-plural society, non-
violent freedom struggle heritage commands
Fishing is a crucial means of livelihood in respect in the comity of nations. Cricket,
Analativu, with its 2,175-strong population ‗Bollywood‘, ‗the land of Gandhi‟ all add to
depending almost entirely on fishing and India‟s soft power. (b) Indian Constitution has
agriculture for survival. imbibed settlement of international disputes by
The Indian trawlers(high speed motorized boats) peaceful means, support of democracy and non-
come here leaving Sri Lankan fishermen out of violence. India has traditionally not gone for
business thrice a week which is an outcome of an territorial conquest and as far as possible,
agreement among fishermen in Tamil Nadu for avoided war opting for dialogue.
three days in a week which are banned in Sri-
Lanka, Indian fisherman are repeatedly entering Such an image has immensely helped India
into the Lankan waters which is resulting in advance her foreign policy goals. Stressing on
Trawler seizures, attacks of Indian fishermen, track-2 diplomacy, people-to-people contacts
imposition of fines etc. through education, economic ties, cultural
exchanges etc. has helped deeper engagement
Several rounds of talk between the fishermen with countries.ex Afghanistan
from two regions gave negligible results as both
these communities are striving for their Still India must increasingly also project ‗hard
livelihood. The clashes between the two groups power‘ so that she cannot be perceived as ‗weak‘
increases between November-April, which is best in any way. Boosting of indigenous defence,
time for fishing. developing nuclear weapons as deterrence yet
However many rounds of talks between being ready with a-grade conventional weapons
fishermen of both countries proved futile. for war situation, venturing of Indian Navy as
‗blue water Navy (fighting pirates, conducting
drills in all oceans etc.), taking tough stance Thus, India needs to adopt both soft as well as
regarding neighbours (esp. Pakistan‘s not hard power as per the required circumstances as
bringing 26/11 perpetrators to book) etc. are a rational and smart state.
essential.
India has followed a harmonious foreign policy
Therefore, India must combinedly project her soft over the years. It has upheld the idea of
and hard power in a judicious mix alongwith sovereignty by not interfering in the internal
increasing her economic weight in the world. This affairs of other countries and by remaining
will ultimately boost India‘s overall position neutral most of the time during voting for
regarding foreign policy dealings with the world. imposing sanctions on countries. Initially after
independence India‘s support for the cause of
decolonization and Non alignment policy helped
Since independence, there has been various India‘s image as a responsible power. Moreover,
instances when different actors have called India culture, Indian film industry and sporting
as a soft power. community is well received in other countries
– The foundation of NAM was criticised as helping India forge closer ties with many
India‘s lack of courage, escapism, isolationism, countries. These along with the democratic form
which was not at all correct. of polity followed has helped project India as a
– some foreign policy analysts argue that even soft power.
after becoming a nuclear power and having major
footprint in space technology, etc, India is still a This image has helped in the post soviet world
soft power. At various international platforms, order India has taken its relations with Middle
India has abstained from voting on serious issues East countries forward with some of them now
like Syrian issue, Iran nuclear issue, etc. planning to invest in India‘s growth story. The
However, the tag of soft power in its foreign democratic experience of India has attracted
policies needs deeper analysis: neighbouring countries that are now transitioning
– the foreign policy of India has not been into a democratic setup. One of the best examples
aggressive as well as tough against any particular of India‘s soft power helping in foreign policy
country. The importance given to dialogues to objectives has been in Afghanistan and India‘s
handle disputes, track-II diplomacy, increasing continuing works in the field of education and
economic ties, diverse people to people contacts, health have aided this relationship. India‘s
a democratic state since independence has major peacekeeping mission
helping India to foster friendly relations with the
rest of the world. However, this soft handling of foreign affairs has
– India‘s soft power like yoga, rich culture and drawn criticism from many quarters how argue
heritage, Bollywood, diverse natural landscape that India‘s quest for superpower status requires
and natural beauty has been a major part to it to be tough. India‘s reluctance to pursue
promote its foreign policy. military options against Pakistan has emboldened
–Also, the decisions taken at various platforms non state actors. And neglect of neighbours has
are largely to serve long term national interests. resulted in china‘s entry into these countries. But
Recent example, India‘s abstainment from voting these arguments don‘t justify calls for tougher
in UN HRC resolution against Sri lanka was stand rather demands that India needs to be
welcomed so as to encourage long engagement assertive and firm in its foreign policy measures
with our close neighbour. and look for legal alternatives, retaining the soft
– India‘s foreign policy has largely helped itself to power tag which has helped it immensely.
swim difficult waters of diplomacy. India as an emerging power in Asia and on global
Clearly, importance of hard power cannot be arena may not be said as a hard power State as
neglected. But, it should be noted that India has she has not shown capabilities that can affect the
gained recognition as a responsible and rational behavior of other States and is not an aggressor
nuclear power with voluntarily complying with country both territorially or economically. But to
the international nuclear regions like NPT, CTBT. see India as a soft power may not be totally

correct because of following reasons: order, strategic autonomy could well be the
a) India is a nuclear country and has not signed modification non alignment needs to stay
NPT or CTBT. relevant. Strategic autonomy if pursued
b) India stands strongly against world powers on vigorously as done by Russia and China could
important international fora such as WTO, have immense potential for India‘s global
Rio+20, G20 and even the UN, where-ever India‘s leadership prospects.
interests are jeopardised.
c) India refused to vote at the UN during the Q--“The Ministry of External Affairs needs to
Ukraine-Russia-EU standoff. consider internal affairs and engage important
players within the country too.” In the light of
India certainly is not a hard power State but she is giving consideration to federal compulsions in
nothing close to a soft power State either. As the
the foreign policy, critically comment on the
global environment evolve, India is also evolving
statement.
and in coming decades, India may take a harder
stance on crucial issues.
In the recent past India has faced stiff opposition
Also, its relations with many neighbors (Nepal, to its foreign policy, not so much from outside
Bhutan, ASEAN, Sri Lanka etc) is based on age- but more so from within. The federal
old cultural links. Bollywood has probably more compulsions and conflicting demands of the
role to play in reducing inter-border tension than centre and the state have created a foreign policy
any high level committee formed every now and crisis of sorts.
then India is a union of states and there is a need to
ensure that regional aspirations are given as
Q--Critically comment on India‟s doctrine of much considerations as national interests while
„strategic autonomy‟ and its efforts towards its formulating any policy, whether related to
internal matters or external. But at times the
pursuit.
compulsions of strategic interests are so high that
they weigh heavily over the regional sentiments.
Strategic autonomy means a set of strategies Federal units at such times are expected to
aimed at balancing independence of foreign cooperate with the state to further the interests of
policy as well as to inculcate close relations with the nation. Only problem is that our recent
necessary partners. Strategic autonomy is a realist history does not reflect that.
version of non alignment. Unlike non alignment it There have been several cases in recent years
is not a concrete foreign policy doctrine. where foreign policy has suffered due to
India‘s usage of strategic autonomy has been constricted populist approach of the states.
varied and inconsistent. India has frequently not Whether it be the stand of West Bengal regarding
cooperated with USA citing strategic autonomy Teesta river water sharing and border agreement
but when it comes to increasing naval exercises in or the Tamil Nadu‘s stand on Srilanka leading to
the Indian Ocean it has shied away. foreign policy failure during CHOGM, the image
of India as a cooperative neighbour has been
For India, strategic autonomy implies increasing dented.
its naval presence in Indian Ocean to prevent any This has given way to other nations to fill in the
Chinese buildup, secure its sea lanes of void. Chinese String of Pearl policy and now its
communication, improve relations with Chinese Silk route policy will ensure that Chinese
neighbourhood which are wary of Chinese hegemony in the region will grow, until an active
dominance, increase its hard power capability etc. coordination between centre and states develops
but what has been pursued in reality is nowhere that can insulate the national policy from state
near mainly due to fear of provoking china. bias and populism.
Strategic autonomy has not given India‘s foreign
policy any clear direction nor prioritises one goal
over another.But, in the present multi polar world

Q-Critically comment on India‟s relationship in (a) Security: Rise of assertive China has major
the light of ongoing geopolitical developments implications for India. To counter China‘s strings
in the Asia-Pacific region. of pearls India should support USA in its
―Rebalancing in Asia Pacific‖ together with
recognition of constitutional ammendment of
Several developments have taken place in Asia- Japan that swindles its defence philosophy.
pacific in recent times. America‘s Asia-pivot Defence cooperation with Japan, USA, S.korea
strategy occupies Centre stage. Japan‘s growing and Australia along with frequent joint exercises
aggression amid China‘s assertiveness. Final with not only provide seamless integration but
stages of the trans pacific partnership (TPP). In also provide strategic autonomy to India. A&N is.
these circumstances India should that stand at the gateway to South China‘S SLC
should be utilised to full advantage. These
1) Engage economically with countries not measure are essential to protect mining and
included in the TPP especially China and Russia. exploration in Indian ocean and South China sea.
This can be done through the BRICS platform.
Another area to concentrate on would be to (b) Economic: Economy is the life blood of any
revive BIMSTEC and look east policy because modern nation. China‘s dominance in Asian
with the TPP these ASEAN countries are set to economy and India‘s growing trade deficit with
gain economically. Should look to transfer those her should be plugged by innovative investments
gains to India indirectly. like Chinese investment zones in India.
2) With America wanting to play a pro-active role Calibration of our ―Look East policy‖ to realise
economically and militarily, India should look to not only goods and services FTA with ASEAN
gain from these without impacting its relations but also participating in emerging trade bolcks
with china. But this can have an impact on India. like TPP, RECP etc is the need of hour.
Vietnam, Brunei and other ASEAN countries
looked towards India as a potential balancer to (c) Political: Asian region have a similarity in
china, but with America‘s entrance, India could their concerns like climate change where India
be sidelined. can join China in global diplomacy. Continued
3) With japan- china relations at its lowest, India neglect in global politics like in UNSC, WB, IMF
should actively engage with japan. This will have open gate for India to provide leadership where it
twin benefits. First, it will send a tremor to the can join Japan to enhance pressure for reforms.
Chinese leadership. Second, the circumstances The demographic dividend that is knocking our
will prompt japan to help India economically and gates not only gives us an enormous clout but
militarily. Could work on the civil nuclear also makes the global integration imperative.
agreement and the amphibious military India should proactively participate to get the
equipment. biggest pie in Asia Pacific scramble.
Asia pacific has gained importance geo-politically
and India should not miss the opportunity to
assert its stature, protect its national interest and
to benefit economically and militarily. Q. Do you think India‟s foreign policy and
service needs its own reforms? Why? Critically
====
comment .
Dawn of 21st century has brought with it change
in geopolitical realities with Asia-Pacific Answer-
emerging as the new cauldron of global politics.  After independence, the foreign policy was
Rise of China and gradual waning of American given appropriate attention. However, after
and Japanese impact has opened a pandora box of Nehru, foreign policy and servie is all but
opportunities and challenges for India.
detieroting. As of now India‘s foreign policy
CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES is ―reactive rather than being proactive‖.

The foreign policy and service, thus needs has helped Indian Diplomacy in great way.
various reforms: It has ended nuclear apartheid for India ,
1. Foreign policy influence on common make India a serious contender for being a
electorate: Foreign policy has a long term member for various control regime groups
perspective, thus the politicians are not like Australia Group etc and a permanent
interested in it, because it may not deliver member of UNSC.
short term electoral gains. Our foreign  The ethical and moral standing we have
policy, other way around get influenced by inculcated for ourself at the global stage
domestic politics. have helped us gain access to specialized
2. Lack if manpower: With the rising Indian privileges like exemptions from NSG which
Profile as a global player, we require more unprincipled nations like Pakistan have
number of Foreign Service professionals to failed to achieve.
man our diplomatic missions. However, the  To go away with ‖ No First Use ‖ doctrine
recruitment in IFS has become an would equate India & Pakistan in the view
anachronistic process. of world community thus degrading India‘s
3. Lack of capability: In the world of stature.Moreover, China also has ‖ No First
globalisation, we require plethora of Use ‖ Policy too.India has also developed
diplomatic initiatives, ranging from second strike capabilities and is capable of
strategic to trade and energy. To deftly take retaliation from land,air ,water and under
cognisance of the issue, we require experts water.
in foreign services. However, lateral  This doctrine also prevents skirmishes
recruitment in IFS is quite difficult due to between India & pakistan turning into full
current recruitment process. waged war and pressuring Pakistan as it
Thus, India foreign policy and foreign happened during Kargil Conflict.
services are in a dire need of reforms to  Thus, any shift in India ‗s stand does not
match up with our global profile. seem appropriate at this juncture.

Q. Should India shift towards „first use‟
 Any revision or update to India‘s nuclear
policy of nuclear weapons? Substantiate
doctrine of credible minimal deterrence
your answer with examples.
along with ‗No first use‘ policy, that was
adopted after its second nuclear weapons
 India adopted ―No First Use ‖ doctrine to test in 1998, need to take into consideration
portray itself as a responsible nuclear power of its long term strategic implications and
. Such a doctrine was also in consonance any possible jolt to its ground on
with the high moral ground taken by India international arena.
on Universal Nuclear Disarmanent in  What makes India to look for revision of its
international form. policy reveals some genuine concerns-
 However , its neighour Pakistan is not rapidly increasing nuclear stockpile of
bound by any such doctrine and there Pakistan with its claims to have developed
always lies fear of its nuclear arsenal falling miniaturised tactical nuclear weapon
into non-state actors.Such fears may provoke capabilities that can blunt opposition in
India to revisit ―No First Use‖ conventional war has certainly put India on
Doctrine.However , ‖ No First Use ‖ disadvantage. The deteriorating state of
doctrine is a time tested doctrine now and affairs of Pakistan & raising fears of its

nuclear weapons falling in the hands of weapon states. This will suffice to meet
Islamic extremists being other reasons. today‘s situations.
 But by discarding ―no first use‖ policy India  Scrapping NFU completely may give
India an aggressive look. This might
may lose its unique and moral standing of
escalate tensions between India and
being a responsible nuclear power which
Pakistan, whose nuclear weapons are only
facilitated it many benefits like Indo-US civil targeted towards India.. In such a tensed
nuclear deal, and bringing an end to scenario it could be a situation of ―Use
isolation among global community after its them or Lose them‖ for Pakistan, so pak
nuclear tests. This policy helped in de- may consider of nuclear attack on India at
escalating possibilities of nuclear exchange any moment. Not that we can‘t retaliate
but the human and environmental losses
between India & pakistan and in winning
are irreversible.
global powers support during Kargil war.
 Further scrapping NFU completely rises
 In fact revision will equate India with tensions in South Asian countries which
Pakistan which has no such ―No first use‖ look at India as ―Big Brother‖ may force
policy and having bad track record of them to build nuclear arsenal, which is
nuclear proliferation to rogue states. It will actually going against India‘s intention of
contradict India‘s own call for ―No first use ―peaceful South Asia‖.
 India, though a nuclear state enjoys high
policy‖ among all nuclear powers. Revision
credibility among nations and Nuclear
may push china to make some modifications
Suppliers Group (NSG) as a responsible
to its policy of ―No first use‖ & Pakistan to nuclear state by virtue of its NFU policy.
go for more stock pile, both are clearly not in India, a non-signatory to Non-
India‘s interests. proliferation Treaty(NPT), should be
 Confidence building measures & voluntary careful as moving away from NFU may be
restraint can ensure peace & stability in the detrimental to the nation and may be
against the universal goal of ―Nuclear
reason and raise
Disarmament‖.
 India‘s stature among global community
rather than revision of doctrine
 "no first use" doctrine applies to non- Q-In the light of India‟s „soft power‟ status,
nuclear weapon states (and thus, not to evaluate the principles of „Multi Alignment‟ and
Pakistan). „Non Alignment.2.0′ put forward by some
intellectual in recent years.
Modi doctrine moves beyond the former

Q What is India‟s nuclear doctrine? Does it need delineation between ―non-alignment,‖ ―non-
a revision? Substantiate. alignment 2.0,‖ and ―alignment‖ to suggest that
India could follow a policy of what Mr. Shashi
 India‘s nuclear doctrine is laid on the twin Tharoor may describe as ―multi-alignment‖ with
principles of – ―No first use‖(NFU) policy all the great powers. This was emphasised in the
and Massive retaliation in case of attack. President‘s address that explicitly stated that the
 Though the global scenario has changed government will work with China to develop a
over years since India propogated its strategic and cooperative partnership, work with
nuclear doctrine in 1998, there is no need Japan to build modern infrastructure, build on
for India to change its nuclear doctrine. the firm foundations of the relations with Russia,
 Initially propounded as NFU against all pursue the relationship with the United States
countries, in 2004 it was declared that with renewed vigour and make concerted efforts
NFU was only against non-nuclear

to achieve progress in key areas with the

European Union.
5Ts: trade, tourism, talent, technology and Q-“The single most important objective of
tradition. Indian foreign policy has to be to create a global
environment conducive to the well-being of our
great country.” How far has India been
Q--Critically analyse efforts made by major
successful in its foreign policy as suggested in
economies of Asia to position themselves as
the above statement? Critically evaluate. (250
regional powers with international ambitions.
Words)
Answer)
Asian countries like Russia, China, India and
Japan are the major economies with clearly well India aims for better integration with foreign
defined geography, dominating in the military countries in the field of business, trade, defence,
and economic fronts, and also exerts considerable resource sharing, and technology. This needs a
influence along its region to make it secure and peaceful environment, for example with rising
sustainable. tension between the west and Iran, India was
Russia, after disintegrating from USSR, under continuous international pressure to cut
positioned its energy to focus on developing its import of Iranian crude oils, but it is the hallmark
economy through investing in military of Indian foreign policy to take decisions which
architecture ,space technologies , developing are sovereign to us.
better agricultural practices, facilitating neighbors It is not only peace, but an equitable share of the
across areas of energy, cultural exchanges and world opportunities like trade facilitation
also acts as a unit to maintain regional as well as through WTO and world responsibilities like
international peace and security. Recent episode environmental stresses.
on Syria, Iran demonstrates its motive.
India and China dominance across region can be India‘s past foreign policy like not intruding into
understood by their indiviual approach towards the constitutional building of Nepal, none
similar areas like space, maritime influence, military but instead humanitarian helps to
infrastructure support provided to neighbors, Afghanistan, leading border negotiation with
investment policy on Africa and other regions. Pakistan, having good relations with communist
When compared to India, China‘s manufacturing countries like Cuba without any reservation.
field is well structured and leading,whereas India India record of maintain the practice of nuclear
has better demographic dividend and facilitates non-proliferation. The conducive environment
trade with comparably less restrictive policies. will not only help India in trade facilitation, but
Common platforms like BRICs, SHC facilitated by also secure the future of Indian living in foreign
both countries pursue for regional security, countries and whose remittances are helping
integrity and also economic developments India economy, not only material gains but with
abiding international frameworks and standards. India will rise its own stature as the facilitator of
Japan with its vibrant economy, derives it‘s world peace.
strength from exporting finished products, in the
field of electronics, automotive, nuclear energy, Since the last two decades, due to rise of regional
ship building and related technologies. Efficient parties and coalition politics, India‘s foreign
investment machinery aiding the developing policy has been facing the brunt of more regional
countries in infrastructure, economic corridors, aspirations which are underestimating the
swap facility agreements has increased national interest at large.
dependence on Japan, though recent incidents of For example--disagreement over nuclear deal
air defence identification zone, sovereignty issue with US, Russia, West Bengal Gov. refusal
disputes over east China sea with China has to sign Teesta agreement with Bangladesh,
surfaced, Japan and China exerts considerable withdrawal of support on FDI issue, violent
influence over their respective regions. processions by Tamil Nadu people against PM‘s

participation in CHOGM meeting in Srilanka. countries these may adversely affect their
They are threatening the national interest in economy as they are not economically strong
broader sense. enough to bargain with the developed nation.
On the other hand in a multilateral fora they can
India‘s foreign policy is also based on the
collectively put up there concern. Presently the
principles of greater integration with the world
FTA may have overshadowed the WTO but once
economy, stable relationship with world political
the negotiations in WTO move faster then wto
powers, greater regional cooperation,
will replace the FTA because those countries
maintaining security of the country, propagation
who were earlier outside the FTA will protest
of the country‘s democratic, secular values all
because they are being discriminated in trade.
around the world.
Till then FTA will dominate the international
India has to take into consideration the national trade scenario
interests, its sovereignty, integrity while dealing
with world. India has global recognition in Q--Do you think the doctrine of South – South
maintaining its warm and peaceful relations with cooperation is still relevant? Comment.
the world. Foreign policy of the country has been
adjusted many a time in wake of changing Most of the southern nations got independence in
aspirations of the people,economic conditions, the mid 20th century . Most of them were colonies
global situations etc, but it has made many of the European nations. As a result remained
peaceful adjustments. underdeveloped throughout the colonial period.
What is needed is to take decisions which are in To prevent any such neo-colonialism and protect
good for the whole nation. There must be the common interests of development, south –
adequate flexibility in wake of changing south doctrine was developed.
aspirations of the people, economic conditions, In the initial years, the Non aligned movement
global situations. was torchbearer of the south south doctrine. It
made sure southern nations would not become a
tool to be used by the two Cold War blocs to
Q-What do you understand by Free Trade further their interests. It had considerable success,
Agreement? Do you think bilateral and regional but later lost momentum.
trade agreements are diminishing the role of In the 1980-90s most of the southern nations
multilateral fora? Discuss. (200 Words) started opening their markets. To protect their
markets from the much developed and mature
Free trade agreement is a trade facilitation treaty
companies of the northern countries, the south-
between two countries or between one country
south doctrine was revived to project a unified
with a group of countries under a regional trade
and thus more strong stand in international
agreement for example India and ASEAN FTA.
forums.
Free Trade Agreement removes trade barriers
In the 21st century, the increased debate about
between the two signatory parties on areas
climate change has once again strengthened the ss
mutually decided by them. Presently 90% of the
doctrine. And projected the united stand of
members of WTO are under some FTA or the
‗common but differentiated responsibilities‘ .
other. Rise of FTA in the form of Bilateral and
Southern nations share a similar history and this
Regional trade agreement has been possible due
has bonded them. Also similar economies,
to the failure of multilateral forum WTO.
concerns about international trade, climate
Multilateral fora are now being entangled in
change , fear of exploitation of developed nations
negotiations which are unending and the
Incase of split among the nations has Kept the
alternate are the bilateral and regional trade
doctrine relevant.
negotiations which are quicker and easy to
negotiate. In this process slowly with the
TTEP angle……….
growing stagnancy in WTO there is rise in the
From India‘s point of view
activity at the regional & bilateral level. These
1) The doctrine has to be kept relevant because
alternates may be quick but for the developing
India is seen as a leader in this respect. India by
projecting as pursuing combined interests of countries.The following are the instances where
southern nations can make its interests more india could prove its credentials by firming on its
vocal. opinion but could not do:
2) India by invoking the doctrine can get easy 1.Sri lanka-UNGA resolution
access to Southern growing and huge potential 2. Israel-palestine issue
markets. 3.Bangladesh‘s political turmoil
3) Leadership among these nations is crucial for 4.Thailand Crisis
India to project itself as a global power, seat in the 5.Syrian turmoil
UNSC 6.Iraq invasion of U.S
7.Iran + P5+1 dialogue
8.somalian crisis(al shabab )
Q-- “India‟s silence on critical global issues fits 9.Climate change Agreement
poorly with its global aspirations.” Critically India‘s Aspirations:
comment. 1. UNSC Reforms,Expansion,seat at UNSC
2.Member of Nuclear suppliers group
India aspires to be a global power. Not today, not 3.Voting rights at International monetary
tomorrow; but in a deliberate step-by-step fund,world bank
manner. Starting from controlling the SAARC, 4.Governance Reforms at Int‘l Financial
through controlling South Asia, to being a world Institutions
power , the position cemented by a permanent 5.Becomming the leader of developing nations
seat in UNSC. 6.Equal say at WTO .
In international issues a nation should not punch While there are many instances where india can
above it‘s own weight. The P5 meddles in be seen to be lagging while following up on its
everything and everywhere because they have aspirations but the constraints( such as economic
the means to back up their words. Till such power fudamentals,bilateral-internal politics,technology
is India‘s, it would augur well to be silent on backlog) has to be overcome
issues that has no bearing for it..
The over-arching principle of international INDIA-NORTH AMERICA
diplomacy is national interest, not morality. Q-Write a note on India-Canada trade relations.
Moralizing should be resorted to only when it
(200 Words)
serves national interest. Claiming moral high-
Answer - Canada and India share longstanding
ground wins no friends, but only ridicule, as was
clearly seen in 1962. bilateral relationship which is built upon the
India is not silent on every ―critical global issue‖. shared tradition of democracy, pluralism and
It leads the developing nations in the WTO, strong interpersonal relations among the Indian
fighting for food security and poor agriculturists, Diaspora of more than 1 million in Canada.
in India and elsewhere. It has a definite stand on
terrorism, on nuclear proliferation, on climate- Both the countries share a healthy trade relations
change mitigation. The last two not globally and total volume of the trade is expected to rise to
popular but bold stands rooted in reality. more than $15 billion by 2015. Currently Canada
India is voices its opinion and backs it up with
Import to India amounts to roughly $2.6 billion
action where it should and it can. She is being as
assertive as her current status lets her. There is no and on the other hand Indian export to Canada is
point in acting like a super-power when she is not about $2.5 billion annually. Canada also ensures
one. India‘s food security as the steady suppliers of
pulses.
The country which was a leader in the The main items imported from Canada are
development of knoweldge in ancient period has vegetables (mostly peas and lentils), fertilizers,
begun to be just a follower of values of other paper and paperboards, machinery, wood pulp,

precious stones, iron and steel etc. Similarly the  High-tech exports Up till now USA has
Indian exports to Canada chiefly comprise banned to India, but the restriction can be
organic chemicals, precious stones and metals, reduced then it will be beneficial for Indian
research and US industry.
knit apparel, woven apparel, machinery etc.
The bilateral trade relations are at steady incline

with an average growth of 10-15% annually. The Q- Critically examine trade related disputes
total two way direct investment between India between USA and India. How does India seek
and Canada is about $5 billion. to address these?
Trade related dispute between India and USA can
In order to facilitate trade and to further improve
be divided into
bilateral relations many agreements and MoUs
have been signed in areas such as science and 1. Indo-US Nuclear trade dispute
Technology, Defence research, Nuclear
cooperation and Environment and energy. It is a very contentious issue of bilateral dispute.
Now how to incorporate it into trade dispute?
Q--Critically analyse important areas where
constructive relationship between India and USA gave leverage to India when India needed it
USA would mutually benefit the two countries. the most. Obviously USA expected some
favorable treatment but unluckily India came up
After cold war Indo-US relationship was with Nuclear Liability Law, and all hopes of USA
considered as important step forward. The shattered. It has affected, rather initiated trade
relationship improved with Indo-US nuclear deal
related dispute.
and convergence on many matters. However,
relationship hit a trough in past five years Now in critical examination, we should never
because of 2008 recession and slowdown of
take one sided stand. Here we should mention
India‘s growth.
There are many important areas where both the the role of USA in granting NSG waiver to carry
nation can rejuvenate the relationship and be out Nuclear trade and in response India didn‘t
mutually beneficial to each other: comply with USA‘s interest. Then again why
 Post-Afghan pullout: Both nation needs to India did so, will suffice India‘s stand. Overall
work together to prevent a Taliban takeover both are right at their place.
of Afghanistan. India has lot of economic
and strategic interest in Afghanistan and 2. Drug related dispute
partnering with US in training of its army
can benefit both the nation. It is indirectly related to many aspects. Not only
 Defence arms: India needs to diversify its compulsory licensing :)
arms portfolio of defence purchase and US
needs market for its arms export. Thus, if India has grown to stature of largest exporting
proper term can be established, like transfer nation of manufactured drugs to major countries
of technology and joint production can be of the world. Not to mention even to USA. Now
concluded then a new era can be unleashed
FDA(USA) started delicensing Indian
in the defence industry.
 Increase in trade: US is the biggest market
manufacturers to save their interest despite
for Indian service industry and also both are India‘s compliance in TRIPS for making Generic
huge consumer market and if proper terms drugs. Also, US fears its own economic interests
of trade can be established than a new era and acting as savior for its own manufacturers.
intrade and commerce can be written.
3. Patents (IPR and TRIPS)

Indian patent regime has never barred USA from Answer-

granting patents since India formulated its Patent
• The relationship between the world‘s
Law in 2005. Then why the hell USA is targeting
oldest democracy and the world‘s largest
India? Interestingly US companies has most
democracy is based on shared values of
number of granted patents in India. :)
democracy, rule of law, pluralism and secularism.
Here the issue is of threat emanating from other The relationship has changed from the cold war
developing nation which are planning to comply notion of ‗estranged democracies‘ to the post cold
in line with Indian Patent Regime. This will affect war dynamics of ‗engaged democracies‘.
USA badly. US has no direct conflict with Indian
• Since from last decade, many factors
Patent Law. Again the personal interest.
involved in India-US relationship. US lauded
Irrespective of USA‘s threat to drag India under
India‘s restraint of not crossing LOC and Pakistan
WTO, it bears no solidarity for doing so.
was rebuffed by US and its attempts to
Therefore no worry. Also, Indian and USA
internationalize the Kashmir issue were defeated.
consuls are having wine and dinner for resolving
The military coup in Pakistan in 1999 brought US
issue of Priority nation.
closer to India.
4. Solar Cell Dispute
• The visit of US president Clinton in 2000
Again, Indian interest of saving its domestic defined the ‗Vision statement‘, included multi-
suppliers. USA want its interest because they pronged approach to work for strategic stability
thought Indian firm could not supply such high in Asia. Institutionalization of dialogue process
quality material for solar cells. Nevertheless, through bilateral summits, setting up of US-India
Indian companies are becoming self reliant and Financial and Economic Forum and US-India
that is a matter of grave concern for exporting working Group on Trade were took place.
nations like USA. Here also, India is abiding by
• The template of relationship again
Preferential Market Access (PMA) under WTO.
changed after 9/11 attacks, which brought
So no issue of worry for India.
advantage to India. US accepted Indian view
5. Immigration Bill of USA point on cross border terrorism and offered
intelligence sharing, joint military exercises to
This is related to trade in services :) We can add
curb the menace. Sanctions were lifted. All these
this as well.
developments reflected in 2004 joint declaration-
6. FDI in retail issue: US is lobbying hard for Next Step in Strategic Partnership (NSSP).
this but in vain. Signing of 123 nuclear agreement, Science and
technology framework in 2005 were major
Govt. passed National Food Security Act which breakthroughs.
may increase the subsidies for the Indian farmers.
US alleged India to violate Agreement of • During the recent visit of Obama to India
Agriculture (AoA). in 2010, Joint Declaration on Defense cooperation
and India-US Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
Initiative were signed. Since then both countries
cooperating in the field of higher education,
Q. Comment on the changing contours of
agriculture, public health and bilateral trade
relationship between India and USA in last ten
between them crossed $65 billion in 2013.
years.

• However, on a range of issues, 6) Brazil can be a source for ethanol. Which can
particularly intellectual property rights, climate help reduce our dependence on petroleum.
change and global warming India and the US Way forward
1) India has to sign FTAs with Venezuela,
have divergent interests. The recent diplomacy
Colombia, Mexico, Brazil and Peru , the largest
issue of Devyani, Syria, Ukraine and Sri Lanka
trading countries.
issues also troubled for some time. But both 3) use BRICS platform to connect with these
countries have not raised their voices on these countries
issues. Relationship between both countries has 4) increase diplomatic exchange. Increase flight
future. And this not only requires for them but connectivity.
for the sake of development of strong democratic
Q-Explain the areas of interest and cooperation
values all over the world.
between India and Cuba. Is Cuba conducive for
Indian investments? Examine.
Answer)
INDIA-SOUTH AMERICA
Cuba and India are part of the Non-Aligned
Movement. Cuba support UNSC seat for India.
-- In 2013 they signed a memorandum of
Q) Write a critical note on India‟s relationship understanding (MoU) for cooperation between
with the South American nations. Prasar Bharati (PB) and Cuban Radio and
Television Institute (ICRT) as part of
Over the years South American nations were not strengthening the friendly relations.
in the priority foreign policy list of India. But that They will explore co-production opportunities in
is changing. Increasing democratisation of the broadcasting on issues of mutual interest.
continent, budding entrepreneurs, significant
youth population, immense natural resources They will exchange programs in culture,
have increased their significance to India. education, science, entertainment, sports and
India current relation with South America is very news of mutual interest, subject only to
minimal. India imports petroleum oil from contractual and copyright limitations.
Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico. Except for India seeks to boost economic ties with oil rich
Brazil , other countries receive very little Cuba which is conducive for Indian investments
attention. Very low people to people exchange. to some extent.
Very little direct flight and sea connectivity.
Possible Areas of cooperation Basic problems in enhancing trade relate to
1) South America has 5 times the landmass of uncertainty of payments; difficulties in obtaining
India. Huge fertile lands. India can look for permission for remittances from the Cuban
agricultural cooperation and can even take lease government and lack of export surplus on the
some land. India can conduct joint agricultural Cuban side of nickel, sugar and other Cuban
research and development with Brazil and products.
Argentina. On the Indian side, attempts to interest Indian
2) increase petroleum imports to relieve over companies have not had much success, since all
dependence on volatile gulf areas. negotiations are with the government of Cuba, in
3) invest in oil exploration and extraction in these the absence of a private sector. >> Cuba is
areas. socialist government; Investors are not willing (
4) Huge mineral resources can be tapped. due to nationalisation threat ); need to made a
5) India can provide assistance to their space BIPA to encourage;
programmes and also provide launching and
Attempts are being made to identify select
satellite facilities.
foreign companies in Cuba, who can serve as
agents for Indian companies.

--Cooperation in biotechnology; Sugar mill study abroad and for those who are already
technology = where Cuba is well placed working there it is pushing them out.
b. Investment – British investment flew into India
in financial sector post liberalization. Leading
British banks and insurance companies such as
INDIA-EUROPE RBS and Aviva have entered Indian markets. A
Q-In the light of recent reports on the plight of reverse trend is seen when India companies
Indians working in foreign countries, critically invest in Britain, such as TATA sons buying JLR.
evaluate the effectiveness of the Emigration There are concerns as Tata group is facing
Act, 1983 in safeguarding the interests of these problem of maintaining a fixed British work force
Indian workers. in Britain.
c. Defence – British companies are taking part in
modernization of Indian Air Force. However
With the Indians getting strapped in the Iraq the
India‘s preference for Rafale over Eurofighter has
Emigration act of 1983 is on the table for
not gone down well with Britain.
discussion. Interestingly India is known as the
―country of laws‖ but with emigration becoming
global menace India has only single Act to deal
with Emigration issues.
The act of 1983 is the product of its time when Q- Explain how Eurozone crisis affected the
there was not heavy scale of migration which is Indian economy? What are its aftershocks? (200
seen today. Act only defines about the
Words)
‗Recruitment‘ and ‗Recruiting agents‘ giving free
hand to the bloom of AGENTS benefiting with
illegal migration.
The act is only about sending the manpower
Q---Write a note on relationship between India
doesn‘t talk about welfare of them leaving
and Germany in the filed of science and
labours in inhuman condition. Since migrants
comes from the disturbed geographical, social technology.
strata of the society they are least aware and least
bothered about the ills of illegal migration which The relation between India and Germany has
deliberately used by agents for their personal been strong traditionally. Germany is India‘s
benefit at the cost of labours. largest trading partner in Europe. Both countries
Modern day issues of Human smuggling, have significant agreements in the field of science
Trafficking etc are not addressed in the Act and technology. Germany has extensively
supported scientific research and education
calling for urgent passing of bill at the central
development in India.
level as one has been passed by Punjab which has Germany helped establish the IIT Madras in 1956
comprehensively addressed all issues and increased its co-operation and supply of
technology and resources over the decades to
Q--Write a critical note on the relationship help expand the institution. German Government
between India and the United Kingdom. has expressed interest in supporting the newly
established IIT at Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. IIT
Major issues in Ind0-British relationship : Chennai has signed a MoU with the German
a. Visa policy – Due to increase in immigration Academic Exchange Program (DAAD) and a
Britain is putting curb on number of visa it issues group of nine German Technical Universities for
to foreigners. It is also cracking down on all those setting up a new Centre for Sustainability
who are over staying in its Britain. India which Research at IIT Chennai.
has one of the largest student community in In 2008, both nations established the Indo-
Britain is facing problem because this is on one German Science and Technology Centre in New
hand limiting the avenues for Indian students to Delhi to promote joint research and development

in energy, environment, coal and water relation considering her interest in ever growing
technologies. India is getting concessional loans Indian market. India too actively deal with France
from Government of Germany for many scientific on various platform in Government to
and commercial projects namely Himalaya Hydro Government, People to People, defense, space,
power Program (HPPCL), Green Energy cultural etc dealing. Which should be improved
Corridors, Promotional Program for Energy in coming days.
Efficient New Residential Housing (NHB),
Energy Efficiency in Thermal Power Plants.
The cooperation in the field of space was
enhanced by the launch of two German research India and France are having two major items of
satellites by ISRO. Some of the projects in the cooperation, a) Rafale Fighter deal and b) Nuclear
pipeline include, the Euro 1.5 billion state-of-the- power plants.
art multinational Facility for Anti-proton & Ion India had finalized to buy 126 Rafale jets in order
Research (FAIR). India and Germany also enjoy to equip IAF with modern Multi Mode Fighter
strong commerce and co-operation in Planes. However the deal is still stuck in fine
telecommunications, engineering, environmental details. India is not looking for just a buyer-seller
technology, food processing, chemicals and relations. In case or Mirage2000 it suffered lot of
pharmaceuticals. cost escalation due to costly upgrades and parts.
India is looking towards a partnership where
technology transfer will take place and
Q---Critically evaluate India‟s strategic production of Rafale can be shifted to India under
partnership with France. aegis of HAL after first batch. France, which
initially had reservations in this regard is now
India share age old relation with France form ready to cooperate.
colonial time. Tipu sultan was member of In case of nuclear plants French companies are
Jacobean club. Over the century two countries setting up 2 nuclear plants in India. These are
come together to support in their journey to live currently stuck up due to provisions of civil
in democracy, science and technology, space Nuclear Liability bill which put extra
technology, support in world institution etc. responsibility on suppliers. If established these
France did not condemned India after nuclear reactors will go a long way in increasing power
test, which signify belief system of France on our supply in India and also would open further
democracy. Going ahead France always technology transfer and cooperation in setting up
supported India‘s permanent seat in UNSC. of more nuclear power plants.
Bilateral trade is increasing in this decade which Recently French foreign minister visited India to
needs to be given importance considering India‘s push these deals forward. The contentious issues
interest. Indo-Franco relation can be judged from must be resolved to put strategic partnership on
below commercial dealing: right footing
1. Various France satellite has been launched by
India such as SARAL, recent one SPOT-7 Q-Write a note on the defence cooperation
2. France‘s help in securing energy requirement of between India and France.
India, in multi Nuclear power plant such as one
in Jaitapur in Maharashtra India and France had shared a friendly relation
3. France‘s help in providing nuclear fuel to
not only in strategic term but also in history.
support Nuclear program
4. Localization support to procure from domestic France in the modern world holds bilateral trade
manufacturing equipment required for power with India and apart from it Defence cooperation
plant between two countries has always been a reason
5. Military equipment deals with France in Navy to maintain long relations. India‘s first defense
and air force deal with France started in 1962 when a need was
Besides this from strategic point of view, France
felt for modernization of army. With three Alize
always support India and want to keep good
aircraft, 50 AS-30 Air to Surface missiles, 2000 five years. contemporary scientific achievements
ENTAC and 4000 SS-11 Anti-tank missiles. are hugely impressive and mostly successful
Including 270 light helicopters and 500 Hothicks, launch of Mangalyaan. Using of UK relationship
in research programmes, India will be scientific
120 mm AM 50 mortars the deal of $15 million
super power in 21 st century.
was signed in the coming decade.
After 2000. France showed interest in Research Q-Analyze trade relations between India and
and development programs and transfer of UK. (200 Words)
technology (TOT) for missile development with Answer)
various institutes took place. Agreement s
between the two countries for defense India is the fifth largest investor in UK and
cooperation was exchanged regularly and a high reciprocally UK is the third investor in India‘s
FDI inflow. India exports ready-made garments
level committee for defense cooperation was held
and textiles, gems and jewellery, engineering
in New Delhi in 2012. In recent times various goods, petroleum and petrochemical products,
naval exercises, air force exercise gauard IV (at transport equipment and parts, spices,
Istres air base in France), gaurad V at jaipur and manufactures of metals, machinery where as
Shakti an Indo-French army joint exercise took India imports from UK are ores and metal scraps,
place. Though French equipment is expensive engineering goods.
and India had collaborated with Russia & Japan, India‘s deep seated trade relationship can
Indo- France relations are strongly bonded as assessed by the fact that TATA group is one of the
India had opted for Rafale from Dassault largest private sector employer in UK.
Aviation, as major deal for Indian air force Trade in goods is complemented by the service
sector trade in which UK is the largest market in
Q-Throw light on India – UK relations in EU for India, not only trade flows though the
R&D. (150 Words) goods and service sector , even higher education
Answer) plays a major role in promoting the trade.
UK and India are bound by strong ties of history. Coming to the strategic relation which was
From 2004 onwards UK and India relationships formalized from 2004 onwards the is cooperation
upgraded to strategic partnership between two in civil nuclear energy, space, defence purchases.
countries. Since 2008, both governments have UK has been instrumental in supporting India in
committed close to 150 million pounds for joint its transition to a low-carbon economy by
research programmes. developing its energy efficiency, renewable
energy capabilities and helping India deal with
Recently UK‘s technology strategy board(TSB)
adaptation needs arising due to climate change.
and DoT signed a programme of cooperation of
industrial R&D support.this will help to Both countries have set up joint economic Trade
companies to carryout joint R&D areas like health committe(JETCO) in 2005.Its purpose is to
care and energy systems. In 2006, UK India promote business links.And to tackle trade and
education and research initiative(UKIERI) started investment barriers.
with enhancing education links between both
countries. Research council UK India (RCUK) Recent irritants such as Vodafone Tax issue
India launched in 2008 to play crucial role in
science and research for funding innovation
works. UK unfriendly immigration policy(Due to this
number of overseas Indian students has come
India lacking in cleaning energy and nuclear
energy, using this relationship fill this gap. India down) Visa Bond issues(though scrapped
budget on R&D is below 1 percent GDP but it recently,It was a discriminatory) Such moves will
increases 25% every year.it will be double in next discourage Indians touring UK

Q-Write a note on cooperation between India Q. In the light of recent decision by the
and France in space technology. (200 Words) government to not to sign aircraft deal with
France, critically comment on what should be
The first Indo-French Agreement on Promotion of India‟s strategy when it comes to acquiring
Technology was signed in 1966 . advanced defence capabilities, especially
Both countries cooperate in joint radiation superior and affordable air power.
experiment, space components development and Answer-
space education. The Indian Space Research
India being surrounded by two hostile
Organization (ISRO) and its French counterpart
neighbours need to have credible defence strategy
CNES have a long history of cooperation spanning
which demands that India maintain superiority
four decades.
or is at par with these neighbours in terms of all
In 2008 an agreement on training in the space
the 3 areas: land, sea and Air.
sector was signed between the Indian Institute of
Space Technology (IIST) and Ecole Polytechnique. But India‘s security seems to be in trouble with
India and France jointly launched in 2011, Megha- many of its equipments being obsolete and
Tropiques, a satellite mission to study water cycle requiring replacement particularly Aircraft. Thus
in the atmosphere in the context of climate change. the need of the hour is to acquire or develop new
SPOT-6 another satellite jointly developed by Aircraft and to replace the old ones. In this
India and France was launched in 2012. It is a endeavour India needs to plan for immediate ,
high-resolution, optical imaging Earth observation medium and long Term.
satellite system operating from space.
In 2013, the Indo-French satellite SARAL was 1)Immediate Term: India does not possess the
launched. It is useful to study the ocean surface, required technology to build fighter planes and
monitor the environment, seasonal forecasting and also since the time required to develop them is
for many other purposes. long , it needs to forge deals with countries
The French company Arianespace has been a possessing the technology .But at the same time it
major provider of launch services for Indian needs to effectively bargain for technology
Geostationary satellites. So far 14 Indian satellites transfers for the aircraft.
have been launched by India from Arianespace‘s
2) Medium term: India needs to leverage its good
facility.
terms with countries like Russia to look for joint
Bothe ISRO and CNES very recently signed a joint
development of fighter planes. Joint development
statement for Long Term Cooperation in Space by
of fifth generation fighter with Russia is
jointly identifying areas of further cooperation.
commendable. India needs to use its diplomacy
Till now ISRO has been a valuable customer for
effectively to get countries into joint development
Arianspace and recent launch of INSAT-3D and
in return for some economic concessions like
GSAT-7 using Ariane 5 are proof to this bonding.
(facilitating approval for Posco in case of South
But with launch of GSAT-14 using GSLV D-5 the
Korea, fast Tracking Bangalore Mumbai
trends are going to change that would make our
Industrial Corridor in which UK is interested)
partnership more equitable. These two successful
economies from Asia and Europe could use 3)Long Term: In the long run India needs to attain
various facets of space technologies to build self reliance as relations between countries are
strategic, scientific and commercial relationships only temporary .Also in order to support its
Superpower claim India needs to have
indigenous capability. Recent policy of govt to

allow FDI in defence is a step in the right done to re-vitalize the coal sector of India wit the
direction. Indian companies would acquire the collaboration of Russia.
knowledge by working with them. The future prospectus of all these projects are
very ambitious as the recent global report clearly
With respect to Rafale case, the govt decision is revealed that the till 2022 India will be the most
welcome as cost of the entire deal has been raised populated country of the world, thus it‘s energy
requirement reach to new dimensions , Which can
from initial quoted figure and also maintenance
be only meet by searching new alternatives.
cost is too high. Also since Rafale purchase is in Similarly today India is almost depend upon
replacement of ageing Mig , it can instead be middle east Asian countries to meet it demand of
replaced by Our very own Tejas which is better in crude oil but the deteriorating political conditions
comparison to the Mig sought to be replaced and of the region is another serious issue for India.
is also cheaper. Also deal to buy tejas would give Furthermore the stagnating TAPI project made
the required to boost to the domestic the Russian tie inevitable for India.
manufacturer HAL and to researchers to continue
the good work. Q--Examine how and why India and Russia
came together to form a strategic and friendly
partnership?
INDIA-RUSSIA
Indian and Russian partnership extends long
back to the freedom days. The freedom fighters
Q-Discuss the relationship between India and were highly influenced by the socialistic ideas of
Russia in the energy sector. Write a note on USSR and Marx. The same socialistic values were
future prospects. adopted in the constitution and espoused by
Nehru in the initial post independence years.
With the emergence of cold war both the blocks
India shared a deep rooted traditional and desperately tried to woo india in its favour, only
methodological relationship with Russia since for little help as india remained neutral to both
from the very beginning of the independence. and followed non alignment policy. But with
Although Russia is contributing almost in every USSR‘s support to third world countries,
sector in India. But recently the energy ties Kashmir problem, india‟s wars with
between New Delhi and Moscow witnessed a neighbours, Pakistan falling to west camp
new momentum. forced india to tilt towards soviets in the need
Here it should to be noted that the geographical for security.
position of Russia provides it‘s abundant amount Ever since then, Russia has been an active partner
for energy sources, thus to trap these sources strategically, economically, politically and
India engaged in high energy bilateral agreement culturally. Its relations has stood the test of time
with Russia. Recently Government Of India came and are unaffected by regime changes in either of
out with an idea of an overland pipeline bringing the countries. It is the only country that has
hydrocarbons from Russia to India. Similar to helped india in technology transfers and help
meet the demand of it‘s crude oil requirement , build india unconditionally, even when the
India already has $5bn invested in the Russian conditions were adverse.
petroleum sector. India also imports crude oil Its scientific and defense cooperation tops
worth nearly $200 million every year. India is also everything else. The Russians have a large role in
planning to export gas from Russia with pipeline. the current status of india in defense, space and
Furthermore Russia is also contributing to science.
develop nuclear power projects for India to All these efforts culminated in the signing of
mitigate the grievances of it‘s energy sector. india Russia strategic partnership which gave a
Apart of kundankuulam Moscow is evolve in formal status to the age old strategic partners.
several other power projects also. Efforts are also Russia itself has found a trusted friend in india.
With growing antagonization with the west, india Q-Do you think the relations between India and
restricted support means a lot to it. It has Russia is „strategic‟ in its true sense? Critically
confidence in india as india has also assured examine. (200 Words)
Russia of not taking any step that would be anti
to it.
A strategic partnership is based on certain pillars,
The friendship is old, but gets rejuvenated every
now and then. Economically it is not as sound as on which the two partners seek cooperation and
it should be. Both countries vie for higher synergy. India and Russia share close relations
economic pie. The partnership is to strengthen traditionally. Both the countries have common
further in the future, that is for sure. agenda‘s in regional and global arenas. Be it
Afghanistan or China or Middle East, India and
Russia share common interests. Both feature in
global organisations, often re-enforcing each
other‘s perspective. Bodies such as BRICS, RIC,
1. Historical factor.. At the time of independence SCO provide a common ground to both countries
many Indian leaders like bhagat singh shared for developing closer ties.
same ideology as that of Lenin because of same The partnership which is being debated as
atrocities faced by weaker sections of society in strategic, holds firm, in the areas of Defence,
both the countries. Space and Technology. Russia remains the largest
Pandit Nehru was influenced by russian 5 year supplier of Defence equipments to India.
growth model and adopted that. Technology transfer has also featured in recent
2. Cultural ties..Indian cinema is very famous in times. Both have co-developed missiles such as
russia this helped a lot in developing friendly Brah-Mos and other submarines.
relations. Many professionals and student go to In the field of Energy, India‘s OVL owns largest
russia to study and work there. share of blocks in Russia. The Civil Nuclear
3.India needed security,finance for development Cooperation pact, signed in 2009, provided a new
and in early decades after independence russia dimension for the nuclear energy transfer to
helped a lot in these matter. India.
4.Us sanctions after pokhran but russia stood by Such cooperation points towards a strategic
India‘s side and never let those sanctions affected relationship between the countries. But other
our relation. dimensions which form a truly strategic
5.Military imports from russia makes us almost relationship , still remain weak between India and
dependent on russia for our defence Russia. Most specifically, the economic trade,
procurement. which stands at 11billion USD presently does not
6. Joint space program of both nations. Russia correspond to the expected engagement. The
even provided cryogenic technology to India. people to people contacts and cultural exchanges
7. Economic Tie up.. Russia is India‘s one of the also remain low.
largest trading partner. Hence, India and Russia need to work more
8. Russia‘s stand on Kashmir issue is pro India. closely in these areas, to become strategic
So we can see all these factor combined together partners in true terms. Many steps in these
over a long period of time has helped in develop directions are being tried by both countries,
deep and effective relation between both the therefore implying a bright future for both
nations countries

Q-Write a note on the energy relationship

between India and Russia.
Q-Write a note on India-Russia defence
Indo-Russian relations have matured over a cooperation. (150 Words)
period of time and now spans across diverse Answer)
sectors , of which cooperation in energy is very
vital from India‘s point of view. Russia‘s Russia is an evergreen friend of India in Defence
cooperation in energy sector includes primarily cooperation. India-Russia defense cooperation is
the nuclear and hydrocarbon sector. In the former spread to naval, airforce and army.
comes the supply of nuclear reactors, ancillary
systems and fuel. The recently completed 1st
phase of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (1000 Both countries initiated their defence cooperation
MWe) has been developed with Russia‘s from a simple buyer-seller. And gradually
cooperation. Russia has supplied the VVER reached the stage of joint research and
reactors of the plant and has agreed to supply the development, joint production and marketing of
fuel for the plant for its entire operational life. defence technologies and systems.
Negotiations are on between the two government Naval cooperation:
to construct 6 more VVER nuclear reactors in 1.Russia has leased Akhula-II nuclear submarine
different parts of the country. Nuclear power is and INS vikramaditya aircraft carrier .
key for India to achieve inclusive growth by 2.Both hold biannual naval exercise-Indra.
ensuring its energy security in turn leading to a
high economic growth. Airforce related cooperation
The other important sector where Russia hold 1.Both have several major joint programmes.such
tremendous importance is the one of hydro- as
carbons. ONGC Videsh Ltd. has recently acquired a)BrahMos cruise missile programme.
stakes in two hydrocarbon fields in Russia b) 5th generation fighter jet programme.
(Shakhlin-1 and Tomsk) by investing 5 billion c) Sukhoi Su-30MKI programme
USDs. Secondly, there is a proposal of building a- d)Ilyushin/HAL tactical transport aircraft
30 billion USD- gas pipeline from Russia to India e) development of Smerch rocket system.
via Xingiang province of China. Though the 2.Both countries jointly operate Farkhor air base
project is ambitious in terms of its cost and size in Tajikistan.
but if completed it would off-load a large 3.MiG are being upgraded.
dependency of India on middle-east nations who 4. Tu-22M3 bombers are ordered from Russia and
currently supply more than 65% of India‘s crude Mil Mi-17 helicopter are ordered from Russia.
oil requirements.
Besides these, several Russian companies are
Army related cooperation
involved in various power and hydrocarbon
projects in India. For example, Gazprom is 1.India has taken T-90s Bhishma tanks from
partnering with GAIL for producing natural gas Russia .
in Bay of Bengal basin. In addition to above Russia is the only country
Russia also considers this energy cooperation with which India has Inter-governmental
vital as it gives it a primacy in Indian energy Commission on Military Technical
market which is demonstrating a tremendous Cooperation.This is personally headed by
growth potential. Also, it gets a chance to hedge Defence minister
its risks it is facing in other markets, especially in
eastern Europe which is presently undergoing a Q. Critically examine the nature of economic
relationship between India and Russia.
political turmoil.
Answer-

• Historically India had shared a strong Units 3 and 4 of the Kudankulam nuclear power
relationship with Russia and later being of great plant project, India‘s weapons diversification
support to India on various international forums policy needs to be addressed at earliest to bring
during times of crisis. During recent years the the economic co-operation on a progressive track.
―Economic‖ component of Indo-Russian strategic
partnership has grown in importance with a
target set towards $20 billion by 2015 for bilateral India Russia have a special and privileged
trade. strategic partnership which permeates the entire
spectrum of economic activities. The Indo Russia
• When compared with the trade volume
strategic partnership was signed in 2000 to boost
that we have with US or China the sheer volume
the bilateral cooperation in different sectors.
of trade with Russia remains very small and
stood at $11 billion. The major Indian exports to Enhancing Trade and economic cooperation is the
Russia are pharmaceuticals; tea, coffee and spices; key priority for India and Russia. Indo-Russian
apparel and clothing; edible preparations; and Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade,
engineering goods. Main Indian imports from Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural
Russia are iron and steel; fertilisers; non-ferrous Cooperation (IRIGC) has been setup to realize the
metals; paper products; coal, coke & briquettes; full potential of the mutual cooperation.
cereals; and rubber.
Currently India-Russia trade has crossed US $ 10
• India is the second largest market for the bn mainly focused on Pharmaceuticals, iron
Russian defence industry. ONGC-Videsh stakes &steel industry, fertilizers, Tea-coffee and coal
in the Sakhalin-I oil and gas project in Russia, etc. But bilateral trade between India-US has
Russia‘s offer of a stake in the Madagan 2 oil-field crossed US $ 100 bn. Russia being our old friend
along with GAIL‘s LNG deal with Gazprom can and strategic partner, doesn‘t take it as good sign.
just be the beginning of a more robust India- To improve the situation bilateral trade target
Russia energy cooperation.. India needs to between India- Russia for 2015 has been set US $
diversify its energy imports due to turmoil in 20 bn.
west-Asia and Russia‘s far eastern, Siberian,
Arctic regions offers promise for its hydro-carbon India has huge investment in energy sector in
needs. Indo-Russia Joint Investment Fund worth Russia. ONGC-Videsh acquired 20% stake in the
US$ 2 billion facilitates FDA & promises more Sakhalin-I upstream oil and gas project in the
cooperation. Russian Federation in 2001. Russia also
collaborated in Kudankulam nuclear power
• Construction of a pipeline from Russia to project in India. This will help to produce more
India, and plans to look into the scope of the energy and will contribute to meet the demand of
CECA (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation industries.
Agreement) & FTA, India‘s expertise in
Pharmaceuticals, IT and Russian investments in The Indo Russia Inter-governmental commission
infrastructure, Telecommunications, energy, is the steering committee for the bilateral
defence are some promising areas of further cooperation including the growth of the economic
improvement in economic co-operation & ties.The commission has six working groups to
investments. foster the economic cooperation. The Indo Russia
Forum on trade and investment was started to
• Irritants like Sistema, Russia‘s titanium promote the bilateral trade and investment
Joint Venture in Orissa, Nuclear Liability Law on
opportunities. Joint study group was setup to 3-Maritime Security: India have around 7500 km
identify ways to increase the trade and the of coastal areas and its EEZ extends in Arabian
feasibility of the comprehensive economic sea. The sea route from Suez canal to strait of
cooperation agreement. The north south transport malacca holds 45 % of oil trade. So maritime
corridor agreement was ratified to reduce the cost security is necessary to secure proper oil supplies
of the movement of the goods. to other Asian countries and to secure India‘s
maritime resources and also to mitigate any
India`s major exports to Russia comprise
threat from.
pharmaceuticals, tea,coffee, engineering goods.
Its imports from Russia include 4- Terrorism: Terrorism is found new ground in
Iron,steel,fertilizers and oil. The two countries destabilised middle east. It has become new hub
have set a target for increasing the trade to 20 to all the terrorist organisations. And funding to
billion dollar by 2015. India is building oil and these organisations is mostly from this region
gas pipelines. only. Hence , it is necessary to have cordial
relations with Govt. of this region for better
India has expressed the need for including more
intelligence which is necessary for India‘s policy
valued added products in the trade baskets.
of Zero tolerance towards terrorism.
There is a need to tap the potential for
cooperation in the telecom sectors and 5- Remittances: Remittances from middle east
infrastructure. Russia would seek to foster its constitute major portion of remittances India
Asian ties in the face of threat of trade sanctions receives. This is necessary for India‘s Forex
from the west. India values Russian partnership reserve.
in the world affairs and would seek to strengthen
6-Indian Diaspora: A healthy relations with
it.
middle east countries can help in mitigating the
problems of Indian diaspora living in middle east.
As middle east is hub for half of Indian diaspora.
INDIA-MIDDLE EAST AND CENTRAL ASIA
7- Regional Affect: Recent Arab spring has
regional influences, which affect the adjacent
Q-Does India need a „Look Middle-East Policy‟?
regions. Refugees are finding new homes. India
Explain why
being traditional granter of asylum can be
Following are the reasons why India needs look
affected by the influx of refugees from this region.
middle east policy
Also India‘s north-south corridor to have trade
1- Energy Issue: India is energy deficient country with Central Asia is likely to get affected as it
and for its development oil and petroleum passes through Iran.
primary requirement. India imports most of its oil
from this region. Oil imports constitute 35% of
Q-Critically examine the importance of stable
India‘s import bill, so cordial relations with Middle East to Indian economy. In your
middle east countries can help us in easing opinion, what India should do to insulate its
India‘s fiscal deficit. economy from shocks emanating from the
region? Comment.
2- Petro-dollar: India is also shifting from petro
dollar to regional currencies, which will help in Middle east region is economically important for
easing import from internationally sanctioned India for the following reasons:
countries. This‘ll also help in rupee appreciation.

1.It is one of the largest Export destination for influence the world events by actively engaging
India‘s jewels and jewellary, with the stakeholders.
,Handicraft items,Carpets etc.(14% of the total
export goes to UAE). Q-Do you think India should be worried
2.Significant source of import of bulk of crude because of the Islamic State in Iraq and the
petroleum(over 55% from this region) Levant‟s (ISIL) recent activities in Iraq?
3.Largest abode for Indian diaspora,especially Critically examine why?
unskilled labour force.
Major source of Remittance and foreign exchange
Terrorism has taken more sinister form after US-
therefore.
led ‗war against terror‘ which was mainly to fight
5.Bulk of our cargo passes throgh ‗Gulf of
Al-Qaeda. Now ambitious splinter groups like
Aden‘which is velnerable to piracy in case of
ISIL have come up, which aim to set up Islamic
unstability.
state encompassing both Syria and Iraq. If they
Its religious significance and religious tourism.
succeed, they may even spread their tentacles in
These factors will get affected in case of
other parts of the world to establish Islamic states.
instability. Further,it will lead to:
Democratic countries like India, thus need to be
concerned about developments in Iraq, not just
Civil war like situation affecting security of our
from ‗global terror‘ perspective but also as
own population residing there.
Kashmir‘s ‗liberation‘ remains on Islamic
Affect Trade and commodity flow,interruption in
fundamentalists‘ radar.
supply of crude oil and hurt our energy security.
Steps needed to insulate our Economy includes:
As India and Iraq shared a deeply rooted
Exploration of new regions for oil and pertoleum
economical relationship, right from the very
both domestic and foreign.e.g.Central asia (TAPI
beginning of ancient time of Mesopotamia. In the
project),myanmaar,vietnaam etc.
modern time Iraq was on the biggest importer of
Developing Renewable sources of energy
India‘s crude oil. The crisis of Iraq can effect the
reducing dependance on import from gulf
availability of oil for India which ultimately led
countries.
towards the rise in oil prices. similarly India is
For trade exploration of new market areas like
also involve with Iraq in oil-for-food programme.
Latin america.
Which may be affected with the activities of
Further India should strive for peace in the region
militant group.
through appropriate global platform like United
More on the ISIL did not want to confine itself
Nations to secure its interest.
only to the Iraq. It want to establish caliph in
middle- east and rule the region on the divine
laws. This is the main concern for India. If the
India would have to adopt both short term and
organization succeeded in it a serious set back for
long term measures to insulate its economy from
India. As recently India started focusing in the
any crisis in the middle east. In the former comes
region in comprehensive manner. As middle -east
striking a right balance in the import basket of
is not only the biggest importer for India to meet
various sources and increasing the share of
it‘s crude oil requirements. The region is also one
African countries like Nigeria and Cameroon in
of the largest Export destination for India‘s jewels
the net imports. In the later comes increasing
and jewellary,
productivities of domestic producer companies
,Handicraft items,Carpets etc. The region is also
like ONGC, procuring oil blocks abroad (ONGC
Largest abode for Indian diaspora,especially
Videsh in Vietnam), discouraging wasteful usages
unskilled labour force and ,major source of
by gradually eliminating the subsidies,
Remittance and foreign exchange for India.
developing and popularizing non-conventional
source of energy like solar power, wind, biomass
India therefore needs to make a strong external
based etc. Moreover, on a diplomatic level, since
ring of security, beyond its immediate borders.
India claims a permanent seat in UNSC, it should
She should keep close watch on activities taking

place around such ring area so that timely Q- Write a note on the economic cooperation
preparedness can thwart chances of groups like between India and Egypt. Do you think political
ISIL advancing and attacking India. Though instability in Egypt has affected ties between
international community may unite before such two countries? Substantiate. (200 Words)
possibility, like now USA and Iran are willing to
take military action to thwart the extremist Sunni Ans. India and Egypt are two of the world‘s
group ISIL, still India as a leader in her region oldest civilizations. India share a long history of
must be well-prepared to maintain national and trade contacts with Egypt, the later being India‘s
regional security in South Asia. She must ensure most important trade partner in the African
that no group of extremists can disturb peace of
continent.
South Asia, which instead needs to develop and
lift millions out of poverty. 1. The India -Egypt Bilateral Trade
Agreement has been in force since 1978
Q-Critically analyse India‟s interests in the West
and is based on the MFN clause.
Asian region.
2. Major exports to Egypt include
West Asian region is very important for India and automobiles, cotton/synthetic yarn,
its economic development. India‘s interests in the
carbon electrodes and diesel fuel.
region are as follows:
1) India‘s energy needs are highly dependent on 3. Import from Egypt include crude oil,
the region as it imports 70 per cent of its oil LNG, raw cotton, rock phosphate, coke
requirement.
and semi-coke of coal.
2) Bulk of India‘s trade is carried out via the Suez
Canal route . Maintaining stability in the region is 4. At present the trade between two
of utmost importance to secure sea lines of countries stands at about $5.5 billion.
communication.
Despite the political instability in the
3) India‘s diaspora has a remarkable presence in
the areas. Indians are serving in capacities of Egypt, both countries continues to
doctors, engineers and other workers. Ensuring maintain harmonious relations with each
their security is India‘s job. other.
4) These people send remittances to India and
maintain its Current Account balance. 5. Former Egyptian President Mohamed
Off late it has been found that India‘s engagement Morsi visited India in March,2013 and
with the countries of West Asia has been signed several agreement including in the
declining. Its diplomatic stance has been fading
field of plastic, engineering, vocational
and it has chosen to give up its own say to big
powers piggy backing Russia‘s or China‘s stand training and financial services.
at the UN. India‘s disinterest has been enhanced 6. After the change in Government in Egypt,
by the growing conflicts in the region from Libya
the relations continues to be normal. This
to Syria to Iraq.
There is a need to initiate dialogue with the Gulf can be gauged from the fact that the newly
Cooperation Council. India should work towards appointed Foreign Minister of Egypt has
ensuring social security for millions of its citizens chosen India as first destination for his
working there with some under pathetic Asian visit. Talks are on between two
conditions countries to take forward the discussion
held during the visit of the Previous
7. President and deepen the co-operation

between the two countries.

1. How to have a continuous & stable oil trade in

the future irrespective of the changes in the
Q-Write a critical note on India-UAE relations.
Is there a mechanism between two countries to geopolitics.
dealt with the issue of migrants‟ abuse in UAE ? 2. How to secure the trade lanes off the pirate
Explain. (200 Words) attacks.
Answer) 3. How to help Afghanistan in establishing a
stable government so that a good trade
UAE oil rich country of gulf attracts many environment is established.
migrants of both skilled and labor due to its 4. How to see that Chabahar-Zaranj-Delaram
economic attractiveness, stable polity and Highway is utilized by all i.e Afghanistan, India,
infrastructure development. India and UAE
Iran for regional trade and peace.
has strongest relation as many Indian Diaspora
are residing their and helping in their 5. How to pursue Pakistan to be part of the
economic growth, local community, and trade regional peace and help in physical connectivity
fields. of the region and Revival of Iran Pakistan India
The kafala sponshership system enabled pipeline.
companies to employ migrant workers. But
Iran‘s Nuclear ambitions and its conflict with
this kafala system was criticized has it is
curbing human rights of migrant workers. west calls for India to take a carefully balanced
Government tried to change laws including; stand considering its commitments to nuclear
protection from company‘s blackmails and disarmament and Its own Nuclear programme
assured wages to the workers. For the oil trade Iran and India are planning a
But still India remained as supplier of cheap undersea oil pipe which will boost the trade. With
labor. Even after changing laws many were regard to the IPI pipe line presently Iran has
bused. This is because of poor enforcement, as
withdrawn its loan to Pakistan, here India can
it is expensive to provide security. problematic
to policy makers to provide economic play as a negotiator. Secretary level meeting take
opportunities to their own youth as kafala is place as in 2011 about combating global
leading to unemployment among their youth. terrorism, energy security, North South Transport
Corridor. India and Iran have jointly developed
Therefore India needs to protect Indian Diaspora infrastructural project for Afghanistan so that she
in UAE through negotiations and signing has access to sea through chahabar port.
agreements to avoid Indians becoming exploited
and bonded labors. For this India should improve
its description regarding Diaspora. Q-“The relationship between India and Iran has
become transactional, rather than strategic.”
Q-What are the important regional issues of
concern between India and Iran? How do both
India-Iran relations span centuries marked by
countries seeks to address these issues?
meaningful interactions. The two countries
Analyze. (200 Words)
shared a border till 1947 and share several
India and Iran have close physical proximity; they
common features in their language, culture,
have the crude sea lanes going off their coast.
traditions and people-to-people links.
they are trade & cultural partners from 1970‘s
Independent India and Iran established
onward. The important issue are as follows:–
diplomatic links since from 1950.
Iranian port of Chabahar, located on the most Q. Why is it important for India to have a strong
important international corridors – East-West, and friendly relationship with Iran? Critically
North- South corridor, close to the mainline analyse.
Answer-
shipping routes connecting Asia and Europe. It
can be considered one of the most strategic transit • India and Iran have historical and
locations, is often referred to as the ‗Golden Gate‘ civilizational links. This helped the relation form
to the landlocked Central Asian countries and becoming ―cold‖ at most of the time. India carries
Afghanistan. Chabahar has immense potential to a lot of interests in the normalization of Iran‘s
connect the business centres in South Asia relation whit western countries. This interest
(Mumbai, Jamnagar, etc), the Middle East arises from the fact that Iran is politically,
(Dubai), Central Asia (Turkmenistan) and economically important to India.
Afghanistan (Milak). It is From India‘s point of
• Politically Iran is a counter force to
view, the port gives access to the oil and gas
Pakistan‘s hegemonious activity. Iran will
resources in Iran and to Central Asian Republics. provide India the land transit to Afghanistan &
On regional connectivity, both sides agreed to central Asia. For this India has been
work on a trilateral transit agreement involving ―Developing‖ the road link from Chabahar port
Afghanistan to develop the Chabahar route to Kabul this will create a Pakistan-independent
through Melak, Zaranj and Delaram. connectivity with Afghanistan. Inspite of the
But nowadays India‘s ties with Iran has become importance the project has been delayed.
transactional, rather than strategic — reduced to
the volume of oil India imports from Iran, or the • Secondly India‘s energy needs can be
fulfilled by the Iranian oil and gas. Presently
permissibility of New Delhi‘s assistance in
India imports a meager 4% of all oil from Iran. It
building Iranian infrastructure. In spite of The
is important for India to tap the Iranian oil.
Geneva agreement signed between the P5+1 bloc
Further, the gas pipelines of the future are very
and Iran, U.N. sanctions will continue to remain
important because the changing rural India‘s
in effect. The agreement does not also permit an
reference for a cleaner fuel.
increase in crude oil sales: in fact, the interim deal
offers hardly any room for constructive energy • This friendly relation has not been that
diplomacy between both. assuring, India has decreased its oil purchase
For India, Iran continues to remain important for from Iran due to the economic sanctions This has
various reasons: energy security, for countering upset Iran and this vacuum has been taken over
Pakistani Taliban in Afghanistan, for access to by China. Further India‘s warming relation with
trade and transport connectivity with Central Iran has also upset Saudi Arabia and Israel. So we
can conclude that it will be a tight rope walk for
Asia. The Russia-India-China trilateral summit
India to negotiate a balance relation with all
recognised Iran‘s right to peaceful uses of nuclear
countries of the middle east.
energy under strict IAEA safeguards, also clearly
indicates the position of Russia and China. So • The world community fearing that Iran
U.S. should recognise this right to civilian nuclear was developing Nuclear weapons has imposed
energy. India also adapt a stand by using this sanction in UN apart from unilateral sanctions
opportunity, without sacrificing the strategic imposed by US and EU. Sanctions particularly
interests with Iran due to Indo-US nuclear deal. imposed by US have been severe as it has barred

countries and institutions dealing with Iran from • 1. Cooperation in ensuring security from
access to US financial System. piracy in the Persian Gulf for oil and other
important Indian imports.
• Under these circumstances India has
continued to maintain Relation with Iran. For the • 2. Huge Indian diaspora has made Iran
following reasons: their home. Many NRI populated regions in Iran
who actively contribute to its economy.
• a) Energy Security: Iran is a major
exporter of oil to India and much of the refining • c) Both the nations have mutual fear of
facilities in India are developed to process the rise of Sunni militancy (with concerns of spread
grade of oil coming from Iran. Also the proposed of Wahabbist/ Deobandi movements fueled from
IRAN PAKISTAN INDIA pipeline if Pakistan and disturbing Afghanistan‘s political
implemented can satisfy India‘s need for natural stability along with increasing communal
gas to some extent. tensions in India and Iran.)
• b) Link to central Asia: Iran can provide • India also seeks Iran support of Kashmir
India Access to land locked central Asian issue. Iran on the other hand needs India‘s LNG
countries which have plentiful minerals, oil and production capabilities to avoid crisis situation in
natural gas and also to have influence in this advent of isolation from the US.
region, as stability of this region is vital for India‘s
• Cooperation on regional security issues-
growth.
There are huge political uncertainties particularly
• c) Chabahar port: India has developed in Afghanistan, Syria and some of the West Asian
chabahar port in Iran which would by rail be countries. Without Iran‘s inclusion durable
connected to countries in Russia lead customs regional security architecture will not be
union. Also India is developing a road from sustainable.
chabahar port which connects to road network of
• Enhancing cultural and people-to-people
Afghanistan thus allowing India access to
contact- A growing number of Iranian students
Afghanistan to counter Pakistan‘s plans of
in India will be beneficial from good relation
destabilising India through Taliban. between two countries.
• Chabahar port is also close to the Gwadar Q-Critically evaluate the strategic significance
port developed by china in pak thus allowing of the Indo – Israeli relationship.
India to counter China‘s string of pearls strategy
to encircle India. Even after a delayed establishment of diplomatic
relationship between Israel and India (in 1992)
• d)Pakistan perspective: Iran being a both countries have showed tremendous interest
neighbour of Pakistan would serve well for India in making the relationship strong. There are three
if it has friendly relations with India. dimensions to Indo-Israel relationship-economic,
defense and people-to-people contact.
• Apart from these India needs to continue
its relations with Iran as India has always India is Israel‘s 10th largest trading partner and
maintained in its foreign policy that it would only the scale of trade has reached to a value of $5
respect UN sanctions and not multilateral billion annually. With a Free Trade Agreement in
pipeline this value is expected to double in
sanctions. Therefore, with India already adhering
coming years. India can seek Israel‘s cooperation
to UN sanctions it can ignore unilateral sanction in areas like agriculture, nano-technology,
which requires countries to sever ties with Iran. infrastructure development, space technology
and rural development. Israel can also be a Joint industrial research is augmented through
potential source of FDI and Indian market and various Memorandums of Understandings &
consumers can benefit from Israeli entrepreneurs funds like In agriculture, more than 10 centers of
willing to establish businesses here. excellence are established for mutual cooperation.
Defense has seen some high level technological
In the defense sector, India already procures a exchanges between India & Israel.
significant proportion of its total defuse Both countries have more or less similar
purchases from Israel. Israel has also provided challenges & similar resources to address them.
with various state-of-the art defense equipment Thus India sees Israel as its natural ally. R&D in
like advanced early warning systems, pilotless Industrial technologies, Human Resource
aircrafts, sub-surface delivery of nuclear weapons Development, Agricultural & dairy sector may
etc. But India is yet to seek required support from get a boost through Israel‘s assistance.
Israel in the field of co-production of defense India‘s IT professionals, caretakers & unskilled
equipment. Moreover, since Israel is also having labours can stimulate economic growth of Israel,
interests in Indian Ocean Region it is while sending remittances at home. Israel‘s
recommended by defense experts that both the expertise in defence technologies may earn it
countries should do joint naval exercises in this money while strengthening India‘s defence
region in order to bolster their military ties. capabilities.
Some bottlenecks like Free trade Agreement,
Both India and Israel have been a destination for trade imbalance & low foreign investment may be
tourism for the people of either country. sorted out by discussions. Then these close allies
But there are certain thorns in the relations as may be elevated to evergreen & strategic partners
well. First is India‘s stand on the issue of Palestine for mutual benefits.
and the claim of Israel on the city of Jerusalem.
Again, Israel‘s traditional adversary Iran is Both are nuclear capable states, surrounded by
India‘s one of the largest crude oil supplier. India hostile neighbours & suffering from the pangs of
should tread in a balanced way to ensure that its terrorism.
cordial relations with either of these countries is Being adversarial initially, India-Israel
not jeopardized at the expense of the other. relationship took a u-turn after the Soviet-
Israel has arid type of climate and faces scarcity of collapse. Today, their bilateral relation transcends
water. It has significantly developed water political, strategic, economic, scientific and
conservation techniques and reprocessing of technological dimensions.
Bilateral merchandise trade has crossed USD 5-
saline water and achieved hallmark in dryland
billion mark, investments have swelled, & both
farming. Further, it is helping India in fruits and are in the process of signing a FTA. Co-operation
vegetable production and processing techniques, in education has paved way for faculty exchange
considering its own progress & joint academic research.
More importantly, India enjoys technology-
Q--Comment on the nature of relationship transfer in critical sectors (like defence, space &
between India and Israel. Do you think Israel nuclear) from Israel. In fact, the deal for joint
can be India‟s natural ally? Examine. development of Barak-II missile by the two
nations is an epitome of defence cooperation.
Foreign relations of India with Israel are peaceful Also, India has benefitted from Israel‘s technical
& thriving. Exchange of Embassies in 1992 expertise in irrigation, agriculture management &
provided firm base to our diplomatic endeavors. mechanization. Israeli technical assistance & its
Bilateral trade between both countries was own IT-supremacy provides India a golden
approximately $4.5 billion in 2012. But foreign opportunity to rejuvenate its manufacturing
investment from Israel to India was low. sector.
Negotiations on Free Trade Agreements are going Israel, in-turn views India as a potential ally in
on. South Asia, and a huge untapped market,

particularly for sophisticated weapons & military expanded enormously; economically, politically
equipment. and militarily. India has emerged as the largest
Thus, widening of such a mutually beneficial market for Israel‘s military exports.
relationship in the wake of similar geo-political India and Israel can cooperate deeply in many
situation & complementary capabilities can make areas such as combating terrorism, economic
Israel a natural ally to India. Together they can development and military strength. Military and
counter terrorism to maintain regional harmony, strategic ties between the two nations extend to
& also strive for a secured cyber-space. joint military training and space technology.
India is the largest customer of Israeli military
Q---In your opinion what are the common areas equipment and Israel is the second-largest
upon which India and Israel can take their military partner of India after Russia. Israel has
relationship to the next level? Critically promised to not supply Arms to Pakistan in any
examine. condition because arms trafficking may lead to
strengthen the non-state actors in Pakistan, who
are threats to India‘s security.
Indo-Israel relationship has been growing leaps
The two nations are negotiating an extensive
and bounds mainly because of trade in arms since
bilateral free trade pact (FTA), focusing on five
1991. However, we need to diversify trade and
priority areas for enhanced collaboration:
other engagement, so that we can move our
nanotechnology, biotechnology, water
relationship to next level. Some areas of
management, alternative energy, and space and
engagement can be:
aeronautics. Jews have strong agricultural
1. Space: It is difficult for Israel to launch satellite
technology, which may benefit India to a large
from its own soil due to its geography and other
extent in another Green Revolution.
geopolitical reason. India can pitch in to launch
India and Israel also have taken opposition to
Israel‘s satellite at an affordable cost. It can be an
Iranian nuclear activities together. Along with
area, where both the countries can help out each
economic and military cooperation, there is need
other.
to build strong people to people contacts which
2. Agriculture: Though, we are already using
can be promoted by cultural tourism.
expertise of Israel like drip irrigation, but we
While strong ties with Israel will be a major part
need to move forward and collaborate in the field
of India‘s ‗Look West policy‘, they both need to
of biotechnology. It will increase the yield of
work together for the support to Palestine cause
Indian agriculture.
also. India will have to balance its Israel policy
3. Cyber space: India do have the expertise in the
along with its domestic policy.
field of IT, it should collaborate with Israel to
increase the expertise in Cyber security.
Thus, various areas are needed to be explored for INDIA-SOUTH EAST ASIA
moving Indo-Israel relationship to a next level.
Q--Critically comment on recent political crisis
in Thailand. Examine what role can India play
Before 1992, the Indian pro- Arab position
hindered understanding, appreciating and to resolve this crisis in Thailand.
supporting Jewish longing for a homeland. With The Thailand Crisis has multiple causes, however
India‘s inclusion into United Nations Special it is most strongly an internal political crisis, due
Committee on Palestine (UNSCOP) where India to weak democratic values.
presented the federal plan while the majority
advocated partition as the solution, India‘s The Background :
position towards Israel became official.
Although India voted against the partition plan The Red Shirts party of Shingluck, has been asked
along with the Arab countries, once Israel became to step down by the Constitutional Court of
a reality, India had to come to terms with it. With Thailand due to abuse of power. In reality, it is a
the changed circumstances, India-Israel relations move activated by the Yellow Shirts ( who
represent the industrialists and the elite ) who see
their interests being severely constrained in the into the ASEAN region. With India‘s ‗Look East
rule of the pro – poor Red Shirts.Truth is that Policy‘ being complimented by Thailand‘s ‗Look
even the Red Shirts are at fault, as they have tried West Policy‘. India can help the Thai people to
to give amnesty to people accused of crimes and reestablish democracy peacefully by forming an
corruption. opinion involving the ASEAN members.
The Monarch , who is the symbolic head has so

far not taken any sides. Q-It is arguably better to be Hindu in Indonesia,
than Muslim in India.” Do you agree with the
The military continues to play a strong role in a view? Critically comment. (200 Words)
weak democracy, No side wanted to The view that ‗‘ It is arguably better to be Hindu
compromise, and this meant a civil war threat.
in Indonesia, than Muslim in India‘‘ is not
misplaced view, which is promoted irrationally.
India‟s interests :
There are certain objective factors which certify
Thailand is pivot to India‘s look east policy. It has this view. The uniformly tolerant character of
helped India‟s entry into the ASEAN, and we Island country, its clean history in regards to
have had a good relationship irrespective of the communal strife‘s, the commendable status and
party in power. conditions of Hindus and peaceful co-existence of
Hindus along with Muslims are certain imprints
India also has significant investment in Thailand
and recently an Early Harvest Agreement was depicting the better Hindu in Indonesia than a
signed to increase trade and commerce. Muslim in India.
There is no immediate threat to our economic Hindus in Indonesia are a minority, but there
interests, as was observed in the previous coup extreme good condition in respect to economic,
before 2006. However, India would like to have a social , educational and political circles are the
strong democratic government, which will be testament of Indonesia‘s more conducive
helpful in meaningful engagement between the environment towards religious tolerance. The Bali
two governments. It would also be needed to
island, comprising 90% Hindus, has only 2 %
have a stable and secure Asian environment. We
should wait and watch as the situation unfolds. people illiterate and much less below the poverty
line. Even many people, convert to Hinduism
owing to the freedom of conscience. This practice
It has experienced a socio-economic change over is rarely seen for Muslims in India.
past 4-5 decades. Many of the Thailand‘s original
peasantry who were largely disenfranchised, But there are certain historical facts, giving
dislocated from the national mainstream have Indonesia the edge, such as , The arrival of
started to become more involved and integrated Muslims in Indonesia were neither bloody when
into national life. corruption and double
they entered it nor Indonesia experienced a tragic
standards of the government.
partition, which India had to face. India‘s Hindu
passing the Amnesty bill, populist policies,
violation of fundamental rights majority had to exist in a Muslim rule , which was
There are deep and adverse Economic not the case with Indonesia. Hence, it is not
implications on Thailand and between its misplaced that conditions of Hindus in Indonesia
neighbors. India‘s relations with Thailand are is better than that of Indian Muslims, but there
very good and this unrest is not going to affect are certain reasons for this, else our constitution
India-Thai relations, but will delay the various
or our forefathers also envisaged the same to be
economic projects like the trilateral highway
project between India, Myanmar and Thailand. present in India also.
Thailand can prove to be India‘s natural gateway

same is challenged by ongoing territorial disputes

among some of the ASEAN nations and China in
Question - Explain the significance of having a
strong maritime cooperation with South East the South China Sea.
Asian countries by India. (200 Words)
China‘s growing asseriveness with it claiming
Answer - Maritime cooperation with south East
Asian nation is integral part of India‘s look east entire SCS, important trade route and a major Sea
policy.With Economic and Geo political center Lane of Communication (SLOC), in a U shaped
shifting from west to east,the need to engage can‘t line as its territory. has also necessiated India to
be overstated. intervene. Beijing‘s claims go well into the
Significance of such engagement can be analysed
Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the other
under broad headings:
Economical :Safe sea route are must for trade disputing nations.
within the region as Indian ocean with mallaca New Delhi‘s presence in the area is not a strategy
strait provides SLOC which in a way is gate way
to thriving economies of ASEAN. to counter China but rather a necessity to
Energy security : most of oil trade from Persian safeguard its own interests from an increasingly
gulf is through Indian ocean ,thus making it more assertive Beijing. China even protests India‘s oil
important to future energy security. exploration with Vietnam in Block 128 despite the
Peace: linked to trade is piracy problem ,armed
block falling within Vietnam‘s EEZ. Therefore, to
robbery,poaching,illegal drug problem etc as all
these anti social activities are threat to national ensure economic interest in exploring
and regional stability which can be tackled only hydrocarbon resources in the area with ONGC
by collaborative manner Videsh Ltd. (OVL) operating in two oil blocks in
Strategic : Assertive china and growing maritime Vietnam, the naval cooperations has gained much
disputes with almost all ASEAN nation in south
significance,
china sea demands India‘s greater role not as
opportunist but more as mediator for peace Freedom of navigation, keeping open sea lines of
under UNCLOS. communication (SLOCs) and cooperation in areas
Ecological angle:Tropical oceans around India
such as anti-piracy, disaster relief and rescue,
and south east asia are home to rich maritime
biodiversity(coral reefs ) and unfortunately combating International terrorism, organised
highly vulnerable which is serious threat to crimes and Illicit Drug Trafficking are other
livelihood for most of the littoral states. regional issues which highlights the importance
Alfred Mahan concept of Powerful navy and of strong maritime cooperation with South East
control of sea to acquire super power is not
Asian countries by India.
completely rejected but should be modified to
cooperation,mutual benefit and inclusive in
current multipolar world.India govt action like
―Milan‖ IONS are welcome step is this direction. Q- Analyze the factors that make the Northeast
India as the gateway to Southeast Asia. Asses
Or this is also good, how far this region has been tapped as gateway
India‘s maritime cooperation with the ASEAN to South East Asia by the government of
nations date back to the early 1990′s.and is is an India. (200 Words)
important dimension of the ―Look East Policy‖. Answer)
While there are several importance of - Geostrategic location=proximity between

the two regions.
maintaining deeper naval ties with the south-east
- Shared cultural and historical roots
Asian countries, the first and foremost is to
Steps Taken :-
establish regional peace and tranquillity as the

--India has been actively engaging with -First, the primary focus should be on the region‘s
ASEAN through the India-ASEAN Free Trade economic development. Prioritising a few projects
Agreement signed in 2009 and bilateral free in the northeast is not enough — the central
trade agreements. government should also boost the local economy
of these states by encouraging industrial growth
--Connectivity through the Northeastern
and creating a strong service sector by promoting
states became a priority for India‘s foreign
tourism in the region.
policy in 2003, providing a new dimension to
the Look East Policy (LEP). -Second, the government should focus on
developing its soft power regionally. For
--High priority is given to infrastructure
example, there should be greater investment in
development in the Five Year Plans, in form
sports and sports infrastructure, and the Indian
of nearly 50 per cent of its plan outlaying on
government should consider establishing sports
this sector.
tournaments between the north-eastern states and
--The connectivity within the NE is extremely Myanmar, and at some stage even other countries
poor. The presence of national highway is in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam and
quite negligible in most of the NE. The Centre Thailand. This would enhance people-to-people
has envisaged connecting the NE state contact and has the potential to increase the
capitals to the EW highway through the Seven influence and spread of India‘s soft power.
Sister‘s Corridor project. This will link the
-Third, the central government should consider
capitals of the seven states and the border
the views of state governments in the region in
points of Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar.
both economic and foreign policy issues.
Many Thai companies have shown interest in
This is particularly important in the context of
investing in this project. From the EW
trade with Myanmar and Bangladesh, as well as
Corridor, the road will extend to the Golden
infrastructure projects where any of the states of
Jubliee Rail link border point which will
the northeast is involved.
further connect Assam (Kokrajhar) with
Bhutan. This road will extend through A successful Look East policy will only be
Akhaura in Tripura to Ashuganj Port border
possible if New Delhi invests not just
point with Bangladesh. It will also link up
economically but also politically in India‘s north-
with the existing Moreh-Myanmar-Friendship
road and two other border points: first, eastern region
Zowkhathar in Mizoram and second,
Avakhung in Nagaland which again will
Q-What are the important areas of cooperation
extend to Myanmar.
between India and Indonesia? Examine the
--Connecting NE with Trans-Asian railways recent developments in these areas of
(TAR), the government this year ratified an
cooperation. (250 Words)
intergovernmental agreement on constructing
and upgrading a rail network connecting
India with China in the east and Europe in the India and Indonesia, apart from maritime
west. As part of this, there are plans to neighbours, are similar in many aspects and there
construct a 350 km rail track from Jiribam in is much scope of mutual assistance in wide areas.
Assam to Moreh in Manipur and further on to The list starts from Maritime Security and
Myanmar. Defence to Economy, Tourism and Counter-
--Other projects such as the Kaladan Multi- Terrorism. Though joint exercises and monitoring
Modal Transit Transport Project, which seeks has started from 2010, there is much scope and
to connect Kolkata with Sittwe port in reason to expand the relation.
Myanmar by sea
Both the countries are among world‘s largest
Suggestion: democracy , largest Muslim populations and
similar in terms of diversity, culture and

problems like maintaining balance between social attempted hegemony

justice and economic growth , communal 4. The fact that Singapore imports all essential
harmony, counter-terrorism, political items and India is the only reckonable naval
decentralisation etc. Indonesia has fared much power in Indian Ocean.
better in dealing with these problems and India
needs to take some insights from its neighbour. The nature of relation-ship:
On the Economic front, bilateral trade has grown, 1. Strategic: Singapore is by default on Indian
owing to large imports of Palm Oil and Coal by side(point 4 above). India will find Singapore‘s
India. Large Indian Diaspora in Indonesian cooperation helpful, if it needs to block Malacca
economy has been added by some recent strait in future.
investments from Indian businesses like Tata, 2. Economic: The BoP is positive in favour of India,
steel tycoons etc. Both countries should move thanks to our exports and expatriate remittance.
towards more intensive links through agreements 3. Cultural: Indian is second largest ethnicity there.
like CECA. Many ethnic-Indians in political leadership.
Defence ties have grown strong recently. Long 4. Political: Being a democracy, it has more affinity
awaited and much needed cooperation in the to India.
field of Naval exercises, Maritime security, 5. Irritants:
counter-terrorism( Indonesian Institutes are (i) Though not a tax-haven, Singapore doesn‘t look
among top regional training institutes) etc. at the source of FDI money flowing in, and is very
Similarly , in energy security, owing to large coal secretive about ownership details of companies.
imports and as a tactical partner in countering This has made it a hub in money-laundering.
China in South China sea, Indonesia can harness (ii) Singapore sometimes plays the ―China Card‖.
joint approach with India.
Apart from all these bilateral concerns, Indonesia Indian Contributions:
has been a supporter of India‘s engagement with 1. India is the major source of import for daily
other South East Asian countries through forums essentials.
like ASEAN. Both are members of G-20 and EAS, 2. Indian expats are a major source of skilled
hence, such common entities and areas , labour.
substantiate the areas of cooperation between 3. Indian friendliness is instills a sense of security,
India and Indonesia and the recent developments for the political leadership, business houses and
have added lubrication to the swift turnover in the people in general.
ties
Q-Write a note on security ties between India

Q-Examine the nature of bilateral relationship and Vietnam
between India and Singapore. Explain India‟s
contribution in Singapore‟s growth. India- Vietnam security ties are very important in
India-Singapore relations have always been the new millennium due to changing dynamics of
friendly. Because: Geopolitics in Asia-Pacific region. India should
1. A large proportion of ethnic Indians and Indian closely co-operate with Vietnam and South East
expatriates Asian countries for maintaining peace in the
2. Business ties especially Food articles from India. region as in time uncertain dynamic US-China
3. India‘s ―arms length‖ policy of not trying to
relationship and aggressiveness of china with its
overwhelm Singapore, in sharp contrast to China‘s neighbors.
India-Vietnam started actively developing their

defence ties when china objected to Vietnam
inviting India to explore oil in Phu kanh basin in
south china sea. India agreed to partner in areas of INDIA-EAST ASIA
submarine and fighter aircraft training and
transfer of medium-sized warships . India – Q-Compare and contrast India‟s relationship
Vietnam should also consider co-maintenance ,co- with North Korea and South Korea. (200 words)
development, co-production of defence
equipment. India is also willing to offer credit line Both North and South Korea form an Important
to Vietnam for purchasing defence equipment part of India‘s ―Look East Policy‖.
The relationship between India and South Korea
from India. On its part Vietnam signed G-4 graft
is rapidly progressing in recent years. South
resolution on reforms of UNSC and supported Korean companies like LG, Samsung and
India‘s candidature in expanded UNSC Hyundai are dominating India‘s consumer
market. In turn, they bring much needed
Q-Analyze India‟s defence and security technology transfer and employment.
relationship with Vietnam. (150 Words)
Answer) POSCO steel plant in Orissa has been dubbed as
largest Foreign Direct Investment project in India.
Also, recently there are talks of South Korean
Vietnam is important regional partner in South power company setting up a Nuclear power park
East Asia. India and Vietnam celebrated 2012 in India.
as the year of the friendship between two
nations,Because 2012 marked as a 40th The bilateral trade between both the countries is
anniversary of the establishments of full increasing with signing of a Comprehensive
diplomatic relations between India and Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Also,
Vietnam,20th anniversary between India and both countries are jointly working towards
ASEAN countries. India granting strategic maritime security, increasing defense ties,
partnership with this country in 2007. technological advancement and human resource
The formal structure of India and Vietnam development.
defense relationship is based on the protocolon
defense cooperation signed by India i In sharp contrast, India‘s relation with North
2000.India offered $100 millions credit to this Korea are focused only humanitarian aid &
country to purchase four patrol boats.Both human resource development assistance given by
enjoyed long strategic ties that include India. Also, there are some. Cultural, Sports and
cooperation in civil nuclear reactors and Educational exchanges between two countries.
military slots for Vietnamese officers and
frequent exchanges of visits. India- North Korea relations have been strained
due to its Nuclear missile development program.
Both countries established joint naval and However, India by and large views this issue only
coast guard exercises and training of pilots by bilaterally and not as a threat to regional or global
Indian Air Force.India has been providing security.
critical spares and ancillaries to vietnamese
ships, submarines and aircraft.Servicing and Also, North Korea‘s proximity to China and its
maintenance of military equipment. dictatorial rule are other reasons for limitations
For India‘s east looking policy Vietnam is very between two countries.
important country. It is also plays crucial role
in ASEAN summit and ASEM and East Asia Hence, India-South Korea ties are expanding into
summit.Vietnam gave a support for multidimensional, comprehensive and long term
permanent member in UNSC.
partnership. While India- North Korea relations Q-Should India be more assertive in the South
are stagnant from past few years. China Sea region? Substantiate. (200 Words)
Our history has a clear lesson,assertion and
Q-Examine the implications of deeper strategic antagonizing neighbour can never be
ties between India and Korea in the Asia-Pacific
constructive.Rising status of Asian giants (India-
region. (200 Words)
china) will obviously lead to direct/indirect
If we see the geographical position of India and
confrontation this calls for pragmatic approach.
South Korea, then one thing is nearly similar that
India has a big role to play in the sea lane of South China sea has gained importance because
commerce going from Atlantic to pacific through
for growing trade(ASEAN) potential energy
the Malacca strait and reverse flow. Same can be
said about the trade lanes of East China Sea resources,strategic importance and assertive
where South Korea has very close proximity. At foreign policy of China,all this has led to
this point China which is emerging a major maritime clashes with among littoral states of this
financial and military power has been sea.India which is seen as benign power unlike
aggressively been trying to control these trade China can play a major role in restoring peace.
routes through establishing territorial rights over
disputed islands in china sea and encircling the But few factors like lesser Military
India through the strings of pearls. So both capability,already border dispute in
countries are on the same plane regarding the
Arunachal,Aksaichin,huge trade dependence are
emerging dominance of china in the Asia-Pacific
enough to reshape our policy in south china sea.It
region.
should not be assertive in nature but at the same
Besides china being a nuclear armed state with a time,this should not be mistaken as weak nation
history of nuclear proliferating history with so New Delhi has to send clear,strong massage to
regards to North Korea and Pakistan. India and
Beijing in compliance with UNCLOS. India as a
South Korea are equally endangered by this.
potential UNSC permanent member should
In the field of trade India has a mammoth trade project and protect sovereign rights on small
deficit with china but when this is compared to nations in the region.
South Korea it is a very small amount. Besides
china‘s investment in Indian infrastructure has Platforms like ASEAN,SCO,EAS G20,BRICS are
been small, so this resulting in India losing in better place for India to present its view and
totality. But in the case of South Korea they are should act as a mediator on maritime disputes
highly interested in invested as they have done in
this will help to obtain long term solution,as in
the past for e.g. POSCO, Hyundai, and Samsung.
So this relation is important. the words of India prime minister ―world is big
enough for both (india/china) to grow together‖
There are also plans of setting up a Korean any wrong move can jeopardize International
Industrial Park in India. With POSCO already Peace.
given nod to go ahead with their proposed plant
in Odisha, the trade ties between both countries Q-“India and Japan share the goal of total
looks to grow stronger. India also took a elimination of nuclear weapons.” Looking at the
progressive step by proposing ―visa on arrival ‖
nuclear policies of both the governments, in
for Koreans to India.
your opinion, do you think both countries have
come closer to this goal? Comment. (200 Words)
1. After Pokhran-II nuclear tests in May

1998, Japan condemned India and
participated in the international sanctions

regime against it along with the United Historically Japan has never allied with India‘s
States and several other countries adversaries, neither did it conspire against it. The
2. Japan do not possess nuclear weapons, trade between both countries were stalled due to
and use nuclear energy for peaceful India‘s reluctance in opening market. Japan can‘t
purposes. It has a well developed atomic be blamed to pursue self interest. Mutual benefit
power sector that cater to the domestic and equal share in cooperation has fueled Indo-
uses of Japan. The Japanese technology is Japan relations, though it can not be denied that
used by nuclear reactors worldwide. china was not playing in their minds.
3. Japan never tried to use nuclear energy for
destructive purposes and opposed the
same.
Although India possess nuclear weapons,
they are mainly due to geo-strategic Q-What implications does China‟s Air Defence
complications. They are for defensive Identification Zone (ADIZ) have on India?
purposes and India always had a no-first Comment. (200 Words)
use policy regarding the use of nuclear 1. China‘s air defence identification zone
weapons (ADIZ) in the East China Sea has raised
protests from several neighbouring
Q - “China is the unwitting cupid that has countries such as Japan, South Korea and
brought about the India-Japan honeymoon.” Do Taiwan. China‘s move has significant
you agree with the statement? Comment. (200 foreign policy implications for India.
Words)
Answer - The recent geo-political phenomena in 2. China‘s unilateral action in establishing an
east of the globe draws very interesting and ADIZ in a territory where sovereignty is
intriguing political and diplomatic equations. disputed – as Japan also claims
Simplistic in the outlook, but quite coincidental in sovereignty over Senkaku/Diayou islands
the change of events. India, China and Japan are – indicates that China is following an
amidst a triangular war of cooperations and aggressive and confrontationist policy
negotiations, all on the grounds of development with respect to territorial disputes.
and growth.
3. This is evident from the fact that in an
China, as an international player, has always been ADIZ, the country establishing such ADIZ
an hostile and aggressive negotiator and only has the right to observe commercial
neighbour. It claims territory from west of India or militant aircraft flying towards its
to east of Vietnam and most of the China sea. The mainland and requires such aircraft to file
confrontation over Senakaku-Diyaoyu islands is its flight plans before hand. However,
quite similar to China‘s stand on Arunachal China has threatened that it would be
Pradesh. forced to take immediate defensive
In such scenario, the theory of common enemy measures in respect of the aircraft that fail
making two countries natural allies does not seem to file their flight plans with Chinese
misplaced. Recent bilateral diplomatic visits from authorities.
both sides gives a testimony to the fact. But India has land disputes and boundary disputes
crediting China for increased intimacy between with China not only in the Ladakh region but also
India and Japap holds some merit, not all. in the Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim region.

Recently, China refused to grant visas to two in developing a strong manufacturing sector
archers from Arunachal Pradesh who wanted to in India too.
fly to Beijing for a world championship and only
3. Both countries have ‗Comprehensive
granted them stapled visas.
Economic Partnership Agreement‘ in place
Earlier in 2013, Chinese troops crossed into the but potential remains largely unutilised.
Indian territory in the Daulat Old Begi sector and There are plans to enter in a Nuclear treaty
started construction activity. These incidents for Civil Usage, but there have been no
show that China has followed aggressive progress given Japan‘s introspection on the
postures even with respect to its border disputes nuclear energy after Fukushima Disaster .
with India. India and China signed a Border Further Japan offered its Amphibian planes
Dispute Agreement (BDA) earlier in the year. exclusively to India, but India remains
However, the BDA only preserves the status quo undecided
with respect to border disputes and it cannot be Japan is already investing heavily in improving
ruled out that China may establish an ADIZ infrastructure facilities in India, the example of
around the Ladakh region or the Arunachal which is evident in Dedicated Western Freight
Pradesh area.
Corridor and Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor
along with the Bangalore Metro.
All these facts suggest that there is a lot more

Q-“The healthy state of India-Japan relations is
best seen in its own terms rather than as a result common in India and Japan other than their
of a shared wariness of China.” Do you agree shared wariness of China and both are really
with the statement? Justify. (200 Words) embracing each other for their common good.
Ans.
1. India and Japan share historical ties with each Q- Do you think India and Japan are Asia‟s
other. Both the countries share a similar natural-born allies? Critically analyze the
culture, with Buddhism having its roots in the evolving relationship between India and Japan
Indian Subcontinent. Both the countries are in trade and strategic affairs. (250 Words)
peace loving and have contributed Answer)
significantly in promoting the world peace. Japan and India are Asia‘s natural-born allies.
This makes them natural friends. Any relationship is natural when it makes each
actor more complete with that relationship than
2. On economic terms, both the countries are without it. When actors posses complementary
ideal partners. While Japan both has capital ―jaws of needs‖ which fit into each other, then
and technology but an aging population, such interaction can have the potential to be
called natural. Just as a woman and a man
India has a young and dynamic population
relationship.
and a huge domestic market. Already
Japanese companies such as Honda, Toyota & So the one way to justify would be to bring out
those complementary jaws :
Suzuki have made significant investments in
India and established India as an export hub 1. Historio-cultural Jaws – Japan needed a
religious superstar and a civilizational leader,
for their cars. Also Japan has a highly
Siddhartha Gautam of India just did that and
developed manufacturing sector and can help Japanese people embraced him with their
religious arms wide open since almost 6th

century A.D. The recent phenomena of higher volume of trade with China that India has
Bollywood films in particular getting popular in with China. It is only carefully navigating one‘s
Japan should be seen as an another teeth in this way through a web of what some call ―complex
Jaw. interdependence‖ we can assert our interests
more pragmatically.
2. Economic and Trade Jaws – India‘s young
population as an ongoing demographic dividend None the less, the euphoria of Japan‘s India
and Japan‘s old-age population woes fits with moment is captured by the high hopes on both
each other perfectly well. Another is the capital sides of the functional liberal-democracies of
deficient and tech-hungry India and staring
Asia. And in one utterance of Japanese Prime
toward a safe-investment-sites seeking and tech-
Minister Shinzo Abe, as in, ―India-Japan ties can
rich Japan. India‘s needs of $1 trillion for putting
solid infrastructure in next 5 years, and Japan‘s outpace any other relationships Japan had, even
successful furnishing of DMIC is one example of the US-Japan ties‖.
the later Jaw.
Q-Is it in India‟s interest to forge deeper
3. Security, Geopolitical and Geo-strategic Jaws –
relationship with Japan and Korea to counter
The assertive behavior of China in almost all of
China? Critically comment. (200 Words)
it‘s ―periphery‖, be it ESC or SCC or Himalayan
border with India is making the peripheries
worried about what a next-superpower China is Not to counter but develop complimentary
going to do with it‘s power. Going to bully her relationship…..
neighbors or gonna be a pain in the ass for them ?
Only Japan and India are major-powers in this Robust engagement with Japan and South Korea is
periphery of rising and increasingly assertive
in line with the ‗extended neighbourhood‘ strategy
China. Aligning with each other to check China
may not be such a hard-to-dawn idea on both the of India‘s Look East Policy. Even though,
Japanese as well as Indian strategic managers. countering China is not an explicit objective, it
Another of a fitting-jaw. Not to mention the comes as an implicit advantage of fostering these
similar convergence in the region of Indian relationships.
Ocean, wait, India‘s Ocean.
All in all this ―engagement‖ may turn into a Rising power of China and its assertiveness in
happy, secure and prosperous marriage. Asia Pacific region is looked upon with suspicion
But one major problem in this another of the by the world. India and Japan along with US can
defining engagement (the other being with the play a major role in rebalancing the skewed power
US) is the domestic affairs and developments in relations in the region. It is due to this fact that
India. If India does not prepare the ground well China views these developments with caution.
for her guests in terms of having a transparent While it is important for India to check the
administration, investment-friendly climate and
expansionist tendency of China, engaging with
secure homeland than it may not bear much
fruits. Japanese or for that matter any of that other countries only with a view to counter China
other natural-allies of India are not coming to is not the right approach. It is in india‘s interest to
India to rescue her from her material-woes, but acknowledge and benefit from China‘s
with their own national interests. International advancements in economic front rather than
politics has always been a business based on the perceiving China only as a threat.
principle of ―quid pro quo‖, and this must always
Deeper relations with Japan and South Korea
be kept in mind before shouting the chants of
would certainly act as a deterrant in the possible
―strategic partnerships or natural allies‖. For
example we also like to call Israel our natural ally, rise of a 1962 war like situation. But it is important
but same Israel sells high-tech defense products to limit engagements to economic and strategic
to China as well. The same Japan has 4-5 time partnerships and not extend it to East China sea

disputes. Balancing deeper engagements with the countries. Thus it can be expected that the
Japan and Korea in such a way not to endanger bond between both the nations will only move in
India‘s relation with China is the need of the hour. an upward trajectory in time to come.
Q-Critically analyse the nature of bilateral Q-Write a note on the defense cooperation
relationship between India and Japan. between India and japan. Do you think it is in
India‘s relation with Japan took off only after the India‟s interest to forge stronger strategic ties
economic liberalization of India in 1991 and end of with Japan? Comment. (200 Words)
the cold war. From then the relationship is moving
in a forward direction, and has exceptionally The Indo-Japanese Military exercise this year has
improved after the election of Abe. A perceived been marked as a high point of defense exchanges
aggression of China, and steps taken by Japan to this year, as it is designated by both the countries
amend its pacifist constitution has given further as a year of friendship and cooperation. India and
impetus to the relationship. japan has been touted as natural allies as many of
Economically Japan‘s contribution in India‘s their strategic interests are common. Indo-
economy can be summed up as follows: Japanese security accord of 2008 stands as a
1. Official development aid testimony of the amount of trust shared. Notable,
2. Japan is helping India in building Delhi Mumbai after relaxing arms export norm of 1967, Japan has
Industrial Corridor always been liberal in selling defense technologies
3. FDI inflows from Japan via companies like to India.
Maruti, Honda etc. Yes, it is in India‘s interest to forge stronger
4. Further an aging population of Japan, and the strategic ties with Japan. Notable issues bolstering
present demographic dividend of India presents this notion are:
an opportunity for Indians to work in Japan. - India‘s need for supremacy in Indian Ocean
5. Japan‘s investment in reviving the Nalanda Region to protect its economic interest
university. - India‘s presence in Indo-Pacific arena is to be
Apart from economic cooperation, in the backdrop made stronger in view of India becoming a global
of Chinese aggression, strategic cooperation power
between both the nation is also increasing. It can - Co-operation between Indo-Japanese navies to
be guesses by the use of phrases like ‗confluence of curb pirates menace
pacific‘ and ‗alliance of democracy‘ by the leaders - To check china‘s growing clout (pearl of strings)
of both the nations. in IOR
But the whole picture is not honky dory, there - Felicitate technology transfer (both military as
remains following issues: well as civilian) between India and Japan. India
1. India‘s involvement in the politics of the region would be the natural beneficiary of this as Japan is
is well below the Japan‘s expectation or want. This more technologically advanced nation.
is because India‘s strategic compulsions with - More robust economic ties with Japan will give
regard to China. better market opportunity for our Industries.
2. India is not a signatory of CTBT and NPT. And
thus it can‘t get any Japanese help in developing
its civil nuclear infrastructure.
But these issue are not insolvable or in any way
have any negative effect on the friendship of both

Q-Critically comment on the Japan‟s „the Arc of energy supply. India and Japan, as two energy
Freedom and Prosperity‟ strategy and its poor countries, are heavily reliant on imports from
implications on India-Japan relations. (200 the unstable Persian gulf. It has strategic and trade
Words) implications not only for Asian countries but for
world as a whole and ensuring peace and
‗Value oriented diplomacy‘ and ‗The Arc of prosperity is in interest of all.
Freedom and Prosperity‘ are the new bases for
Japan‘s foreign policy. While the former aims to Consolidating and strengthening of strategic and
strengthen the universal values- democracy, global partnership in the defense arena through
freedom, rule of law, human rights and market measures ranging from regular joint combat
economy in the world the latter aims at exercises and military exchanges to cooperation in
establishing ‗The Arc of Freedom and Prosperity‘ anti-piracy, maritime security and counter-
in the outer rim Eurasian countries that are terrorism will help in bringing peace in the region.
‗budding democracies‘. The policy will enhancing The Malacca Strait, is a lifeline for not just India
Japan‘s ties with EU and promoting peace and but also the rest of the world for the trade in East
security in the region. Asia region. Vessels carrying one-quarter of the
It is also considered as a policy aimed at world‘s traded goods pass through the Strait each
containing China. year. Piracy has been a menace for years and Indo-
Japan maritime co-operating can help in bringing
It believes that economic prosperity and it down.
democracy leads to peace and happiness
Therefore it is no surprise that such a stance would The measures like the recent unilateral declaration
improve Indo-japan relation as India too advocates of ADIZ by China in the East China sea or North
for world peace. Especially it would improve the Korea‘s nuclear threat to South Korea can disturb
people to people interaction the peace in the region. Which can adversely affect
the economies of the region.
India and japan could also co-operate in indo
pacific region- disaster management, In the present day changing geo-political
environmental issues, human security and equations, with China rising as a regional
information sharing – indicate the sort of work hegemon, the Indo-Japan ties can balance the
Japan and India could collaborate on, helping to power in the Asia-Pacific region and deter China
create real security and prosperity in the region. from turning into an expansionist power.
In conclusion building a trust would not only
benefit trade and investment in both the countries
it would also set an example for the rest of the Q- “The India-Japan partnership is yet to move
world about what peace could bring. beyond the economic to the strategic.” Analyze.
(200 Words)The Indian Express
Q-Examine how India and Japan, as leading
“maritime democracies”, can play a decisive role India and Japan has been historically very friendly
in promoting peace and prosperity in the „Indo- with each other. India had supported the post
Pacific‟ Region?. (200 Words) world war Japan. The contribution of Japan starts
with granting India the first recipient of Japanese
The Indo-Pacific region, is not only the confluence Official Development Assistance (ODA) in the
of two oceans, but the hub of global trade and

year 1957.This was followed by investment both Closer commercial and strategic ties between both
through monetary fund and technological inputs. countries would send warning signals to China on
Delhi metro and development of DMIC. The the economic and geopolitical front and also
economic tie has been growing but this has not would be a breather to countries such as Vietnam,
metamorphosed into strategic ties . Philippines and Korea which have been hounded
This strategic development can take place we by China‘s aggressive territorial expansion
come closer in those fields such as high strategies in the East and South China sea.
technology, civil nuclear energy, defence and
maritime ties. We can take the example of India- Q-“Between India and Japan, the strategic
Japan rare earths agreement of 2012 which was a component of the relationship has increased
product of China‘s aggressive action of not selling dramatically over the last four years.” Examine.
rare earth to Japan but India missed the bus by (200 Words)
delaying the finalization of sale.
Why we need such a strategic relation, the answer India and Japan share cordial relations in many
lies with China‘s aggressive territorial infiltrations, spheres of mutual beneficial affairs. The trade
the near monopoly of P5 in UNSC and lastly for relationship with Japan significantly contributes to
the sake of both countries with polar opposite the development of the country. The large
demography. We need more deeper relations. infrastructure projects in India such Delhi-Mumbai
Industrial corridor; Delhi Metro etc are testimony
Although India and Japan are strongly bound on to this relation.
the economic front but the bilateral relations on However, in recent times the relationship has been
certain strategic issues still need to be furthered to include many strategic aspects of both
strengthened citing certain geopolitical the countries. The strategic components mainly
developments that have taken place in the Asia- include the deals in security and cooperation
Pacific regions in recent times. between the governments on several relevant
Due to Japan‘s alienation from China on certain matters. Besides the regular meeting of officials on
issues of mutual trade, territorial disputes and so annual basis there have been consensus on
on, it would be looking towards India, which is a multilayer strategic dialog involving the defence
formidable force in this region, for better strategic ministers and foreign & defence secretaries have
relations. been approved. The meetings on maritime security
However, oflate delay in carrying out deals such are another milestone perceived to further deepen
as sale of rare earth metals to Japan, Japan‘s offer the relations.
of US2i amphibious aircraft to India which is still The recent decision to hold regular consultations
in negotiation stage after such a long time has between the head of National Security council of
hampered the progress on the strategic front Japan and the National Security Advisor of India
between both nation. In short, there are a lot of is another significant step. The joint maritime
spheres such as high technology, civil nuclear exercise in Chennai in 2013 along with India‘s
energy, defence and many others where India and ongoing negotiations with Japan for buying the
Japan need to build and develop goodwill and amphibious aircraft, Utility seaplane -2 ensures the
commercial relations and that too in a very swift deepening strategic relationship.
manner. They would be profitable to both India and Japan may positively contribute in the
countries. prosperity and security of each other. However,
this relationship should be based upon strong

fundamentals and not only upon their common relationship with India because of following
wariness with China or anyone else. reasons:
(a) Economic: Japan economy has stagnated past
the dawn of 2st century. With CEPA in place Japan
Japan has traditionally occupied a centre stage is exploring new avenue to increase trade in the
position in India‘s Look East Policy. 2nd largest global market. Japanese garment gaint
To improve the bilateral strategic relations, both Uniqulo‘s intrest is case to the point.
nations have undertaken quite a few big steps (b) Strategic: Rise of assertive China and its
such as multi-layered strategic dialogues at the ongoing dispute with Japan over Senkaku is. has
levels of the Defence Ministers, 2+2 among the made it imperative for Japan to collaborate with
Foreign and Defence Secretaries, on maritime Indian Navy in maritime exercise. Recent revision
security, a trilateral between India, Japan and US of Japanese constitution, absence of any MoU with
and so on. India is in the process of buying the India on defence and huge Indian defence market
aircraft Utility Seaplane-2 used by the Japanese especially for Japanese US-2 amphibious aircraft
Navy. etc all demands deeper defence cooperation.
On the defence side the navies of both countries (c) Geo political: Japan joins India‘s desire to
undertook joint naval exercise off Chennai in 2013. reform UNSC and is a contestant for permanent
On the economic side Japan has funded India‘s membership to UNSC. Climate change talks,
infrastructural development by funding the Delhi- emerging status of BRICS etc are among multiple
Mumbai Industrial corridor and seeks to fund the fields for convergence of intrest and collaboration.
Chennai –Bangalore belt. Both countries (d) Emerging fields: With covert global recognition
implemented a Comprehensive Free Trade of India‘s nuclear status Japan Nuclear deal with
Agreement in 2011. India will save its dying nuclear industry after
Discussion are on for signing a civil nuclear deal Fukushima disaster. Carbon offset deal to install
between the two. carbon cutting technology in India to earn carbon
Bilateral trade between the two countries is still credits also open a new avenue for collaboration.
very low. It is around 1% of Japan‘s total trade (e) Preservation of existing market: India has
while around 2.5% of India‘s total trade. This is always assigned special status to Japan. Only
one issue that needs to be focused on. The country specific SEZ at Neemrana in Rajasthan is
problems created by China are plaguing both just a hint to this. Besides this, Suzuki, Honda,
countries. In order to contain the unreasonable Toyota have a flourishing market in India.
influence exerted by China over Asia in various All these consideration calls for enhanced
matter related territory, trade and defence, and to relationship by exploring new depths in existing
maintain peace in the continent, both India and areas and opening up in new areas to evovle as a
Japan need to forge even more closer ties with global force to reckon with.
each other on various fronts.
Q-Critically comment why Japan is keen to have

a deeper strategic relationship with India. Q-“To India‟s national security interests, Japan
is irreplaceably valuable.” Comment. (200
India-Japan bilateral relationship is a relationship Words)
between Asia‘s largest and Asia‘s richest
democracy. With growing clout of India in global India and Japan have shared strong relationship
arena Japan has been more keen to strengthen since the end of world war 2. During the cold war,

the relationship saw some strain. But during the This is a market-manipulation practice used to
last decade, there has been a thaw in relationship. misrepresent the number of transactions occurring
With rising of the dragon, and its constant raiding on any given day.
of our borders, it is imperative for India to
strengthen its base on the international podium. Round-trip trading artificially inflates volume and
With increasing China-Russia relationship, we revenues, but in reality adds no profit. Enron was
need to forge a strong relationship with Japan to a company that engaged in round-trip trading,
counter the Asian dragon. and, by doing so, was able to increase revenues
Japan with its highly developed technology, can be (and expenses) without changing its net income.
an important asset for us. It is aggressively looking
to build strong ties with India. Recent strides in ROUND TRIPPING
nuclear deal and agressively pursuing to sell Round tripping involves getting the money out of
amphibious aircraft US2i bode well for our long one country, say India, sending it to a place like
term strategic relationship. Mauritius and then, dressed up to look like foreign
The recent overtures of China in the South China capital, sending it back home to earn tax-favored
sea, setting up ADIZ, spats about islands, profits.
incursion in Arunachal Pradesh, increasing ties The problem for the home country is that native
with Russia, Nepal and other asian countries are profits escape taxation this way. And instead of
proof of aggressive nature of China. India needs to foreign capital flowing into the country, local
keep its sovereignty on the high agenda. Japan can capital just gets a free ride.
be a natural ally to counter Chinese overtures.
A strong relationship with Japan will go a long Round tripping is a type of financial transaction
way in increasing our influence in the region and practice resorted by companies wherein one
will help command respect with our neighbouring company sells its unused assets to another
countries. company at the same time buying back the same
or similar assets at about the same price. The
strategy is used to increase the apparent amount of
INDIA-AFRICA
revenue and sales that have been made during a
specific period of time.
Critically comment on India‟s diplomatic
This practice is used by companies to evade taxes
policies towards West Asian and North African
and money laundering.
region.
Mauritius is culturally and ethnically very much
Need to engage more...as our interest are huge---- similar to India. 70% of its population is of Indian
- origin. Economic and trade relations between the
Diaspora--remittances two countries have been on an increase. India has
Energy security become the largest source of imports to Mauritius
Exports since 2007. Whereas Mauritius is the largest source
Strategic
of FDI for India. India‘s exports to Mauritius
Q-What is round-tripping? Analyze the trade comprise mainly of petroleum exports. Around
relations between India and Mauritius. (200 40% of India‘s FII investment comes from
Words) Mauritius.
However there have been a number of cases of tax
evasion by entities investing in India through
Mauritius.

investments and FDI inflows to India. India

• Round tripping is a market-manipulation should make use of largest Indian diaspora in
practice of selling an unused asset to another Mauritius and its strategic location through
company while agreeing to buy back the same suitable policy options and address the trade
asset for about the same price. It is commonly seen barriers such as maritime piracy to increase
in the energy and telecom business; include trading potentials between two countries
commissions, exchange, market impact costs and
taxes.
Q-Critically examine the overall policy of India
They played a crucial part in temporarily inflating
towards African nations. Do you think India‟s
the market capitalization
policy towards Africa needs review? Comment
why.
• Round-trip trading artificially inflates volume
and revenues, but in reality adds no profit.
India‘s policy towards Africa was based on the trinity
In international scenarios, round tripping is used
of: Cluster approach, Homogenity of policies, Delayed
for tax evasion and money laundering. Mainly the
response.
companies of tax heaven countries such as
Mauritius, Switzerland, Monaco etc involves in
CLUSTER APPROACH
round-tripping.
• India is Mauritius‘ largest trading partner and
India‘s engagement with Africa always suffered
has been the largest exporter of goods and services
from the perception of Africa as a homogenous
to Mauritius since 2007. Trade between both
landmass. Whether it was ―Focus Africa‖
countries stood at $ 1.5 billion and India‘s exports
programme, LDC engagements, C-4 or our
to Mauritius comprise largely of petroleum
economic relations with SACU, India has always
products, pharmaceuticals, cereals, cotton,
preffered to engage with groups rather than
electrical machinery and clothing accessories.
specific countries.
Mauritius‘ exports to India include iron and steel,
pearls, precious stones and precision instruments.
HOMOGENITY OF POLICIES
Mauritius accounts for 38% of total FDI inflows to
India, making Mauritius the single largest FDI
India always offer same set concessions to
source for India during 2012-13.
different African countries. Grant of Duty free
• The wide range of bilateral agreements
quota free market access to LDC, its Technical
including Double Taxation Avoidance
assistance programme or the latest India-Africa
Convention, Bilateral Investment Promotion and
forum summit, the policies lacked precision to
Protection, Exchange of Finance Intelligence
please different African countries.
Related to Money Laundering; and policies
adapted by Mauritius govt such as joint ventures,
DELAYED RESPONSE
Identifying key areas of investment
(Manufacturing, Financial services, Tourism),
Policy paralysis and reckless decision making has
Arrest illegal trade are the main reasons for this
emerged as a new democratic curse in India‘s
growth in FDI and trade.
coalition politics. Africa too is not alien to this
Recently the trade between two countries showing
curse.
declining trend because of China‘s dominance in
―SCRAMBLE FOR ARFICA‖ that has just began
the Island country. The extension of GAAR
with China and America ferociously fighting for
implementation is a good sign to promote both
their pie leaves no room for complacency for India.

India needs a SWOT ANALYSIS and a policy INDIA-AUSTRALIA

review of its African policies as both challenges Q-Nuclear cooperation between India and
and opportunities offered in Africa are enormous. Australia – important issues (150 Words)
Answer:
Challenges Nuclear cooperation between India and Australia,
was pushed by Australian PM John Howard in
(a) America‘s reorientation of African policies in 2007, in contrary to Australia‘s policy of non-
Washington summit has increased the competetion. export to non-NPT signed countries. The policy
(b) China‘s extension of soft loan for infrastructure was reversed and re-reversed by the successive
increases it foot prints in Africa. PMs. Last year‘s visit of Australian PM Julia
(c)India‘s fiscal position leaves less room for such soft Gillard, was the breakthrough in dialogue for
loans. civil nuclear partnership. The new Labour
(d) The security challenges in Indian ocean attentuates government headed by Tony Abott, has been
with Chinese presence in Africa. more active in promoting nuclear ties between
(e) Increased competetion for Indian industries in Australia and India.
Africa especially in telecomm, medical care, The main nuclear cooperation, revolves around
pharmaceuticals etc export of Uranium by Australia to India, which
Australia has refrained from, sighting potent
proliferation threats by India. Australia‘s
Opportunities suggestion of bridging in three way cooperation
among US-India-Australia was rejected by India.
Africa‘s natural bounties, acute infrastructure deficit, Since then the speed has invigorated in the
high population growth etc offers multiple encapsulation of a deal, which is most likely to
opportunities which are: come up in next few rounds of bi-lateral meets.
(a) Vast streches of virgin agricultural land can be Indian PM will also discuss some of these issues
secured for contract farming to attain future food on the sidelines of India-ASEAN summit, with
security. Australian PM Tony Abott
(b) Tropical location offer solar electricity potential.
Q-Write a note on trade relationship between
(c) Mahatma Ghandi‘s historic struggle in S Africa and
India and Australia. (150 Words)
India‘s diaspora offers nodes of influence in entire
Answer)
African continent.
(d) Infrastructure developed by China and USA can be Bilateral relationship between Australia and India
dates back to the late 18th century and early 19th
utilised to secure energy security.
century, when coal from Sydney and horses from
(e) Warm diplomatic relation with African nations will
New South Wales were exported to India.
provide strength to India‘s climate change
Australia is India‘s eighth largest trading partner
negotiations as we share same concerns.
and India is Australia's fifth largest. India‘s
(f) African platform can be used to enhance global
ranking among Australia‘s export destinations
partnership with USA and China along with other has risen from twelfth to fourth in the period
European nations. 2003-04 to 2009-10.
India should vehemently persue an African Main Australian service exports to India are
policy based more on mutual needs rather than education, education-related travel and tourism.
competing unmindfully. In the African party, that But India Australia relationships has diversified,
now India sends the largest number of skilled
has just began, we should not fall out of the line.
migrant to Australia.

For India, Australia is an important source of consequences of this decision on the stakeholders
India‘s gold, chickpea, coal, copper ores, lead and have to assessed before making a call on this
wool requirements, as well as a significant source demand.
of education and skills based training, and a
collaboration partner in research and innovation The second issue which acts as a barrier is that
including in the automotive, manufacturing and Philippines has apprehensions that the Indian IT
agricultural sectors and reliable partner in & ITES sector might pose a greater threat to it
uranium supply. growing call centre market. India posses a strong
and growing IT sector makes Philippines of the
Australia‘s abundance of natural resources, its
view that FTA would decrease its
economic and political stability, have contributed
competitiveness in the global arena.
to a number of major Indian investments in coal,
gas, minerals, and agricultural production to the
To garner the benefits, well negotiated talks and
tune of Rs.50,000 crore.
removal of apprehensions without compromising
Whereas Australia‘s presence in India can be seen on the federal structure should be formulated.
in Hearing implant system, Biofuels projects,
engineering services company and joint venture While Thailand and Indonesia are demanding
like Woolworths with Tata Group. unconditional access to India's multi-brand
With bright trade prospects India is negotiating retail trading segment, the Philippines appears to
be scared of India's information technology (IT)
with Australia Comprehensive Economic
sector.
Cooperation Agreement (CECA) covering trade
in goods, services, investment and related issues. Indonesia and Thailand have categorically told
India they will not ratify the deal, unless the
GROUPINGS INVOVLING INDIA "federal nature of theFDI (foreign direct
investment) policy in multi-brand retail" is
relaxed. They are particularly annoyed that it is a
Q. Examine the contentious issues between state-enabling policy, which means a final call on
India and ASEAN in finalising Free Trade whether or not to allow a foreign retailer to set up
Agreement between them in services. hypermarkets or chains is to be taken by state
Answer- governments.
After operationalising the Free Trade Agreement condition that their retail chains are allowed to set
(FTA) in goods in 2011, both India and ASEAN up shops "anywhere and everywhere".
have been working on finalising the FTA in
services. The pact was likely to be signed in 9th Q-Examine the status of Regional
ministerial conference at Bali, but few issues have Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
posed as hurdle in finalising the FTA. Thailand,
of India with ASEAN countries and the India-
Indonesia and Philippines who are members of
European Union (EU) trade agreements.
ASEAN are yet to ratify the deal.
Thailand and Indonesia are demanding

 India is negotiating several free trade
unconditional access to the India‘s multi -brand
agreements (FTAs) such as the India-EU
retail trading segment. They want the federal
FTA and the Regional Comprehensive
nature of the FDI in multi brand retail to be
Economic Partnership (RCEP) with the 10-
relaxed. Currently, 51% FDI in multi brand retail
member ASEAN group, Australia, China,
has been allowed and states have final say in
Japan, Korea and New Zealand.
allowing a foreign retailer in setting up hyper
markets. Looking at federal structure in India it
seems to be a difficult task, specially with strong
opposition sentiments. In addition to it, the

Regional Comprehensive Economic enacted as shallow frameworks with limited

Partnership (RCEP)- coverage and insignificant benefits. And India
would continue to consolidate its global image as
It is a FTA scheme of the 10 ASEAN Member a difficult and obstructive trade partner.
States + 6 FTA Partners (Australia, China, India,
RECP would increase the economic integration
Japan, Korea and New Zealand), taking over
movements and efforts in the East Asia Free between Asian countries , which are not a part of
Trade Agreement (EAFTA) and the the TPP and TIPP. The partnership would
Comprehensive Economic Partnership in East provide impetus to India`s look east policy.
Asia (CEPEA) initiatives. Negotiations are
slated to begin in early 2013 and are expected to
conclude by the end of 2015.
The objective of launching RCEP negotiations is Q-Explain the different types of Trade
to achieve a modern, comprehensive, high- Agreements and differences between them.
quality and mutually beneficial economic Examine the status of India‟s trade agreement
partnership agreement that will cover trade in with the ASEAN group.
goods, trade in services, investment, economic Trade agreements are contracts of commerce that
and technical cooperation, intellectual enable mutual benefits to signing parties in the
property, competition, dispute settlement and
form of quantitative and tariff relaxations.
other issues.
The grouping includes more than 3 billion Globalisation and Neo-Regionalism have given
people, has a combined GDP of about $17 spurt to trade agreements among countries.
trillion, and accounts for about 40 percent of
world trade. It will beneficial for the region in TYPES AND DIFFERENCES OF TRADE
the wake of establishment of Trans-Pacific AGGREMENTS
Partnership Agreement (TPP).
Trade agreements follow a sequential evolution
India-EU FTA -
starting from PTA and culminating at Economic
Despite being discussed for seven years, it could
Union. The sequential order and subtle differences
not be finalized due to a lack of consensus on
are enumerated below:
some key issues.
The EU has been demanding greater relaxation of
(a) PTA: A preferential trade agreement allows
foreign investment ceilings in insurance and
reduction in internal custom duties among signing
banking, stronger protection of IPR, the opening
countries while custom duties with non PTA
up of public procurement markets, and lower
countries remain unchanged.
import duties on passenger cars.
(b) FTA: A free trade agreement abolishes most of
India wants greater access for pharmaceuticals
the tariffs allowing free trade between member
market and liberal visa norms. Satisfying some of
countries, which is an improvement over PTA‘s
the EU‘s demands would require changing
partial relaxation.
domestic policy regulations in banking,
(c) Common Union agreement (CUA): Apart from
insurance, intellectual property and public
zero duty on internal trade of two member
procurement. Unless these regulations change,
countries it opt a uniform tariff rate for
the FTA is unlikely to move.
nonmember countries. This prevents any round
The trade policy cannot be exclusive of domestic
tripping and tax arbitrage that takes place in FTA.
policy. Both India and its negotiating partners
(d) Common market agreement (CMA): In
should do proper homework for such talks
addition to CUA benefits CMA allows free
otherwise FTAs would be either stalled or
movement of factor services.

(e) CEPA: It contains various benefits of PTA, FTA, effective counter terrorism operations etc.
CUA and CMA together with an agreement to 2)Development of states on eastern cost of India (
gradually liberate factor services. economic development through export …)
(f) CEC&PA: It further improves CEPA by adding 3)Investment by Asian countries in Indian
an agreement to collectively bargain in infrastructure
international forum. 4)export of Indian services to ASEAN. ( in the less
(g) Economic Union: The only existing economic developed ASEAN countries there is immense
union i.e. EU allows, apart from CMA benefits, scope of service delivery though Tele-medicine
homogenization of economic policies. Thus, a ,Tele-education ,Digital Connectivity which India
border free common market evolves with free is strong in)
movement of goods but its fallout is contagious 5) Help in securing permanent seat in UNSC ,
effect of economic crises as happening in EU. becoming global world power
6) supports for India on various issues of
India presently has a trade in goods agreement reforming multinational organizations, issues of
with ASEAN termed as ―India-ASEAN CECA‖. It climate change etc.
was further decided to extend this FTA to services Benefits to ASEAN–
and investments to automatically transform it into 1) Export of raw material.
a CEPA. But the FTA has not accrued desired 2) Better development of service sector
benefits as exports from India to ASEAN is still 3) Countering Chinese dominance.
lagging. Secondly, it has resulted in negative duty 4) Opportunity to invest in other countries.
structure as revealed by a latest report on FTA.
Thus, while Philippines has not ratified this FTA However the relationship between India and
enthusiasm of other ASEAN countries is gradually Asian should be built on the basic tenents of
waning. So India has decided to withhold its mutual development .Issues such as service sector
extension to services and investment to transform FTA with Indonesia, Philippines, and India some
FTA to CECA till the matter is contemplated for all sector concerns should be dealt in a holistic
its pros and cons. The logic is to prevent any manner
negative duty structure and also to consolidate the
Q-Discuss the importance of India – ASEM
existing FTA by increasing India‘s exports to
cooperation to India. Examine if the present
ASEAN
level of cooperation should be enhanced for
Q-If India‟s services and investment trade pact tangible outcome. (200 Words)
with Association of Southeast Asian Nations Answer)
(ASEAN) becomes reality, who benefits and
why? Examine. ASEM is a forum for political dialogue.The
The 10 members ASEAN and India share an importance of India-ASEM cooperation are:
ancient and deep economic, cultural and societal
ties which in contemporary times has received a 1.It gives a great opportunity for India to engage
greater thrust by India‘s ‗Look East‘ policy and the with the countries of Europe and Asia.
2.India can achieve a political consensus to its
reciprocation of the same from the ASEAN
land dispute with China and Pakistan.
member countries.
3.The forum can be seen as a link between west
and East.India being the largest democracy can
Advantages India will have from ASEAN- lead this cooperation.Thus taking the leadership
1)North east region development and connectivity role.
,Manipur development as medical tourist spot, 4.India can utilize this forum to assert its
permanent membership in UNSC. The decision of Newdelhi, if taken, to not attend

5.The Indian principles democracy will have a
the CHOGM to be held in Colombo might
great reach.
appease the Tamil Nadu governement. This may
In today‘s context the strategic importance of be attributed to the dynamics of a coalition
Asia-Europe is relevant and evident.Forum must
government. But it does not bode well with the
be taken beyond the
political dialogue.Through the political Tamil minority present in Srilanka as well as the
discussions new ways must be found to use the International parties.
existing synergies within the ASEM.
Asia has vast emerging market and human Srilanka is maritime neighbour of India and is
resource.While Europe has modern technological strategically placed. Any irritant in its relations
innovations.So there are natural and beneficial with it may drive Srilanka towards the Pakistan-
partnerships here. China axis. It can also decrease its diplomatic
stature. India has voted against Srilanka in the
The forum must focus towards the regional and Human rights Council of UN and toed the line of
global issues.It must come with the strategies of
US and others to implement the
dealing with common and similar problems such
terrorism,economic slowdown,Nuclear non recommendations of LLARC. Any withdrawal at
proliferation and Climate Change. this juncture is not of use to anyone.
There is also a historical evidence of flow of Ideas In an era of increse in soft power in resolving
between the 2 continents. The forum must take it
various disputes(Case of Ruussia in Syrina crisis),
forward.
Both continents have great potential for India cannot stand to diminish it. Alienation of
trade,tourism,socio-economic development. This Srilanka is not in the interest of both the nations.
cooperation must explore all these
to new heights. Q-Do you think the Commonwealth is an
anachronistic neo-colonial institution with no
Forum must be made to reach out the people of
spine? Comment (200 Words)
the member states ,civil society and create the
Commonwealth‘s Harare declaration mentions its
wider stake holding among st economic partners.
India can tap the various resources in Europe and core principles to be democracy, world peace and
Asia for its energy security,space and scientific economic development. The only other voluntary
developments. organisation besides UN which encompasses
every region, race and religion on the planet is in
itself a major achievement.
Q-Why is India not a signatory to the NPT? Has But the institution is decaying considering it
it affected India‟s nuclear ambitions? offers no trade privileges, no executive authority,
Evaluate. (200 Words) has a miniscule budget and has no say in
economic or defence policy. Major donors like
The loss to India‘s soft power in F by the UK, Canada, Australia are unhappy about lack of
alienation of Sri Lanka will neither be negligible political action, smaller states are looking for
nor ephemeral.‖ Comment. better avenues to spend their scant resources. It
A) India has actively engaged with Srilanka to suspends its members only in case of extremes as
work for the Tamils cause by ensuring the in case of Pakistan or Sudan and not on human
devolvement of powers to the Northern council right violations as in Sri Lanka.
through the implementation of the 13th While it provides an equal ground for big and
amendment. But its recent gestures may have small nations to talk, a spurt in global groupings
result in the fallout of the success achieved so far. has been a dampener in its spirit. However there

is still hope as can be seen by the number of United States of America

nations willing to join such a voluntary
organisation. It can make use of its diversity as a Q-Examine how the US govt shutdown can have
strength to become more relevant. In order to negative effect on US and world economy ?
remain relevant, it will have to reorient and
It is said that US is the driving force or engine
reassert itself.
behind global economy.Due to
Q-Discuss the areas of concern in trade between liberalisation,privatisation and globalisation the
economies are interlinked with each other.And as
India and the European Union. Examine the
in maximum emerging economies in LPG era the
impact of these concerns on the growth of trade
driving factor behind economy is their
between these two. depandence on export/import so defenitely it
will impact US as well as the world.
Major areas of concern between India & European As the cause behind shutdown is obamacare a
Union (EU) on trade are related to standards, health policy faced financial constraint so it can
services, agriculture, intellectual property regime not denied that the US economy is facing some
& human rights. tough fiscal deficit consequently it will hamper
Recent ban on Alphonso mangoes & 4 varieties of growth of US Economy.
vegetables due to non-compliance with sanitary The impact on US economy can be seen through
& phyto-sanitary standards has strained exports. two mechanisms
EU demands a strict IP regime while India 1.trickle down effect :slow bleeding of public
maintains that its patent rules comply with Trade sector employment and gradual crumbling of
related Intellectual Property system of World public confidence in the future will degrade US
Trade Organization. This conflict has affected price earning multiple perceived future value for
pharma & music industry. investment.
India wants more access to EU‘s service market, 2.credit rating downgrade resulting in shock to
in addition to liberalized Visa policy. EU global economy.
demands entry into agriculture, dairy & retail 3.shutdown will result in fiscal cut and it will
market of India. But European dairies are highly result in amplified international impact.e.g.
subsidized & India‘s dairy sector is not closure of national park and museum has
enthusiastic to receive them. Further, India has impacted the tourism industry.
reservations on human rights, labor laws & 4.Trade link may hit too .e.g. at ports and airports
environment issues because they are not directly due to cut in personal it will hamper consignment
related to trade. delays and higher costs for exports located at
As a result, India‘s bilateral trade with EU shrank large destination countries like India
to around €75 billion in 2012, as compared to €80 5.At the strategic level cancellation of Obama‘s
billion in 2011. Agreement on Trade & investment visit to southeast asia will be a setback for
has been delayed. whitehouse‘s ‗rebalance towards asia plan‘
To improve relations, India needs to better its 6.Rate downgrade e.g. in 2011 when standard and
reputation internationally. EU has to avoid poor has downgraded the rating of US economy
impression of following a biased or punitive from AAA TO AA+ world economy was jolted.
approach. Furthermore, an open mindset towards
Q-Suggest measures to decouple the world from
each other may push trade relations to a new
American‟s internal economic and political
height.
dynamics. (200 Words)
Effect of Policies & Politics of Developed and • American hegemony in the contemporary
Developing countries on India (India's interests, globalised world is a fact. Its views and policies
diaspora) on internal and international affairs have wide
repercussions across the globe. As witnessed

from Fed‘s tapering, government shutdown and competitor for no 1 super power
intervention in other nations, all these have an 7. To handle the emerging China, US pursed its
impact on the lives of people across the world. relations with India which could act a deterrent to
• While complete decoupling in neither needed china.
nor prudent, it is necessary to shield the world 8. The other emerging economy in Asia is India
from the intricacies of USA‘s self-aggrandisement and its side with ASEAN countries w.r.t to the
policies and internal domestic compulsions. In dispute it has with China
order to do so, Dollar should be replaced by 9. Because of some innate differences like not
IMF‘s SDR as the international currency. Trade signing the non-nuclear proliferation treaty,
should be promoted between south-south and relations with Iran, the relations with India and
currency swap mechanisms should be promoted. US could not become so strong that may
WTO‘s discussions should be be fast-tracked so as rebalance power in Asia.
to level the playing field. 10. Because of domestic political and economic
• IMF and WB voting rights should be situations in US is one of the prime reason for its
rationalised in the background of changing geo- dilution of rebalancing power in Asia. Economic
economics. Developed nations voting rights crisis of 2008 and current differences of opinion
should be put in perspective and developing b/n democrats and republicans.
nations should be allowed more voice. 11. Now China utilizing this current situation of
• No military action should be taken outside the US and taking an opportunity to build its
ambit of UNSC. USA should be prevented from relations with ASEAN countries.
bullying by its military and economic power. It‘s 12. As a cementing proof China‘s premier‘s and
policies like invading Afghanistan and leaving it presidents visits and participation in ASEAN
midway creates complications for everyone. USA countries meet.
should be made accountable for its actions. 13. China announced to resolve the issue which it
• The global dominance of American culture by has with ASEAN countries through dialogues
way of food, media, movies, dress etc should be and not using threat or forces
countered so as to promote indigenous values. Q-“It is said that what is good for the U.S. will
• Countering USA need to be done at political, be good for other economies as well.” Elaborate.
economic, cultural fields so as to witness some (200 Words)
change on the ground the interwinding of global economy .
Q-The American foreign policy transition to
the Bretton Woods system, set up by the US after
diluted ‟Rebalance to Asia‟ from „Pivot to Asia‟
the Second World War, still constitutes the basic
has helped China to reassert its influence in the
structure of the world economy.
Asia-Pacific region.” Comment.
1. USSR downfall in 1991 lead to US to become a
Post 2008 financial crisis, the advanced economies
sole power in the world.
2. Emerging China specially after it opened its of the U.S., the European Union and Japan lagged
economy for fdi investments, it achieved a behind the developing economies led by China,
tremendous growth. India and others, in what the International
3. China meanwhile started investing a greater Monetary Fund called a multi-speed global
proportion on building the army, on science and recovery. The roles are now reversed, with the
technology and its infra.
developed countries providing the momentum.
4. This has been proved in its double digit growth
in GDP. Leading the pack is the U.S., which is once again
5. The emerging China started dominating its driving global economic growth.
presence in the region. Ex: Sovereinity of South
China Sea waters, paracel islands, conflict with Due to Improved economic prospects in US, the
Japan on senkaku islands. U.S. Federal Reserve has started to taper the scale
6. The emerging China, made US to think it as a of asset purchases it has used to prop up the U.S.

economy. This decision has had varied meanings relatively cheap salary. Even though it is low by
for the rest of the world. They feared an imminent US norms, it quite high when compared in Indian
withdrawal of capital flows which have helped context , so even workers don‘t complain. These all
bridge the deficit in its current account. issues have irked authorities in US, who call for
equality in opportunity and renumeration for
But this move will improve domestic economy of everyone irrespective of nationality.
the U.S. and finally the global economy. Because But having said that, shunning Indian workers
more spending by American firms and and firms will not benefit any one in longer run.
households will in turn buoy demand for goods Open and warm economy has been the virtue of
and services from across the world. This US. It can deal with issue of undocumented
development has already benefited India, whose immigrants in more subtle way, without
exports have picked up. hampering IT exchange between India and US
―The NATO has repeatedly tried to invent new
Thus what is good for the U.S. will be good for roles for itself since the collapse of Soviet Union
other economies as well. and the Warsaw Treaty Organization in 1991.‖
Q-With special reference to India, examine the
issues related to immigration reforms in USA.
(200 Words)The Hindu • North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO),
formed under North Atlantic Treaty in 1949, is an
• Sliding economy and increasing unemployment intergovernmental organization. The major
among American youth forced US to take objective of NATO is to take military actions
regressive stand on Visa issues, broadly known as against any external force in Atlantic Region. It
Immigration reforms. Restriction on issuing of includes 28 countries from North America and
Visa is aimed at providing employment Europe. It is head quartered at Brussels, Belgium.
opportunities to Americans, thus strengthening
the economy. • Prior to Soviet war in 1991, it worked at a
New immigration laws suggest that the there will political organization. since the disintegration of
restrictions on issuing high skilled worker Visa ( soviet union the strategy of west policy seems to
H1B & L 1) to Indians coming to work for Indian be encircling Russia and limit its influence within
companies in USA. Even capping the number of its own territory..
Visa available to Indians and charging Indians  Post-soviet era, NATO transformed its role
firms with extra fees. India has outrightly opposed from a protector of capitalism against communism
these proposals. to one, that fights the global menaces like
• terrorism, WMD sponsored by some rogue states.
 With the retreat of Soviet communism, post-
This say, it will hamper close ties between both 1991, NATO expanded its membership to the
countries, which is very much facilitated by IT countries in East Asia .
sector. To some extent, it is true that exchange of  In the new millennium, NATO take the role of
ideas and labour across the country has made fighting the terrorism, which emerged as a threat
citizens from both the countries well acquainted to world peace. Its war on Al-queda in
with each other culture and heritage. Afghanistan, Libya is part of this.
But there is some merit in the fact that, Indian
firms in US, prefer Indians for recruitment. In the
guise of patriotism, they hire skilled workers art

 NATO also played the role of fighting nuclear affect a large number of countries in the global
proliferation. The fight on Iraq, Libya and Syria is arena.
a part of this responsibility.
For example its recent Federal Reserves‘s decision
 Thus, NATO reinvented its role over decades
and remained as one of strongest military of starting quantitaive easing has brought the
associations in the world. economies of the countries like Indonesia, India
etc into a fall. Its decision to wage millitary strikes
 influence economic policies of any country in Syria could have serious repercussions in the
which ever is in crises then put its own interest middle-east for the diplomatic stance taken by
terms in name of bail-out package.as a carrot in Russia.
hand of west. Many measures can decouple the world from
America‘s internal economic and political
• The EU association agreement proposes deeper
decisions like:
Ukraine-NATO links to counter Russia in its own
1) development of a basket of currencies to
backyard.
replace the monopoly of dollar
2) forging multilateral groups like the BRICS,
Critically assess the USA‘s foreign policy vis a vis
IBSA etc
Russia in recent years.
3) increasing the voting rights of other countries
Recently tension between Russia and USA has in an egalitarian way at the international
mounted specially due to conflicting positions by organisations like UN, IMF, World Bank etc
both over Ukraine. There had been a two fold 4) changing the governance in fiels like internet
approach followed by USA towards Russia it is and telecommunications to prevent its dominance
trying to pressurize Russia by applying sanctions
on it
as US also realises that it is not a cakewalk for
Russia to capture eastern Ukraine by direct 5) providing chance to all the countries to head
invasion or by proxy. Also Russian power is on the international organisations in a rotating
decline due to shrinking population, health manner
problems, and economic crises hence its unlikely 6) strenthening of the mandate of the UN
that Russia will try to behave as if in Soviet era.
7) countries to decrease their dependence on US
Secondly US is keeping line open with USA to
engage politically and economically with Russia and increase their relations with others
on issues of nuclear proliferation, Iran, Syria etc. These might take some time to implent but the
Also to boost the deterrence US is arming Ukraine
fruits they bear are of great importance to the
with lethal weapons and making it more
politically stable so that invasion by Russia other world countries.
becomes less certain. Overall it can be said that
USA is following a cautious approach using both
pressure and reconciliation United Kingdom
Q-Suggest measures to decouple the world from
American‟s internal economic and political
Q-What were the consequences of UK‟s
dynamics.
proposed immigration policy of subjecting
visitors from six “high-risk” Commonwealth
A) America‘s assertiveness in the economic and countries to a certain bond plan? Examine. (100
political spheres are longer confined to itself but Words)
Answer)

UK‘s proposed immigration policy of subjecting The two sides are cooperating to sign the Labour
visitors from six ―high-risk‖ Commonwealth Mobility Partnership Agreement and Broadbased
countries India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Trade and Investment Agreement which would
Nigeria and Ghana to a certain bond plan was to
lead to reducing the immigration concerns and
deter people from overstaying the visa and made
providing benefits to the labour and adopting the
them pay a surety of £3000.
best practices.
This scheme would deter investment and luxury
shoppers along with the flow of genuine tourists Apart from the increasing investment
from these countries. opportunities in EU due to increased
Recently U.K. scrapped visa bond plan for productivity, the greater cooperation would aid
attaining enormous benefits to Britain from India in developing the Indian services sector
foreign investments mostly noticeable in the thereby ensuring the health of the economy.
spheres of motor, engineering, food and steel
industry which generate employment for people There are certain contentious issue between EU
in Britain. and India, regarding immigration of highly
skilled professional. EU forms around 20% of
Q-Immigration issue, especially in the case of Indian IT exports and to increase the export
highly skilled professionals, is a thorny issue further, there is a need of relaxed travel and
between India and the European Union. What immigration laws. It becomes difficult for an
steps has EU taken to address India‟s concerns Indian national to travel within EU because of the
in this regard? Examine. restriction. To overcome the issue E.U has given a
The demographic challenges and the absence of a directive for intra-corporate transfer of
highly skilled labour force led to the increased professional for supply of services. E.U has also
demand of the Indian work force in EU. EU launched a Blue card initiative rivaling that of
accounts for twenty percent of the Indian IT green card of U.S, to attract highly skilled
exports. specialist in EU and to travel within EU with
socio- Economic benefits.
Different factors have impeded the growth of the
Indian IT exports to EU. The rigid provisions for These policy initiative will help skilled
the work and residency permit along with the professional to live and travel in Europe. It will
lack of social security and family concerns has led also thaw the ice between EU and Indian relation
and will provide a spring board to move forward
to inhibited the immigration of the highly skilled
on issues like FTA.
labour force. The stringent visa guidelines and
have hampered the collaboration.
Asia
Recognizing this, EU has taken endeavors to
ensure growth of the sector. The Blue Card Q-Write a critical note on China‟s Air Defence
initiative was meant to provide work and Identification Zone (ADIZ) and its implication
residency permit to the non EU member citizens on the regional security. (200 Words)
along with benefits such as social security and Answer)
family reunification . The single work permit was
aimed at easing the procedure by granting a China recently announced ADIZ: all aircraft
single permit for the work and residency and intending to enter the zone had to take prior
ensuring a common set of rights. permission from Chinese authorities, maintain
radio communications and follow the instructions
issued by Chinese controllers. Else they will risk,

China announced, ―defence emergency Indian border with China. In 1950s, china voiced
measures‖. to solve border dispute.
Canada, US and Japan have such zones from post Bilaterally with talk with India but later it
cold war era inorder to defend themselves against intruded in Indian territories of Aksai chin and
Soviet war planes and nuclear missles. Yet the US Arunachal Pradesh. China withdrew from eastern
insists that aircraft must identify themselves only sector but occupied Aksai chin and it yet claims
when they intend to enter American Air Space. over Arunachal Pradesh.
Planes simply passing thru outside territorial It recently intruded in Ladakh areas of India to
limits need take such permission. put pressure on India thought it signed
confidence building measures in 1993 and 1998 .It
signed Border Defence cooperation agreement to
Issues with China – ADIZ are
avoid any stand off and resolve it amicably. It is
china who first intrudes in Indian territory, India
1. The announced ADIZ encloses the disputed always maintains restraint.
Senkaku islands which China calls the Diaoyu.
Diaoyu and Senkaku Islands has been in Japanese
Japan held these islands since 19th century, but
occupation but china made claim over two
since 1970s, they have been claimed by China.
islands in 1970 and it has been disputed since
Thus, this destabilizes the statusquo in the region.
then. Recently China has drew its air defence
Identification Zone(ADIZ) claiming both islands,
2. Not only this ADIZ cover Japanese-held it has warned that no aircraft will enter this zone
territory (present Senkaku), it also overlaps without notifying the authority.
significantly with Japan‘s own air defence zone.
Japan PM calling this move ―whole new move‖
The problem is not air defence identification zone
protests the breach of freedom of movement thru
,it has right to draw for security reason. Even
East China Sea.
USA , Japan and South Korea have their ADIZ
However, ADIZ is not provocative or negative but Chinese ADIZ overlaps with Japanese and
step in itself; indeed, it can be in the interests of South Korean ADIZ, which could trigger fresh
stability and security of the nation enforcing it. tension between these countries.
For ex., If China‘s new zone did not include
disputed maritime territory, if its requirements
In future it could draw its ADIZ in western and
for compliance applied only to aircraft heading
eastern sector of Indian border which will trigger
into Chinese airspace, and if neighbours like
more conflict between them.
Japan and South Korea had been consulted ahead
On these lines,it can said China will be judged by
of the announcement, then there would be little
its actions but not rhetoric by its partners and
or nothing for others to object to.
neighbours.
Q-“China will be increasingly judged by its

Middle East
partners and the international community by its
actions and not by its rhetoric.” Comment on the Q-How does the interim nuclear deal agreed
statement in the light of recent developments in between Iran and P5+1 countries affect India?
the South China Sea and elsewhere. (200 Words) Examine. (200 Words)
Answer) The interim November deal between P5 + 1 with Iran
to break the deadlock regarding the nuclear arm
China has historically been an expansionist development allegation against Iran has helped the
communist. It has acquired Tibet in 1950 and then west Asia to be cooler place. This thaw in the relation
put its claim over western and Eastern sector of will help India in number of ways some economical

other strategic but ultimately it will be beneficial if the Almost every rival country for Syria is India‘s ally,
relations further improve. which had made things very complex and delicate
to handle. Both US and Russia have their own
The sanction will lift after six months will help India vested interest in its support to Syria whereas
to procure the Iranian oil without any problem India does not foresee much direct interest out of
regarding fund transfer as we have faced during the the issue has took its stance in alliance with BRICS
time of economic sanctions of Iran. The immediate which eventually sided with Russia, beacuse as
positive development is that tankers carrying Iranian per the current Indian priorities which is to act as
oil will get insurance cover from insurance companies responsible global power to befit seat in UNSC.
of USA and Europe. So the tankers will charge less for
carrying Iranian oil. On the other hand the Iran What India in the following has missed is that are
Pakistan India oil pipeline will also get the needed significant connections with Syria calling India to
push which has not progressed a bit after the act more proactively because , Syria is one of the
sanctions of 2006. very rare secular country in the middle east,
different from the most of the Islamist regime in
Strategically Iran is the only gateway for India‘s land the region. Also unlike the rest of Arab world,
access to Afghanistan through the port Chabahar. + Assad regime has supported India on Kashmir
india's Central Asia policy …. issue as well as advocated its seat for UNSC, in
reciprocation to India‘s support to Syria in matter
Internationally accepted Iran will further legitimize of Golan Heights.
India‘s engagement in Afghanistan with the help of
Iran. Yet after Sep 2014 when NATO and US forces The real threat lies in islamic fundamentalism
pull out of Afghanistan, Iran will add to India to which has grown rapidly among the rebels over
reduce Pakistan‘s political interference in Afghanistan. the last two years. Fuelled by International
presence from Al-Qaeda and it numerous
The Geneva deal will benefit commerce as well as offshoots like Jabhat al-Nusra , Al- Muhajeadden
humanity. etc, the issue has taken religious tone. Experts
have warned if the status quo continues, rebel will
take over 2/3rd of territory and oil resources. Such
Q- “Syria is coming close to shifting from an
environment will have adverse impact over India‘s
India-friendly regime to a possibly hostile,
interest.
Islamist regime.” Comment and highlight what
should be India‟s approach. (200 Words)
Therefore rather than passivity, cautious
Syria has been in turmoil for more than 3 years
pragmatism is required where solution has to be
Civil war where now finally both the sides have
found for both to end to brutality of the civil war
agreed upon negotiations in Geneva Talks – II
and to keep the Syrian‘s faith to sustain their
where even India have also been invited to become
support.
a part of. Though India has never directly implied
its stance but has done so through alliance with
the major players. But changing nature of Syrian
regime towards Islamist regime should be Pasted from
significant indication for India to become proactive <http://insightsonindia.com/2014/01/28/insight
and take well-calculated approach regarding the s-secure-2014-questions-on-current-events-88/>
issue.

this Q asks about what should be Indias In joining the diplomacy on this issue, India faced
approach…I would go in following fashion… an impossible balancing act, given its friendly
relations with every rival — the U.S., Russia, Iran,
Syria has been a staragically important partner in Israel, Syria — a fact that amazes observers.
middle east since long time, in terms of indias Adroitly manoeuvring out of the tight spot of
claim for permanent seat for UNSC, kashmir issue, having to pick a side, India took a position in
people to people contact etc. In the recent last 3 alliance with BRICS which eventually sided with
year religious ethinic and political conflict has Russia, an apt choice given Indian priorities.
overcasted a shadow in future of syria. India
should approch syria issue in following manner. Syria is home to few Indian expatriates, nor does
India source any oil from Syria; the impact of the
1.) India should push for success for Geneva II war on those issues is indirect. An important
talks which would bring both assad and Indian priority that is commonly discussed is the
opposition participation in government, opportunity for India to conduct itself as a
responsible global power, fit for a seat at the U.N.
2. Syria has suffer dought and economic hardships Security Council.
in lasr 3-4 years india must explore and enhance
the economic relations as drawing from in success Ironically, what should be a chief concern, but
in agriculture sector remains undiscussed, is the fact that Syria is
coming close to shifting from an India-friendly
3. India must reiterate that the solution to syria regime to a possibly hostile, Islamist regime. For
issue must come from negotiation and violence all his flaws, Bashar al-Assad runs one of the few
must not be tolarated in any case secular regimes in the Middle East. India supports
Syria‘s right to the Golan Heights, and in
4. India should use Geneva II peace talk to counter exchange, Syria endorses India‘s position that
US unilateralism, as evident in syria Kashmir is a bilateral issue.
5. Geneva peace talk gives india a chance to prove Such support is rare in the Arab world; while
itself in a leadership role and to stregthen its claim officially the Arab League does not take a stance
over UNSC permanent seat on Kashmir, it tends to empathise with Pakistan.
Mr. Assad also supports India‘s bid for a Security
Although immediate democracy may not be
Council seat. Islamic fundamentalism has grown
possible but in long term india should support
syrias democratic transition while including all rapidly among the rebels over the last two years.
the parties concerned to strenghthen eco political Fuelled by international support, al-Qaeda
ties with Syria offshoots Jabhat al-Nusra and ISIL grew in rank
and were joined by several others — the Islamist
for the first time, India has been invited to this Front, the Syrian Revolutionaries Front and Al-
important forum to deliberate on Syria‘s future. Mujahideen. While moderate forces like the Free
Syrian Army exist, the conflict has quite
In popular debate, India is cursorily grouped with definitively become about religion for the rebels.
either the American or Russian camps, but India‘s Some experts estimate that if the status quo
own assessment of the conflict is little discussed. continues, rebels will control about two-thirds of
While India has an official position for the territory and oil resources. Syria‘s slide into a
negotiations, it has largely viewed the conflict religiously driven conflict and a possibly radical
from a global perspective. regime is not good news for India.
The atrocities and destruction from the war must terms. It is home to roughly 28 lakh Indians who
stop, and India has to do its part. However, can it contribute a major chunk of India‘s inward
afford to let Bashar al-Assad go? remittances. Saudi is also an important source of
India‘s oil imports.
As fallout of the nitaqat law India and Saudi have

Q-What is the rationale behind Saudi Nitaqat agreed to sign a labor cooperation agreement. The
policy? What is its implication on Indian labour nitaqat has eradicated infirmities with respect to
force working in Saudi Arabia?(150 Words)
immigrant‘s documentation. The new labor
Answer)
agreement will ensure better working conditions
Saudi Arabia‘s labour reforms called Nitaqat for Indian expatriates in Saudi. Also it mandates
policy laws = to generate more employment for certain requirements during selection and
its own nationals after the Arab Spring, when
immigration. This will help curtail incidents of
youth unemployment became a main reason for
uprisings that brought down several regimes in fraud, forgery and fudging during immigration.
the region.
Saudi has also invited India for a conference on
This policy mandated that the country‘s private
Syria. Although the gesture connotes high stature
sector must ensure that Saudi nationals make up
at least 10 per cent of the workforce. for India in Saudi, it puts India in a tricky situation
as India‘s stand on Syria is not aligned with that of
As a result, foreign workers mostly belonging to
Saudi Arabia which is a staunch supporter of
blue collar category faced a deadline to either find
new jobs or complete formalities for their exit military intervention in Syria for the ouster of
from Saudi Arabia. Assad. However India has been an apostle for
internal political dialogue.
Those who were displaced mostly from India,
Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and the
Philippines were granted an extended amnesty to For all its significance India has not fully explored
find new jobs, re-negotiate their contracts, or its relation with Saudi to the fullest potential, let
leave the country, without incurring penalties. alone fulfilled. India should look to develop on the
Implication on Indian Labour force current labor agreement and sign a comprehensive
labor agreement as soon as possible to ensure
--Will disturb objectives of Indian nationals in
better conditions of its citizens there. Also in other
Saudi Arabia who send remittances to financially
support their families and establish economic matters of global concern like Syria, India should
interests in India by purchasing hard assets, retain its autonomy than being easily manipulated
investing in businesses, etc. for short term benefits.
-- The Indian Government and especially Kerala
government has to find alternate employment for
people coming back from Saudi. Critically comment on the growth of the Islamic
State movement and its possible impact on global
security with special reference to India
Q-Critically analyze the relations between The Islamic state was an arm of the al-Qaeda. It
Saudi Arabia and India in the light of recent started as Islamic state of Syria and Levant to
major events in the Middle East region. (200 Islamic state of Syria and Iraq and finally
Words) culminated as the Islamic state.
Saudi Arabia is a country of critical importance to Reasons for its rise are
India in political, strategic, economic and security 1) unstable government in Syria. Making it easier

for extremist groups to gain arms, money and Q. Examine the structure, mandate and
strength. importance of International Finance
2) Shia dominance in Iraq. Noor al Maliki‘s Corporation (IFC). What is the criteria being
policies of isolating Sunnis and giving importance followed by IFC when it lends money?
to Shias infuriated the public. Thus public support Critically examine.
for them, making it easier to grow.
3) Ideological rift between Saudi and Iran. Saudi International Finance Corporation is one of the
World Bank organizations, although it is under
promoting Sunni extremism. Iraq doing
World Bank it is financially and legally
everything to oppose it. independent. It was established in the year 1956,
4) most importantly US reduced dependence on and has 184 member countries, a group that
Middle East for its resources and hence not collectively determines their policies. IFC‘s
pursuing vigorously to maintain stability there. member countries, through a Board of Governors
and a Board of Directors, guide IFC‘s programs
Impact on India and global security and activities. Each country appoints one
governor and one alternate governor.
1) Islamic state recent beheading of a US
journalist show their intention for world Below the Board of Directors is the president who
dominance and fearlessness to attack their leads the IFC‘s overall strategic directions.
enemies. Further IFC‘s projects and programs are
2) Pakistan being Sunni dominated May force or evaluated by the Independent Evaluation Group
[IEG]. The project Accountability is ensured by
persuade Islamic state to attack India by giving
the independent Office of the Compliance
incentives such as arms and money.
Advisor/Ombudsman [CAO].
3) Instability in the Middle East is a concern.
Immense dependence on oil may put our Some of the mandates of IFC are ensuring
economy in jeopardy. environmental and social sustainability;
Addressing constraints to private sector growth
4) the fate of the large number of Indian migrants
in infrastructure, health, education, and the food-
is also a concern.
supply chain; developing local financial markets.
5) Any antagonism to Islamic state would
infuriate Saudi. Sympathy to IS would infuriate Basically IFC lends to private companies in
Iran. Hence have to deal cautiously. establishing projects which may consists of roads,
thermal plants and water, roads, phone
6) More importantly success of IS in establishing a
connections, healthcare, education, sanitation,
state would instill confidence in the many waste management. As these projects have very
extremist groups in the South Asian region. A low return in developing countries so private
global concern but more importantly to India companies avoid investing in them. To boost the
private investment climate IFC lends cheaper
loans to these companies.
Important International institutions, agencies,
fora (structure, mandate) The main criterion of lending in projects depends
upon how these projects benefit the masses. But
recently in India we have seen a reverse of this ,
projects are financed by IFC which go against the
interest if the masses for example port project in
Kerala which is affecting the fisherman adversely
has been financed by IFC

The lack of the public consultation and increased change, and poverty – is not an informal leaders
risks to pollution by the project granted loans forum, but a binding deliberations in a
raise concerns over the working of the multilateral framework with good amount of
institution.. There is a need of abiding to its own Inclusivity as its criteria.
mandate
The effectiveness of G20 is also further
questioned based on its domestic legitimacy
within the member countries since there is no
Q--Examine the objectives of G-20 for which it genuine engagement to build trust and support
was set-up. Do you think the group has met its with diverse participants in a state‘s economy –
objectives? Comment. such as labor, businesses, civil society to name a
few.
G-20, which started as informal forum for Finance G-20 today, in all its earnest objectives that it has
Ministers & Central Bank Governors of 20 majors set for itself needs to bring a complete overhaul of
economies in 1999 in the wake of Asian Financial its existing structure to truly set an agenda for
Crisis was elevated to Leaders Forum at global economic governance. Having said that, G-
Washington summit, in the wake of 2008 Global 20 has an opportunity to create a truly
Financial crisis. G-20 today represents 85% of the ―multilateral Global economic Leader forum‖
Gross world product, 80% of world trade and representing the Heads of all the Nations, which
2/3rd of the world population. otherwise is seriously amiss in Bretton Woods
Institutions. It can usher in a new era of
Although the initial focus of G20 was on issues inclusivity and financial governance of the world
related to international truly representative of rapidly evolving global
economy of today
financial stability, it has also examined a broad
range of longer-term economic issues of interest
to its members. One of the key areas of emphasis
of the G20 is promotion of shared economic
growth and sustainable development. G20 is also
trying to foster and adopt internationally
recognized standards in areas such as financial
transparency, international tax cooperation and
combating money laundering etc.
Q. . “Fighting inflation first through
stabilisation and worrying about growth later is
an IMF approach that has not worked well
The objectives is inconsistent in these lines
affecting the world on financial matters, well elsewhere in the world.” Explain the approach
developed financially strong countries like of IMF in fighting inflation.
Switzerland, Norway and majority of the least
developed countries are left out of preview.
Answer-
The serious issue is the accountability and  IMF way of fighting inflation is simplistic
transparency of the forum in considering i.e. first stabilising the economy and then
meetings with closed doors, the concern for concentrating on growth. It imposes
climate change had always been at the bottom of severe policy reforms before giving a loan
table. to the financial crisis driven economy.
What the world today needs to address global

problems – such as Global warming, climate
 It stresses on fiscal discipline meaning less increases. This is a direct consequence of

government spending on subsidies, Inflation. In India, recent Inflation is due
pension schemes to growth, monetary and fiscal policies.
 As Growth has seen a sharp decline from
 This approach of fighting inflation of IMF 2011, India needs to evolve a different
is not as par with the current economic policy other than IMF, which focuses on
scenario of the world as world is more stabilization first and then growth later.
open economy now and any country India‘s growth performance was
cannot sustain without growing its unexpected compared to other countries
economy. in world. When the world economies
crashed in 2008, India remained stable and
 IMF (International Monetary Fund) is the maintained a growth of 8%, highest in
institution which saves countries in case of Indian history. As the world recovered
serious financial crisis. But, for giving help and looking for deflation, India is facing
it expects them to do serious policy higher inflation rate and lower growth
reforms and change their economic rate.
system to fit in world economic order.
 IMF targets financial crisis, especially
This trend can be attributed to different reasons.
inflation through stabilisation in fiscal and
In 2008, due to unerring monetary policy India
monetary policies of the host countries.
could remain stable. But as these tight policies
Later, it offers a huge sum of money to
continued, India had to face a decline in
bail out the countries which adhere to its
investment and growth. It was too late to before
instructions.
we mended our policies and India is under high
 During recent European crisis, PIIGS
Inflation. The other reason is due inflation
countries were on highly spiral low
indexed government policies which resulted in
growth trend, and thus needed IMF
huge funds being dispersed to poor and in the
intervention. So, countries like Greece and
form of subsidies. This affected economy in two
Spain were pressurised to follow austerity
ways. Though we were partially successful in
measures, cut government spending, and
increasing wages to poor and raising them out of
bring the budget in surplus revenue so
poverty, their increased wages resulted in
that they could be able to pay debts and
increased consumption and demand. This
don‘t become bankrupt. This didn‘t do
resulted in Inflation. The other reason due to
any good, as it resulted in a lot of job
increased MSP prices. This created a burden on
losses, economic stagnation, which again
government and at the same time improved lives
resulted in consistent higher inflation due
of many which impacted their lives.
to lowering of supply of goods and
India can not follow IMF approach by
services.
compromising on growth by decreasing MSP,
 Inflation is equally related to monetary
wages and subsidies which can push people into
and fiscal policies as it is related to supply
poverty to decrease burden and inflation rates.
side policies, and thus growth shouldn‘t
India thus needs to evolve a unique policy which
be stopped at all to bring the economy to
can cater the needs of society.
greater stabilisation and thus controlling
inflation and then targeting growth.



Growth and Inflation travel together.
Growth in economy increases
Employment rate, which increases wages.
As wages increase, consumption

Q-Examine how India without compromising its surely include sharp and critical comments on
independent foreign policy, can utilize U.S. surveillance programmes, all of which go on
international fora and groupings to secure its the record as the opinion of India‘s sovereign
cyber space from external threats. (250 Words)
body.
Thirdly,India could help formulate a BRICS

In today‘s era of advanced technology and
internet where everything is just a click away,it Charter for Internet Governance. BRICS countries
retain a trump card when it comes to Internet
has made life of every nation, be it developing or
developed very easy.However, it has also posed governance: their massive consumer base. To be
sure, the charter should not punish or sanction
serious security issues to all the
countries.Today,Security of cyber space has Internet companies that collaborate with the U.S.
government for surveillance. BRICS members
become an important issue in the wake of the
National Security agency‘s Prism Program. would circulate an annual ―name and shame‖ list
of such companies to multilateral avenues and
However, India can utilize the International fora civil society forums across the world. The
and groupings to secure its cyber space from negative publicity would do more than its fair
external threats without compromising its share to make IT companies rethink their
independent foreign policy . surreptitious collaboration with the U.S.
Firstly,India could revive an IBSA (India-Brazil- Following these methods are not conclusive but
South Africa) proposal from 2011 to set up a U.N. will definitely be in the direction of tackling with
Committee for Internet- Related Policies (CIRP), the security threats from the developed nations
and submit it again to the U.N. General
Q-What do you understand by Diplomatic
Assembly.First tabled at the 66th UNGA session, Immunity? Is it absolute? Comment.
this idea met with opposition from the West. But Ans -
in light of new circumstances, and great
resentment against the U.S. and NSA‘s practices, Diplomatic immunity is the legal immunity given
to diplomats and in some cases to their families. it
mooting CIRP is sure to generate much
exempts foreign diplomats from prosecution
discussion at the U.N. The IBSA proposal should under the host country‘s law.it is grated on wo
be coupled with a draft resolution for the General convections:
Assembly to adopt: one that strongly denounces 1.convection on diplomatic relations 1961
practices of global surveillance and use of 2.convection of consular relations 1963
immunity depends on the nature of
interceptive technologies against governments. posting.under 1st convection for diplomats
Secondly, India should amend its National posted in an embassy immunity extends to their
families.it is also applicable for administrative
Security Act and the Official Secrets Act.If any
and technical staffs whereas under 2nd
Indian, or India-based telecom company or India- convection for diplomats posted in consulate get
based Internet found to share confidential diplomatic immunity except when they are
information about Indian citizens, public-sector charged for some serious crime for which warrant
institutions, and officials with foreign is issued and their families also do not any
immunity. therefore it is not absolute in nature.
governments. then there should be hard
punishment. The chances these amendments are
passed by Parliament are frankly slim. But the
parliamentary debate that would ensue will

Q-Highlight the importance of Track-III This over all create an anti-conflict sentiment
Diplomacy in fostering good relations between among the citizen and this ultimately restrains
countries. (150 Words) countries to indulge in offensive moves. With
Answer) friendly relations and better mutual acceptance
there is also improvement in tourism, trade,
Traditionally, the term "diplomacy" referred to cultural & educational exchange. India has
interaction between nation-states. More recently, adopted this type of diplomacy with countries
however, scholars have delineated several levels like south East Asian countries and African
of diplomacy. Tracks 1 and 2 are the most countries. Recently India china have decided to
frequently used terms. A composite term is improve the mutual exchange of tourist and
multitrack diplomacy. students and professionals.
Multitrack diplomacy: A term for operating on

several tracks simultaneously, including official
Q-“In severe international conflict scenarios, to
and unofficial conflict resolution efforts, citizen
resolve an issue, often the solution can be found
and scientific exchanges, international business
negotiations, international cultural and athletic through diplomacy, not by intimidation or war.”
activities, and other cooperative efforts. These Comment. (200 Words)
efforts could be led by governments, professional --International conflict today are much complex
organizations, businesses, churches, media, in nature ( border, sea, cyber, ethnic, etc ) and so
private citizens, training and educational is the urgency to pragmatic solution, but
institutes, activists, and funders. diplomacy is and should always be the first pick
to keep world at peace.
Track 1 diplomacy: Official discussions typically
involving high-level political and military leaders -- Twenty first century has witnessed the
and focusing on cease-fires, peace talks, and development of arms and ammunition controlled
treaties and other agreements. by computerized systems with immense accuracy
which can increase chances of destruction in
Track 2 diplomacy: Unofficial dialogue and comparison to previous wars.
problem-solving activities aimed at building -- Instead of fighting for superiority, hegemony,
relationships and encouraging new thinking that economic survival it is necessary to reflect on
can inform the official process. Track 2 activities preserve the efficiency of the democratic system.
typically involve influential academic, religious, Warfare is something that no country or leader
and NGO leaders and other civil society actors wants to mention about until the very end.
who can interact more freely than high-ranking Therefore, diplomacy is an instrument of good
officials. Some analysts use the term track 1.5 to governance and a deterrent that has managed to
denote a situation in which official and non- quell human conflict.
official actors work together to resolve conflicts.
Track 3 diplomacy: People-to-people diplomacy

undertaken by individuals and private groups to The success of diplomatic moves could be studied
encourage interaction and understanding as
between hostile communities and involving
awareness raising and empowerment within
(1) India and China signed BDCA agreement after
these communities. Normally focused at the
a series of high level talks and dialogue process to
grassroots level, this type of diplomacy often
deal effectively with the long standing border
involves organizing meetings and conferences,
issues. They also emphasized people to people
generating media exposure, and political and
contact and boosting economic ties.
legal advocacy for marginalized people and
communities.

(2) India and Pakistan in the last few months are Missions or massive strategies oriented to
continuously trying to hold talks to resolve the guarantee fundamental rights to the population
Kashmir issue. They are also giving importance to with focus on the most excluded social and
strengthen cultural and economic ties. economic sectors and alleviating political system
of corruption and bureaucratic lethargy.
(3) The U.S and Russia‘s diplomatic process to
deal peacefully the Syrian issue when the U.S was
looking war only a possible solution to deal with
Q-Write a critical note on the scramble for Arctic
Syria.
resources and the associated conflicts in the
(4) The most sought up negotiation and talks international arena. (200 Words)
between the Karzai government in Afghanistan 1. Arctic region, which has lately attracted
and Taliban leaders to come out with a peaceful
the global attention from the
plan to maintain stability after the U.S
withdrawal in 2014 from Afghanistan. environmentalists because of the rapid
melting of ice caps.I
(5) Iran issue : secrecy of Iranian nuclear projects
2. t also have a tremendous potential to gain
and US economic sanction has created instability
in middle east (Israel attack, cyber-attack on Iran) from unexploited mineral reserves which
but recent talks with between the two has are estimated by a US agency having 13%
somewhat opened channel of diplomacy ,which undiscovered oil reserves and 30% of the
hopefully bring respite to economy of Iran and natural gas reserves of the earth.
peace 3. The melting of the ice opens up new
(6) Israel –Palestine Fought many wars and shipping facilities, leading to a scramble
skirmish yet unable to solve the problem of for territory and resources among the 5
territory settlement and prisoners has shown arctic states (Canada,Norway,
some fruitful results in Jhon kerry‘s successful
Denmark,Russia and USA).
steps to bring the two on table
4. Since arctic region lacks a specific local
Failure in diplomacy are to be treated as lesson regime,unlike Antarctic treaty system, the
from past and need to be rectified Sino-India war
access to north pole opens up new
1962, with modernization and expansion of
scramble for exploitation,but also
warfare. War can never be a solution to
International conflicts, if we fail to understand potential territory disputes posing a threat
this now, the very survival of human species will to International peace and security.
be at stake. 5. These territorial claims are lying before
the commission on the limits for
continental shelf estd under UNCLOS.
Q-Supreme Social Happiness Department (50
Words) Recently there is a conflict between russia and
Answer) canada. Canada filed a claim with UNCLOS
Supreme Social Happiness department was concerning the outer limits of its continental shelf
announced by the President of Venezuela. in the Atlantic ocean as well as north pole also.
On response of this Russia has ordered military to
The department will coordinate with more than have its presence at north pole.
30 welfare schemes known as ―Missions‖.
The missions‘ will review, rectify and relaunch
the scheme for the social and economic
development of children and old aged. Certainly UNITED NATIONS
the Missions have brought fundamental changes
in Venezuela.

Q-Critically evaluate the role and relevance of 2. Headquartered at New York City it has a
UN peacekeeping missions in Africa. 7 regional offices and national committees
The UN peacekeeping missions in Africa are in about 190 countries.
essential to restorig peace and political stability in
3. The main pivotal decisions are taken by
the violent strifen region.
the executive boards with representatives
The UN peacekeeping Mission is continuing to
of countries ie 36 members, representing
play a crucial role particularly in the conflict torn
the five regional groups of Member States
states such as Democratic Republic of Congo,
at the United Nations.
Central African Republic and South Sudan. The
UN Mission in DRC viz; MONUSCO is 4. Whereas at regional level like south Asia
significant in that it has helped the infilteration of the regional committees guide the officials
rebels between the porous borders of Rwanda of the national committee in
and Uganda into DRC. In CAR, UNICEF has implementation of the programmes. In
helped to restore millions of displaced children. South Asian region the regional office in
Similarly in South Sudan the conflict over oil Kathmandu.
resources in Niger basin has led to violence and The mandate of UNICEF Early childhood
ethnic conflicts in which UN has played a health development through
constructive role in the restoration of victims of Immunization Nutrition Water, sanitation,
political unrest and coups. hygiene & AIDS control..Besides health
Most importantly, the relevance of UN UNICEF it also provides primary
peacekeeping missions lie in the fact that with its education, emergency services due to
participation, the issues in Africa attains more natural calamity & war, water and skill
global visibility, an international pressure and development. It also helps in protection of
external neutral third party arbitration to the environment protection.
incessant conflict and instability in the region.
Finally, while the UN peacekeeping mission are Q-Enumerate any ten important rights declared
playing a rehabilitative role, it cannot be denied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
that the body is not independent of the political document. Do you think India has succeeded in
granting all of its citizens these rights fully?
control of the West which exercises discretion on
Examine. (250 Words)
its funding and reach by its control over its
funding. It is imperative that UN attempts to
The UN General Assembly adopted the Universal
become more neutral and democratic while
Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 to promote
dispatching its peacekeeping missions to the less
a simple yet powerful idea that all human beings
developed countries such as Africa. are born free and equal in terms of dignity and
rights. Important rights like:
Q-Explain the structure and mandate of UNICEF 1. All human beings are born free and equal
(United Nations Children‟s Fund) (150 Words) in dignity and rights.
1. UNICEF was created by the United 2. They are endowed with reason and
Nations General Assembly on December conscience and should act towards one
11, 1946, to provide emergency food and another in a spirit of brotherhood,
healthcare to children in countries that 3. Everyone has the right to life, liberty and
had been devastated by World War II. security of person,
4. No one shall be held in slavery or

servitude; Q--Critically comment on the functioning of UN
5. slavery and the slave trade shall be Security Council
prohibited in all their forms,
6. No one shall be subjected to torture or to UNSC is charged with the maintenance of
cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or international peace and security. It imposes
punishment, sanction, sends peace keeping force and
7. Everyone has the right to recognition authorizes military action. It consists of five
permanent members with veto power and ten
everywhere as a person before the law,
non-permanent members, elected on a regional
8. Everyone has the right to an effective
basis for two years. It‘s the only UN organ with
remedy by the competent national authority to enforce binding resolution.
tribunals for acts violating the It‘s success in the last six or seven decades have
fundamental rights granted him by the been mixed one, often failures overshadowing
constitution or by law, successes. Its peace keepers have received the
9. No one shall be subjected to arbitrary Nobel Peace Prize in 1988. It has successfully
operated in Namibia, Congo, Sudan, Rwanda etc.
arrest, detention or exile,
But its activeness related to small countries is
10. Everyone has the right to rest and leisure, absent in case of powerful contries. It was mostly
including reasonable limitation of paralysed during the cold war era. Its permanent
working hours and periodic holidays with members with veto powers, have largely used it
pay, to pretect their own strategic interest. Thus the
11. Everyone is entitled to a social and quick action taken during oil rich quait in crisis,
international order in which the rights and was no seen in the case of resource poor Rwanda.
There has been no punitive action against
freedoms set forth in this Declaration can
violators of its resolution. Western powers
be fully realized, dominating the security council, often ignored or
12. Everyone has the right to freedom of bypassed it, if they could not take it along with
peaceful assembly and association and No them. Western intervention in Iraq, Afghanistan,
one may be compelled to belong to an Libya speaks volume about intransigence of some
association. members. Its inability to stop Israili attacks on
Gaza strip, claiming about 800 lives, mostly
civilians, exposes its weakness. It has humiliated
The main reasons for their underachievement are itself many times by not being able to arrange
adequate peace keeping force and fund in time
feudal and communal characteristics of the Indian
for missions it has committed through resolution.
polity, coupled with a colonial bureaucracy, Much demanded reform in the security council
dampened the spirit of freedom, rights and needs to be urgently brought forth to help it play
affirmative action enshrined in the Constitution. its role in preserving global peace or it will have
We have repeatedly witnessed such human rights the same end as the League of Nations.
violations: awareness about human rights needs
to be made universal. Our endeavour should be Q) From India‟s perspective, explain why is it
to mould a society with no gender discrimination important to reform both UNSC and IMF.
and no violence. When women are empowered,
that ensures stable societies. Public interest From India‘s perspective, explain why is it
litigation and the judicial activism of the Supreme important to reform both UNSC and IMF.
Ans: India‘s demand for reforms in UNSC
Court played a major role in expanding the scope
and IMF can be analysed mathematically,
of human rights and in giving it much-needed geographically, and politically.
legitimacy through some important verdicts.
(a) Mathematically: when these organisations announced by the Permanent Court of

were formed there members were few so they Arbitration at The Hague. In the judgement,
represented a larger percentage. For example the court has provided for 3-step analysis for
When UN was formed it had 51 members so a dividing the continental shelf and EEZ.
security counsil of 5 represented 10% of This works out good in case of inner
members. With global participation now this continental shelf and EEZ but in case of outer
percentage has shrinked to 2%. continental shelf, which extends beyond 200
(b) Geographically: it give undue weightage nautical miles, there are separate provisions
to Europe and America. For instance Europe under UNCLOS. It states that such claims
with 5%population holds Chair of IMF and must be submitted to CLCS which will give
33% share of UNSC. the final award. One such claim regarding
(c) Politically: veto power enjoyed by these P5 India and Bangladesh is pending before
gives them undue advantage to decide world CLCS. But the Permanent Court of Arbitration
affairs. has delimited these territories also in its
India presently holds 17% of humanity, is the award which may create some issues if the
4th largest economy in PPP terms and has award of CLCS comes different from what is
emerged as a growth pole of world economy presently awarded.
in 2008 economic recession. In the coming Whatever be the outcome, one thing is certain
decade India will have 30% of the workforce that the resolution of these disputes will help
of world. Its pragmatic relation with its India and Bangladesh strengthen their
neighbour is an evidence of its diplomatic relations more and develop a fruitful
maturity. In the emerging scenario in south partnership in many other spheres.
China Sea India is uniquely placed to play a
key role. With the rise of Asia in 21st century
India‘s demand for reforms in UNSC and IMF
are not only justified but also imperative to
establish a more representative and Q---Critically evaluate the contribution of UN
participative global order. These reforms will Peacekeeping missions to world peace.
enhance the legitimacy of world
organisations. UN peacekeeping force since its inception has
carried more than 60 missions with 16 live
Q--Write a note on the U.N. Convention on the missions currently. Its work has been
Law of Sea (UNCLOS) and its relevance to commendable in the war torn countries after
India. and during cold war period. Further its work
in restoring peace in the countries like Mali,
. UNCLOS came into force in 1994 and defines the Haiti has been phenomenal.
rights and responsibilities of the nations with The UN peacekeeping force is also currently
respect to the use of maritime natural resources. It working in the war torn countries like Libya,
defines 6 major zones : Syria etc and bringing some peace in the life
a) Internal Waters of inhabitants there.
b) Territorial Waters But , there has been certain controversies
c) Contiguous Zone regarding western dominance of the force.
d) Maritime cultural zone Western countries are the major donor in the
e) Exclusive economic zone upkeep of peacekeeping force and hence has a
f) Continental Shelf virtual veto power on its operations. And the
Although India do not have major maritime countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and
conflicts with her neighbors relating to China who are major contributors of the
demarcation of boundaries, one particular troops are often sideline. Thus there is a
issue is with Bangladesh in Bay of Bengal. demand for security reforms in the force so
Recently the judgement on this case was that every member get a fair representation.

Further, the operations of the peacekeeping sector, National Rural Health Mission and
force are often carries without any local recent initiative of National Health Mission,
support and participation. This in turn result JSY, ICDS are few of schemes. But ground
in a hostility of the natives towards the force. realities are not very parallel to the initiatives
Moreover when the force leave after ending due to poor implementation, poor
the conflict, the country often revert back to monitoring, lack of infrastructure, funds and
the crisis situation eg: Mali. Thus it is required lack of awareness. We are the worst
that operations are carried with the performer in mortality and maternal health
cooperation of the local authorities. This in South Asia. Though institutional deliveries
would give a credibility to the peace keeping has shown an ascending trend but the
operations and will also nurture the authority improvement is very far from the MDG goal.
to take control of the situation when it Moreover regional imbalances play a crucial
departs. role. On one hand, Kerala has achieved nearly
100% institutional delivery and crossing the
MDG goal in reducing mortality, on the other
a. It take lots of time before member states hand, worst performer states, Haryana,
sends their troops for the Rajasthan has brought down the national
mission. This causes loosing on time and average. To summarize, we are far from the
hence loosing on mission MDG goals and have to work upon the
implementation of policies for the same.
2. The Communication problem: The locals at
trouble time finds it difficult to share the Q--Write a note on the UN Convention on the
nature of problem with the forces and even if Law of the NonNavigational Uses of
they share they only can communicate half of International Watercourses.
the problem.
Even in the view of the above mentioned UN convention on Low of the Non-
lacunaes , the usability of UN Peacekeeping navigational Use of Water Resources is an
force is unquestionable. But the reforms international framework governing non-
needed, if implemented will provide further navigational use of trans-boundary fresh
strength to the force which is the need of the water resources. It‘s noteworthy that ―fresh
hour. water‖ includes both surface water and
ground water because of the hydrological
linkage between the two.
It prescribes four basic obligations:
• Equitable and reasonable utilization of
Q---Critically comment on India‟s achievements countries
in meeting the targets of Millenium • Prevent significant harm to other country
Development Goals. • Prior notification of planned measures
• Protection on preservation of water
MDG goals strive for social and human resources
development by reducing poverty levels, and All participating countries will indulge in
improving health indicators.As far as India‘s equal but reasonable use of water. They must
performance is concerned, we will get a PREVENT harm to other countries by prior
mixed picture. We have done marginally well notification of planned project and by other
in universalization of elementary education means. Prevention is emphasized because it‘s
by enacting right to education, Mid day meal difficult to halt or modify the project once it‘s
scheme, and reaching upto 100% Gross started eliminating the option of remedy.
enrollment ratio. Similarly, we have launched Ecological aspect is stressed upon by
various schemes to reduce poverty like controlling pollution and preserving water
MGNREGA, right to work. In the health course.

This provides a framework of principles to guarantee success. A lot of challenges must be

deal with trans national rivers with space for overcome if the initiative is to truly benefit the
modifying to specific need. With the region, and not just serve as a political
ratification of 35th nation i.e. Vietnam, this statement.
will come into force from August.
Roughly 60% of the all fresh water runs
within cross border basin. Plus, keeping in
mind climate change, pollution, growing Q--In your opinion, what India needs to do to
population and their water need; this treaty get a permanent seat at UNSC? Comment.
will help manage water resource with least
conflict The power structure of world has
significantly changed since the inception of
Q) „Asia wants a new specialized bank to fill the UNSC. And in today‘s situation having 1/6 of
gaps left by the World Bank and the Asian the humanity and third economic strength in
Development Bank.‟ Comment. the PPP term, India deserves a permanent seat
in UNSC. India has been trying in this
Asian countries have long felt underserved direction for several years, but without
and misunderstood by the World Bank and success. Some steps, India needs to take in
IMF which were initially set up after World this direction:
War II to, fund development projects and help Forming a unified front with other
governments manage temporary financial contenders: Though India via G4(India, Japan,
difficulties respectively. In the middle of the germany and Brazil) has contented for a
1997-98 Asian financial crisis, they made an position in the UNSC. But it must be taken in
unsuccessful attempt to establish an Asian account that any such grouping is unlikely to
monetary fund in spite of considerable get support of African countries. Thus
international opposition. grouping should be more inclusive and
Now, Asian countries are seeking to establish acceptable.
the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to 2.Garnering support of the existing P5:
channel regional financing into infrastructure Though all P5 countries except China support
development that helps Asia at both the India‘s contention, but any serious effort in
national and regional levels. This initiative is this direction has not been there except empty
led by China, with improved economic power rhetoric. India should push them to take a
and financial influence. As the West, is still serious stand and at the same time should try
recovering from the 2008 financial crisis it is to get support of China via more cooperative
less able to impose its will this time. engagement in the platforms like G20, WTO
Before this dreams turns into reality, some and BRICS.
important challenges like, determining key Active involvement in the world affairs: India
appointments and decisions; proper blending is seen as a pacifist country in the world
of developmental and commercial objectives; affairs. Even in its own neighborhood, its role
efficiently exploiting public-private is not even of a regional power as compared
partnerships; environmental and social to China. And if India wants world to take its
sustainability of the projects etc, must be candidature seriously, it has to become active
coped with. participant.
The new institution should work well with its The coming BRICs summit and UNGA can be
existing counterparts ADB, IMF and World the starting platforms for India to work in
Bank. Rather than duplicating, it should focus these directions.
on filling gaps and correcting market and (c)Use soft power diplomacy to influence the
institutional failures. global opinion in India‘s favour. Mutlimedia
Asia has a chance to do today what it couldn‘t and widespread propoganda can be used for
do in the late 1990s. Though, ability does not this.

(d) Convincing P5 about the preimmenet role vessel Enrica Lexie was found to violate the
India can play in the emerging security clause of UNCLOS article 33 which requires Pre
scenario in middle east and South China Sea Arrival Notification for Security(PANS)
dispute.
Clearance prior to entrance and transit through
(e) Enhancing global faith and confidence in
Contiguous Zone.
India‘s nuclear program by adhering to IAEA
protocol and greater transparency in its Next to this is a range of 200 nautical miles which
nuclear program. is Exclusive Economic Zone of the coastal nation.
( f) India should also improve its own record India‘s exploration in South China sea with grant
of human rights especially in naxal area, from Vietnam which has exclusive right in this
North East and Jammu & kashmir. This will region is very much in accordance with the
leverage its claim to play a role in global
provisions of UNCLOS.
security.
(g) Using various diplomatic channels during Q-Comment and the Convention on the
global negotiation.
Elimination of Discrimination against Women
(h) India can utilise its arm deals and opening
up of economy as attractive offers to P5 to get (CEDAW) role in eliminating violence against
their support in its demand for permanent women.
seat in UNSC.
The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms
of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), also
known as an international bill of rights for
women was adopted in 1979 by the UN General
Assembly. it has been ratified by 188 states till
Q-What is Law of the Sea? Explain provisions of now.
UNCLOS in relation to recent developments it consists a preamble and 30 articles which define
with respect to India. (200 Words) what constitutes discrimination against women
and set up an agenda for national action to end
Law of Sea which is codified in the United such discrimination.
By accepting the Convention, States commit
Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, 1982
themselves to undertake a series of measures to
defines the rights and responsibilities of nations end discrimination against women in all forms,
in dealing with territorial waters, sea-lanes, and and-
ocean resources.
the significant issues covered under the law Rejection of violence against women as it impedes
include setting limits, navigation, Exclusive the advancement of women and maintains their
Economic Zones(EEZs), protection of living subordinate status
resourcesof sea, equitable uses of marine
Equality of women and men under the law;
resources, scientific researches and settlement of protection of women and girls through the rule of
disputes. law
UNCLOS sets a clear demarcation segregating sea Demand security forces and systems to protect
areas for permitted uses and restrictions. Areas women and girls from gender-based violence, to
covering landward side of baseline is exclusive establish tribunals and other public institutions to
ensure the effective protection of women against
right of coastal nation.Foreign Vessels have no
discrimination; and
right of passage here. On the opposite side of
baseline upto 12 nautical miles is termed as Recognition of the fact that distinct experiences
nations territorial water, however other vessels and burdens of women and girls come from
can have innocent passage. 12 nautical miles systemic discrimination
further is Contiguous Zone. Last year an Italian
Ensure that women‘s experiences, needs and

perspectives are incorporated into the political,
Q-What are the mandates of ICC and ICJ?
legal and social decisions that determine the
Explain (100 Words)
achievement of just and lasting peace
The Convention ensures women‘s equal access to The International Court of Justice is the Hague
equal opportunities in, political and public life- based primary judicial branch of the United
including the right to vote and to stand for Nations.
election – as well as education, health and
Its main functions are to settle legal disputes
employment. It affirms women‘s rights to
submitted to it by states and to provide advisory
acquire, change or retain their nationality and the
opinions on legal questions submitted by the UN
nationality of their children.
General Assembly and other branches of UNO.
It has been successful to a significant level in The International Criminal Court is a permanent
controlling honor killings, female infanticides, tribunal based at Hague but can seat anywhere
rapes and domestic violence against the women created by the Rome statute to prosecute
and promoting women‘s participation in individuals for genocide, crimes against
decision-making at all levels. humanity, war crimes, and the crime of
aggression.
Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination
It has a complementary to existing national
against Women is an international treaty adopted
judicial systems, and may only exercise its
by UNGA in 1979. It has been ratified by 188
jurisdiction when national courts are unwilling or
member countries. It is described as the
unable to investigate or prosecute such above
international bill of rights for women aimed at
crimes.
reducing the prejudices against women and
ensuring equal participation of the section.
The treaty establishes an agenda for the action for Q-Integrated Global Action Plan for Prevention
ending the sex based determination practices. It and Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea
provides that the states must ensure in (GAPPD) (50 Words)
eliminating the stereotyping of the men and
women as the superior and inferior genders. The
states are required to ensure gender equality Integrated Global Action Plan for Prevention and
through the legislative framework. The member Control of Pneumonia and Diarrhoea (GAPPD):
countries should provide effective redressal -- Developed and issued by WHO and UNICEF in
mechanism for the protection against 2013.
discrimination for women.The institutions should
-- Outlining key universal interventions
be setup for safeguarding the interests of the
-- Goal: Ending mortality in children by 2025.
women. The women should be protected by
-- 2015 Coverage targets:
adequate security forces to eliminate the cases of
1. 90% vaccination coverage targets for
gender violence. It makes provisions for the equal
• Pertussis,
participation of the women in decision making.
• Measles,
Despite the low reporting , there has been an
• Haemophilus influenza type B
increase in the gender based violence in India.
(Hib),
There is need for ensuring the provisions under
• Pneumococcal &
the CEDAW to take steps to reduce gender based
• Rotavirus
violence . Increased research would lead to
2. 90% treatment access for children with
deciphering the cause and effect of the events,
pneumonia, diarrhea
thereby preventing them. An increased in
3. 50% for exclusive breastfeeding of
education and reforms in the socio cultural norms
children during their 1st 6 months.
in the society would aid in improving the
conditions of women.

talents and resources to attain common

Q-What is the role and mandate of UNESCO? objectives.
Do you think its role should be expanded?  A standard-setter
When, quite apart from their cultural
Analyze. (200 Words)
differences and traditions, States agree to
common rules, they can draw up an
UNESCO‘s main objective is to contribute to international instrument: an agreement or
peace and security in the world by promoting convention, both of which are legally
collaboration among nations through education, binding, a recommendation or a
science, culture and communication and declaration. UNESCO participates in this
information.
effort through its standard-setting action,
The goal is to further universal respect for justice, serving as a central forum for
for the rule of law and for human rights and coordinating the ethical, normative and
fundamental freedoms. These principles, which intellectual issues of our time, fostering
are affirmed for the peoples of the world, without multidisciplinary exchange and mutual
distinction of race, sex, language or religion, are understanding, working – where possible
enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.
and desirable – towards universal
To fulfil its mandate, UNESCO performs five agreements on these issues, defining
principal functions. benchmarks and mobilizing international
It serves as: opinion. UNESCO also helps to draw up
or revise the instrument, works towards
 A laboratory of ideas its adoption or revision, sees that it is
UNESCO plays a key role in respected and, occasionally, assists
anticipating and defining, in the light of Member States in putting it into practice.
the ethical principles that it champions, as The Executive Board‘s Committee on
a kind of ―laboratory of ideas‖, the most Conventions and Recommendations can
important emerging problems in its and does act upon violations of human
spheres of competence and in identifying rights in UNESCO‘s fields of competence.
appropriate strategies and policies to deal It has examined nearly 500 cases since
with them. 1978 of which half have been settled
 A clearing house through contacts with the States
UNESCO has a role in gathering, concerned.
transferring, disseminating and sharing  A capacity-builder in Member States
available information, knowledge and best UNESCO organizes international
practices in its fields of competence, cooperation for serving its stakeholders,
identifying innovative solutions and especially its Member States, in building
testing them through pilot projects. It is human and institutional capacities in all
one of the most crucial functions of the its fields of competence, in the form of
Organization. It is here that UNESCO ―technical cooperation‖. When Mauritius
launches and co-ordinates regional or seeks to renovate its education system,
worldwide networks serving a threefold when Kazakhstan decides to prepare
purpose: research, exchange of research legislation on press freedom, or El
results, and training. At international Salvador to provide civic instruction to its
conferences, international experts also police force, these countries request
formulate new and common approaches technical assistance from UNESCO. This
to the major issues confronting UNESCO advisory function generally concerns the
and Member States, mobilizing their development of policies, national
strategies, projects, feasibility studies,
raising funds for their execution and, Q-What were the major outcomes of the UN
finally, evaluation. climate negotiations in Warsaw? (150 Words)
 A catalyst for international cooperation The main decisions are :
UNESCO, as a technical
multidisciplinary agency, assumes a
catalytic role for development cooperation -Finance: developed nations promised in 2009 to
increase their aid to poorer countries to help them
in its fields of competence, for the
cope with climate change to $100 billion a year
convergence of work which otherwise
after 2020, from $10 billion a year in 2010-12. But,
would be dispersed, thus less effective,
in Warsaw, they rejected calls to set targets for
and risk being ignored by those needing it 2013-19.
most. To that end it seeks to ensure that
the objectives, principles and priorities it -To provide expertise, and possibly aid, to help
promotes are adopted by other developing nations cope with losses from extreme
multilateral and bilateral programmes and events related to climate change.
that projects are implemented, -Abolition of greenhouse gases.
particularly at regional and national -A multi-billion dollar framework to tackle
levels, through innovation, effective deforestation.
-A measure that could boost demand for the
interventions and wise practices.
ailing mechanism, encouraging countries without
legally binding emissions targets to use carbon
credits called certified emission reductions.
Q-U.N. International Convention on the
Elimination of All Forms of Racial
Discrimination and India (100 Words)
The convention was adopted and opened for
signature by the United Nations General Q-Write a short note on 7th United Nations
Assembly on 21 December 1965. Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the
Treatment of Offenders (100 Words)
The Convention follows the structure of
Answer)
the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights, International Covenant on Civil and The United Nations Congresses on the Prevention of
Political Rights, and International Covenant on Crime and the Treatment of Offenders have been
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, with a held every five years since 1955.Since 2005, they
preamble and twenty-five articles. have been held under the name United Nations
Congresses on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice.
Core provisions:-
Till now 10 meetings has taken place,few are:
-- Prevention of discrimination
-- Condemnation of apartheid 1985: Seventh United Nations Congress, held in
-- Prohibition of incitement Milan, approves the Milan Plan of Action; the
-- Promotion of tolerance United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the
-- Dispute resolution mechanism Administration of Juvenile Justice; the
-- Individual complaints mechanism Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for
Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power; the Basic
Principles on the Independence of the Judiciary;
recommendations on the treatment of foreign
prisoners and the first model bilateral treaty - the
Model Agreement on the Transfer of Foreign
Prisoners.
2000: The Tenth United Nations Congress, held at

Vienna, delivers the Declaration on Crime and

Justice: Meeting the Challenges of the Twenty thematic mechanisms or mandates).[citation

first Century to the Millennium General needed] The Human Rights division of the U.N. is
Assembly. also expected to uphold and protect the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights.
Since then many nations have arrived at bilateral
and multilateral treaties aimed at strengthening The United Nations Human Rights Council, an
international cooperation against expanding intergovernmental body of UN is primarily
crime which is an issue of global concern mandated to strengthen and promote Human
hampering socio-political, economic and cultural Rights across the globe, addressing the violation of
development of people.
Human rights and accordingly make
Will help in social rehabilitation of prisoners. recommendations to be placed in the General
Assembly to further necessary actions.
The Universal Periodic Review, the Advisory

Committee and the complaint procedure forms the
Q- What is the mandate of UNHRC? Critically backbone of the organization to efficiently deliver
comment on its functioning citing any two its function.
recent examples.
However, the UNHRC is still far from achieving
its goal owing to the limited & only the
The United Nations Human Rights recommendation power it has been given. The role
Council (UNHRC) is an inter-governmental body of the council in the ethnic violence and violation
within the United Nations System. of human rights in Sri Lanka & Sudan has been
doubted and no concrete actions were blamed to
be taken by the International community on its
The UNHRC has addressed different conflicts recommendations.
such as the Israeli-Palestinian one, and also The UNHRC conceived with right intentions has
addresses rights-related situations in countries still a long way to travel for getting the required
such as in Burma, Guinea, North Korea, Côte power and authority to prove its conception to the
d'Ivoire, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Libya, Iran, and Sri world community to effectively tackle human
Lanka. The UNHRC also addresses important rights violation.
thematic human rights issues such as freedom of
association and assembly, freedom of
expression, freedom of belief and
religion, Women's rights, LGBT rights, and
Q-What efforts have been made by UN and its
the rights of racial and ethnic minorities agencies to protect children and women in war
affected countries like Afghanistan? Examine
(200 Words)
Mandate Afghanistan is undergoing a transition phase
with the help and assistance of U.N.
intended to examine, monitor and publicly report
on human rights situations in specific countries or According to the Bohn Agreement in december
territories (known as country mechanisms or 2001,the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan
mandates) as well as on major phenomena of [UNAMA] was established in march 2002 by UN
human rights violations worldwide (known as Security Council Resolution 1401. UNAMA

coordinates the work of 23 UN agencies in Q-The U.N. principle of Responsibility to

Afghanistan ,administered by the UN Protect (R2P), a form of humanitarianism is only
Department of Peacekeeping Operation. useful when it suits western interests.” In the
light of ongoing conflict in the Middle East,
During war,children and women face a critically comment.
heightened risk of rape ,sexual humiliation,
trafficking and other forms of gender based
The Responsibility to protect (R2P) is an UN norm to
violence
under which the states are responsible to protect their
Chances of the violation of human rights. population from genocide, war crimes, crimes against
The UN have worked to strengthen its humanity and ethnic cleansing (with international
institutional capacity and promote human rights community support), in case the state fails in doing so
in Afghanistan. the international community (mainly UNSC) can
intervene and if needed through coercive methods to
The UNAMA advocates for the justice system, protect the population.
addressing problems such as child protection.
The UNAMA has consulted with the Women‘s However, it has seen both success and failure at times
Commission of Afghanistan and civil society depending upon the interest of the UNSC members
groups on the implementation of the country‘s involved. For Example in Kenya in 2007-2008, ethnic
Elimination of Violence Against Women [EVAW] violence had erupted after the election of the
law, enacted in 2009 to criminalize child controversial president. But, on France request the UN
marriage, forced marriage and violence against mediated under Responsibility to protect and was able
women. In july 2013,the UN facilitated the launch to salvage the country.
and the first meeting of N-Peace, a platform to
However, when we see Syria or Libya a different
advocate for the leadership of women in peace
picture emerges. In Syria, The UNSC members are
building .
themselves divided into two factions due to their
The UN World Food Program [WFP] along with interests while USA, UK was supporting FSA, Russia
others launched a project to combat hunger and and China were supporting Assad Government.
malnutrition .The Afghanistan‘s Ministry of Responsibility to protect could not be moved in. As a
Public Health has also signed the Secretary- result millions of people lost their life.
General‘s initiative Every Woman Every Child ,to
UNSC members need to understand their
end preventable child death.
responsibility as the protector of the world peace
beyond their own interests else such violence and
But ,despite years of western involvement and mass atrocities will be a common place
spending billions of dollars in the humanitarian
One more…
aid in Afghanistan ,children‘s health has not
improved .There is a further need of attention in The R2P doctrine states that, if a state manifestly fails
this sector to develop a peaceful and cohesive to protect its citizens from mass-atrocities and
transition of Afghanistan. peaceful measures have failed, the international
community has the responsibility to intervene through
coercive measures such as economic sanctions and
Military intervention.

Based on this doctrine USA got UNSC approval for means to assist States in fulfilling this
the NATO intervention in Libya. It tried the same with responsibility and must be prepared to take
Syria, but Russia and China resisted. stronger measures, including the collective use of
force through the UN Security Council if state
fails to maintain peace.
Yemen has an insurgency that has killed 25000 people
in last ten years. The Palestinian people are being This rapid and coordinated reaction in Kenya
―cleansed‖ out, for six decades now. It can well be (2007- 08), by the international community was
argued that R2P is applicable only when a state kills praised as a model of diplomatic action under the
its own people. But that would take away the soul of Responsibility to Protect. Experiences in
R2P. And, Palestine is no recognized state. Also, Afghanistan and Iraq have been effective in
Chapter VII of UN charter and R2P have the same counterinsurgency missions and scaring states to
go for regime change.
spirit, and C.VII is applicable to Palestine conflict.
But the 2011 mission in Libya is a good example
So, why this obvious discrimination? Libya and Syria of what happens when interventionism is only
have oil, Yemen does not. American Dollar is ‗Petro- taken half way without a long-term commitment.
dollar‘. So for USA, no oil means not interested. In clear violation of the resolution, arms were
supplied to civilians without any consideration of
More than 50% of US Billionaires are Jew. The its consequences, no-fly zone was selectively
Rothschild‘s group is worth $231TRILLION (Credit implemented only for flights in and out of Tripoli
and targeted measures were implemented with
Suisse), and they are also Jew. American Jews make
the objective of regime change only.
2% of American population, but 17% of its elite (IHR
study). Israel is THE Jewish home-land. So USA will Several attempts were made by the U.S.
pay a heavy price if it does not support Israel. government in 2011 -13 to pass Security Council
resolutions invoking R2P to justify military
Therefore, in the light of ongoing conflict in the intervention in the Syrian civil war. These were
Middle East, it can clearly be said that the U.N. vetoed by Russia and China with the opinion that
principle of Responsibility to Protect (R2P), is only R2P has been abused by U.S. as a pretext of the
regime change due to personal economic and
useful when it suits western (US led) interests.
political motives.
Q-In the light of some of the international In the case of Afghanistan, the inordinate
developments in past fifteen years, critically emphasis was on military support, but the
comment on the use of “responsibility to declared commitments to the country‘s economic
protect” – or R2Pprinciple by some of major and social development have not been fully
international powers. delivered on. Similarly currently in Ukraine,
while the forces of dissidence were encouraged
Responsibility to Protect (R2P) is the international
by the US and some European countries, little
doctrine made by some world leaders in 2005 at
thought was given to how the situation would
United Nations as a commitment to protect
need to be handled in case it escalated.
populations from heinous crimes like genocide,
war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against
Continually calling for intervention and regime
humanity.
change in the wake of these experiences panics
states more than it mobilizes them. By continually
According to the R2P, the state has primary
attaching responsibility, regime change and
responsibility for the protection of populations
from these crimes. The international community
long-term action, states are deterred from
has a responsibility and should use appropriate
making appropriate decisions for long term
diplomatic, humanitarian and other peaceful

peace. Q-Explain the strategy or road map expounded

by the WHO in moving towards zero childhood
The main concerns surround R2P is that it TB deaths. What should be India‟s priority in
infringes upon national sovereignty. The scope of fighting TB in children?
R2P is also often questioned. Another concern is
whether R2P should apply to more than the four WHO is running at the forefront to reduce the TB
crimes: genocide, war crimes, crimes against burden of the world.India comes at a very
humanity, and ethnic cleansing. important place because we share the highest
burden of TB cases. With the emergence of MDR
The question of military intervention under the
& XDR TB types it becomes all the more
R2P remains controversial. Several states have
argued that R2P should not allow the important to tackle this menace as soon as
international community to intervene militarily possible.
on States, because to do so is an infringement
Children are more susceptible to the TB pathogen
upon sovereignty.
and more so because of lack of testing methods
The basic duty of any sovereign state is to protect for children below 5 years of age due to reliance
its citizens. And if the state is not able to perform on sputum test.TB can be eliminated by
its duty , it is responsibility of the international approaching the problem in preventive rather
community to assist it in the same. But if the state
is itself involve in the torture of its citizen via than treating mode based on a multi-pronged
ethnic cleansing , genocide , war crimes or crimes approach. Provision of test for children where a
against humanity , then the international family member is diagnosed with TB, early
community has responsibility to protect fellow treatment so that TB can be cured before it
human beings discarding the sovereignty of the
becomes active,inclusion of children of high risk
state . This is the principle on which
‗responsibility to protect‘(R2P) was introduced in group in govt intervention, identity protection
2005 at UN against the backdrop of Rawanda and timely medicine supply along with follow up
Genocide. assessment can go a long way in reduction of TB
in children according to WHO strategy given in
Since then , this principle has been invoked many
2006.
times in the states like Sudan , Central African
Republic , Mali , Libya etc. While some of cases Indian govt must reinforce the RNTCP and also
were highly commendable like CAR and Mali . treatment of children in DOTS must be given an
But the intervention in Libya and events in the equal priority . Along with timely intervention
aftermath of the regime change has created and post treatment reporting and follow up
doubts about the intentions ans motives of the should be the way to go forward to uproot TB
international powers involved in such operations from India.
. Moreover the powers like Russia and China
strongly oppose any attempt to breach
sovereignty of any state on the grounds of human Q-The World Health Organisation (WHO) lists
right violation . India though support the R2P in traffic-related accidents as one of the top health
principle but wants it to be used as a weapon of agendas of the world. In the light of this fact,
last resort. critically examine why road accidents are
frequent in the country and India‟s approach
Thus , it is important that international towards ensuring road safety.
community should act a watchdog for any human
atrocities . But its action should be seen as fair ,
India's approach is quite knee jerk
and not an attempt to seek a regime change for
reaction….rather than overall.
some narrow economic or political gains.

Though the governments – both at center and role in addressing global malnutrition. Due to its
state levels- have been putting in efforts towards production mainly confined In S. America
eliminating the scourge of road accidents but they ‗quinoa‘ is fetching high prices on the world
are falling short of the requirement. The very first market.
step to be taken should be adding more teeth to To tackle this FAO want this crop to be spread in
the Motors Vehicle Act by increasing the other countries especially developing or
quantum of punishments for different kinds of underdeveloped countries. Because of its high
vehicle related accidents. Secondly, the nutritional value and all, it can be boon for such
government should develop a common data base countries hence WHO is being vocal about it.
of all the registered vehicles in the country so that Besides country like Pakistan, has introduced
the offender could easily be traced. Thirdly, ‗qunioa‘ which has received positive response by
ample medical facilities along the roads and farmers over there.
highways would ensure a timely intervention
Question - Critically comment on the need for
during emergencies hence saving many lives.
nuclear disarmament around the world. Explain
Fourthly, road designs should be made keeping
the role of UN towards and highlight India‟s
the future traffic load in mind. And last but not
stance on the issue. (200 Words)
the least enough emphasis should be laid on
educating the masses on road safety. This could
be done through print and electronic media and The use of nuclear weapon was initiated by USA
through including a course on road safety in during the cold war, it had thought that it will
school and college curricular. have monopoly over nuclear weapon which will
help in creating a ―nuclear weapon driven
hegemony‖ post cold war. But this monopoly was
Question - Why is qunioa being promoted by broken by USSR during 1949. Now there are more
the WHO across the world? Examine. (200 than 10 states with nuclear weapon. The Eurasia
Words) region in particular is highly concentrated with
(topic is also related to health issues in GS2
nuclear armed states.
only)
In Eurasian region states which are hostile with
Answer - Qunioa is a crop which has multiple each other like India & China Pakistan and Russia
advantages, like :- are nuclear armed. So there always lingers an
• Highly adaptable. It has the ability to grow
atmosphere of nuclear aggression this further
under very difficult conditions e.g. in South of
propels armament of the region, we can take the
Bolivia which is 3600 meters above sea level, with
example of nuclear headed missile.
200 mm rain, and 200 nights with frosts. The only
crop which is being grown over there is ‗Quinoa‘. The UN has been from 1961 onwards decided
• It has high nutritional value. that nuclear arms must not be used by any states
• Easy crop to grow and doesn‘t require in any case. This materialized into the established
specialized skills. of United Nations for Disarmament Affairs which
• It production in rain- fed conditions or under was established in 1998. There are also a number
irrigated conditions has shown good results by of multilateral treaties with the aim of preventing
researchers. nuclear proliferation and testing, while
Having this multiple advantages ‗qunioa‘ is promoting progress in nuclear disarmament.
poised for global recognition and could play a These include the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation

of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the international issues and their future is decided
Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). based on veto power among UNSC members.
Sanctions are imposed on member countries
India has been a pioneer in supporting Nuclear
considering wasted interest of the members.
disarmament but does not support the
Emergence of BRICS countries in economical and
discrimination meet out by the provisions of
strategically arena should be considered and
NPT. India views that the NPT creates a club of
representation in UNSC to be extended. Increased
―nuclear haves‖ and a larger group of ―nuclear
representation will not only improve its
have-nots‖ by restricting the legal possession of
credibility but also help in realizing peace and
nuclear weapons to those states that tested them
security by elimination of clandestine
before 1967, but the treaty never explains on what
development of nuclear arsenal and extend
ethical grounds such a distinction is valid.
impetus to multilateral efforts.
So the discriminatory provisions in NPT must be
omitted. The nuclear disarmament must be for
―all‖ not some.
Q- International Security Assistance Force (50
Words)
Answer)
In December, 2001 United Nations Security

Question - Why is there a need for UNSC Council (UNSC), Bonn Agreement established
reforms? Examine. (200 Words) and mandated International Security Assistance
Answer - UN has played a major role in Force (ISAF) for the security of Kabul and
surrounding areas.
maintaining peace, improving environment,
Then in 2003 it was expanded by UNSC all over
liberalizing trade and conducting humanitarian Afghanistan.
work post Second World War through UNICEF,
ISAF is contains troops from USA and other
UNDP, UNEP etc. UNSC is part of United NATO members and its objectives are training
Nations is one of the six principal organs of UN the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF),
and charged with responsibility of maintaining assisting Afghan government in rebuilding the
peace and security. country and fighting with Taliban insurgents.
However the authoritarian behaviour of UNSC

ISAF set to withdraw its troops in December, 2014
has increased the distance and led to alienation of and after withdrawal concerns raised by many
countries forming regional allies, trade and countries including India.
cultural blocks. Discriminatory provisions of
CTBT and NPT reflects other hegemonic attitude
which has led to development of nuclear arsenals
Q-Why does India aspire to become permanent
secretly. World has changed from bipolar to
member of UNSC? Do you think time is ripe for
multipolar power center, UNSC must reforms
India‟s ascension into permanent member of
accordingly giving way to more accommodative UNSC? Comment. (200 Words)
and openly provisions. Answer)
Recent Syrian crisis manifested how National India is one of the representative of the
issues can be transformed to regional and developing countries. It is an emerging economy.

It has substantial participation in international seat .

trade. India has very long practiced democracy. 1. ―political will of deciding to act and deciding
take a stand mattered more than issues such as
reforming the Council‖
India maintains a large Diaspora in various
2. ―Don‘t just think about reforming institutions
countries of the world. India is able influence the
but think about how you behave in it, when you
whole world through its various principles of
take up a stand what you stand for‖
foreign policy such as NAM, Nuclear doctrine.
It gives clear insight about view of other countries
on India‘s international aspirations.
India has taken active part development of
India‘s inability or reluctance to take any stand in
various countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan,
any of the internationally important issues is the
Nepal. India is providing financial aid to least
talking point. This only lead to giving away
Developed Countries. India had helped to
UNSC permanent seat to China.
establish democracy set up in its neighborhood
India described as ―The Shy Super power‖ by
countries Eg: Bangladesh.
many foreign affairs analyst. India also shying
away from all international role play after its Sri
In various negotiation such as Climate Lanka IPKF debacle.
Change,G33 proposal of AoA India is informal
Iran nuclear issue discussed by G5+ Germany.
representative of all developing and Least
But no clear stand on this from India? (a nuclear
developed countries. This clearly reflects the
power aspiring for status equal to G5). This more
India strength and faith on India.
important for India also. It importing more crude
oil from Iran and its payment became
India has always showed a great trust on UNO troublesome.
and its principles. There was war like situation but nothing more
India has actively participated various UNSC than India except
operation of ―all party should resolve issues peacefully‖
Syria chemical weapons usage‘ still now India not
1.Establishment of peacekeeping operations only get involved but even not taken a clear
2.Establishment of international sanctions stand.
3.authorisation of military action There is good opportunity to take part in the
destruction of a part of Syrian chemical stockpile
as many countries expressed their inability. But
Though India is not a member of NPT.Several India already destroyed it‘s own chemical stocks
countries of the world have come forward and in past.
made civil nuclear agreements with India.
NSA snooping. Brazil leading the world against
US monopoly in the internet. Brazil is not more
In recent times India is able to take active part in powerful than India in any sector. It not a nuclear
Syrian issue, Arab spring and Iran issues. power, it‘s economy not superlative to of India‘s.
Not only this Indian aspiration to become Brazil not even a developed country. But India
permanent UNSC member had been endorsed by not at all protest publicly (instead it supported
most of the developed and developing countries. indirectly- Salman Kurshid ‗it not snooping‘
comments)
Thus the time is ripe for India to become In Sri Lanka, its close proximity the whole world
permanent UNSC member.By this India will be concern about rights abuse etc but India unable to
able influence more in the world politics. take a stand publicly of supporting Sri Lanka and
{some other analysis ---- protecting it‘s own Indian fishermen from Sri
Lankan Navy‘s attack or joint other countries and
There is more message in Britain PM David protest rights abuse and exert pressure to
Cameron‘s support for India‘s UN permanent rehabilitate.}
Q. In recently released Social Progress Index,

Q-Explain the significance of United Nations Bangladesh ranks ahead of India, and USA,
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in most powerful nation ranks 16th. Critically
recent times citing few important examples. (200 explain why some countries with rich resources
Words) and stable governments are ranked low in the
index.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the
Sea (UNCLOS) or the Law of the Sea treaty,
defines the rights and responsibilities of nations ANSWER-
with regard to setting limits to the different areas
• Social Progress Index, a parameter
such as internal water, territorial water,
developed by Michael Porter is a framework for
contiguous zone, exclusive economic zone &
measuring the multiple dimensions of social
continental economic zone. Along with the area
progress. It includes three broad parameters.
demarcation it also has laws regarding
navigation, archipelagic status and transit • i) Basic human needs- It includes
regimes, exclusive economic zones (EEZs), nutrition, water & sanitation, personal safety.
continental shelf jurisdiction, deep seabed
• ii) Foundation of wellness- It includes
mining, the exploitation regime, protection of the
parameters such as health, access to information,
marine environment, scientific research, and
access to basic knowledge, ecosystem
settlement of disputes.
sustainability.
The significance arises with rising conflict of
interest between countries with regard to deep • iii) Opportunity- It includes personal
sea mineral, scattered island, disputed oceanic rights, personal freedom & choice,tolerance and
border lines. The Arctic Circle race is one such inclusion and access to advanced education.
example where the Russia nad Norway are
• High Social Progress Index revolves
locking horns to establish the territorial rights.
around providing social justice and fairness.
They have just thrown the environmental Some countries which has rich resources and
apprehensions into the dustbin with the sole stable government such as United States rank low
motive to explore the unexplored oil reserves in the index. This is due to multiple reasons. One
under the ocean. of the factors which attributes to the fact is that
Another recent development in South China Sea their economic growth has not been able to
where regional players are all hostile towards provide equitable development and social
each other conflict demarcation of marine empowerment. For example, United States spend
borders. Some islands of Philippines have been heavily on education sector but only 92% of
grabbed by china and in turn Philippines has children goes to school. The reasons behind this
sought legal help from International Tribunal for could be due to policy paralysis, inability to
the Law of the Sea but china inspite of being a provide equitable development. Other parameter
signatory of UNCLOS has not responded to the which is personal freedom includes privacy over
proceeding. the internet and US had been unable to provide
that to its citizens as revealed in snooping
charges.
• Another important factor is the

environment sustainability and many of the

developed economies have faired poorly on this process for various issues related to Internet
ground such as France, United Kingdom. The governance, both within India and at an
increase in pollution and failure to check the loss international level.
to ecology has added to the developed economies The multi-stakeholder model of Internet
and India. governance in the 21st century is exceptionally
important, because a vast majority of the
• The index is a parameter to judge the infrastructure and services, including
overall wellness of the citizens of a country and government services, are provided, or will be
countries can improve by translating economic provided, via the private sector.
growth to sustainable all round development. The Also, the recent cases of snooping by US
measures should be innovative approach so that Government agencies, makes it now necessary to
the benefits reach to people for their decentralise the various aspect of Internet
governance, over which USA has monopoly till
development.
now.(ICANN‘s control, domain name, IP
addresses, etc)
Internet governance is also required to respect the
sovereignty of the nations and to fight the
challenges (viruses) like STUXNET, Heartbleed,
Q-The multi-stakeholder model of Internet etc.
governance in the 21st century is exceptionally
important.” What do you understand by this
statement? Explain in the context of India. (150
Words)
Answer) Q-Throw light on recent controversy regarding
One can connect internet as the web of a spider, it allegation of human rights violation by Sri
is a network where a large number of people get Lankan army during 2009 war against LTTE.
connected and form the network which is called What is the response and role of International
internet. These people consists of individual, community and organizations including
governments, banks, commercial entity, NGO India on the issue?
and even terrorist organization. Answer)
Internet governance = important within country, Human rights violation against Tamils in Srilanka
International level, etc existed from the very beginning of the creation of
Within country = e-governance, mobile- Srilanka. Now this issue again came to limelight
governance = important for Financial and social with ‗Channel 4‘s‘ video clipping on the brutal
inclusion. raping and killing of Issai Priya, an LTTE activist
and journalist. In the name of wiping out Tamil
One of the best way to do govern is by adopting a terrorist group LTTE in 2009, Srilankan army
multi-stakeholder model of internet governance killed many innocent people in the area. Some
where heterogeneous people from private sector, Tamil leaders says that more than 10,000 people
civil society, academia , technical communities were killed and more than 1000 people gone
and government are included which will make missing.
the governance more democratic.
Many rape cases were also there by the Srilankan
Indian Government has been regularly army. Many of them were unreported. And what
emphasizing the need for increased engagement is more alarming is that human rights violations
with multi-stakeholder groups including the by the army is still going on in those areas.
private sector, the civil society, the academia and
the technical communities in the decision-making International Community and organizations
condemned this violations as usual and now
discussions are going on to set up a National unhealthy political relation among these
Inquiry on Torture with the assistance of countries.
Common Wealth Secretariat.
Whereas to counter EU‘s influence Russia has
In the case of India, any issue on Srilankan Tamil increased its geopolitical influence by negative
creates a direct impact on Indian politics due to methods like tightening gas supply to these
the presence of large number of Tamils in South energy starved country. Withn these countries the
India. With this new incident, Tamil Nadu populations of these countries are now divided
regional parties expressed their strong protest on the point that whether there country must join
and urged Indian Prime Minister to not the EU or not.
participate in the Common Wealth Heads of
Q-How does the success of nuclear talks in
Government Meeting, which is going to be held
Geneva between Iran and p5+1 countries ties
in Srilanka.
between Saudi Arabia and Iran?
Though Indian foreign policy is a union subject,
Answer)
government cannot ignore the interest of its
crucial states. Even if India planned to cancel P5+1 country played a vital role in ending the
Prime Minister‘s visit, it won‘t be a long term sanction which was enacted on Iran 3decades
solution to the issues in Srilanka. ago. Once the deal was successfully enacted
Iran will out of the economic sanction for
6months.
Q-Write a critical note on the geopolitical
This deal had enacted the crisis in Middle
aspirations of EU in the Eastern Europe
East especially Saudi Arabia, Israel. The
region. (150 Words) recent backing of Syrian Asad group by Iran
Answer) had escalated the crisis to both Israel and
Saudi.
According to the United Nations Statistics And even Saudi turn down the offer of UN
Division eastern European region consists of 10 seat for this reason. And the backing of US in
nations. These are Belarus, Bulgaria, Czech P5 partnership and even US support in
Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Romania, removing of Mubarak from Egypt had
Russia, Slovakia, and Ukraine. drained out the relationship from Saudi.
The east European countries were once under the
soviet bloc in the cold war eras are now
Q-“Parties in Nepal must not be diverted again
struggling to tide over economic and
employment crisis. Presently there is a lot by short term issues of power-sharing.”
people‘s protest against the unemployment and Comment on the statement in the light of
stagnant economic conditions prevailing in the Nepal‟s recent failure to form it constitution on
region. time. (150 Words)
Russia is the single power which has a shadowing Answer)
influence over these countries through its gas
policy, restricting energy flow and monetary Nepal‘s democratic aspirations have been on life
grants towards its west. Whereas the EU has least support. The constituent assembly formed to
presence in this region although it is contagious draft a Constitution failed miserably. It was
with it. EU struggling for newer markets for its dissolved in 2012. As a result, the country has one
product is now eyeing to enter these countries. man(the Chief Justice) heading the executive, the
Politically it also wants to replace Russia and judiciary and even amending the constituent
make itself the big brother of the region deciding assembly‘s provisions.
their economic policy and thus making the EU a The Maoists and the Madhesis showed much
larger economic and political body of the world. promise when they entered into political
But these aspiration have created a very spectrum. Long derailed peace was the
anticipated future of Nepal. But what came out of Though the deal may be temporary, it surely has
this churning process in Constituent assembly is opened the door for negotiation of a permanent
regular non-acceptance and conflicts. A hung settlement after 6 months. The deal also
parliament like atmosphere surfaced. recognised the right of Iran to enrich uranium for
peaceful purposes which might be useful for
Now the re-election was announced for the
cvilian purposes.
second Constituent Assembly. Much
disillusioned by the Maoists and Madhesis, the All this said and done, the deal should not be
people have again moved towards the Nepali waterdowned but respected by all the parties
Congress and other centric parties. This is evident involved and remove the thorns for a mutually
as the results are coming out. beneficial relationship.
Gauging their much possible defeat, the Maoists
have threatened boycott of elections, sighting
irregularities in election process. Bomb blasts,
strikes and threats have taken place in the current Question - Can we have models such as GAVI
scenario. But despite these, the people of Nepal Alliance in other social sectors too? Comment.
have come out and voted in great numbers(70%).
(200 Words)
Hence, the parties, especially Maoists and
Madhesis should not divert by short term issues Answer - The GAVI Alliance is a public-private
of power-sharing and rather fulfil people‘s global health partnership consisting of World
aspirations of a much needed democratic nation
Health Organisation, UNICEF, the World Bank,
with a state in power.
many donor countries {India is a new comer} &
pharmaceutical industry all bundle into one,
Q-Explain the significance of Geneva deal decision-making body called alliance.
between Iran and p5+1 countries. (150 Words)
Answer) The main objective is to bridge the gap between
children for whom immunization is a given and
The historic Geneva deal signed between Iran and millions of children worldwide with no access to
P5+1 countries(France, US,UK, Russia, China and basic vaccines. It has successful covered about 20
Germany) has reiterated the fact that millitary million children. The crux of this success lies in
solution is not the only way out but there is integrating all the stakeholders during decision
chance for dialogue and diplomacy as well.
making process.
The deal puts Iran back into the game by lifting
the economic sanctions which has hurted its This model can be replicated in other sectors like
people a lot. It also paves way for Iran to continue agriculture, Education and infrastructure
to engage in its deals with other countries like development. In India the agricultural sector has
India which were earlier forced to downgrade seen this type of PP partnership like the E-
their relations for fear of US sanctions.
Choupal by ITC along with Government of MP in
It as also removed the fear of a millitary strike wheat procurement. In elementary education
against Iran which would destabilised the already
system Azim Premji foundation has also tied up
chaotic West Asia. It would have lured other
countries into the conflict if its not for th deal.It with many Government school in development of
has significantly increased the diplomatic their infrastructure, reorientation of teachers.
relations between in Iran and other countries like
Before creating such partnership it must be kept
US unless for some like the Israel and Sunni gulf
countries which do not want the deal to be passed in mind that GAVI-alliance is non-profit oriented
through. alliance. But we cannot expect that all PPP to be
non-profit oriented, so any planning of inclusion

of private player must also factor in their financial Q- Critically comment on India‟s stance on all
viability in the partnership. Premji foundation WTO related issues.
runs on philanthropic funds so it‘s a success. So
WTO is an international organization mandated
finance is a great factor in PPP. with promoting international trade among
WTO member countries and remove barriers of
international trade. However since the Doha
round of talks in 2001 there has been lot of
contentious issues among the developed nations
and India:
1)With the recent passing of NFSA , India is
Q) “The Indian government has made it clear poised to cross the limit of AMS in agriculture.
that the Bali agreement will not be ratified
Also it‘s alleged trade distorting subsidies of MSP
unless Indian demands are met. This is both a
and through PDS is being contended by
strategic and a tactical mistake.” Critically
developed nations ( primarily USA). However it‘s
comment.
refusal to support the recent agreed on trade
felicitation agreement in Bali ( till concrete
Bali agreement in the December 2013 was a
decision is not taken on agricultural subsidy
significant move which break the stagnation of
issue) might be seen as a deal breaker( largely
more than a decade long Doha talks. The
because it was unilateral). One of the important
significant trade facilitation agreement was
advantage that India has been is the support it
accepted by all the members, and a temporary
enjoys from both underdeveloped and
solution for the food subsidy was adopted, with a
developing nations in international forums. But
promise that the steps will be taken in the
this may be seen as blocking a much necessiated
direction of a permanent solution.
boost to both WTO as well as increase in
But India now has said that it will not ratify the
international trade. International forums should
trade facilitation agreement till a permanent
be approached with a sense of caution and
solution for food subsidy is found. This move will
diplomacy( so that India does not get alienated
again bring the Doha talks to a stagnation with all
and isolated there). Key is now to convince the
or none approach. Though the the provisions like
developing nations ( through increased
improving ports structure, easing custom laws etc
cooperation in BRICS and IBSA) to rally behind
will be beneficial to the trade of India, but India
India‘s stand.
can‘t be criticized for its stand on the food
2)Countries( particularly USA) are wary of
subsidy because nearly 60% of its population is
India‘s alleged callous approach to TRIPS( in light
dependent on the agriculture, and in the purview
of recent decision on Naxavar). However , this
of the food security bill it may cross the de-
issue of compulsory licencing and decisions on
minimus level(10%) allowed for the subsidies.
ever greening are fully compliant to India‘s
And it can‘t be said that India is a lone aberrant in
committments towards WTO and TRIPS and
this issue. The African countries has also said that
India shoul take caution in not getting
they will implement the trade facilitation
pressurized into accepting uneven and unfair
agreement on the provisional basis until the food
terms.
subsidy issue is being solved. And India is also
supported by China, and Cuba in its move.
Thus, if the developed countries really wan‘t to
solve the issue, instead of blaming India they
Q-Write a critical note on the barriers to trade.
should understand the problems of developing
countries. And show the same diligence in How does WTO address to remove such
reaching towards the solution on the food barriers? (200 Words)
subsidy issue as they are showing towards the A country puts barriers on trade are put to achieve
trade facilitation agreement. two objectives – 1) to earn some capital/foreign
exchange 2) to save local traders/market/consumers.

Though, these barriers are mostly discriminatory for Answer - The trade facilitation deal signed at the
investors, MNCs and the market, the host country is Bali meet in 2013 is considered as the most
left with no other choice to put it to save its own significant deal since the inception of the ‗Doha
domestic market. Development Agenda‘ process which began in
2001.
This is done by putting two types of trade barriers –
‗trade facilitation‘ are measures to reduce trade
Tariff barriers and non tariff barriers. Tariff barrier are
costs by cutting red tape in customs procedures.
in the form of taxes, cess etc. Ex- Luxury cars are
According to an estimate this could cut global
costlier in India than it is in US/Europe because India
trade costs by more than 10% raising annual
has put import duty on it. Non tariff barriers are put
global output by billions of dollars and
in the form of providing subsidy to local farmers so
benefitting especially the developing economies.
that they can compete with global farmers. Before FDI,
Other issues undergoing negotiations include
few sectors were exclusively for Indian businessmen.
trade in environmental goods and services such
From economy point of view, this is not the healthy
as air filters, environmental consulting and so on,
practice as it does not provide level playing ground
increased liberalization of trade through
for investors, and other market players. Also the
‗plurilateralism‘ wherein coalitions of WTO
consumers do not have much to choose from and they
member countries would sign deals which would
can‘t make informed choice. In this scenario, they may
be applicable only to the signatories such as deals
be exploited. This also promotes smuggling and other
in trade of IT services.
ill-pratices. India‘s bone of contention was WTO‘s Agreement
World Trade Organization established in 1995 by on Agriculture. It with the support of G-33
replacing GATT, intends to supervise and liberalize developing nations lobbied hard to remove the
international trade. It came up with 19 agreements to 10% cap on subsidy on procurement of farm
facilitate smooth trade between all member countries. products from farmers. This was in order to
Three important agreements are – Sanitary and promote its recently enacted Food Security Bill,
Phytosanitary agreement(SPS), general agreement on wherein it intends to procure foodgrains from
trade in services (GATS) and Trade Related farmers at MSPs and sell it cheap through PDS.
Intellectual Property Rights(TRIPS). SPS deals with This according to WTO is trade distorting and
farm and non farms products. GATS is related to violating the AoA. India also declined to sign the
human resources, transport and telecom sector. And 4 year ‗peace clause‘ which protects developing
TRIPS is concerned with the safeguard of intellectual countries from such challenges. This was later
properties such as copyright, patents etc of member turned into a indefinite waiver.
countries. WTO aims to end such over-subsidies to farmers
in the form of food security which if implemented
would prove detrimental to India‘s Food Security
Act.
Question - Throw light on the new trade
facilitation deal signed by WTO members at
Bali in 2013. Examine the other areas of
negotiations that are currently going on in WTO
talks and explain their effect on India if a final
deal is struck on those issues. (200 Words)

Q--“While harmonising the patent law in the Q-Examine what flexibilities are allowed under
country with the provisions of the TRIPS TRIPS agreements for developing countries to
Agreement, India has attempted to balance its continue with their development agenda and
obligations under the international treaty and domestic imperatives? Do you think TRIPS
its commitment to protect and promote the norms should be further diluted against the
public health considerations of people in the wish of developed countries? Critically
country and elsewhere.” Critically comment. comment.
India after becoming a signatory of TRIPS World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on
Agreement, duly amended its patent act to meet Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property
the requirements of agreement. The Indian (TRIPS) offers several flexibiilities in its
Patents Act 1970, amended in 2005, provided a 20 provisions for developing(DC) as well as least
years patent protection to innovations that were developed countries(LDC)
likely to bring enhanced benefits to people of Standards of implementation: WTO members can
India. The concerns of civil society vis-a-vis cost adopt different concepts to define what is
of healthcare were also met by introducing ―invention‖ for the purposes of patent law, in
section 3(d) to the amended act, which explicitly accordance with their legal traditions and
provided that innovations will have to show national policies.
enhanced efficacy. Another article in the act
provided for compulsory license to medicines Transition Period: The TRIPS agreement provide
which were beyond the reach of common citizens. three transition periods for implementation of its
The act thus walked a tightrope between standards. 2005 for developing nations like India
promoting R&D and ensuring public health. and 2016 for Least developed countries(LDC)
The two articles have been a major point of
debate. The decisions have been criticized by Compulsory Licensing: Allows government to
multinational pharmaceutical companies for permit someone else to produce the patented
being anto-innovation. According to product or process without the consent of the
multinationals, the decisions will worsen the patent owner. TRIPS Agreement also does not list
R&D environment of the country and will the reasons that might be used to justify
therefore negatively impact public health in long compulsory licensing.
term.
The two decisions are however landmarks from Parallel importation: Process of importing
the point of view of public health. The two drugs, affordable medicines from cheaper markets. This
regulated through the act, were significantly out is allowed under TRIPS
of reach of poor patients. India was thus
TRIPS does not cover a number of areas of IP
legitimate to invoke provisions under the patents subject matter like traditional knowledge,
act, which is consistent with the TRIPS handicrafts which are of particular interest to
Agreement. Multinationals have anyways LDCs
indulged in anti-people practices such as
evergreening to increase the life of patents, in However there are glitches on the way of full
past. The patents act provides due protection in utilisation of such provisions. In the name of
innovation, a constant pressure from developed
such as scenario.
nations is maintained against the implementation
of these provisions. Such nations like the US(with
its special 301 report) frame their own IPR
policies which work exclusively for interests of its
export industries and ignoring priorities of DCs
or LDCs in public health.

Accordingly the later have demanded more Q-“While the differences between India and the
flexibilities such as in environmentally sound U.S. over intellectual property rights (IPR) have
technologies. Indeed there is a need to balance threatened to derail economic relations, it
between the IPR of the innovators and human should be possible to sort them out through
rights like the right to health. discussions.” Comment on the controversy and
the way forward in resolution of differences
Q--In the light of recent court judgements on the between two countries.
issue of granting compulsory licences to Indian
companies to manufacture generic drugs, Differences between India and US over IPR righs
critically discuss the associated IPR issues and violation specially in the pharmaceutical sector
significance of these judgements. have resulted in US categorizing India as ‗Priorty
watch list country‘ in its infamous special 301
To promote investment in research and report. The report is a key expression of US trade
development in drugs and medicine drug policy and any country demoted to ‗Priority
producer are given right to exclusive production Foreign Country‘ faces potential sanctions.
of specific drug for a given period of time. India argues that its compulsory license, that on
Production of this drug by any other Bayer‘s patent was targeted against monopoly
manufacturer will be considered as violation of over a life saving drug and was used only once.
the patent under IPR. As a signatory to TRIPS of Even the US itself issues compulsory licenses to
WTO India had to comply with this norm and combat monopolistic practices. The patentability
restrict production of such drugs by generic issue over Novartis was subject to scrutiny by
manufacturer. India‘s highest court, the Supreme Court – and
upheld.
However on the other hand this involves issue of Pharmaceutical industry is one of the largest
availability of drugs in terms of quantity and corporate sectors in the US and the country is not
price of it. Due to exclusive production of these expected to take the issue lying down. For India
vital drugs it has become a humanitarian issue as on the other hand , the pharmaceutical and
denial of treatment by these drugs might lead to services industries are two of the shining stars of
serious consequence for deprived patients. The a largely knowledge based economy and any
situation becomes even more grim in case of India harm on these will be resisted.
which has a large population, low income level The US being a trade powerhouse must fairly
and high prevalence of diseases. Thus to counter agree upon a common platform like WTO for
this India included provision of ‗compulsory such disagreements.
licensing‘ in its law on drug IPR. This enables
government to allow any company which is For India‘s part, It has ranked a dismal 134 out of
capable of providing same drug in larger quantity 189 countries in world rankings for hospitable
and at lower price to produce it after taking places to ―invest and start a new business‖. That
license for the same. Recent case of production of need to be corrected.
Nexavar by Natco Pharma and suit by Bayer In the long run focus must not waver from core
highlights the need of this provision as price of issues of a relationship. As world‘s largest and
Natco produced Nexavar is Rs. 8,800 compared to oldest democracies, India and US share much in
Bayer produced Rs. 2,80,000 for monthly does of common and both stand to only lose over
120 tablets. vilification of such disagreements. Annual trade
between India and the US currently stands at
$100 billion and both have repeatedly stressed on
increase the annual trade of $100 billion figure
five-fold over the next decade. The 3 mn strong
Indian American diaspora has enriched American
politics, economy and academia. Further, over
100,000 Indian students come to study in the

United States every year. India & the US also Q-What is „Washington Consensus‟? What were
share a common vision of the future security its effects? Do we have any alternative to
architecture for the world, especially the Asia Washington Consensus? Examine.
Pacific region.
An example can be borrowed from US-Canada
relationship. Despite IPR issues both countries are In late 1980s the economic growth of the of the Latin
viewed as best of friends, indicating a mature American countries like Bolivia, Brazil, Argentina etc.
relationship.Long term Indo-US relationship will had slowed down abysmally and was not even
be founded on core beliefs, understanding of the matching the rate of population growth. At that time
other‘s compulsions and an agreement to English Economist John Williamson had proposed the
compromise. Washinton Consensus to help these developing
countries come out of the grip of recession. It had
IMF
proposed set of 10 policy changes like trade
Q-In the light of recent financial crises around
liberalization, Government expenditure cut,
the globe, critically comment on the role played
Government debt reduction, tax reforms, market
by IMF in resolving these crises.
determined foreign exchange, liberalization for FDI,
Privatization of debt enterprises etc.
IMF, a Brettonwood twin, was born to address
primarily the global short term balance of payment Some of the positive effects
crises. It history especially after the present global 1. Support and bailout package received from IMF on
economic crises is chequered. these reforms
IMF quotas and voting rights reflect the historical 2. More money and hence investment increased due to
status of global economy post WW-II. With the FDI
present economic scenario highly changed, the 3. Fiscal position of the country got consolidated
policies and decisions of IMF lack pragmatism. Its 4. Reduced the chances of contagion recession
contributions towards the developed nations (PIGS) 5. Positive foreign reserves to meet the external
despite they suffering from unsustainable financial demands like oil etc.
positions, reflects poorly on its lending practices. Debt
restructuring, huge long term loan without realistic However, it also had some drawbacks
commitments for structural reforms, poor allocation to 1. It led to pro poor policies, affected them big time
Emerging markets etc demonstrate its irrationality in 2. The small and protected industries suffered and
lending. The only rationality to these judgments is some got closed as well
that, the MD of IMF is always a European, thus 3. Globalisation lead to unwanted changes in social
favouring their cause. Frequent debt restructuring of structure
Greece and Italy despite political uncertainty and any 4. Washington Consensus was more of an ideological
agreement on structural reforms is a classical example instrument than economic one, many country just
of squandering. followed it blindly and hence never succeeded to the
IMF needs an overhaul of it architecture giving extent they could have
enlarged role to emerging markets like India and
The alternative tool could have been a well-researched
China. Quota and voting right reform is a pressing
and balanced policy changes which could have not
requirement. Besides, greater commitment from
only protected the domestic enterprises but also
borrowers and ensuring prudency in spending will
opened the economy for foreign investment. Cut on
determine the long term survival and efficacy of IMF.
pro poor policies shouldn‘t have been drastic. The tax
reforms and foreign exchanges could have been
implemented in a phase wise manner.

Conclusion China may jump-ship if it can‘t dominate NDB

through its financial weight.
there needs to be greater discrimination and less
NDB is a step in right direction. All accounting-
blanket implementation. The privatisation of state
jugglery apart, real wealth comes from real
owned car industry may be good, but water supplies
resources. Real resources lie untapped in Least
may not. Perhaps the most interesting development is
Developed Countries. Northern bloc gets a stake
the rise of the Chinese and Indian economies. In
in these resources by supplying financial capital to
particular, Chinese investment is playing a
them. NDB‘s message is that BRICS also wants to
considerable role in enabling economic development
play that game, and play it in a less-exploitative
within developing economies. The Washington
manner.
consensus is partly tied to the strength of the US
economy. But, the US economy is likely to decline in
relative terms. Perhaps in a few decades we will be Q-Examine the World Bank‟s Purchasing Power
talking about the ‗Chinese consensus‘ – whatever that Parity (PPP) index, its poverty estimation
may turn out to be. method and its impact on India.
PPP index is based on what one US dollar can buy
in different countries. Consider a basket of
Q-If anything, the New Development Bank commodities. Let us call it ‗X‘. Consider official
(NDB) must be a template for change, not a exchange rate is 1 US$=60 Rest.
mirror to the existing hegemony of money.” In Say 1$ can buy X in USA. But 60 Rest can buy 3X
the light of existing models of multilateral in India. Then 1$ = 20Rs, adjusted for Purchasing
banking systems, critically analyse the Power Parity (PPP).
statement. The problem is with this X. It is unfair because:
* People don‘t consume the same things across the
In the existing multilateral banking systems, world.
World Bank , IMF and ADB, countries have voting
* X has an urban bias, more so in developing
powers based on capital owned. Therefore, USA
countries, where population is dominantly rural.
steers the Brettonwood sisters and Japan
dominates ADB, through the hegemony of money. * As economy grows, price of luxury goods come
NDB initiative by BRICS has same capital down more than basic commodities. This hurts the
contribution from all five members. This means developing nations.
South Africa and India can negotiate at par with World Bank takes the average of poverty lines in
Russia and China. Undoubtedly this system is 15 of the poorest countries, adjusts it with PPP,
more democratic and a welcome change. It is and calls it the global poverty line (currently 1.25$
hoped that this financial model will be replicated PPP). No poor country wants to have humongous
in these countries‘ diplomacy and national security poverty statistic, due to reasons of realpolitik.
policies as well, thus being a template for change. Besides, poverty has different meanings in
But, this ―equal equity‖ policy will hamstring the different countries. So unless there is an objective
bank. When a better performing economy wants to definition of poverty, and a realistic PPP$ value
contribute more it won‘t be able to. Its pockets are attached to it, these estimates have no meaning.
not as deep as others and can‘t therefore offer
Another answer …
loans that are as cheap. Besides, this equality
means a possible grid-lock in decision making. WB now assumes India‘s PPP is higher than
previously thought. That means poverty figures
will come below 8% of population. This will mean

better image internationally. Youngest country of the world, South Sudan got
Global financial transfers from developed to independence from Sudan on 9 July, 2011. Since its
developing countries are ultimately guided more birth South Sudan has been enduring a conflict with
by strategic interests than poverty. So India stand Sudan on the matters of boundary disputes and transit
to lose nothing. fees for exporting oil as well as between its rival tribes
The World Bank has revised the Purchasing Power – Dinka and Nuer.
Parity (PPP) index and the global poverty line. Causes of civil war in South Sudan:-
Accordingly, the number of poor people in India
will become much lower than the existing 1)75% of oil reserves are in S.Sudan while most of
calculations of the Indian government. the pipelines to international market pass through
N.Sudan. Disputed claim over Abeyi region which
The World Bank has set the global poverty line at
has huge energy reserves lying between North and
$1.25 a day at present, calculated on the basis of
the SouthSo, the dispute over sharing the oil
the 2005 PPP index. By that measure, India had
reserves is the bone of contention.
about 400 million poor people in 2010. With
revised PPP there will be only 110 million poor in 2)Further, South Sudan has several ethnic tribes
2011-12. These are much lower than the numbers and there is no dominant culture and religious
reported by Rangarajan committee recently. diversity. So, S.Sudan always witness ethnic
Moreover, Global poverty itself would fall by cauldron which is its biggest problem.
more than half. That means the MDG target for
2015 has been met. 3)Another border conflict is in Nuba mountain
region of South Sudan where violence is between
In Indian context, revision of the PPP index
local people of Nuba, Kordofan state of S.Sudan
suggests that,
and the north‘s govt forces.
a) Indian economy is much bigger,
b) Its purchasing power much higher and International Response:-
c) The number of poor much lower than estimated
earlier. Following UN and AU mediation efforts, the 2
sides are in Ethiopia for ceasefire talks but there
These new numbers once released would not only
seems no progress till now and the fighting
alter the perception of the Indian economy but also
continues to rage. UN which deployed 7500
mess the dynamics of resource sharing between
security personnel promised not to abandon the
developed and developing countries globally.
civilians but experts say it will not be able to
Also there will be alteration in global fund prevent violence across such a vast territory.
transfers from developed to developing countries.
But there is nothing much to worry as funds are
ultimately guided more by strategic interests than
India‘s response:-
by poverty.
India has been one of the biggest contributor of
security personnel to UN peace keeping missions.
Q-Examine the causes of recent civil war in
So, India can help mediate the cease fire talks.
South Sudan. What has been the international
response to the crisis? Explain with special India‘s ONGC Videsh Ltd(OVL) acquired key
reference to India‟s response. (200 Words) stake in Sudan‘s Greater Nile Petroleum
corporation. But with Oil resources in the South

post indepence, India‘s oil interests are in jeopardy necessary confidence in minorities and serves as a
further exacerbated by civil war. check on cession tendency.
India was the first Asian country to open consulate Thus, any negligence of 13 th AA by Sri-Lankan
in S.Sudan. India has a cherished history in Africa. government is bound to invite civilian trouble. It
J.Nehru helped in anti-colonalism and anti- will also attract global worth especially when HR
apartheid movements. So, India can use its violation cases are already under investigation.
economic clout to eliminate conflict, tackle poverty
Q-Evaluate how far has AU mission to Somalia
and promote India‘s interest in Africa along with
(AMISOM), established under UNSC resolution
promoting Sudan‘s interests.
and mandated to conduct Peace Support
As regards India the ongoing crisis will adversely Operations in Somalia, been successful in its
affect its energy and economic interest because of mission
its dependence on the oil imports. India‘s ONGC
Videsh Ltd has invested millions of dollars for the AU Mission in Somalia under UN resolution
exploration of crude oil. Several other Indian started in 2008 for peacekeeping operations
corporates like Tata, Reliance are engaging with where all african countries contributed their
South Sudan for building commercial relations. troops into somalia. This country has been in
turmoil for a long time on issues of marine piracy,
abject poverty, exploitation of resources by
private entities and mafia, dumping of waste on
Q-Write a critical note on the 13th Amendment
its coast by european nations, etc. But now
and its relevance to the settlement of Sri Lanka‟s
problem has increased with entry of al-Qaeda
internal crisis between Sri Lankan Tamils and
trained Shabab extremists who are trying to
ruling parties of Sri Lanka.
capture the country and its resources esp in the
The 13th Amendment, a product of the Indo-Sri
south. There is a separate govt in north and
Lanka accord of 1987, was a significant move
central somalia which is trying to isolate these
towards Constitutional reforms. Its aimed to
fighters and bring back peace and development in
establish a federal setup and sharing of power
the region but south has been out of reach for the
with ethnic tamils of north and east Sri Lanka.
govt. Another disappointment had been frequent
This Amendment has been a part of political political instability and continued coups and
solution for Tamils in Sri Lanka. It was to create dominance of military. Peacekeepers have been
the necessary conditions for postwar reconciliation doing their job but they have been ill equipped in
in Sri Lanka. Yet the absence of a definite time resources and equipments and medicines in
frame for its implementation and without any absence of funding and adequate support.
statutory backing, the 13th AA is reduced to a Expansion of Shabab towards uganda and kenya
mere peice of paper with out any sanctity. as proved by recent attack in mall in nairobi and
other incidents is making clear that the menace
Sri Lanka despite assuring India about a has only increased despite peace operations.
devolution package has shown vacillating stance Need is to bring these group on table for talks
on 13th AA. From 13th Amendment plus approach and simultaneously work toward bringing peace
to complete denial Sri Lanka has shown a and stable govt in somalia by global support in
vacillating and indecisive tendency. terms of funds, expertise, engagement, bringing
Power sharing is an essential element of education, health, food, and armed training to
reconciliation of a war torn country. It restores the somalian troops so that these external elements

can be removed to its roots with its around 30000 Ease of doing business is a catalyst which
odd extreme fidayeens. International attention increases the affinity of businesses to establish in
must be brought to this expansion of islamic a country. India ranks 136 in this index.
In India a lot of regulations, paperwork,
extremist group via al-Qaeda and whole world
clearances need to be taken which is way higher
must use its resources to bring back peace in the
than the other countries like Singapore, UK, etc.
region by tact and diplomacy along with keeping Also, it involves many ministries like Ministry of
the sovereignty of somalia at a higher level by environment, overseas affairs, Finance Ministry,
empowering somalian govt. etc which has its associated red tapism and
bureaucratic hurdles.
Corruption is another hindrance- one needs to
please officials rather than complying with the
Q-The Peace Clause in Agreement on technical standards.
Agriculture (AoA) (wto) Indian infrastructure is laggard- There is a need
to fast pace construction of roads, highways, high
Q-Analyse the significance of ratification of the speed rail networks, port to hinterland
Additional Protocol (AP) to the India-specific connectivity, market linkages to farmers
nuclear safeguards agreement with the producing raw materials, etc. There is a need to
improve communication channels.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) by
The GAAR policy of government had a
India.
demoralizing effect on investor sentiments.
India‘s labour laws also need to comply with the
India has recently ratified the AP of IAEA. This is international standards. They are perceived to be
a step forward to ensuring transparency in too labour centric and inflexible towards the
nuclear energy production that India is looking employer. Eg: Germany pointed this out for its
forward to. reluctance in investing in Indian automobile
The Additional Protocols to IAEA were added in sector.
light of nuclear program of Iraq and North Korea The issues related to land i.e. land acquisition and
that circumvented the IAEA protocols. absence of titles , making it quite difficult to
The additional protocols allow IAEA to monitor procure a piece of land.
all cites in a member nation and also monitor and The environment for getting various day to day
inspect import and export related to nuclear
facilities like water sewarage electricity is quite
material. India though is exempted from
inspection of military nuclear facilities. Thus AP perplexed in itself. complex labour laws in turn
does not in any way infringes on the sovereign act as adding fuel to the fire.
rights of Indian military.
The ratification is being seen as a confidence
building measure. It would allow India to
Q-Write a note on the Asian Infrastructure
negotiate at the NSG table to gain access to
nuclear material. It is to be noted that this Investment Bank (AIIB) initiative.
remains a contentious area ever since Indo US
nuclear deal was signed. Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is a
Chinese initiative to revive ancient ‗Silk route‘. It
agreement only affects civilian use not military. finances development around ‗silk route‘ staying
away from west backed international institutions
Q-In the World Bank‟s “Ease of Doing Business such as world bank or Asian Development Bank.
Index” report, India‟s rank is abysmal. It is stated that the transfers from AIIB will be
Critically comment why India‟s position is poor solely determined by economic consideration and
won‘t involve considerations such as human
in this Index.
rights, good governance etc, which are quite
important for western institutions.

India has been offered membership to AIIB African countries and even biased to remove the
recently. However it is yet to take any decision incumbents thereby causing instability in
over it. countries already in turmoil. ICC has 122
signatories to the Rome Statute which is the base
of the ICC Charter. Though India, USA, China
Q-Explain the role played by OPCW in defusing and Israel did not ratify it. Recent trial against
the Syria crisis. (150 Words) Kenyan President and his deputy for intimidation
• Syrian crisis was about to precipitate into a of defence witnesses in post-election violence case
global one when global powers came to a faceoff
is based on allegations which led to disrupt post-
regarding bombing of Syria against its alleged use
mall attack operations in Nairobi. Another fact of
of chemical weapons. It was under such
the matter is that despite global duties, all the
precipitous circumstances, that OPCW rose to
cases handled by it are from the African continent
prominence and helped in defusing the crisis.
which creates serious doubt over its mandate as
• Both the factions expressed confidence in the
Africa includes only 34 countries.
ability, commitment and non-partisan nature of
OPCW. It‘s tasked was to make physical AU is now trying to harden its stance by asking
inspections, assess the quantity of chemical for immunity for its state heads and withdrawl
weapons and apply suitable measures to from ICC framework which is not in the interest
eliminate them. of justice but the dissent of AU is also not
• This serves the interests of all the parties unwanted. Need is for ICC to convince the
involved and has also been readily been accepted member countries on the reasons of the trial and
by Syria. USA and Russia have also been able to has to now consider changing its mandate and
find a working solution while sticking to their rules of engagement for the heads of state
maintained ideological-political commitments. according to the administrative machinery of the
• OPCW team went to physical inspections on member country. Also in the interest of justice
the war-torn battlefield worked on missile heads, they should clarify on the matter and try to build
bombs and other dangerous storage devices of consensus for its rules and try to be more specific
chemical weapons for chemical agents. Its work and proper in trying cases of injustice and crimes.
has been lauded globally.
• It has thus helped in defusing the crisis but
global for a will have to work together to find a Q-Why does India rank low in the „ease of
permanent solution to Syrian civil war. doing business‟ list? What measures
government has taken to speed up the process?
(150 Words)
Q-The International Criminal Court (ICC) has Ans: Ranking allotted by world bank for ease of
transformed itself into a political instrument doing business was based on multi dimensional
targeting Africa and Africans.” Critically criteria.It include starting of business,getting the
comment construction permits,getting electricity,registering
International Criminal Courts have been properties, getting credit,protecting
instrumental in resolving disputes and awarding investors,paying taxes,trading across
sentences to international criminals and brought boarders,enforcing contracts,resolve insolvency.
up its legitimacy in the past but recently African
In recent ranking India stands at 134 out of 189
Union suspects it to be highly focussed on
countries.On analysis of above parameters , three

aspects will decide the rankings. such as, It constitutes 25 Members India being one of them
, and a further 11 countries have acceded to the
a. Involvement of procedures,
Convention.
b.Time associated in completing the tasks.
c.Cost associated in completing the tasks. It was established in response to increasing
commercial interest in Antarctic krill resources, a
To cite an example, In India 35 procedures needs keystone component of the Antarctic ecosystem.
to completed for construction permits as against It supports harvesting as long as such harvesting
16 procedures in south asia.Accordingly time and is carried out in a sustainable manner and takes
cost will be go on higher side. account of the effects of fishing on other
components of the ecosystem.
To prevent this, Government either simplify the
procedures without diluting the sufficient
Q-What are the challenges being faced
controls on business or increase the availability of
by Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)
qualified staff to attend these complex procedures
countries in Indian Ocean region? Elucidate.
at nominal cost.The second being the time,govt
(200 Words)
authorities shall strictly adhere to their time lines
Answer)
, and these procedures shall be carried out in
transparent manner without involvement of Challenges
illegal activities like corruption etc.Costs - Keeping shipping lanes open,
associated with these procedures are huge in - The conservation and sustainable use of its
nature, govt. reduce this to bring a win win fisheries stocks,
situation. - Conservation of its marine life and ecosystems =
For development of any economy, business is oil spills, over exploitations,etc
inevitable. Hence, govt. shall provide - Empowerment of women and girls in the region
environment for ease of doing business without = especially for those countries which rely heavily
on the resources of the sea=
affecting the necessary controls.
for sustainable fisheries management practices.
- Predicting and tackling natural calamities like
Q-Write a critical note on the role played by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
OPCW and IAEA in international conflict
- By 2030 the total population of the 36 of
resolutions with suitable examples. (150 Words) countries surrounding the Indian Ocean is
expected to reach 3.2 billion= need to provide
basic amenities
- Combating piracy
Q-Commission for the Conservation of - The issues of ensuring maritime security and
Antarctic Marine Living Resources safety across the region to prepare people to
(CCAMLR) (50 Words) tackle dire consequences of natural disasters with
Answer) efficiency by recognizing the significance of the
Indian Ocean‘s marine life and ecosystems.
The Commission for the Conservation of
Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR)
was established by international convention in
1982 with the objective of conserving Antarctic
marine life.

Q-Explain the composition and mandate of Inter national financial institutions like
IAEA. Do you think it has succeeded in its WB,IMF,ADB provide various types of loans to
missions? (200 Words) poor and developing countries for capital
IAEA was formed as an autonomous organisation programs.
in 1957 independent of UN, however it still WB offers 3 types of loans,project loans for large
reports to UNGA and UNSC. Composed of more infra structure projects,sector specic loans and
than 150 member nations, the organisation aims structural adjustment loan for exchange of policy
at encouraging use of nuclear energy for peace, from a developing country.
health and energy ends. It‘s mandate also
IMF offers financial assistance in terms of loan for
includes persuading nations to abandon the use
BOP stabilization,to avert an economic crisis to
of nuclear energy for military proposes. It also
avoid the contagion etc.similarly,ADB issues
develops standards for safety in nuclear plants
loans for development projects.
and work with nations to ensure the safety and
security India with a billion people needs massive funding
to carry out its infrastructure projects right from
IAEA has been involved in ensuring the safety of
construction of dams to power plants,to stabilize
the nuclear power plants across the globe and it
its BOP etc which is fulfilled by these
also stands guard that any assistance provided by
international financial institutions.
it is not put to a military use. The role played by
But should exercise caution such that their
IAEA over the years in preventing naitons from
conditions never decide india ‗s political-
developing nuclear weapons and securing their
economic policies.
rights for peaceful use of nuclear energy has been
instrumental. Its internaitonal standing and WB And IMF are accused of altering the internal
credibility is globally acknowledged, a reason policies of poor countries through their structural
why Iran has allowed it to visit it‘s Arak plant to adjustment programs to remove state subsidies to
take forward the nuclear negotiations with P5+1. farmers which increase prices of food,remove the
trade barriers,devaluation of
currencies,privatization of state owned
However the accident of Chernobyl and the
enterprises,demanding to open the domestic
recent Fukushima disaster put a serious dent in
markets to FD investors etc.
its reputation. On one side it has faced criticism
for inept handling and hence there have been
demands to improve its working. On the other Hence india should try to mobilize its own
side, it has also been criticised for encouraging domestic resources, generate the revenue by
nuclear energy in intself. boosting its exports and savings to avoid
dependence on WB IMF and ADB thereby should
protect its financial sovereignty.
Overall given the dangers of nuclear weapons
and acceptance of it as a deterrent to aggression
by the world, IAEA is an indispensable Q-What are the benefits India would get if it‟s
organisation in the current world. Chernobyl and
made the member of Asia-Pacific Economic
Fukushima were unfortunate lapses however
they should serve to further strengthen IAEA. Cooperation (APEC)? Elucidate. (200 Words)
In 1989 when APEC was established India‘s
policies were inward looking and inconsistent
Q-What are the types of loans provided by with free and open trade and investment.
World Bank, IMF and ADB respectively to poor In 1997 APEC decided to set up 10 year
and developing countries? Does India need aid
moratorium in order to avoid difficulties arising
from these institutions? Examine. (200 Words)
on increasing members in achieving its
agreements. Later India opened its economy and
moved towards liberalization.

Now India is looking for membership conversed also allowed certain counries like Israel to possess
with Indonesia regarding the same. On other side
nuclear weapons but not the other middle east
apec members are also attracted towards India
seeing its military and maritime strength. They countries.
are thinking giving membership to India will help Changes like in the voting pattern of the
to counter china. Just like what happened in the members, financial structure of UN, inclusion of
case of oil and gas developing platform with more members in the security council, rotating
Vietnam.
heads etc. come a long way in transforming the
security council to address the troubles of the
India interests amounts to built economic ties modern world.
with Latin America adds geopolitical value,
potential economic rewards, interested in
Q--Why was the European Union established.
extending look east policy towards trans pacific
Critically examine why it expanded towards
region, improves India‘s export competitiveness, East and with what consequences.
reduction barriers to free
Write a note on the need for security council European Union was established in 1993 as a
15 member political union under the
reforms by giving suitable recent examples.
Maastricht Treaty to ensure free movement of
A) In this age of multilateralism and people, good and services across the union
globalisation, there is an urgent need to reform and have a common market across all
the international organistation like the UN to suit member states. The primary aim of the
the present situations. establishment of EU was the unification of
Europe and form a block which has a
One can find that the security coucil is clearly coherent view on all major international
dominated by few world powers but its policies issues.
Since its inception, the membership of EU has
affect a large number of countries. For instance,
increase to 28, mostly with the addition of
the Syrian crisis, Israel-Palestinian tussle, Iran‘s East European countries. These countries
economic sanctions etc. depict the lack of added later are relatively poor and less
required action from the security council. developed as compared to original 15 EU
States, but their integration into the Union has
In the Syrian case, US almost tried to turn it into helped both sides to a large extent. While the
another Iraq but stopped due to the veto powers Original 15 members got access to cheap
of Russsia and China. UN is required to take the labour and raw materials, thus increasing
first step to decide on the issue by taking into their industrial production and
competitiveness, the newly added members
consideration all the concerns but was forced by
received direct investment, superior
world powers to toe the dominant country line. technology and also direct aid from the EU
In ISrael-Palestinian issue as well it has done members to help in their socio-economic
development.
progress only recently like the recognition of the
As a result, these countries progressed
state of Palestine. But this did not solve the relatively better than their neighbors, who
dispute between the two counteis as Israel is were still not in European Union. This has
solidly backed by the US. created a regional economic divide and a
demand from these Non-EU members to join
The economic sanctions on Iran was imposed by the Union. This has led to the eastward
the west by not taking into consideration the extension of the EU.
energy needs of the developing countries. It has However, the expansion is not without its
consequences. There are apprehensions in the

West European countries about the possible the crisis in Ukraine has been attributed to
flooding of their labour markets by this enlargement as more people in Ukraine
immigrant from newly inducted countries. now share the ―European vocation‖. This has
Also, there are apprehensions about the led to the conflict between Russia and EU of
ability of EU to integrate these countries late.
economically, given the financial troubles, EU
is facing. Other than that, there is growing
distrust between EU and Russia, who wishes
to create a separate Eurasian Union, similar
to EU and comprising of East European States Q--Critically evaluate the role played by the
bordering Russia. European Union in bringing about the European
integration within Europe and with rest of the
The eastern expansion of EU took place as world.
former Soviet-block countries were fascinated
by the free market economy , fundamental From ravages of WW1 and WW2,Europe
values of democracy and rule of law in EU moved to the process of regional peace
countries. Besides, some of the the old EU through treaties
members had interest in outsourcing their Complimenting developing n developed
labour intensive tasks to the newcomers. world..
Cuurently GDP of EU is approx. 23% of global
The expansion initially met with resistance by GDp and increased regional integration has
some of the old members as the entrants were increased regional prosperity
largely poor agricultural economies. This led Problems and dangers to EU:
to apprehensions of overburdening of EU 1)Lack of Faith IN EU (Here Eurozone)after
budget because of enlargement. However the credit crisis where multiple countries suffered
problem was resolved with an unexceptional due to financial breakdown. Hence there are
commitment shown by the EU leaders, albeit concerns of lack of financial sovereignity.
with a reduction in the budget as a proportion 2) Nationalist right wing parties are harping
of Europe‘s GDP. on this concerns to come out of EU and follow
The new member countries have caught up an independent foreign policy and economic
considerably vis a vis their old counterparts policy.
and in some cases, they have even out-paced 3)Austerity measures on Greece and other
them . This corroborates that the purpose with PIGS countries has turned the sentiment
which the enlargement was carried out i.e against eu(Germany) dictations.It has led to
boost in GDP growth and improvements in Right wing parties prominence.
living standards has been partially achieved 4)Major country like UK are mulling over
and is on the right track. The enlargement has coming out of Eu.
been mutually beneficial proposition as old Hence need for greater growth and less of
members got cheap labour by outsourcing the painful austerity to keep EU together.
labour-intensive works resulting into global
competitiveness of the EU-15 members .The
newbies on the other hand gained much need
investments, jobs, and knowledge transfer.
Thus, the new members seem to have an
smooth integration into the EU and that too Q) Critically analyse the role of BRICS alliance
without ceding their sovereignty. in the changing global order.
The enlargement has faced some challenges as
well, because, a large part of the EU budget There are clear signs of fast changing global
goes to new members. The problem has been order. The emerging countries are trying to
compounded by the low-level of public
administration in these countries. Moreover ,

ssert themselves against the gegemony of Q--Examine the objectives of establishing

‗old‘ order; BRICS is one such expression. a New Development Bank by the BRICS
BRICS is a united voice of five rapidly countries. Do you think there is a need for
developing countries to pretect and promote another world financial institution? Comment.
their interest. These nations are already
BRICS countries have the following objectives
united in their demand for reforming various
in establishing a New Development bank:
international organisations. They could push
a) Help esp. developing/less developed
for much needed reforms in the membership
countries cope with BoP (Balance of
of the UNSC, since many of its members such
payments) or any financial crises,
as India, Brazil and South Africa are aspiring
b) To provide development loans at low
for its membership. They could pitch for a
interest rates for esp. developing/less
shift in the voting pattern of International
developed countries
Finance Institution (IFI) in favour of one
c) To cut high level of dependence on Bretton
country- one vote. BRICS is already panning
woods Institutions like IMF, World Bank by
to set up a development bank on this
poorer nations of the world so that credit is
principle.
easily available in the developing world itself.
Many mega Free Trade Agreements FTA)
Yes, another world financial institution like
such as Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment
New Development Bank(NDB) will be helpful
Partnership(TTIP) are attempting to tweak on
for the world because:
trade barriers, undermining WTO. BRICS can
1) The flow of loans/credits should be
certainly safeguard its interest by developing
unconditional and equitable for nations. If
joint coping strategies.
NDB can ensure this, as against current
The continued vocal negotiations on climate
functioning of Bretton Woods systems, then it
change front and Doha round of negotiations,
will be beneficial.
has indeed protected the developing and least
2) NDB will make South-South Cooperation
developed countries from the diktat of
especially, much easier. It will also try to get
developed ones.
developed countries as its members, which
In light of the NSA snooping, BRICS should
will also augur well for North-South
work in the direction of global internet
Cooperation on more equal terms.
governance. For that, first it needs to evolve a
3) The more the supply of loans for
common approach by accommodating
development alongwith proper
differences.
implementation, the better the world‘s poor‘s
Each of these has seen their vulnerability to
condition will be. It is a win-win for human
US moneytary policy. They can persuade USA
development globally.
to determine its moneytary policy taking into
Therefore, under leadership of BRICS
account global economic impact. The
countries, setting up of NDB will be beneficial
expected launch of foreign exchange reserve
for the world, provided operational issues
fund will be future relief against such
(headquarter city, rotational governance etc.)
emergency.
are properly established for smooth
Beside, it could be a forum for greater
cooperation and running of the bank.
involvement of these nations in international
conflict resolution. This is again crucial
keeping in mind Western intervention in West
Q-- Why does India want to become member of
Asia, Crimea etc.
APEC group? Analyse benefits of joining the
BRICS could well be a vehicle of balancing the
power structure of the world creating and group.
equitable global order.
Ans: With renewed economic vigour and
emphasis on global integration APEC has
emerged as a natural foray for India‘s

economic aspirations. APEC membership Easy lending will again stimulate the countries
offers multiple benefit to India. These are: for Economic growth by neglecting the
(a) Opening up of a vast market consisting of Environment and the Local Population rights.
40% of humanity and contributing 44% to The onus of Environment protection will shift
global trade. completely to the individual countries.
(b) Provide additional source of raw material.
(c) Substantiate India‘s need for investment in It will lead to deforestation, pollution and
core sectors through FDI. disasters on the name of Economic Growth. In
(d) Opportunity to join the emerging regional countries like India where we have provisions
block with a uniqe membership of both like Green Tribunal and where civil society is
developed and developing countries. awake to a large extent, it is still possible that
(e) To leverage technical expertise in trade Government will think twice before neglecting
facilitaion of APEC to liberalise its own trade environment concerns but there are many
environment. countries where there is absolutely no deference
exists
India is at a threshold of demographic
dividend. A new Manufacturing policy and
emphasis on skill development will not reap
fruits untill we integrate our economy with Q--Critically evaluate the idea of BRICS Bank
the world. APEC membership will be a step to and its significance to India.
realise the dream of global manufacturing
hub. It will open new forays to our expanding
economy. Trade investment, technical BRICS bank has been started by these Brazil,
cooperation, opportunity to sign FTAs will China, India, Russia and South Africa in an
ensure sustainability to our growth. Thus, attempt to challenge the existing IMF and fund
APEC is unique opportunity that India should there developments and interests. However, it
grab but with due deligence to local can have both positive as well as negative aspects
senstivities so that we may not fall prey to Positives
economic might of developed partners of 1. This will help these countries to have a parallel
APEC. institute to IMF and would not be bullied by West
and US interest
2. Funds will be available for Infrastructure and
Q) Radical plans by the World Bank to relax the other development needs
conditions on which it lends up to $50 billion a 3. Better economic and political grip on the world
year to developing countries have been 4. first major chance for India to stand for a
condemned as potentially disastrous for the multilateral international institution without
environment and likely to weaken protection of western world involvement.
indigenous peoples and the poor. Critically Negatives
1. India is not a cash rich country and giving Rs.
examine.
60,000 crore to this bank at this point when we are
finding it difficult to fund our infrastructure and
The leaked mail of the World Bank clearly
bridge fiscal deficit seems ironical
indicates that they want to lend up to $50 billion/
2. This money is same as the money we are
year to developing countries by easing the
planning to gain from disinvestment of PSUs. It
environmental protection norms. Earlier in 1980s
seems Govt. is selling equity in Indian firms for
and 1990 the World bank had put series of
funding a foreign institute.
restriction and rules for Protection of
3. China can now pursue their African interests
Environment before lending money, after the
under BRICS banner, it will hide their selfish
project like Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada
resource oriented interests
river and Palm tree deforestation in Indonesia.

4. Bank headquarter in Shanghai has strengthen  .In March 1999 NATO launched massive
Chinas position more than any other BRICS air strikes against Serbia in an attempt to
country force the Yugoslav government of
6. China have a history of intervening and
Slobodan Milošević to accede to
stopping Asia Development Bank attempt to fund
north east development, in such circumstances it diplomatic provisions
seems very unlikely that China will be  During the presidency of Bill Clinton
enthusiastic in funding India through BRICS bank (1993–2001), the United States led an
However, we can see both positive and negative initiative to enlarge NATO membership
points emerging over BRICS bank but only time gradually to include some of the former
can tell if the decision was right. Still I believe the
Soviet allies.
Govt. should delayed BRICS bank for 3 to 4 years
and consolidated its fiscal position before  Events following the September 11
plunging into its international ambitions. terrorist attacks in 2001 led to the forging
of a new dynamic within the alliance, one
that increasingly favoured the military
Q. Why was NATO set up? Critically comment engagement of members outside Europe,
on its role and activities after the end of cold initially with a mission against Taliban
war. forces in Afghanistan beginning in the
summer of 2003 and subsequently with air
ANSWER- operations against the regime of
Muammar al-Qaddafi in Libya in early
 NATO is a treaty based around western 2011.
democracies opposed to totalitarian  Critics point out that NATO moved
regimes. NATO was formed to combat the quickly to intervene in oil-rich Libya,
Soviet Union and the treaty it maintained while there‘s been no serious discussion of
with its satellites until the nation fell such action in Syria, where President
apart, the Warsaw Pact. Bashar Assad has been waging a deadly
 This alliance was meant as a protective crackdown on opponents of his
force to prevent communism from taking government
over any of the countries included in the  Again, the legitimacy of the NATO
treaty. bombing of the Federal Republic of
Yugoslavia has been subject to question by
Others objectives were as follows: individuals such as Nebojsa Malic and
a. supervision of the West German government Noam Chomsky.
b. distribution of Marshall Plan funds  Also, NATO is possibly acting without
c. to regulate world trade UN Security Council authorization and
d. to protect member nations against Communist calling itself a peace-keeping force.
aggression
 After the Cold War, NATO‘s mandate was
to include two main objectives: to foster
dialogue and cooperation with former
Q-Write a short note on EU Blue Card.
adversaries in the Warsaw Pact and to
manage conflicts in areas on the European
periphery, such as the Balkans.

Blue card is an approved EU work permit which imposed limited economic sanctions
allows the highly skilled non EU citizens to work against Iran.
and live in the EU member states except
Denmark, Ireland and UK. The permit is issued 2. The Geneva interim agreement, officially
for two years which could renewed later. Certain titled the Joint Plan of Action, was a pact
prerequisites are made on the salary and the signed between Iran and the
qualifications before granting the permit. P5+1(US,UK,Fr.,Ru.,Ch. + Germany)
countries in Geneva.
having salary 1.5 times of average salary paid
3. It consists of a short-term freeze of
The move was aimed the reviving the economic portions of Iran‘s nuclear program in
development in the member states. The exchange for decreased economic
demographics and lack of adequate highly skilled sanctions on Iran. The agreement sets a
workforce has hindered the economic growth. It six-month time frame for a more
aims at increasing the geographical mobility with comprehensive follow-up agreement
the member states. This would increase the between Iran and the P5+1 negotiators to
productivity in the system
formalize Iran‘s nuclear relationship with
The move had received significant international the world.
concerns with the African nations raising the
issues arising due to the migration. It would lead 4. Gulf Cooperation Council welcoming the
to brain drain in these African countries ,thereby Geneva agreement told that this would
lowering there growth. The EU parliament has
lead to concrete steps in order to reflect
confirmed the blue card initiative with
positively on peace, security and stability
considerable safeguards for the brain drain and
of the region.
the flexibility of the system.
5. The leaders also hoped it would
India with its highly skilled labour force could contribute to clearing the region from
use this initiative for greater integration with the
weapons of mass destruction including
EU market. The remittances have been a potential
nuclear weapons.
source for lowering the CAD. The permit would
provide greater opportunities for the Indian 6. However GCC has the concern that how
skilled labour force ,thereby increasing the the accord divide their influences in the
transfers. Gulf.
Many Sunni regimes, especially Saudi
Q-What are the concerns of the Gulf
Arabia, are deeply concerned that the
Cooperation Council on the issue of recent
atomic accord will empower Iran,
Geneva agreement between Iran and P5+1
embolden it to support Shia communities
countries? (150 Words)
across the Gulf and destabilise Arab
1. The nuclear program of Iran has been a
monarchies.
matter of contention with the international
community since 2002. Iran had not been 7. They feared that there is a possibility that
in compliance with its duties as a Gulf states could drawn into a nuclear
signatory of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation arms race. Amidst growing perception of
Treaty. UN Security Council, US, EU the Iranian threat, Saudi Arabia called for
Arab political unity in the Gulf.

8. Some are angry with the United States for When USA was far ahead in recovery from 2008
not taking their interests into account crisis, EU was still struggling to come out of the
when negotiating the nuclear agreement same which got aggravated due to another Euro
with Iran. zone crisis. Also the currency wars due to US
expansionary policy prior 2008, China pegging its
currency to dollar and keeping it low,
9. Undoubtedly, the agreement will push devaluating of Euro, etc has further added to
towards active Iranian participation along concern. This has led to differences in policy
with bring together the Syrian prioritization and ineffectiveness of G-20. Other
government and the opposition for the issues criticizing G20 of its arbitrariness involves
first time since the nearly three-year- membership issue, under representation of
violence cycles erupted in Syria. African subcontinent, exclusion of important
economies like Norway, Singapore, etc.
Thus these issues are more structural in nature

which requires coordination and deliberations
Q- “The G-20 group has been increasingly among the members to resolve them and opting a
challenged to retain its relevance and middle way out by reorienting the structure
effectiveness in dealing with a host of global co- which does not affect the Global economy
ordination problems that are more structural in
nature.” Comment. Other International Devlop[ments
Answer - ―The G-20 group has been increasingly
challenged to retain its relevance and North America
effectiveness in dealing with a host of global co-
ordination problems that are more structural in Q-What is European Reassurance Initiative by
nature.‖ Comment. the USA? Why is it controversial? Examine.
Economic condition and capability are very
US president announced $ 1bn military aid to
specific to the countries taking into considerations
selected NATO nations (mainly Poland) to
the available national resources, demography, dispatch more equipment, navy and air patrols in
demand and supply cycle, nation‘s prioritization Black sea. This is done to assure its allies of
of investment, etc. In such situation, imposing a NATO who are threatened by Russia‘s
―One rule for all‖ formula leads to repulsion and annexation of Crimea, which is perceived by
thus questions the relevance and effectiveness of Poland and Baltic States of Latvia, Lithuania and
Estonia as expansionism.
an umbrella organization like G-20.
May lead to cold war
Though Globalisation and increasing economic 1. This comes at a time when European Union‘s is
trying to expedite association agreements with
interaction thereof, affects the financial picture of
other former Soviet republics, such as Moldova
an economy and emphasizes on the requirement and Georgia
of an international organization. But this very 2. Russia‘s views this as aggressive move that
reason challenges its relevance owing to the could revive the Cold War and the arms race.
volatility concerned and the differing rate of 3. Polish complaining that Washington‘s plans
impact and time of ascent of crisis and revival amount only to ―virtual deployments‖
Should not read too much into it – reasons
from it.

1. However one should not hope for a cold war solved problems but created new ones. USA‘s
like situation as Russian status and prowess has policy of double standards with respect to nuclear
declined more toward being a regional power. weapons, engaging with some regimes which
2. European nations like Germany and France are covertly support terrorism due to economic
depended on Russian oils/energy supply thus interests is well known.
may get wary of this move. • However these methods have been able to
3. A rather loose stand on Ukraine issue as US reduce the incidents of terrorism. Terrorist
refraining from permanent bases and military organizations find it tough to handle funds and
intervention gives cue of the declining status of buy weapons. Their infrastructure has been
US from the ‗sole operator‘, apart from a wearing crippled. Al-Qaeda is facing shortage of
economy. leadership.
4. the EU agreements might well be no more than A part of taliban is willing to negotiate with USA.
a way for the bloc to import cheap labour and get What is needed is a judicial use of force coupled
easy access for EU businesses with engagement with ground work and locals to
5. NATO has its own agenda; with its Afghan foment development
operations winding down, its commanders may
well be desperate for a new role, as they were Q-Critically examine what actions has USA
when the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991 taken so far to mitigate climate change.
6. Mr. Obama‘s domestic position is fraught. The
money he has announced is subject to US has been till date reluctant to accept
Congressional clearance, but both Republican and responsibility for and take necessary action to
Democratic members of Congress are angry about reduce its carbon emissions. The reason cited
his taking major decisions without their approval; often involved shifting the blame onto developing
many also consider the approximately 75% per economies like India and China. Now however,
cent U.S. share of NATO defence spending to be the Obama administration has come up with a
excessive. slew of measures claiming to be a major step
forward in regulation of greenhouse gases. Let us
Q-“Some of the strategies adopted by USA in consider the recent actions taken by US, in order
combating terrorism might foment further to mitigate climate change:
instability in the affected regions and prove a. Regulatory powers under the Clean Air Act of
counterproductive.” Analyze (200 Words) 1970 to be used to regulate emissions from
existing and upcoming electricity generation
• America‘s global war on terrorism makes use of plants. The stress will be to cut the emissions by
various lethal and non-lethal strategies. Lethal 30% by the year 2030.
use of force is done by drones, surgical strikes, b. Energy policies are to be adopted that stress on
invasion. Non-Lethal strategies include economic better efficiency. Vehicle fuel economy standards
sanctions, increasing pressure from international are to be made more stringent.
community, covert political upheavals as well as c. It is intended to stimulate state level emission
engaging with moderate extremists. trading schemes, as well as greater deployment of
• USA‘s economic sanctions against Iran have carbon capture and storage technologies.
made the public critical of its actions due to dire But when we analyse the claims made, we realise
shortages. Lethal force has rarely been successful that much of it is a hype to build a nobler image.
in achieving its objectives. Collateral damage US is currently in middle of a shift from use of
resulting in civilian deaths increases resentment coal to natural gas in its power production due to
among people, which is used by propagandists to relatively higher prices of coal. A significant
further their agenda. This is also leading to amount of the said carbon emission cuts are
domestic radicalisation in USA and its allies. already being achieved even without any
• Drones and surgical strikes undermine the regulations. Obama administration is just making
sovereignty of nations and increase contempt. use of the opportunity to project itself as a pro
USA‘s invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq have not environment nation in order to have a stronger

stand in the international climate change company from having more than 50% of its
negotiations.
workforce on H1-B or L-1, they drastically raise
It is true that environment proactive measures by
developed countries like US will help mobilize visa fees, require companies to pay much higher
the rest of the world to follow suit. However, it is wages. They compelling Indian companies to hire
imperative that the world sees beyond the hype local talent in the U.S.
and pressurises the major stakeholders to make
more aggressive and deeper emission cuts. This kind of measures will hurt relations between
Carbon tariffs can be used for this purpose. Such US-India. As US is our largest importer, it is also
tariffs or taxes will have to be strictly imposed on has adverse impact on trade. The efforts of US
those who do not cut emissions beyond a globally India Business Council had little success in
agreed on baseline and not on some random
countering this. So an overall strategy that links
baseline chosen as wished by the concerned
parties. Indian diplomats, consular general in various
cities, the Indian-American policymakers is
Q- “USA is following a policy of protectionism needed to avoid tensions.
through immigration rules.” Comment in the
context of India – USA relations. (200 Words)
Q--Write a note on the United States Trade
Protectionism refers to Government actions and Representative‟s (USTR) „Special 301′ report.
policies that restrain international trade, often Explain why was it controversial with reference
done to protect local businesses and jobs from to India.
foreign competition. Typical methods of
The Special 301 report is an official assessment of
protectionism are imposing tariffs on imported
the global state of IPR protection and enforcement
goods, restrictive quotas, subsidies or tax cuts to in the U.S.‘ trade partners. It is prepared annually
local businesses and direct state intervention. by the Office of the United States Trade
Representative (USTR) under Section 301 of the
US following a policy of protectionism through
Trade Act of 1974.
its immigration restrictions such as labor The reports identify trade barriers to U.S.
certification requirements or numerical caps on companies and products due to the intellectual
work visas. Although US stating that the strict property laws, such as copyright, patents and
immigration rules made to check illegal trademarks, in other countries. This report has
three types of lists mainly-
immigration across Mexico border, some of the
1) ‗Priority Foreign Countries ‗- countries which
provisions in the U.S. Border Security Economic have inadequate intellectual property laws; these
Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act countries may be subject to sanctions.
2013 exclusively related to Indian IT firms. 2) ‗Priority Watch List‘- countries which have
‗serious intellectual property rights deficiencies‘
One of the strong reasons of this step is that require increased USTR attention.
spontaneous growth of Indian IT professionals 3) ‗Watch List‘- countries having ‗serious
with their intense skill development ability intellectual property rights deficiencies‘ but are
not yet placed on the ‗Priority Watchlist‘.
causing American youths to lose their jobs. Indian
India-US has been witnessing many trade
IPR laws such as denial of revoke of patent for disputes as IPR issues in Pharma Drugs industry,
some US companies in biopharmaceuticals is also India‘s National food security Act, Solar panel
contributed to this. local procurement policy, and nuclear trade
disputes. These all led to create row between
H1-B and L-1 visas used most frequently by these two countries.
Indian IT companies. US House bill prohibit a

India has been placed in ‗priority Watchlist‘ for This change is also evident in the US‘s foreign
many years. It was expected that U.S. may put policy.
India into ‗priority foreign category‘ and can The recent events like a soft response on Crimean
impose unilateral sanctions. But India remains on issue , inclination to solve the Iran issue ,
the Priority Watch List in 2014. India calls this a disinterest of any military adventure in the
wise decision. Because according to Indian disputes of West Asia (Syria) and an ambivalent
officials, we have not violated any IPR law under position on China‘s aggressiveness show that the
TRIPS agreement of WTO. India would challenge US is no longer interested or able to play a role of
unilateral sanctions by US, if so happens. global leader.
This may be an effort to put its own house in
Q-Critics call „Special 301 Report‟ as a public order first . But it may also mean that the US ,
law devoted to the service of private corporate after the discovery of the shale gas , does not see
interests. any merit in spending its resources on the regions
which will not remain very relevant to her.
Both the above facts will lead to an end of the
India and US have recently been locked up trade
hegemony of the US . The the countries like China
dispute related to Indian IPR laws. The US
, India and Russia are rising fast . By some
pharmaceutical companies had requested USTR
estimates China, by the year 2015, is expected to
to place India in Priority Foreign List due to
surpass the US as the largest economy . But US‘s
recent controvery surrounding denial of patents
military and technological powers are still
to Gilvec and Nexavar. Other issues adding fuel
unmatched . The US‘s defence budget is more
to fire were the compulsory 50 percent
than the combined budget of the rest of the
procurement from Indian Companies for the
world. Thus even if the US may not remain an
phase ii of National Solar Mission, the rise of MSP
unchallenged authority , it will certainly maintain
for Indian agriculture products to support the
‗first among equals‘ status for a long time.
National Food Security Act and disputes in
nuclear liability law.
Q--Discuss why immigration issue in USA is a
India responded by threatening US that it would
take the issue to WTO. The Trade Related Aspects very sensitive issue.
of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) of the
WTO allows countries certain flexibilities with USA was termed as ―melting pot of civilisation‖
regard to their IPR laws. India was clearly within due to its ability to absorb peoples of multiple
the ambit of TRIPS and hence any unilateral cast and creed from all across the world. Offlate
sanctions by US could‘ve been contested at WTO. immigration has emerged as a vehemently
The mutual tensions were eased with the Special debated issue. Its ability to absorb is declining
301 report placing India in the ―Priority Watch due to multiple reasons:
List‖. (a) Economic: USA economy has advanced to
quaternary level where manual labour is replaced
by machines. The same labour force that fueled its
Q--Critically comment on America‟s recent industries appear redundant. Thus, the demand
foreign policy initiatives. Do you think its of labour has declined sharply. Economic
supremacy as sole superpower in the world is recession has increased unemployment pushing
demand to secure narrow band of opportunities
waning? Comment.
for its own citizens and promoting protectionist
policies.
The United States of America after the world war (b) Security: after 9/11 USA has developed a
2 and more prominently after the decline of the cynical outlook towards foreigners especially
soviet union has remained an unchallenged super Asians. This has also promoted xenophobism and
power. This situation is changing, due to the rise attacks on Asians. Its southern border has
of the economies of developing countries like suffered from drug smuggling orignating across
BRICs and a slowdown in the USA‘s economy .

Mixican border. This led to a demand of stricter has threatened to attain nuclear weapon if Iran
immigration laws. continues to build peace threatening nuclear
(c) Demographic: declining percentage of natives technology. Latest refusal by Saudi for UN
have created an apprehension of alienation in
security council seat is clear indication of growing
their home land. In 2000 census 99 % can trace
their roots in other countries. rift between Washington and Riyadh.
(d)Political: in a democracy vote bank often lead
Another irritant is Israel-Palestine issue and
to ugly contest. The Republican‘s fear of growing
support for Democrats among migrants especially failure of US to solve Arabs problem of settlement
in southern state, a major reason assigned to and human rights. Recent recognition of Palestine
Obama‘s victory, further enhances the demand to by UNESCO has further complicated the matter
check migration.
(e) Social: the difference in cultural ethos, and Discovery of Shale gas and decline in oil import
reducing tolerance in society is globally from middle east has reduced its importance in
emerging trend. USA too is not oblivious to this energy security context of US, which is deciding
factor in future relations.
Q- Critically analyze the nature of relationship
between USA and Saudi Arabia since 2001 Post 2014 with drawl of US troops brings
terrorist attacks on World Trade Centre in New opportunity and challenges to explore
York. (200 Words) pragmatism in these relations to promote
US and Saudi Arabia relationship post 9/11 are regional peace
evolving under many socio-political -economic
Q- Critically comment on
factors, with growing sectarian violence in middle
US‟ pivot to Asia strategy.
east ,mixed results from Arab spring, nuclear deal
The US Pivot to Asia is characterized by five
with Iran and discovery of shale gas are key
pillars. These are: ―strengthening alliances;
issues which defines phase of relationship.
deepening partnerships with emerging powers;
Post 9/11 relationship has deepened in terms of building a stable, productive, and constructive
counter terrorism and results are clear as Saudi relationship with China; empowering regional
govt has successfully controlled terror activities in institutions; and helping to build a regional
the region. economic architecture that can sustain shared
prosperity.‖
Arab spring, which was supported by US, call for
reforms in political, social and economic structure Japan And South Korea‘s confidence in US has
to meet demographic aspirations has largely been been shaken following its vacillating stand on
neglected by Saudi royal family. ADIZ and lack of strong action against North
Korea.In the ADIZ episode the US scrambled jets
Major flash point in middle east is Syrian conflict in Japan‘s support but at the same time asked
with deep rooted shia-sunni sectarian conflict is their airlines to comply with ADIZ exhibiting
actual test bed for future relationship between conflicting stance.
Washington and Riyadh.US failure to intervene
and bring down Assad regime is not Secondly the declaration of Trans-Pacific
acknowledged well by Saudi Arabia who is Partnership has received weakened response
supporting fighting rebels with all monetary and from even traditional allies like Japan who are
logistic support. more interested in the RCEP and US pivot may
actually divide the zone into two halves.
Signing of Nuclear deal with Iran is also
inconsistent with Saudi Arabia‘s demand, who

US business, in west asia...etc.. Diplomatic Due to its improved dependence on shale gas
tensions , US silence on nuclear proliferation in which is environment friendly, US is sure to gain
Pakistan with Chinese help , rising importance of the moral high ground in climate talks and will
Indo-Chinese economic engagement has also kept force other countries to either buy green
India away from being an active participant in US technology from US or bear the brunt of lowering
pivot . emissions.
Although US is on-road to become energy
The MSR maritime sea route initiative by China
independent, the vestiges of its machinations for
would lead to increasing its dominance in the
energy security in the past will continue to haunt
region, thereby lowering US influence in the
the world particularly in the middle east.
region.
Moreover muted response to expansionist Africa

Chinese claims in South China Sea , reduced the
confidence of littoral states in the Asian pivot Q-What strategic interest America has in Africa?
strategy. Comment. (150 Words)
America‘s interest in Africa is both strategic as

Q-What is the strategic importance of raising well as economic. Africa is considered as home
energy boom in USA? Comment. (200 Words) to various militant groups and a continent with
large mineral base.
After withdrawal from Afghanistan , America is
Energy is one of the main drivers of geopolitics .In seeking a rebalance in Africa as well. As Africa
faces continuous turmoil, America is
the recent times wars have been fought for control
apprehensive that terrorist organizations may
over energy resources. In this context the energy
shift their base in African countries. Further, the
boom in USA is of significant strategic importance. latter lacks logistic, technical as well as human
This development is sure to shake up the energy capability in defense sector. America is looking
market. Energy prices may come down owing to at Africa as a vast market for its defense
increased production. Growth rates will peak in equipments and also cooperating with different
emerging economies like India, China who are set states for developing their security
infrastructure against terrorism and coups.
to import cheap hydrocarbons from middle east.
Africa has vast untapped natural resources
This has serious implication for green house which can be exploited by American MNCs.
emission controls though. America can use its economic expertise for a
The US, no longer reliant on middle east for its better Africa after stabilizing it. It can also prove
energy security is sure to withdraw its high to be a thriving market for American products in
military presence and shift focus to its ―pivot‖ the near future.
strategy in Asia. However this will put the onus of
Q-Write a critical note on the economic progress
middle east stability on India, china and other
of Africa in recent years and its integration with
countries importing oil from middle east.
the rest of the world through trade.
US might give more powers to iran to monitor
Afghanistan following its withdrawal from West
Africa, endowed with natural bounties, was
Asia. This is evident from the recent thaw.
traditionally a deprived continent. With majority
However this can only deepen the sectarian
of the LDC belonging to Africa its stature in
divisions between Riyadh and Tehran and might
global economy was that of a dwarf.
lead to a full blown crisis in the middle east.

Its recent strides in global economy has created a

makeover of its image. With 6 of the top 10 EME Africa is a very old continent although its made up of
belonging to Africa, it has emerged as a new newer states.Last century has witnessed
global investment destination. decolonisation and intense political churnings. The
newer states that emerged after the turbulence have
Termed as ‖ Scramble for AFRICA‖, the rekindling of precipitated stability albeit without perfection. There
global interest in Africa began with the realization of are still regions of uncertainty and violence like South
Africa as continent of multiple nations rather than a sudan and somalia, but the new found calm has
single entity. Chinese entry into infrastructure and attracted the outside world to Africa which has
energy field followed by India caught global traditionally been bestowed with rich natural
attention. Apart from various bounties like petroleum resources.
and natural gas, Africa is bestowed with vast swathes
of virgin agricultural land. This holds promise to Africa has a large quantity of natural resources
global food security and India along with other including oil, diamonds, gold, iron, cobalt, uranium,
nations is exploring contract agricultural copper, bauxite, silver, petroleum and cocoa beans,
opportunities there. Absence of basic facilities open a but also woods and tropical fruits. Much of its natural
wide spectrum of investment opportunities. Mobile resources are undiscovered or barely harnessed. Also
banking success is just an exemplar of this huge the new thriving middleclass can be an attractive
potential. Africa‘s tropical location creates huge market for finished products. Indian majors like
opportunities for renewable solar energy and Airtel, ONGC already have significant investments in
implementation of clean development mechanism in Africa. For China, Africa is not only a source of raw
the era of climate change. materials and market for products but also a staunch
ally supporting its policies at global level.Japanese
Establishment of democracy has contributed much to businesses are also now making inroads to Africa.
Africa‘s growth story. Forums like India-Africa,
Africa-China and the recently concluded US-AFRICA Inspite of its new found charm, if the benefits of
leaders summits corroborates it integration with investments and thriving businesses do not percolate
world economy. SACU, the earliest know regional to the grassroot, Africa might soon be pulled back to
FTA is expanding its global foot prints. BRICS is yet the vortex of violence and bloodshed that it has just
another global integration platform. Africa‘s diaspora come out from.
are creating nodes of influence around the world.
Leadership at global organisation like UN, ICJ etc Q-How Apartheid in South Africa was ended
further increases its integration. and who were the protagonists in anti-
Apartheid movement? Explain. (200 Words)
Thus, it can be concluded that Africa is suitably placed
to gain global prominence. Expansion and stability of
democracy in this war torn continent with determine
the extent of its emergence and integration with the Q-Write a short note on the recent crisis in the
world. Central African Republic. How was the
international reaction to this crisis? (200 Words)
Q-Africa is seen as a potential destination for future CAR is a Christian majority country with a
investments and business by both the developed
Muslim minority. The country is marked with
and emerging economies. Give a reasoned account
low human indices. Since 1990 there has been
for this shift in opinion. (200 Words)
series of coups resulting in weak governance. The
recent crisis started in March of 2013 when In 2009 Nigerian police encountered the
founder of the group in an operation which
Muslim rebel leader Michel Djotodia ousted
had retarded the group‘s activity for some
President Francois Bozize and established himself time but later on it has again started its
as the president. This followed looting and killing movement.
by armed Seleka Muslim and Christian rebels Recent incident of 250 girls kidnapping
against each other. The cities most affected are from the Nigerian schools have shaken the
whole world. This group is purportedly
capital Bangui & bossangoa thus displacing about
going to sell these girls to the neighbor‘s
4 lakh peoples. the country was in an anomic country which has threatened the whole
condition characterized by street fight, public Nigeria. Now the time has come to finish
execution, loot, rape. The worst affected are this kind of malaise of the society and the
children and women. onus is on the whole world.
France was the first country to send troops into
CAR, followed by African Union Peacekeeping
Forces from Gabon, Chad, Cameroon & Congo.  Boko Haram is an Islamist militant
African Union & European Union have appealed organisation which aims at establishing an
for peace. Recently USA has announced that it Islamic State based on Shariat Laws in
Nigeria. During the early 20th century,
will mobilize troops from Burundi to CAR.The
Nigeria came under the influence of British
UNO has not announced any plan of action to control. Westernization and western
restore peace in the country. education was spread rapidly. Many
Muslims saw this as transgression on their
Q-Explain the growth of Boko Haram in laws and refused to send their children to
western schools. In that backdrop an
Nigeria. Comment on its ideology and its effect
Islamist cleric named Mohammed Yusuf
on Nigerian society.
established ―Boko Haram‖ in 2002 in
Maduguri, where he established a Mosque
Boko Haram is an Islamist terrorist group and a school. Poor Muslim parents send
based on Nigeria. word boko meaning their children to this school. Boko Haram
―Animist, western or otherwise non-Islamic means ―Western Education is Forbidden‖.
education‖ and the Arabic word haram Gradually the school turned out to be a
figuratively meaning ―sin‖. The group was recruiting grounds for militants. They have
formed in 2002 in in Maiduguri, Nigeria, in forbidden western style of dressing,
2002 by the Muslim cleric Mohammed participating in elections, education etc.
Yusuf. They aimed at overthrowing the
Initially this group prevailed in the northern government, which they felt was corrupt
part of Nigeria but later on by the help of Al and immoral not based on Islamic
Qaeda it expanded its activity on other part principles. They have attacked Churches in
of the country. Afterward this group the region, buses, military barracks, and
aggravated its activities like lethal attacks created a lot of violence.
on villages, government buildings, police The organization spread its reach to an
station, church and even mosques were extent that US and other super powers
targeted. believe that they had links with jihadist
Boko Haram ideology is against the western outfits. US banned and designated it as a
traditions. It opposes not only western terrorist organization. Mohammed Yusuf
culture but also western education and was killed in 2009 by an attack of state
modern science as well. In Nigeria clashes military operations. New leadership has
between Muslims and Christians are come to the fore and increased its militant
common which have radicalized this group. actions by abducting girls and selling them

as slaves.  The Rwandan Genocide was one of

Nigerian government is under severe rebellion. The Tutsi, classified by tall, thin,
pressure to contain the militants. U.S. and light skin, were the minority. Yet the
President
Belgians, during colonial rule, had placed
 Obama has sent a team of military experts
to help the Nigerian government. them as elite rulers over the Hutu, the
majority. After a social revolution in the
1960s, many of the Tutsi were driven out
Q. Write a note on Takaful Insurance of Africa of Rwanda. The Hutu then created a
which was in news recently strong feeling of hatred towards the Tutsi
• Takaful is an arabic word meaning minority. In 1990, the Tutsi exiles invaded
―guaranteeing each other ― or ―joint guarantee‖ , Rwanda, and a peace agreement was
Takaful insurance is a cooperative system of signed .Yet the Hutu still used
reimbursement in case of loss. propaganda against the Tutsi, using radio
and television to get their message across.
• Takaful Insurance of Africa Founded in
Media, particularly radio, continued to
the year 2008 and formally licensed in 2011. It is
spread unfounded rumours, which
the first fully fledged Takaful operator in the East
exacerbated ethnic problems.
and Central Africa region. The rationale behind
TIA is founded on the need to provide risk
management and financial security, based on The genocide had a lasting and profound impact
ethical principles and values. Currently Takaful on Rwanda and its neighboring countries. The
has three main business lines which include pervasive use of war rapecaused a spike in HIV
General Insurance, Family Takaful and the infection, including babies born of rape to newly
Takaful Retirement Benefits Scheme. infected mothers; many households were headed
by orphaned children or widows. The decimation
• Takaful is a mutual co-operation between
members of a pool who safeguard each other of infrastructure and a severe depopulation of the
against defined risks and share in surplus where country crippled the economy, challenging the
the fund is profitable. The participants co- nascent government to achieve rapid economic
operate and share risks among themselves by growth and stabilization. The RPF military
contributing to a common Takaful Fund, while victory and installation of an RPF-dominated
the operator manages the fund and resources as government prompted many Hutus to flee to
a trustee.
neighboring countries.
Q. Critically examine the causes and
consequences of Rwandan genocide of 1994. Q--Write a critical note on the reasons behind
Answer- increasing ethnic and religious clashes in
different parts of Africa.
 The genocide took place in the context of
the Rwandan Civil War, an ongoing
Causes of increasing ethnic and religious clashes
conflict beginning in 1990 between the
in Africa are a result of various factors:
Hutu-led government and the Rwandan • Historical –
Patriotic Front (RPF), which was largely o European borders were drawn on a piece of
composed of Tutsi refugees whose paper without any thought given to the tribal
families had fled to Uganda following heterogeneity. It one of the biggest hindrances to
earlier waves of Hutu violence against the Africa because traditional enemies were
contained within one European-made border. E,g
Tutsi. Power sharing was main sssue
conflict between the Hutus and Tutsis resulted in abducted by a terrorist organisation ‗Boko
Rwandan genocide in which lakhs were Haram‘ which is highly critical of western
massacred and many more fled to neighbouring though, education and other religions.
Countries causing unrest there. The main reason for these clashes lie in inability
o During colonization, European countries had of government to stop these organisation from
bought African rich resources with weaponry growing, lack of defence equipment with national
which introduced a gun culture there. government, rampant poverty, huge corruption
• Political – and fight for the control of natural resources eg –
o European imperialists left without establishing Blood diamond. Foreign intervention is also a big
stable governments in many Countries. cause, as many rebel groups get arms and
Corruption and weak public institutions make ammunition from foreign countries outside
countries easy targets for determined terrorist African continent.
groups. They have not been able to establish State Religious clashes occur due to fanaticism and
control over natural resources fuelling inter – retaliation measures. Most governments are also
ethnic tensions for control over them. military dictatorship and these don‘t have
o State dictatorships trying to shore up ethnic popular support of masses. They thrive on power,
autocracies are under attack by increasingly violence and foreign aid. Low education level,
militant opposition groups. These dictators made lack of employment opportunities and social
policies which did not respect diversity. The violence leads to easy recruitment by terrorist
leader at the top many times only looked after the organisations for fighter‘s among youth.
needs of his tribes preventing multicultural Africa could be developed and prosperous as it
policies to develop. has everything other than understanding and
• Economic – Extreme poverty along with cooperation among its own people. International
increased illiteracy and unemployment results in organisations need to help Africa to achieve piece
the formation of militant groups to fight back and Security.
against the government and well established
other ethnic groups.
• Religious – European colonizers introduced a number of reasons like economic or political
Chrstian missionaries in many African Countries marginalisation among the people with one
which led to reactionary birth of many Islamist group feeling disadvantaged at the expense of the
fundamentalist orgs like Boko Haram other. Migration of other ethnic groups from War
Multi pronged strategy of international stricken neighbouring countries can fire ethnic
intervention to tackle extremist organizations, conflicts by the supply of firearms. An increase in
political stability by strengthening democratic the number of refugees coming into a state will
institutions representing all sections of society, lead to an increased likelihood of ethnic conflict.
socio-economic development and promotion of The prevalent unemployment would frustrate
peace is the need of the hour. the educated youth prodding them to join the
militant organisations to fight back against the
government and well established other ethnic
groups. Political instability results in the
Africa is one of the grossly underdeveloped encouragement of ethnic conflicts by high
continents of the world, which is full of trouble officials for the greed of power and personal gain.
and violence. It is full of rich natural and mineral
resources but these resources have became the
main bone of contention.
Africa consists of native tribals, which have
divided into different ethnic groups. It also East Asia
contains a considerable Muslim and Christian
population. A lot of clashes happen between
these groups and ethnic populations as seen in
South Sudan and Nigeria. Recently 300 girls were

Q--Explain how and why Deng Xiaoping employment.

brought economic reforms in China. What were These reforms increase the capital creation in the
its consequences. economy and provided employment to millions
and had a major effect on social development.
Deng Xiaoping was a post Mao era leader who
brought reforms in China during 1978-1992.The Its GDP is booming with average growth rate of
reforms brought by Xiaoping gave economic about 10%, overall living condition improved,
revival to a society which had to undergo the reduced barries and export-led growth.Poverty
Great Purge during Great leap forward and has been reduced from 45% in 1980 to 5% in 2001
which came in conflict with its history and and wage rates quadrupled.It is the largest
cultural affinity during the Cultural market of automobile.Its steel production and
revolution,1966. textile industries has increased manifold.It is the
The reforms that Xiaoping brought were second largest economy and expected to cross US
1) Ideological flexibility: According to Deng,china by 2025.Globally,it has risen with better control
needed a market socialism in which capitalist over south-china sea and good infrastructure.
system was needed to increase to focus on the Although inequality has risen with coastal region
production of the goods(profit based).Hence it is doing better.Problem of rapid urbanisation led
was a depart from the communitarian Marxist to social conflicts.Environmental impact is drastic
philosophy of producing goods for community as last year Beiging was enveloped in smoke.
purpose only.
2) Agricultural reforms: Agriculture during Mao‘s
times was made community owned and Q--Critically comment on South China Sea
production was controlled by state. Deng allowed dispute in the light of international laws related
farmers to sell their products in the market freely to seas.
and it led to increase in production.Further
South China sea consists of several overlapping
increase in money increase consumption of goods
claims on islands and marine areas, by Seven
and saving rate. sovereign states in the region namely Peoples
3) Industrial growth: Deng allowed local Republic of China (PRC), Vietnam, Brunei,
municipalities to create profit based Indonesia, Malaysia, Republic of China (ROC,
industries.This led to the foundation of MSME Taiwan).
sector which became the foundation for later These disputes are severed due to important
growth.Futher to develop heavy industries,Heavy resources such as Oil and gas fields, fishing
grounds and control of busy sea lanes in that
machinery were established by banking capital
area.
which was quite autonomous of state According to international laws, any territory
intervention as profits were not reallocated. comming within 12 miles of coast and inland
4) Export based Economy:Msme sector became waters come under exclusive right of coastal state
the major creator of export as capital generated of and are under its laws are regulations. Beyond
this export intensive sector increased capital for Territorial waters, another 12 miles is Contiguous
Zone, where coastal state can enforce laws related
futher technological innovation.Further SEZ‘s
to custom, pollution, taxation and immigration.
were created to provide liberal atmosphere for
After that 200 miles are give as Exclusive
investment and technological growth aprt from Economic Zone (EEZ) to the coastal state, on
making China Export surplus. which it has sole exploitation right over its
5) Labour reforms like incentive based systems natural resources.
and shift based workings provided increased EEZ‘s are the main bone of contention, as small
barren and rocky islands situated in south china
sea, also bring with them huge Sea area thus represents a fascinating soft power resource
surrounding them. So, all countries want to have for the Chinese.
control over such strategic islands for gaining
rights over the resources surrounding it. However such deals are criticized as having more
to do with commerce than conservation.
9 dotted lines might also be mentioned. Examples in Scotland, Australia, Canada, France
and others point that Recipient countries need to
Q-Comment on China‟s „Panda Diplomacy‟. assess the broader environmental consequences
China‘s use of giant pandas as diplomatic gifts of ―sealing the deal‖ with China before accepting
has a long history dating at least as far back as the panda loans, as these usually signal that China
seventh century Tang Dynasty. In more recent expects a long-term commitment to deliver the
years, in 1972, China gave two giant pandas to goods – whether they be uranium, salmon or
the United States as thanks for President Nixon‘s other natural resources.
visit to their nation (which itself historically
began to normalize the relationship between the
two). From 1984, China stopped giving pandas Q-Critically comment on the significance of the
away. Instead, the Chinese government began Tiananmen Square incident of 1989 to China
loaning them out for a 10 year period. and the World.
characterised by trust, reciprocity, loyalty and

longevity‖. Such an endorsement of the bilateral Tiananmen square incident is pro-democracy
trade relationship may be exactly what Modi is movement led by students in Bejining which took
hoping for. place in 1989. The protests were triggered in April
1989 by the dealth of former communist party
Panda diplomacy is based on the Chinese concept
general secretary, Hu Yaobang, a liberal reformer,
of ‗Guanxi‘ denoting deep trade relationships
who was deposed after losing a power struggle
characterised by trust, loyalty and longevity.
with hardliners over the direction of political and
Pandas are conservation icons and boost a zoo‘s
economic reforms. The protests called for
brand. If a panda is given to the country, the
government accountability, freedom of speech
Chinese have entrusted an endangered, precious
and press, controlling inflation and corruption.
animal and importantly a Chinese national
treasure to the country; it signifies in some ways a Chinese Government used violence to control the
new start to the relationship. The animals are also movement. It is this reaction triggered to change
notoriously expensive to keep and breed and the Leadership of CPC. The movement caused
hence in many ways loaning a panda points to huge economic impact on china where the foreign
the global technological prowess of the nation. loans to china were suspended and foreign
Panda receptors are therefore sometimes investment has reduced. Chinese government
considered more close to China. For China, it drew widespread condemnation for this
sheds some of its image as an overtly assertive suppression of the protests. Deng xiaoping and
and aggressive nation by switching over from its the core leadership vowed to continue economic
traditional mascot of the Dragon to the much liberalization polices after 1989.
more adorable Panda. It also assumes, in a way,
the mantle of environmental conservatism, for EU and US embargo on armament sales to the
which it is widely criticized. Panda diplomacy PRC, which remains in place today. Western
governments also imposed economic sanctions on

china. European Economic Community also In context of rising power of China, its aggressive
planned a resolution at the UNHCR criticising intent has to be checked by the only superpower
China‘s human right record. Enforcing the US. If its not checked it will create tensions in the
Martial Law on unarmed protestors still region. Though US has warned China that if they
questions on chinese Government reaction on
set up additional ADIZ in the south China sea,
Democracy.
they will increase their naval presence, it is not
Constitutional crisis in Nepal is dragging on for enogh. It should be followed by some concrete
many years now. Briefly chronicle the important action.
events and factors that have contributed to this The economic rise of china is welcomed but a
delay.(250 Words)
militarily aggressive China is not in favour of any
country of the region. US as the only superpower
must act to curb this menace.
Question - “To ensure China chooses the

“trading state” strategy as it rises geopolitically, Q. “China cannot copy the political system or
rather than one based on aggression, it is development model of other countries because
imperative that the United States, as the sole it would not fit us and it might even lead to
superpower, follow a policy of deterrence.” catastrophic consequences.” Do you agree with
Examine. (200 Words) this statement? Substantiate.
Answer - The World wars are proof that if the
rising military power is not checked, it can lead to ANSWER-
wars. The wars are litmus test for a country to
 The uniqueness of China‘s cultural
prove its military strength. A policy of detterence
tradition, history and circumstances
helps inhibit the conditions of war which are a determines that China needs to follow a
cause of misery and distress. development path that suits its own
reality .
China has been rising as a great economic power.
 .The Chinese people experimented with
With increasing economic power, it has also been constitutional monarchy, imperial
expanding its military strength. ICBMs, purchase restoration, parliamentarian, multi-party
of FGFA, display of military power in naval system and presidential government but
warfares, setting up of ADIZ, increasing control none had been as effective as its present
system.
over east china sea and claim over islands are a
 China tried American-style democracy
few aggressive moves by the Chinease govt. This after its 1911 Republic Revolution, and it
has created tensions within the region. turned out to be a devastating
catastrophe.
History has shown us that when aggressive intent
 The country was immediately plunged
of rising powers are nut curbed, they have lead to into chaos and civil war, with hundreds of
wars. Germany and Japan are a case in the point. political parties vying for power and with
Their rise was not checked by the European warlords fighting one another with the
powers in time and they led to World Wars and support of various foreign powers.
 The economy was shattered and tens of
they stopped only after they wwere subdued by
millions lost their lives in the decades that
greater military power in form of USA and USSR. followed. That lesson remains so sharp
that even today ordinary Chinese are most
fearful of chaos.
 Despite all of this, there has been a certain (Senkaku/Diyaou island), Shinzo Abe‘s military
lag in the ―freedom‖ and ―equality‖ outlook and China‘s ADIZ
sphere. This goes for both individual and
firms. Question - “Territorial sovereignty, contention
 A country stands to protect the interests of on energy, significance of the geographic
its own citizens, which is being denied location, threat to maritime security and
here. Given that the rate of overlapping maritime claims are at the core of
industrialization has been high and people the South China Sea dispute. ” Elaborate. (200
are being benefited, but it is done at the
Words)
cost of the freedom of the citizens of
China.
Answer - South China Sea has attracted
considerable attention in the last one year because
Q-Critically comment on the historical reasons, of increased tension between China and its
especially related to World War events, that led neighbours over competing maritime claims.
to strain in China – Japan relationship.
Littoral nations in the South China Sea are
The present tension between China and Japan competing to establish sovereign control over
date back to historical events World War events. territories, fisheries, mineral and oil and gas
There have been two main reasons for this deposits in the region. Also at stake is the
continued tension
freedom of navigation and military deployment
Expansionist policy of Japan:
1)Japan was the first industrial nation in Asia. By in view of maritime security, in this geo-
the end of 19th century Japan had turned into an strategically important region.
economic and military powerhouse. It started to
follow imperial policies. Maintaining security, and smooth navigational
2) In the First Sino Japanese war (1895), Qing channels are important issues that the countries
dynasty was defeated by Japan. The dynasty also want to ensure in this important geographic
lost Korea – till then a vassal state location. As the Sea lies in between Persian Gulf
3) Between the two Sino Japanese wars there were
and Pacific ocean, thereby providing an
certain localized conflicts between the two
nations. For eg: Japanese invasion of Manchuria important trade route for supply of oils, gases
War crimes: and energy, the countries like Japan, South Korea,
1) Between 1937 – 1941, during the second Sino- Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia are dependent
Japanese war there were major events that on stability and freedom of navigation in the
marked a permanent scar in the relations of the
South China Sea. The Malacca Strait, as the
two nations.
2) The worst of these incidents known as Nanking entrance to the South China Sea is vital to
Massacre, left tens of thousands of Chinese maintaining smooth energy supplies to all
civilians dead and horrific rape crime were countries in the region.
committed against women by japanese troops
3) The tension was further escalated when a The Senkaku/Diaoyuai dispute involving
shrine honouring the criminals of war was countries like China, Korea and Japan also shows
created at Yashukuni. Politicians visiting these the importance of region as far as territorial
shrines has remained a point of contention claims are concerned. Thus, it may be concluded
between Japan on one hand and China and Korea
on the other. that maritime securities, energy issues,
At present there are increased threats of a major geographic location, important trade route are the
stand off between the two nations due to core factors responsible for dispute among the
conflicting claims over territorial areas littoral national there.

US Role: Us has embarked on its Pivot

towards Asia policy to maintain peace in
Pacific region and even to strategically
defy China‘s rising supremacy in the
Q-What is the bone of contention between region by engaing other players like
China and surrounding countries in the South Japan, India etc.Each year, $5.3 trillion of
China Sea? Explain the response of concerned trade passes through the South China Sea;
regional multilateral organizations on the U.S. trade accounts for $1.2 trillion of this
dispute. (200 Words) total. Should a crisis occur, the
diversion of cargo ships to other routes would
harm regional economies as a result of an
South China Sea is a vastly contested region increase in insurance rates and longer
between China and other south east asian transits.
countries like Taiwan, Vietnam,
Peaceful solution to south china sea dispute is
very much necessary for regional stability
and also in-turn for world stability.
Malaysia, Brunei, and the Philippines. The control
over this region rises from the following issues:
1)Control over strategic shipping lanes Q--Comment on China‟s relationship with

2)Potentiality of exploration of crude oil and South East Asian countries.
natural gas
3)Control over fishing areas  The relationship of China with its South
East Asian counterpart is probably defined
as being of love and hate at the same time.
Control over Spratly and Paracel islands have With the tensions in South China Sea, China
hightened the tension in south china sea as find many rivals whereas with rising trade
china claims that these islands belong to china relations with ASEAN it finds many trading
historically whereas other countries like and economic partners. In this globalized
vietnam,taiwan etc claim that these islands economy, it is anyway not expected for any
belong to them. Also China openly country to completely cut off from rising
denounced any outside intervension in this economies such as china no matter what the
region and want this issue to be settled only disputes are.
among member countries. Eg:China openly The South China Sea dispute has severely
denounced India‘s patnership with Vietnam damaged its relationship with many
for exploration of hydrocarbons in south ASEAN countries such as Vietnam,
china sea. China doen‘t follow United Nations Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, Taiwan etc
Convention on the Law of the Sea in south where the struggle is about few disputed
china sea as it considers it is a part of chinese Islands which can be potential source of oil
territory historically. and gas exploration along with other other
natural resources. Also, since south china
Asean Role: China was against discussing this sea is the major waterlink of Indian and
dispute in Asean forum but want to solve Pacific Ocean which facilitates much of
it bilaterally with other countries. Though Asian Trade.
Asean countries have come out with a Whereas, in the trading sphere the China
Code of Conduct to settle territorial shares a cordial relations with ASEAN after
disputes in south china sea which China the signing of Framework Agreement on
also acceded to. Comprehensive economic Cooperation and
accomplishing ASEAN-China Free Trade

Agreement which China as the largest Q--Discuss the contours of China – Russia
trading partner of ASEAN. relations post – communist takeover of China in
Hence, China and South East Asian 1949. Do you think a close relationship between
countries relation though surrounded with these two countries is beneficial to India?
disputes, it is steady in trade and economy.
Comment.
 China has historical and linguistic ties with  The Sino Russia relations have transformed
many of the South East Asian countries. The over time with the cooperation increasing
relations have been driven by the trade post the dissolution of former USSR.
cooperation. The disputes over the islands The similar communist ideologies post the
and maritime region has adversely second world war had led to increased
impacted the relations. cooperation between the two countries.
There is a dispute over the islands and However, the Sino-Soviet split(1961) and
maritime reach in the South China Sea. The border war in 1969 strained the relations.
region is disputed due to the interest of the The increased India-Russia cooperation had
nations to occupy the crude oil and natural led to China switching to the US bloc during
gas resources, fishing areas and control over the cold war.
the shipping lanes. The dispute over the The relations grew post the dissolution of
Spartly and Paracel islands in the region has soviet union. Russia`s export of the energy
strained the relations. The recent oil rigging resources to China and dependence on the
by China has led to increased violence in financial resources strengthened the
Vietnam targeting the Chinese cooperation. The two countries constituted
communities. the SCO to check the influence of US in
China is the largest trade partner of Central Asian region. Treaty of Good
Vietnam. The trade cooperation with the Neighbourliness and Friendly cooperation
ASEAN and discussion on RCEP has been was signed in 2001. Similar stands on the
aimed at greater economic integration with world issues including the situation in Iran
the region. Moreover, the MSR initiative by and Syria has strengthened the relations.
China is aimed at increasing security and The recent Ukrainian crisis has led to Russia
economic cooperation by regional taking endeavors for increasing cooperation
integration. These endeavors are aimed at with its Asian partners. Russia is aiming at
increasing the integration within the region. increasing energy cooperation with China.
Despite the trade relations, the territorial The bolstering of Russia China relations
disputes has led to straining of the ties. may reduce the utility of India as Asian
India has been supportive of the peaceful partner for Russia. Moreover, it would
resolution of the dispute.Recently, US had increase the dominance of China in the
called for the international arbitration for region. Chinas support to Pakistan and its
the peaceful resolution of the disputes with border disputes with India raise serious
Philippines. security concerns for India. Recognizing
this, the support of Russia would further
increase Chinas influence over the dynamics
of the region and may result into
threatening India`s cause.
Russia supported Chinese Communist

Revolution of 1949, & subsequently became
its closest ally. But, following decades saw
surfacing of border conflicts between them.
Affairs deteriorated when China declared
war against Vietnam (a Soviet ally) in 1979.

However, relations once again discovered relations between China and ASEAN countries.
upward trajectory after the end of Cold war. Now , the objective of MSR has widened and it is
Both signed a friendship treaty in 2001. a potential weapon to assuage the tensions
Today they are engaged in widening
caused by militarily supported ―String of pearls
cooperation, particularly in trade, energy,
defence & technology. They share similar ‖strategy.
grounds on major geopolitical issues like
• Why Now??
N.Korea, Syria, Iran, etc.
Recently imposed sanctions on Russia by • Firstly , China s recent rise as a global
the West, in the wake of Ukraine crisis, has
economic power could be strengthened only with
further pushed it to intensify ties with
China. This raises new challenges & cooperation among its neighbors .In contrary, its
opportunities for India. assertion in the South China sea has led to more
Closer ties may pave way for Russia & suspicious neighbors like Phillipines and
China to promote joint-extraction of oil & Vietnam.
gas from Central Asian Republics. It can
result into India‘s total exclusion from the • Secondly , its maritime infrastructure
region, & making TAPI-pipeline a more efforts in Gwadar in Pakistan and Hambantota in
distant dream. Srillanka are interpreted as bases for maritime
China & Russia led regional groupings like
military support rather than access for economic
SCO (Shanghai Coorperation Organisation)
engagement. MSR will provide an opportunity to
& CSTO (Collective Security Treaty
Organisation) can become more assertive, paint an economic picture through which all
diminishing India‘s stature. nations would benefit. In this context, recent
At the same time, BRICS will become more invitation to India is a noteworthy mention. By
cohesive, demanding a greater role in geo- this , China‘s intentions are interpreted by few
political arena. India can also reap its analyst as ―fostering friendship, regional stability
benefits, but, it has to guard against possible
and global peace ‖
hijack of BRICS affairs by the duo. Also,
now Japan, USA & EU will show inclination The Other side:
towards India.
Thus, whether or not India will benefit from • Countering US rebalance to ASIA..pivot to
modifying equations will depend on India‘s
ASIA..
proactiveness & diplomacy.
• China‘s assertion of power towards its
neighbor mostly uses economic interest as a
Q. It is said that the success of the proposed
potential weapon. Also, critics points out that
Maritime Silk Route initiative by China will be
considering the blurred difference between the
consequential to regional stability and global
civil and parmilitary vessels ,as China often use
peace. Analyse the objectives of this initiative
and critically evaluate the assessment made in its civilian vessels to claim the disputed territory
the given statement. in the South China Sea,it is nothing but a strategic
move to garner support for its assertion. Though
China has repeatedly reiterated its objective as
Answer- economic interest and securing sea lines of
communication , considering the history of
• The maritime silk road concept first
China‘s behavior it is better to take it with a pinch
emerged during Xi Jinping‘s visit to Indonesian
of salt.
parliament where he emphasized about
strengthening the economic and maritime

• Need to look in details like depth of port Q-Beneath the chaos in Egypt‟s post Arab
developed..as differnet depth required for civilian Awakening lies a complex power struggle
n military vessel. between generals and Islamists.” Analyze. (200
Words)
Keeping in view of all above MSR is a welcoming
initiative provided it contributes to economic • Post ousting of Hosni Mubarak during Arab
growth of the region by diffusing tensions. But Spring, Egypt has been caught between
global community must not ignore the internecine power struggle between generals and
underlying grand strategy of china to increase its Islamists. Things have been complicated on the
inability of the parties to mend their ways and
influence and its craving for hegemony across
negotiate on this issue.
international sphere. • Egypt was under a military rule during Hosni
Mubarak. The armed forces are used to remaining
in power and thwart any attempt to avert status
Q-„The History weighs heavy on Japan – Korea
quo. After elections, Muslim Brotherhood won
relations.” Comment (200 Words)
majority an Mohammad Morsi became the new
Answer) president. Muslim Brotherhood was severely
repressed during Mubarak‘s regime and it was
The relations between Japan and South Korea, unable to shed its siege mentality after coming to
two of the major allies of US in Pacific, have power.
remained cold for many years. This is primarily • Morsi started working against democratic
due to historical reasons dating back to second norms. He used ordinances to gain dictatorial
world war. powers and immunity. When he tried to lead the
Korea was a cology of Imperial Japan during that country on the path to Islamisation, Armed forces
period. During that time there were atrocities intervened. This struggle ostensibly fought
between Islamic and secular forces is in reality a
over its citizens particularly women. South Korea
struggle for power.
wants an apology from Japan over this issue
while Japan has continually ruled out any • There are now two irreconcilable camps facing
off against each other: the military and its secular
apology from its side.
supporters, on one side, and the Muslim
There is also dispute among the two countries Brotherhood and its supporters, on the other. The
over the claims to Liancourt Rocks – a group of young activists and the liberals no longer play a
small islets between two countries. role. Both the parties are to be blamed for this
mess.
The relations further soured when Japanese PM • Brotherhood failed to understand the nation‘s
visited the Yasukuni Shrine in early 2000s. Recent pulse misinterpreting development for
visit of US Secretary of state John Kerry to South Islamisation. Morsi himself subverted the
Korea to amend relations between two countries democratic processes. Military is repeating
has failed to give any fruitful outcome. Brotherhood‘s mistakes by removing a popularly-
elected government. Supporters from both sides
have resorted to violence.
• Military is used to remaining at the helm. It
does not reveals its budget and commands major
influence on economy. American aid provides it
with resources to keep its hegemony.
Middle East & Central Asia
Brotherhood is set on radicalisation of the
country. Both are working at loggerheads.
• The common man has been the victim as usual.
The economy is crumbling, food and medical
supplies are in shortage and power shortages

have crippled the industry. It is necessary to let Q-The present crisis in the West Asia is the
the people choose the future they want. Elections product of past wars, including the First World
should be held again and both Army and War. Critically examine.
democratic government should address the needs
of the people. The present crisis in West Asia is as much a doing
of internal disturbances as has been of failed
Q-”The current situation in Iraq is the making international policies and vision of developed
of US invasion in 2003.” Critically comment. nations.
Where it all begun
1) pro shia government – which evicted from jobs The first bifurcation of the region started with the
the entire sunni Army, thus making trained Sykes-Pikot agreement and dismemberment of
fighters readily available for inducting in other Turkey. With the dismemberment, a united
opposing forces. –> Result of policies of American culture was divided into conflicting groups.
government and War How it spread
2) Demise of Saddam Hussain – who was During the WWII, large number of Jews fled the
strongman in Iraq and had made sure that the regions controlled by Nazi‘s and settled in the
three major communities of Kurds, Sunnies and present day Israel. This created tension between
Shia‘s live together despite having huge Jews and Palestinians who considered this as a
differences. Use of force was bad but necessary in loss of sovereignty over their land.
autocracy. —> so Saddam had both stabilizing The Gulf war that started with the annexation of
and de-stabilizing effect. Kuwait and ended with the 2003 Iraq war, made
3) Failure of America in both Afghanistan and the region a mess. The flip flop the region has
Iraq showed that just hit and run tactics aren‘t seen between a Shia dictator to a Sunni dictator
fruitful for ensuring peace and order. A stable has created a radical organization which even Al
plan involving the local people should be in Qaeda has disowned.
place. Also, eviction of troops in 2011 on popular The region today is divided on sectarian lines. On
demand of US population without fully solving one hand are Iran, Palestine, Syria while on the
the situation in Iraq–> So, yeah America other are Saudi Arab, Israel, Iraq (Sunni elements)
responsible for present situation and Turkey on the other.
These countries themselves have fought multiple
Q-Critically comment on the causes and wars against each other in the past. What they
consequences of America‟s invasion of Iraq in must realize is the time is to unite and put voice
2011. against terrorism which is slowly engulfing the
region
In the name of war against terror, and linking
Saddam Husain with Al Qaida, US attacked…. Q-Do you think the Carter Doctrine is still
Changed Regime….Sunni were sacked , Shia relevant? In the light of recent developments in
Military formed…...then US troops left without the West Asia, critically comment.
stabilizing democracy…..Extremist
consolidated...specially after treatment by their ‖ carter Doctrine ‖ is a policy introduced by US
PM…….regained power... during Jimmy carter regime. Its main goal is to
safeguard the interests of US in the persian gulf. It
Iraq war was the second war after Afghan states that if the situation warrents, the US can
war,which is characterized by the US doctrine of use military in pursian gulf to protect it interests.
Preventive war ie global war on terrorism However, this doctrine may not be relevant to the
because the US suspects where bin laden took in present world, as more and more countries
Iraq. around the world are becoming democracies and
claiming sovereignity over other territories. The
recent crisis in West Asian has called for the Use
of ‖ carter doctrine ‖ in west Asia. But the Arab

spring whose intention is democratisation of Q-Explain how a regional war in Syria was
Arab states, warrents to think the moral ground averted in the last minute? Who were the key
for usage of carter doctrine. Further we have seen players and what was their role? (250 Words)
the experience of Iraq which was attacked in 2003
–Syria has been embroiled in a major civil war for
by US though its military where by its security
apparatus have been weakend last two years and the alleged use of chemical
weapons by the Syrian government against its
Q-Critically examine the causes behind the subjects amounted to violations of international
religious divide and tension between Sunni and laws that prohibit use of chemical
Shia sects of Islam in many parts of the world. weapons.Further,the speculations were testified
by UN inspectors who confirmed the usage of
The Sunni and Shia represents the two ideologies
in Islam. The fight between the two sects is with sarin gas against the civilians.he US infuriated by
respect to the true inheritor of Prophet this development planned a retaliatory military
Mohammed. While the Shia believes that Shiat attack on Syria in order to demolish its army
Ali the son in law of Prohpet should succeed him bases,which could have triggered regional war
while the Sunni believe that merit and not family
with ripple effects on Iran,Iraq,Israel.
lineage should decide the inheritor of Prophet.
Due to this conflict a bloody war took place at However,Russia,a Syrian ally played the
karbala where Ali was defeated and killed. This diplomatic card and asked Syria to submit its
led to the divide and tension between the two chemical weapons through its accession to
sects of Islam. Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) that
The division between the two sects means that
would outlaw production and use of chemical
while there interpretation of Kuran differs which
results in difference between birth to death weapons.Syria too acceded to the demand and
ceremonies politically both agree for the creation agreed to submit an inventory of stockpile of
of a true Islamic State which would be governed chemical weapons and destroy the arsenal by the
according to their interpretation of Islam. mid of next year.
It was primarily Russia that brokered the peace-
Shia people also worship great sufi saints and
also developed Music as a medium to connect to deal and allowed the war situation to take
sprituality which is haram according to sunni backseat.The US too agreed to desist from any
sect. military intervention.
Sunni‘s are more fundamental and want the rigid
interpretation of Quran to be followed. They are
against any such worldly worship of tombs of
sufi saints. The major cause of rift was lack a clear
cut succession rule in the Muslim community for Explain how a regional war in Syria was averted
which it was divided greatly and suffers to this in the last minute? Who were the key players
date and what was their role? (250 Words)
• The Syrian Civil war is a conflict between its
In the present context the ISIS a Sunni terrorist long-serving government and those seeking to
group is fighting against a Shia majority boot it out of office. The Assad family has held
government in Iraq to get control of Iraq and power in Syria since 1971. First it was Hafez al-
parts of Syria. In this endevour due to religious Assad, then Bashar al-Assad. The public is
reasons while the Shia majority Iran is supporting outraged over the lack of development and this
the government of Iraq the Sunni majority Saudi led to civil war.
Arabia is believed to be funding and arming the • Syrian opposition is a motley of various groups
terrorist group. containing various rebels, chieftains and now
even extremists, fighting under Free Syrian Army
[FSA]. FSA received support from Sunni states
like Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey and also ruled by a Shia governement doesnot go well
from USA, UK, France. Syrian government is
with Saudi Arabia (Sunni dominant) and its
supported by Iran and Hezbollah and to a limited
extent Russia and China. followers lke that of Qatar.
• A Middle East question has always been an The extremist elements scattered around the arab
international question due to the regions oil
countries have found solace in the Syrian crisis.
resources. USA was threatening to strike directly
by a coalition force when use of chemical This comes to help them to establish a regime as
weapons was discovered. Since UN refused to per its mandate. Presense of such elements have
support USA‘s action due to paucity of evidence, not dithered the west from supplying arms to the
it contemplated of going on with its allies. Russia opposition. Such high are the stakes in the region.
and China opposed USA‘s unilateral decision and
begin negotiations. John Kerry, US secy of state The recent Arab spring has provided a window
and Sergei Lavrov, Russia‘s foreign minister for all the elements, concerns being legitimate
decided mutually that Syria should destroy it‘s ones or not, to fight for a change in the
chemical weapons under the aegis of UN. It government. The timely use of Diplomacy of
should also sign the Chemical Weapons Russia and perhaps China also has thwarted the
Convention. They were thus able to avert war in emergence of another Iraq. Inspite of that the
the last minute. sufferings of the Syrian are far from resolved.
• Syrian government should be credited as was
open to a diplomatic solution and to address Q-For the establishment of full diplomatic
international concerns. The credit also goes to relationship between USA and Iran, apart from
both USA and Russia as they decided to negotiate their mutual mistrust, there are other external
on Syrian issue. USA is also concerned about the
role of extremist elements in the FSA and the forces within the region which are acting as
growing international criticism due to it‘s role of roadblock.” Comment. (200 Words)
world‘s policeman. Saudi Arabia realised that a After over three decades, the Presidents of US
stable Syria free from extremist elements is in and Iran had a telephonic conversation. Though
their interests.
the duration was small, it nonetheless counts as a
• All the stakeholders have committed to follow
diplomatic process at least for the time being. The thaw in their relationships. However, it does not
onus now lies on Syrian government to comply imply that suddenly the relations between Iran
with these requests and also start negotiating and US will improve.
with rebels. Domestic opposition in Iran and US against
restoration of ties is a major hurdle that needs to
Q-The crisis in Syria is more the result of
be overcome. This opposition is, in part, due to
external factors than internal ones.” Critically
comment. the mutual mistrust that has developed over the
years. Both sides will need to budge from their
The Syrian crisis, that has repercussions through original stand if they want to see some progress.
out the middle-east, might look to be caused by For Iran, this would mean meeting the concerns
its internal problems but the role of external ones of the West regarding its nuclear programme and
cannot be ruled out. for US, this would mean loosening the grip of
economic sanctions and assurances against
Several countries have stakes in the Syrian crisis. regime change efforts in Iran.
US needs a government there that toes along with Both Saudi Arabia and Israel are also concerned
it. A country with rich oil reserves does attract the about the renewing of ties between US and Iran
eye of many countries. In an area dominated by and would do everything to maintain the status
Sunni muslims, a Sunni majority country to be quo. Both are concerned that if relations improve,
Iran may head towards developing a nuclear community has also stepped in after accusations
bomb which will be detrimental to the safety of of chemical weapons use in this war.
the West Asian region in general and Saudi
The Syrian civil war has received significant
Arabia and Israel in particular.
international attention, and both the Syrian
===Suspicious nuclear projects of Iran if left government and the opposition have received
unchecked may prove detrimental to the safety of
support, militarily and diplomatically, from
some of the middle east countries i.e. Saudi
Arabia and/or Israel for instance. foreign countries.
The major parties supporting the Syrian

Q-Do you agree with the view that if Iran
Government are Iran and Hezbollah. Both of
develops nuclear bomb, it would bring peace
these are involved in the war politically and
and avert future wars in the region? Critically
logistically by providing military equipment,
comment. (200 Words)
training and battle troops. The Syrian
Iranian appetite of nuclear enrichment and its government has also received arms and political
reluctance to bring Fordow nuclear complex support from Russia.
under IAEA scanner is a serious frictional force
The main Syrian opposition body – the Syrian
on which the global agreements on non
proliferation slides.Iran,in this sense is a coalition – receives political, logistic and military
proliferator.One cannot put blanket on its ulterior support from the US, Britain and France.The
motives by just saying that such moves are for Syrian coalition also receives logistic and political
civil developments.Nuclear bombs have never support from major Sunni states in the Middle
brought peace and it has always made situation
to go more turbulent.However,with the East, most notably Turkey, Qatar and Saudi
leadership change in Iran,there are signs of thaws Arabia; all the three major supporting states
on its stance on nuclear talks.The new incumbent however have not contributed any troops for
is far more open than it predecessor.It may be due direct involvement in the war, though Turkey
to the Iranian concerns of the sanctions‘ effects on
was involved in a number of border incidents
the people and economy but whatever may be the
reality it is really a great move that will do a with Syrian Army.
pacification of the so called volatile situations
developed over the last 6-8 months.Every war Q-Write a note on the Kurdish movement with
ends with a truce or some sort of ceasefire special reference to its present status in the
agreement.Regional powers must repudiate wars region.
and instead they must exchange words on tables
 Kurds are an ethnic group of people living in
to find a consensual solution to let the dove of
the adjacent regions of Iraq, Iran, Turkey and
peace fly high
Syria. They are fighting successive govt. in Iran
Q- “The Syrian situation has been called a proxy and Iraq for nationhood, since at least last
war involving many players.” Comment. (200 century.
Words)  Their ethnic identity supersedes current
national identities and they have wanted to
crystallize it into a nation-state – Kurdistan –
The violence in Syria started in 2011 between the for a long time now. The crux of the problem is
Bashar Al-Assad‘s regime and various groups of that Kurd are predominantly Sunni, but Iraq
rebel fighters.The International Red Cross and Iran are predominantly Shi‘ite. Iraqi
formally declared it a civil war.The international Kurdistan has oil, Iranian part is expected to

bear oil. Due to these reasons Iran and Iraq are leading to its development.And then will not take
hostile to the Idea of Kurdistan. much time for the waves of stability and
 As of now, the Iraqi Kurdistan has declared development to spread in the region and bring
independence. Iraq is obviously hostile. Iran is prosperity to everyone.
alarmed that its own Kurd would want to join
their brothers. Turkey has a small number of
not very reactionary Kurd and is a strong state; Q-Critically analyse India‟s stand towards
various developments that are taking place in
so, it has lent its support. The western powers
the Arab world.
are rooting for a united Iraq.
Any Kurdistan will be a land-locked country, India and the Arab world share historical, cultural,
whatever its borders. It will have two large, religious and civilisational linkages. The west Asian
hostile neighbors. US opposition means no region is part of our extended neighborhood. India
nationhood, which means no oil revenue. So, it has sought to increase its engagement with the arab
would be better for the new state to seek a world through its Look West policy.
confederation, and settle for a federation with
Baghdad.
The Arab world is important for our national interests
Q-Critically analyze the role of the Istanbul due to many reasons.
process in bringing about stability and *Energy security-most of our oil and gas imports
development to the Heart of Asia region. (200 come from the MANA region.
Words) *Huge diaspora-large number of Indian
immigrants working in gulf countries; very
The Heart of Asia meet called the Istanbul Process is important source of remittances.
an important component of the ongoing international *Our large Muslim population-it has spiritual and
effort to assist Afghanistan with political and religious linkages with the Arab world.
economic reconstruction.It has brought together *Geopolitically unstable region-the Arab world
countries in Afghanistan‘s immediate and extended has suffered from perpetual instability and
neighbourhood facing common threats, including conflict. Extremism, sectarian conflicts or religious
counterterrorism, counternarcotics, and extremism fundamentalism in the region have negative
The instanbul process will help afganisthan in repercussions for our security and development.
preparing security arrangements for the Since the outbreak of the Arab spring, India has
presidential election in april 2014. The main threat followed a policy of non-interference in the
to the election process are the extremist groups internal affairs of these nations while evacuating
which undermine security and deny Afghans the Indian immigrants from conflict ridden regions. In
right to freely vote. the recent israel-palestine conflict, India has
High Peace Council will try to bring reconciliation remained reluctant to criticize Israel. Israel being
of armed opposition groups that have shown a an important supplier for our defense
willingness to give up terror and abide by the requirements as well as a source for intelligence
Afghan Constitution. cooperation and advanced agricultural
technologies, narrow short term interests seem to
This will give some political stabilty to afganisthan be guiding out foreign policy.
which in turn would reduce security Similarly in case of Syria and iraq, India has not
implications.Once afganisthan is freed from done much to help the region regain peace and
extremism investment would invariably increase stability. India needs to make use of its increased
political and economic clout to engage with the
governments of crises ridden west Asian Asia has been negligible. Iraq is an important oil
countries. It can pressurize Iraq to form inclusive supplier and Israel is an important arms supplier.
government with genuine autonomy for ethnic In this way they serve our national interest. But
minority dominated regions. We can suspend one of the important objectives of our foreign
arms import from Israel for the time being to bring policy is to ensure international peace and
it to the negotiating table with the palestine. Peace security.
and stability in our extended neighborhood is very Indian leadership in the BRICS bloc will require
crucial for our own security and continued growth far more than sanctimonious (and often empty)
process. statements. It will require the use of new coalitions
to pressure states on behalf of peace and justice,
the main elements of the United Nations Charter.
―It will require the use of new coalitions to The Indian people‘s role in this is to push their
pressure states on behalf of peace and justice, the government on issues where Indian leverage is
main elements of the United Nations Charter.‖ In meaningful.
the light of India‘s participation in many regional
and global groupings and the ongoing conflict in Q- Is Arab Spring a failure? Comment. (250
the West Asian region, critically analyse India‘s Words)
actions and role in ensuring peace in unstable The jasmine revolution, which had the ambitious
regions of the world, especially vis a vis Arab aim of overthrowing the authoritarian
region. government, which aspired for greater equality
and liberty of individual, which thrived on the
shared grievances on social networking sites,
The middle east is a geopolitically unstable region. seems to die indeed. But its achievements have left
It has remained a constantly erupting volcano. In a distinct mark on the Arab world with
the aftermath of the Arab spring many political repercussions seen around the whole world.
regimes were uprooted but stability is yet to return People‘s Movement – The Arab spring was a
to this region. people‘s movement, demanding liberty and
In recent times, conflicts in Syria ,advance of ISIS freedom from autocratic rule. Though certain
in Iraq, Israel-Palestine conflict etc are leading to battles like that in Libya and maybe Syria were
loss of thousands of lives. won with external aid, chiefly the local outrage
The 21st century world has been shifting to over the government could not be denied.
multipolarity. The BRICS nations have started Ideological Achievements- The movement shook
wielding huge economic clout and political power the foundations of monarchy and authoritarianism
in the global arena. They have been active in the Middle East. Though weak but democracy
contributors to the UN peace keeping efforts. has been established in Tunisia, Jordan and is been
However due to the use of veto by some ardently trying to establish itself in Libya.
permanent members in the security council, UN However, the situation in Egypt, Syria and failure
has been by and large unable to bring peace and in Saudi Arabia is a setback to the revolution cited
stability to the West Asian region. as proof to the failure of the revolution but the
The BRICS needs to be more aggressive defenders ideological awareness can‘t be denied.
of international law.They can pressurize Israel to Power of people- The movement was successful in
come to the negotiating table by restricting demonstrating the power of a globalized civil
purchase of Israeli weapons. society. Started with ideological outbursts over
India‘s role in ameliorating current crisis in west social networking sites and social media it forced

the governments to reorient their views on a well Destablisation of this region has spread to Africa
aware and demanding crowd. and and new outfits like Boko Haram, Al-Nushra
Repercussions- The movement caused a spike in and others have developed and travel continents
in case of any destablisation. Evn South-West
global oil prices adding to the woes of global
China, Chechanya parts of Ukarain too have
depression. It effectively ruined the parent
fallen to such extremism. Counties like India
country‘s economy. The violent clashes added to which were already infested with terrorism are
the miseries of the poor. There was a mass exodus facing indegenous outfits like Indian Mujahidin
of skilled labour. and Pakistan which once was the heaven to
Maybe the fact that ‗the night is darkest before the terrorists itself has fallen vitim to their acts/.
dawn‘ is pertinent to the situation. But one thing Thus a complete new form of global hazard has
taken birth which threatens to destablise the
can be mentioned safely, that things will never
whole world. This is just not resisting changes
remain the same. towards betterment in fact is pulling the countries
towards war and terror. And without a
Q--Critically discuss how recent developments coordinated effort from global governments,
post-Arab Spring in the West Asian countries people and other stake holders the path to peace
have given rise to new terrorist outfits and the and stablisation could not be reached.
dangers they pose to the security of the region
and beyond. Q-Critically analyze the latest developments
that have taken place since Arab Spring
Arab Spring which as a movement starting from revolutions. (200 Words)
Tunisia aimed at eliminating the monarchy and
establishing democracy/liberal regimes is going Arab Spring revolutions which started in Tunisia
through a tragic phase. The uprooting of in 2010, slowly but surely captured the
government through revolutionary acts left
imagination of neighbouring Arab Countries like
power vaccum which was occupied by hardliners
Egypt, Syria, Algeria, Jordon, Oman, Sudan etc. It
and have now put the whole region in a state of
civil war and has rsulted into germination of new also spilled over to countries like UAE, Kuwait
forms of terrorism.Arab Spring promised a great etc but with little impact. The aim was to get rid
many changes but the political power was of rulers and establish democractic states where
occupied by hardliners the citizens have equal rights and equitable
representation.
This has given a boost to terrorism acts. Conflicts
It is called Arab spring because of it‘s
have been further fanned by international
armament corporations to sale their arms. These revolutionary way of demonstrations and
unstable countries have turned into battle ground protests , both violent and non-violent. But other
and other countries like Russia and USA are than Sudan, Algeria and to certain extent in
fighting over them. This has resulted into gross Jordon, Arab Spring has not brought desired
human rights violations, killings, bombing etc. results. In fact in Egypt, it acted as an veil, which
These acts have led to propagation of orthodox military used to upstage democratic government.
ideas and the communities globally are getting
attracted to help their communities. And this was
revealed when two Syrian fighters were found to Though Arab spring was historic moment for
be hailing from India.Simultaneously the terrorist middle east, it‘s long term impact remains
organisations have become become franchises unpredictable. These demonstrations, most of the
and money is being poused from various corners the time peaceful, are initiated and fuelled by
of the world. public anger and sentiments against monarchy,
unruly rulers and dictators. But later it takes the

shape of violent armed conflict , mostly not to mention the sad fact that 40 per cent of the
sponsored with vested interest. population are illiterate.
These revolutions are justified because of years of But the military generals don‘t really care if people
suppression, oppression and human rights have read the revised constitution. The latest draft
violation suffered by the citizens. But due to lack of the constitution is not very different from the
of leaders, it takes undesirable shape and 2012 version rushed through by the constitutional
threatens global peace and harmony. This puts committee appointed by Morsi. This version
onus on the International community to act in the improves the language in some references to
proactive manner. UN, in particular, can play a women and minorities, but it still discriminates
vital role by playing a mediator for peace and talk against those from the non-Abrahamic religions
process. and still says that Egypt follows Islamic law.
Newspaper Extract:-
The main change in this version is a cementing of
Egypt‘s vote on the constitution was meant to military and police autonomy and authority.
legitimise the military coup. Military budgets and expenditures are now
constitutionally off-limits for inquiry or criticism.
Egyptians were asked, yet again, to vote on a There are estimates that the military holds 20 to 40
constitution, but it was really about legitimising a per cent of the Egyptian economy, which produces
military coup d‘etat. Since the military overthrew everything from washing machines and macaroni
the democratically elected president, Mohamed to arms. Now, the armed forces‘ infiltration into
Morsi, last summer, it has maintained that it was the already poor economy is protected from any
acting on the will of the people. Led by General legal oversight. Further, the latest draft imposes
Abdel Fatah al-Sisi, the Egyptian military has been heavy penalties for anyone who insults or
trying to dodge international criticism for undermines the military, its personnel and its
overthrowing a democratically elected installations.
government.
With the military controlling a large part of the
The censure of Egypt has included the United economy and where many of its installations are
States suspending valuable military and economic unknown or operate in the shadow of the real
aid, to the tune of $1.3 billion. While the Egyptian economy, what prevents a military factory
military had gone to great lengths to show the producing macaroni from arresting a competitor-
international community that it had some 30 manufacturer for questioning its pricing policies?
million people pour into the streets on June 30 to Sadly, the military regime has already proven
support the coup, the question of how many really itself capable of and willing to cast a wide net on
supported it remains unknown. those whom it deems to be enemies of the state.
In many ways, the referendum on the constitution Today, political prisoners in Egypt include not
is about getting the electorate to show its support only the upper echelons of the Muslim
for the coup and its disdain for the Muslim Brotherhood, but also youth groups, journalists,
Brotherhood‘s tenure in office. The referendum civil society actors and others who have
has had little to do with the substance of the questioned the military regime and its policies.
constitution. After all, the majority of Egyptians Many of the youth leaders who had organised
have not read the latest draft of the constitution, movements to overthrow the Hosni Mubarak
regime are also imprisoned now for ―undermining
the state‖ by questioning the coup and its gag diaspora, stability in the middle-east is important
order on civil society. for Russia.
Egypt is now one of the deadliest places for Military:

journalists to operate in — even worse than
Somalia, according to media freedom watch Russian naval base in Syria is Russia‘s only
groups. One political party, which tried to gateway to the Mediterranean sea. After Asia-
campaign with posters in favour of voting ―no‖ in Pacific region, middle-east constitutes second
the referendum, found some of its staff arrested as largest arms exports from Russia, which is on the
well. Liberal activists and former members of surge. Bulk of Russian military exports constitutes
parliament not aligned with the Brotherhood but Fighter jets, anti-aircraft missiles and tanks.
critical of the military regime coup are also barred
from travelling outside Egypt and are under gag Energy:
orders.
Russia is the world‘s largest producer of oil and
This is the climate of censorship prevailing in natural gas. Middle east is an important market for
Egypt, and unfortunately, many Egyptians Russia, after European union, in oil trade.
support their military for restoring order and
removing an embarrassing dispensation like the Geo-strategic:
Morsi regime. According to the referendum
Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, other gulf countries
results, the draft constitution has won the support
and Israel are upset due to lifting of Iranian
of a large majority.
sanctions by US. Russia aims to capitalize on this
But then, those who would have voted against the opportunity to explore new relations in middle
constitution were unlikely to participate in the east.
polls, in any case. What is worrying for the process
Trade:
of democratisation in Egypt is that there is
electoral support for the coup and its military
UAE,Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Syria are some of the
backers — much to the detriment of Egypt‘s
countries with deep ties in trade with Russia in
political development. The referendum on the
middle-east region. So a stable middle east is a
constitution is a sideshow for the real threat facing
prerequisite for its economic growth.
Egypt: political repression and censorship of
liberal thought. Given these factors, it is no wonder that Russia is
proactive in its diplomacy of Middle-east.
Russia‘s proactive intervention to prevent war in
Syria and its close ties with middle east nations
have the following national interests:
Q-Critically analyze the implications of thawing
Diaspora: relations between Iran and USA on the
geopolitics of West Asia. (200 Words)
Syria has an estimated 30000 people of Russian The improvement in the U.S.-Iran relations,
diaspora. Other countries with significant Russian particularly on the issue of negotiations about
diaspora in the middle-east are Israel, Turkey, Iran‘s nuclear program, is great achievement of
UAE, Lebanon and Jordan. To safeguard its Hassan Rowhani tenure.

The crippling economic sanctions over decade fraught situation in the Gulf. U.S.-Iran
caused significant fall in Iranian oil exports had rapprochement could prepare the ground for an
harmed Iran‘s energy and economic interests. unprecedented diplomatic initiative led by the
principal Asian countries — China, Japan, Korea
Even though Iran has geographical space across and India.
the Gulf and Central Asia, this longstanding near-
isolated status excluded it from playing a Q-Compare and contrast how Russian economy
meaningful role in the regional geopolitical grew since the inception of communism and its
scenario. subsequent fall later.
The success of UN supported project, the World Russian economy grew at rates outpacing the
Against Violence and Extremism — WAVE could capitalist west through the 1950s and 60s,
matched them in 1970s and then started to lag
reconstruct Iran‘s global position and transform
behind, reaching a nadir in 2000 by when the
the landscape of Middle East. economy had shrunk by half since soviet
collapse.The economy had a resurgence since
then, growing at 7% pa. But it again slipped to 3-
In the American point of view, the pervasive war- 4% and is now virtually zero.
weariness and the military solutions as attempted
in Afghanistan and Iraq, had left a legacy of The initial high growth was due to the
bitterness and significant losses to the U.S. transitioning of economy from an agrarian one to
an industrial one. The public enthusiasm in the
treasury.
communist economic model was high and the
bureaucracy was new and committed. Being a
Moreover the military actions could hardly curb closed economy it was insulated from the ripple
Iran‘s nuclear ambitions. The security challenges effects of the great depression and the economic
of the Middle East cannot be permanently solved effects of the world wars.
through the use of military power. Diplomacy is By the 70s the enthusiasm had waned, and the
the only way to achieve long-lasting resolution. lack of profit motive and private
entrepreneurship hit the economy hard. Revenue
So both ways the improved relationship is
expenditure and spending on public goods – esp
beneficial. military – became untenable. The ‗Red Mafia‘ and
Iran being oil rich country having influence in black-money grew rapidly and hurt the economy
this war torn West Asian region includes Syria, bad.
Lebanon, Jordan, Bahrain.
Russia or the erstwhile USSR happens to be the
The improvement in a multilateral framework first state to adopt state economy. It adopted
between the two countries may also contribute to communism after the Bolshevik Revolution in
1917. Owing to its huge petroleum and natural
the Syrian crisis and brings stability to the region.
gas reserves and huge industrial base, its
Above all, the stable West Asia would facilitate economy saw huge surge in first few decades.
the shift of US strategic pivot to the Asia-Pacific, The great economic crisis of 1930s impacted
particularly Northeast Asia. western market economies badly followed by the
Israeli opposition could place serious obstacles in crisis after second world war. However Russia
the path of U.S.-Iran ties. USA long time ally survived the impact and faced only a little blow.
In 1950s and 1960s Russia outpaced all the
Saudi Arabia disappointed by the closer relation
capitalist economies of the world and matched
between USA and Iran. But in the long run this
their pace in 1970s.
may resolve because progress in Saudi-Iran The growth rate in Russia however started
relations would certainly serve to stabilise the declining in 1980s . Since all the resources were
owned by the state and people did not get fruits

of their hard work and innovation, it worked as a
disincentive for them. The huge expenditure in Q-What are the possible national interests at
the production of defence equipments due to the play in Russia‟s pursuance of proactive
cold war neglected health, education and other diplomacy in the middle East region? Comment.
sectors. The inefficient government policies (200 Words)
exacerbated the situation and resulted in the
Russia‘s proactive intervention to prevent war in Syria
discontent among the people.
and its close ties with middle east nations have the
Russia finally had to resort to market economy
and privatisation post 1990s due to the disaster following national interests:
witnessed by its economy and polity in the form 1.Diaspora:
of disintegration. This led to creation of many Syria has an estimated 30000 people of Russian
oligarchies there. However again its vast natural diaspora. Other countries with significant Russian
resources and technical expertise came to the diaspora in the middle-east are Israel, Turkey, UAE,
rescue and the economy revived. Its economy has
Lebanon and Jordan. To safeguard its diaspora,
witnessed many ups and downs in the last
decade. Of late Russia is feeling the heat due to stability in the middle-east is important for Russia.
the dispute with EU and USA because of Ukraine Military:
crisis. However Russian economy is robust now Russian naval base in Tartus in Syria is Russia‘s only
and more prepared to survive a blow. gateway to the Mediterranean sea. After Asia-Pacific
region, middle-east constitutes second largest arms
exports from Russia, which is on the surge. Bulk of
Russian military exports constitutes Fighter jets, anti-
Russia after revolution of 1917 entered into a
phase of dictatorship to finally communism. aircraft missiles and tanks.
But after 1950 things started to change and Russia Energy:
was on a path of high growth even outpacing Russia is the world‘s largest producer of oil and
more established western partners. This was due natural gas. Middle east is an important market for
to modernization, setting up up of modern Russia, after European union, in oil trade. Recently,
industries and its natural resources base proved post lifting of sanctions, Russia concluded deal with
adequate to carry high growth.
Iran for import of Crude oil for exchange of Russian
But as we know communism has certain inherent
drawbacks i.e lack of motivation to carry hard equipment and goods. Russia has built Bushehr
work as people were not allowed its fruits, nuclear reactor project in Iran. With the discovery of
suppression of personal freedom, press muzzling vast shale resources in US,it is predicted to be energy-
etc. surplus by 2035. Russia aims to retain Middle east
But above all Cold war changed the nature of market to prevent US monopoly in near-future.
production in favour of military and in many
Geo-strategic:
cases even if it was uneconomical it was carried
in the name of national prestige. So economy had Sunni-majority Saudi Arabia, other gulf countries and
her way and a fall was noticed and subsequently Israel are upset due to lifting of Iranian sanctions by
disintegration of soviet union. US. Russia aims to capitalize on this opportunity to
Now Russia embraced market based economy explore new relations in middle east.
and due to its abundance natural resources and Trade:
technical know how it was back on path of UAE,Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Syria are some of the
growth but Global economic meltdown and other
countries with deep ties in trade with Russia in
international realities and her involvement in
disputes had putted back economy on downward middle-east region. Russia‘s trade is heavily
trajectory. dependent on petroleum. So a stable middle east is a
So Russsia had a Zig Zag growth path before prerequisite for its economic growth.
communism and after its end.
Given these factors, it is no wonder that Russia is the fainting voices of European states.
proactive in its diplomacy of Middle-east. It also led to growing sense of pan-Arab
nationalism which united together in
Q-Write a critical note on the causes and dispute with Israel.

consequences of the Suez Crisis of 1956.
1. Origin of Suez-Canal Crisis of 1956 lies on
Q. Critically comment on the recent political
the backdrop of growing concerns in
developments in Egypt. In your opinion, what
America and Britain and other West allies these developments indicate about the nature of
like France and Israel about Egypt‘s governance and institutions in Egypt?
growing proximity to Soviet bloc. Egypt is under turmoil since the ousting of
Mubarak‘s regime, and subsequent transition of
2. USA‘s denial to fund Aswan Dam
power from the hands of Muslim Brother-hood to
construction over River Nile which they interim government has led to scores of violence.
had promised earlier, along with British
withdrawal to sanction loan had upset The society of Egypt is fundamentally divided
across the Islamic fundamentalists and liberal
Egypt government under Nasser. To
secularists. Reluctance to share power by
counter the problem, Egypt decided to accommodating divergent interests, rigid & all
nationalize private Suez Canal Company . powerful bureaucratic institutions that
Profit earned from Suez canal was to be vehemently oppose any reforms, powerful army
that always excludes itself from reforms-
used to fund Aswan Dam.
opposing attempts to reduce its influence in
3. As obvious, usurpation of Suez canal governance, economy in shambles, unrest among
exacerbated British and French interest, as youth, attempts by ruling class to assume all
powers, attempts to crush opposition, divided
it was pivotal to their colonial interests.
opinion on future course of the nation can be
This was very important from the summarized as the reasons for the strife in Egypt.
viewpoint of their crude oil exploration
with Arab countries. The conflict in Egypt highlights the weakness in
the political system of the country. The failure to
4. They planned military intervention with provide the basic services to the citizens created
the help of Israel.They were successful in the resentment against the political institutions.
combating Egypt. However, Egypt Despite multiple attempts to reform the political
drowned some US Naval Vessels and then system in the country, the transitions did not lead
restrain order came from US, threatening to strengthening the political institution. The
consequences. There also grew fear of conflict between the bureaucracy and the political
dispensation sabotaged any efforts at providing
Soviet intervention on the issue.
the basic services . The use of the coercive
methods to quell the resentment and agitation
5. Consequently, they had to withdraw. from the citizens aggravated the conflict . The
dismal state of the access to health, education and
British and French colonial ambitions
employment opportunities reduced the faith in
were badly shattered. the governance. The failure to provide an
US supremacy over European countries alternate political system which could reform the
was more than sufficiently established. potential sectors such as security exacerbated the
This was a big factor which led to the dismal state of affairs.
creation of European Union to strengthen

The sheen of the authoritarian leader to provide democratization process

quixotic solution to the issues faced by the • Given Turkey‘s large and growing population,
citizens helped in their rise to power. However, Turkey will have a correspondingly large
the incompetent governance system and representation in the European Parliament. This
ineffective bureaucratic efforts to implement the will give Turkey strong direct influence over EU
reforms worsened the conditions. policies.
• Membership in the EU will also increase
Now, a new government under the leadership of Turkey‘s prestige regionally and internationally
Al-Sisi has been formed which is again trying to
reform the institutions. However, he also faces
the same two dillemas. First, the youth who
overthrew Muslim Brotherhood in 2013 are
skeptical and fear return of the same repressive Q. Critically comment on the recent
regime under Al-Sisi. Secondly, the bureaucracy developments in the polity and economy of
which mans the institutions will resist reforms to Turkey.
retain their strength. Hence the new regimen has
to balance between reforms while also showing
signs of good governance to the youth of Egypt.  Turkey occupies a centrestage to middle
East geopolity as connecting West Asia to
Europe.The developments in its poity-
economy are linked and have been on an
Q-Why Turkey is keen on joining EU? Explain upward trajectory since the beginning of
The EU is a 28 member bloc of countries in this millennium.
Europe that share common policies such as free  The coalition polity, fiscal deficit and
ailing State owned enterprises were a
movement of people, taxation and regulation.
thing of past as the new strong AK party
Turkey has been an associate member of the
emerged in power in Turkey post 2000.
.European community since 1964 and also part
The political stability thus has ensued a
of a customs union with the EU, which is
established by the Ankara agreement, must decade of sustainable growth and
apply the EU‘s common external tariff to third intensive engagement with foreign
countries and has to adopt a large part of the EU economies and Turkey is now among the
law. Turkey complies with the rules, yet has no fastest growing emerging economies in
formal say in the law-making process. Turkey is G20.
keen on joining EU as a permanent member by
 However, the three major events, of late,
which it can gain some benefits as follows,
which as a privileged partner it can‘t. have shaped its distinct politico-
• Can receive economic development aid similar economical structure:
to what Greece, Spain,etc., and can increase  1. The Global financial crisis of 2008 has
European foreign investment, further driving shrunk the US and EU markets for Turkey
economic growth  2. The Arab spring and its consequent
• Free movement of people across the EU will
current hotbed Syria is next door
give many Turkish people the opportunity to
easily migrate to other parts of Europe in search neighbour to Turkey and hence it is
of work, or a higher standard of living which vulnerable to the political overhaul
will inevitably ease tensions in the country and notwithstanding its modernised Islam and
the prospect of a better standard of living will democratic elected government.
tend to cool separatist tendencies.  3. The anti-government protests in Gezi
• The EU accession bid can stimulate Turkey‘s
and subsequent repressive tactics by its
political and legal reforms and intensify the

President such as banning social media as made the world realize that oil is precious and
in twitter etc may not go down well with alternative solutions to this form of energy must
curtailing the fundamental rights and may be found out
precipiate into mass agitations.
The protests and President;s strong stance In addition to the embargo creating a rift within
however is irrespective of Turkey‘s strong NATO, Japan and some Europeans nations
commitment to democracy as reflected in the disassociated themselves from the U.S. Middle
recent municipal elections which are underway. East Policy.
As long as the political machinery is strong,
economy is in safe hands. This is also true of
Turkey‘s relations with India as the recently
signed Agreements in Science rechnology, Q-Critically comment on the outcome of Arab
education and MSME‘s are an indication. Spring revolution.
Further, Turkey is crucial for stability in Answer)
Afghanistan post ISAF withdrawal and hence
The uprisings taking place in the Middle East
India is actively cooperating with Turkey for
collectively known as the Arab Spring are the
regional stability.
most pressing issue on today‘s international
agenda, which undoubtedly will have
Q. What were the reasons behind 1973 Arab oil
ramifications for the global stability.
embargo? What were its consequences? Examine
The Arab oil embargo of 1973 basically refers to On the local level, most of the authoritarian
the state ban on oil supply to countries such UK, regimes have fallen or weaken.
Japan, Netherland and US etc. It was primarily
The possibility that democratic regimes will
the reason of US intervention of the Arab-Israel
emerge exists but it is not very likely. What
war which prompted the Organization to Arab
appears to be more likely at the moment is that
Petroleum Exporting countries (OAPEC) to
Islamic anti-western regimes in some form or
proclaim the embargo.
another and military regimes integrated with
The year 1973 saw the united efforts of Arab Islamic elements will prevail.
countries to launch military campaign against The rising power of radical elements is
Israel to reclaim the land lost to Israel in 1967 challenging the overall international order.
war. The US decided to help Israel by supplying
arms and ammunitions. The Arab Oil embargo On the regional level, the possible struggle for
was the retaliation of same. regional hegemony of the ―new‖ regional power,
mainly Islam oriented, is expected to rock
The embargo had deep impacts on the economy regional stability and to lead to international
of the countries dependent upon the crude oil involvement due to negative implications for
supply from Arab countries. The oil prices were global stability.
raised to almost 10 times the existing price which
On the global level, the competition among the
had its cyclic effect on inflation in almost every
superpowers over regional influence in the
item. Though it increased the total income of
Middle East has the potential to lead to global
Arab countries which they used to provide
instability through the expansion of this
assistance to other underdeveloped countries, it
competition to new areas.
overall affected the world economy negatively.
However, if Islamic forces seize the power in the
However, the oil shock initiated energy efficiency region and violence continues the world will
projects having long term ramifications. It led the change in many ways, creating the potential for
first auto mileage standards and propelled the global instability.
solar, wind and energy efficient industries. It

movement after which the UN partitioned the

area in Israel and Palestine. Palestine under its
Q-What are the geopolitical implications
of normalization of ties between Iran and the dynamic leader Yasir Arafat formed People
West? Analyze. (200 Words) Liberation Organization (PLO) to fight Israel but
with Oslo accords, joins the election and became
Answer) the first Palestine President accepting Israeli
sovereignty.
 Sanction on Countries like India will be
removed The movement took an ugly turn when Hamas, a
 Oil imports to India and other developing
rival faction of Fatah party (associated with PLO)
nations will be back to normal.
 Oil prices which surged up, will reduce. started fighting with Israel to liberate the Arabs.
 Regional stability and peace. However, later it formed Hamas party and
 International Trade will be smoothen. defeated Fatah and created a coalition
 Due to these sanctions, India lost the government. The govt. however broken up with
Farzad B oilfield recently. Lifting of these
Gaza
sanctions will also help the countries to
negotiate on gas pipeline from Iran to captured by Hamas and West bank by Fatah.
India. In the latest development, both Hamas and Fatah
again got together and formed Unity government.
The Israel along with its western counterparts is
Q-East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) (50 opposing this deal citing rise in terrorist activities.
Words) The Palestine movement is loss to the concerned
Answer) and adds to the already tough life of people at
Gaza and west bank. With the loss of Egyptian
The Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) help, Hamas anyway did not have much option
(also known as the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), but reconciliatory approach with Fatah party.
is an Islamist extremist group based in China‘s
Xinjiang-Uygur Autonomous Region.
ETIM is an ethnic Uygur separatist organization Q. Explain India‟s position vis a vis Israel-
that aims to create an Islamist state in the Xinjiang Palestine conflict. In recent years India has
province. (―Eastern Turkistan‖), Chinese grown closer to Israel because of commercial
government calls it a violent separatist movement interests. Do you think India is right in having
and often blames it for incidents in Xinjiang. After closer relations with Israel? Comment.
the 9/11 attacks, ETIM was placed on the United
States‘ Terrorist Exclusion List, which includes
organizations conducting terrorist activities. ANSWER-
• India has been one of the earlier countries

that recognised Palestine as a ‗State‘. India along
with Palestine championed Non-Alignment
Q-Critically comment on the nature and form of Movement.
Palestinian Movement with a note on latest
• Till 1990s, India did not recognise Israel
developments.
and as earlier supported Palestine cause. But post
1990 reforms, India welcomed West for
The Palestinian movement traces its root to the
investments. India which imported defence
Israeli occupation of Palestine area under Zionist

equipment maily from Russia diversified its multilateral discourse, cumulatively, turning it
defence imports from other countries. It replaced into a crisis where it becomes hard to even
some imports with that from Israel. identify the culprit and the victim, leave alone
heal the divides.
• Israel, has now become mostly due to
national priorities, one of the major defence The crisis is escalated to greater levels recently
under the pretext of killings of youths from both
equipment supplier from India. All this led to
sides. Both sides are using force to retaliate; the
closer links between India and Israel. Yet, India is difference is of the degree not the kind.
stuanch supporter of Palestine cause.
But we have to see this recent crisis in the context
• Israel maily depends on defence of new developments in the region. Hamas,
equipment. So, major chunk of Indian defence which has been averse to political methods, came
payments along with others go in for the Isreal‘s to reconcile with PLO and a joint government
expansion in settlements. was formed under the leadership of PLO. This
may be a response from Hamas not due to
• . This complicates the solution to 2-state genuine change of heart but due to fund-
theory. Further due to support from major starvation and regional isolation of it. But that is
economic powers, despite several members quite insignificant in the view of opportunity this
new development opened for Israel and west. But
support for palestine cause, there have been no
instead of seizing the opportunity and use it for
sanctions on Israel for its aggreessive settlement
genuine peace in the region, Israel thwarted the
programme. process by isolating Gaza and starving it of basic
amenities and administration.
• However, the recent granting of non-
observer status to Palestine is welcome move Hamas does pose a threat to Israel but the kind of
towards resolution of conflict. brazen retaliation Israel has unleashed is sure to
breed more hatred. Gross violation of human
• India which championed cause of 3rd rights will further isolate Israel in the multilateral
world countries against shackles of colonalism institutions.
must take a firm stand in UN to push for
sanctions. I am disagree with the analysis that Israel is
facing existential threat and using force to thwart
• This would also need UN democratisation this threat. Israel assault on Palestine cannot be
reforms reducing weight of over-represented considered as a self-defense.
Israel-Palestine conflict has a long history of fierce
countries and increasing the representation of
bloodshed from both the sides but never Palestine
under-represented. looked as capable as of eliminating Israel from the
world map.
Israel is one of the most advanced military
Q--Do you agree with the analysis that Israel is powers in the world and organised many missile
attacks on neighboring countries.
facing existential threat and it is using
Israel has a great military and financial support
disproportionate force to thwart this threat?
from USA and Western countries.
Critically comment. In the name of existential threat, Israel killing
innocent people and occupying more land. From
Israel- Palestine protracted war has become a site 1948 on wards, Israel occupied many place like
where all kind of global and local factors feed in. West bank, Golan heights, parts of Gaza stripe
The local politics of middle east, the fractured and Jerusalem.
leadership of Palestinians, an ambiguous global Existential fight is a wrong theory developed by
response and erosion of human rights based Israel because it faced major war very long ago in

1973 and have capacity to control its Arab

neighbors.
New Jewish establishments in Palestine area and
unaccountable killings shows its expansionist Q---.Do you think Israel‟s violent actions
mindset instead of existential fight. against Palestine and the subsequent reactions
of the West are justified? Critically comment.
Analysing through the timeline history of
Israel and the present situation, it is evident Palestinians were displaced from their lands
that Israel has grown from strength decades ago. Since then the region has remained
to strength along these periods. The past embroiled in trouble. Israel which was created
exercises from the unified Arab countries with a vision of Jew state limited Palestinians to
including Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Egypt the two areas of West Bank and Gaza Strip. The
to topple Israel have been a failure, and living condition in these regions has suffered due
never been a upperhand once, crediting to Israeli invasion, Jew settlement and frequent
Israel strengths in mighty military, polity blockades. Forces were used by Israel to quell any
and evergreen diplomatic policies to garner opposition it faced from the Palestinians. Over
support at troubled times. Recent episodes the years it has received an open support from
of the region, explicitly or implicitly does Western powers, most importantly USA.
not support the views of their existence Weakness lies in absence of any constructive
threat. negotiation. Or the only one that we had, the Oslo
The existence threat can only be perceived, accord, which was never completely adhered to
when there is a grave concern for the by the Israel. While Israel justifies its concept of
Israelites in terms of pursuing their Jew state it fails to recognize the humanitarian
constitutional rights, sovereignty threats by needs of Palestinians. Returning to pre 1968
neighbours leading to political instability, borders is a must to the solution. Support of West
leading to exodus, decreased military power only goes on to embolden Israel in its unjustified
and uncertainty of their future. However, and violent actions against
here, Israel is nurturing since inception, by
adopting to external or internal insecurities
created by Palestine or Hamas or other
factions and constantly and rapidly Q--Do you agree with the view that Israel is
evolving to become dominant regional using extreme violence against Palestine in self-
power, constant support by US and Europe defence? Critically comment.
on its policies cannot be ignored here on the
world front.
70% of the people dies in recent bombings in
On the recent episodes on using
garza by Israel were civilians. 30% of them were
disproportionate force,the motive lies in
innocent children. These statistics clearly indicate
exerting cohesive force to achieve its
that it‘s much more than self defence for Israel.
regional dominance, fulfill the hidden
The issue started with the missing of 3 Israeli
agendas which had become absolete
youth. It was alleged that they have been
through its soft policies approach oriented
kidnapped by Hamas, a militant Islamic
towards Palestinian‘s ,demonstrating
Palestinian organisation. In retaliation, 3-4
military mights on the sole basis of ceasefire
Palestinian youth were brutally killed. This ‗tit for
violations to deter the opposition to realise
tat‘ policy fruited the Hamas and they launched a
their strengths and preparing for future to
missile on Israel. The missile was launched in
culminate such causes. It is also argued that
such a way as to have minimum casualties and it
Israel is open to end this menace by having
did happen that way. This gave Israel to use this
talks on ceasefire with PLO brokered by
opportunity to launch a massive retaliatory attack
Egypt, Israel approachs can be viewed as a
in gaza.
combination of both soft and the rigid
measures which has kept world guessing.

There are several questions and issues which However changing relations between US and Iran
arise here: are posing speculations regarding changes in
1) Everyday several Palestinian youth are relations in future.
kidnapped, arrested, killed, torchered and it is
assumed normal but the kind of atmosphere that
was created with the abduction of just 3 Israeli
youth shows the egoistic and dominating nature Q- Critically examine why peace talks have
if Israel. Shouldn‘t the Palestinians react the same failed between Israel and Palestine over the
way if their youth are abducted?
years. What efforts were made by the
2) If the attacks were for self defence then
shouldn‘t the target be militant groups rather international community to establish peace
than civilians. Isn‘t Israels top notch intelligence between them? Explain.
service unable to differentiate between civilian
and military hideouts?
3) from Israelis point of view. The massive public The Israel-Palestine issue was the oldest long-
support for the militant groups is the reason for standing issue of the modern world. The concept
their sustenance and attacks on Israel. So by of ―The Promised Land‖ in The Bible made Jews
launching an aggressive they are trying to isolate to occupy Palestine and make settlements. Two
the militants. wars were fought since then-1948 and 1967, both
Yes, there is need for Israel to create a deterrent in which Palestine lost its territories.
by attacking but is self defence worth the cost of The concerns now were:
hundreds of innocent Palestinians? -Israel‘s concern to be recognised as a Jewish
Instead of isolating the militants it may infact state. Palestine opposed this because the Jews are
increase sympathy for them. Thus there is a need in minority compared to Muslims to be called a
to rethink Israels moves Jewish state. Moreoever a state formed on
religious basis would bring ethnic tensions
Q-Why does Israel and Iran have a strained around it especially when Israel is the only
relations between them? Examine. (150 Words) nuclear state in the region.
-Status of Jerusalem
Answer)
-West Bank and Gaza strip: They were annexed
by Israel during the wars which were very fertile.
After defeat of Iran Iraq war the power Israel is building permanent structures there
distribution took between Israel and Iran leaving pushing away Palestinians to less fertile areas. So,
them rivals struggling for power in Middle East. it is not likely to give back these areas.
Major disputes include Iran serving funds to -Protection of Israeli population from the Hamas,
Hamas, jihads, and Hezbollah‘s to attack Israel, treated as terrorists world wide.
Iran nuclear programme working mainly towards
anti-Israel, and also anti-Zionist ideology.  Though US seems to be sympathetic
towards Palestinian cause, it backs Israel
Several times earlier Israel warned west to take due to its Jewish population (in the US).
action against Iran nuclear proliferation. India also stressed to recongise Palestine
Deliberately it worked to curb Iran‘s uranium as a sovereign state
enrichment. The recent deal which happened
between west and Iran is not conducive to Israel. The world is expecting a win-win solution to
It opposed the deal saying it‘s a historical both countries this year as Palestine has the
mistake. It struggled to stop materializing the natural right of statehood as was Israel important
report after pressuring France. Israel and its allies to world economy and technology.
offered many trade benefits to France as carrot.
Much jewie community is residing in France. The Israel-Palestinian conflict has been one of the
Straining Israel Iran relations are troubling each oldest regional conflicts since world war II.The
other and their stability. peace process which has taken shape over the
years has been marked with ongoing violence
which has hampered the efforts to bring a long approaching the UN for joining organizations
lasting peace to the region. and treaties have exacerbated the conflict.
The numerous issues which need to be resolved
to achieve a lasting peace include borders and International efforts aimed at giving adequate
division of land, strong emotions relating to importance to the concerns of both the sides
conflict on both sides, Palestinian concerns over would aid in resolution of the conflict.
Israeli settlements in the West Bank, Status of
Jerusalem, Israeli safety concerns over safe
borders, violence and terrorism Q) “The recent hostilities between Israel and
Palestine are not rooted in only the immediate
tensions between them; they are a product of
recent changes that have taken place in the
The international community has made efforts
since the very beginning of the conflict to reach region.” Examine.
an amicable settlement among both the sides. The
UN Security Council resolution of 1967 was the The reasons for the recent tensions between Israel
first such effort and called for withdrawal of and Palestine can be attributed to the following
Israeli troops from Palestinian occupied territory factors:
post Israel-Palestine war of 1967. Thereafter 1. Truce between Hamas and Fatah: Israel is not
numerous accords and conferences were held comfortable of the association between Hamas
between the two sides to mediate peace like and Fatah. Due to the militant record of Hamas
Camp David Accord of 1978, The Madrid and its anti Israel activities, Israel does not trust it
Conference of 1991, Arab Peace Agreement of and sees this event as a problem for Israel's
2002, Road Map 2003 , Washington 2010 to chalk security.
out differences between the two sides but have 2. Iran-US peace: The successful talks between
failed due to lack of will and failure of both Iran and P5+1 has also added to the insecurity of
parties for mutual compromise. Israel, as Iran is one of the prominent economic
supporter of Hamas. Thus the apprehension that
the US may not in future remain uncritical
66 years have past since Israel was born. After a supporter of Israel's cause is also a source of
long wars with Arab Countries and Palestine concern for Israel.
since the day of its birth, it has concluded peace 3. Acceptance of the Palestine as an observer state
treaties with most of its neighbours. For peace to by the UN: The move by UN to give the status of
prevail, there must be continued efforts in observer state to Palestine has opened the
direction of a negotiated settlement to the dispute platform for Palestine to take the Israel in
with Palestine failing which peace could remain international court, and this has increased
averse to the region. apprehension of Israel.
All these factors have given impetus to already
However, the success of Hamas faction distanced existing tension between the two countries and
Israel from the peace process as the faction had are some what responsible for the present
committed atrocities on the Israeli civilian situation in the Gaza strip. Though the
population .The failure to grant right to return to apprehensions of Israel are not unwarranted but
the Palestinian refugees and the atrocities on the it should understand that its paranoid behavior
Palestinians by the Israeli forces has led to the will eventually do more harm than good to its
hardening of Palestine`s stand. security concerns. Instead of distrusting each
The middle east quartet comprising of US, UN , other, Israel and Palestine should give each
Russia and EU has been official negotiation other a chance for peaceful settlement. The
channel in the peace process. US has actively friendship between Hamas and Fatah can be
aimed at resolution of the conflict. It has asked used to bring the extremist also on the
Israel to give up certain territories for the peace . negotiation table, and Israel should view it as an
The recent instance of the failure to release the opportunity rather a threat.
Palestinian prisoners by Israel and the Palestine
• Until both parties come to table for

Q. Critically evaluate the efforts taken by the negotiations at a neutral venue like the United
international community and Israel – Palestine Nations without any preconditions the
themselves to resolve their differences since victimization and cyclical violence will continue.
2000.
Q-Analyze the efforts being made so far to

ANSWER- broker a peace deal between Israel and
Palestine. (200 Words)
• Israel supported by the United States has
The Palestine Israel negotiations have centered
continued to defy U.N. Resolutions and peace
around the issues of border, Jewish identity,
talks arranged by nations like United States ,
refugees right of return, illegal israeli settlements
• Egypt has been derailed by the continuing .They have often been informed by a debate about
violence in the region. the respective political and strategic viabilities of
the two state and one state solutions.
• The two conflicting nations came close to
a deal in Camp David in 2000 based on Oslo There are 3 main parties to the conflict-the
accords , however the contentious issues of palestinians, israelis and the arabs with the west
Jerusalem , occupation and building of led by US trying to be the main arbiter.the rogers
settlements and Israel‘s insistence on referendum peace plan, the madrid talks, oslo accord, camp
to close any deal proved to be deal breakers. david talks etc hv been major steps in this
direction.
• U.S. too busy with its war against Al-
The intractable and emotional nature of issues
Qaeda post 9/11 including its affiliates Hamas
involved has often seen one side or the
and Hezbollah recently took to shuttle diplomacy
otherjumping the gun on patient negotiations and
to resolve the issue.. In this case staunch stand of
retaliatory violence by the opposite camp.The
Israel to not release prisoners and continuing
hamas fatah rivalry, involvement of external
violence by Hamas and Islamic Jihad(supported
powers like hizbollah, continuing presence of
by Iran) led to the unravelling of peace process.
illegal israeli settlements nd roadblocks are the
• E.U. and other nations in recent times major source of hindrances to the success of
have blocked loans for construction of houses in peacetalks.
the contentious land but have continued trade
with Israel . The 2002 roadmap for peace emphasised on a need
to evolve a rapport between contending parties
• The United Nations despite giving more contentious issues can be discussed.The shelf
repeated warnings to Israel was not able to agreement arrived at by condoleeza rice and livni
sanction action against them due to U.S. too stressed the need to disengage linkage
protection and no recourse for Uniting for Peace between negotiations nd action on ground.The
was adopted. The U.N was applauded for persistent direct talks since 2010, culminating in
granting observer status to Palestine thereby 2013 John Kerry initiave has aimed at achieving
opening avenue for legal enquiry into Israel‘s some convergence on core issues leading to an
human rights violation. However their independent Palestinian state.
suspension of food aid to gaza on the other hand
show their apathy to the situation. Background story

Originally Palestine was under the control of ―The Arab Christians are one of the main victims
Ottoman empire and captured by British after of the volatile and unstable political situation in
WWI.In interwar years Antisemitism was West Asia.‖ Discuss the history, contribution to
increasing in Germany and Russia which led the the region and the problems being faced by the
Zionism movement by Jews with aim to create a Arab Christians in the West Asian region.
state for them within Palestine and opposed by
native Arabs. Arab is the place where Christianity and Jesus
After WWII British referred the matter to UN Christ born, it is the home of the world most
ancient Christian denominations like Maronite
Assembly to resolve the conflict . UN assembly
Church, Greek Orthodox, Chaldean, Nastorian,
passed resolution in 1948 according to which
Syrian Orthodox etc. Mosul in Iraq is also the
Palestine was to be divided into two states Israel birth place of Biblical prophet Johan.
and Palestine(Gaza Strip,West bank).This The population was safe and prospering
resolution was opposed by Arabs and led the Riots peacefully under the previous Saddam regime
and civil wars between two.Arabs were supported and Syrian Regime. It had great literary, culture,
by Arab nations such as egypt,Iraq,Syria,jordan. tradition, spiritual and historic heritage.
However, the recent turbulent geo political
During First Israel Arab war Egypt had control
condition in Middle East have jeopardized the
Gaza Strip and led to movement of Arabs from mere existence of this community.
other regions of Palestine toward Gaza strip to The ISIS have passed the order for them to either
save themselves from Riots but in 1967 Israel covert, pay the Jiziya (Religious tax) or perish.
recaptured the Gaza strip. They have no option but leave their home and
After that Egypt did not allow Arabs to enter into great culture and move as out to Kurdistan for
their country and other Arab nations as it did not safety. This has led to ISIS destroying the
cultural heritage in the region.
consider Gaza Strip as part of their territory.
Their situation in Syria and Israel are equally
On the other side Israel did not allow them to go vulnerable and facing threat and assault from
back their native home as result Arab refugees both sides.
were struck at that place and since then live in Many of the Christian family is now moving to
poverty and depend upon UN aid to fulfill their Europe leaving behind everything they had.
Food requirements South Asia
.To resolve this problem of Human right violation Q---Critically examine the changing role of
and right to live with dignity. Many efforts has military in Pakistan‟s domestic and foreign
been made for Peace agreement between two affairs in recent years.
nations Madrid Peace Conference was held in 1991
Until around sometime in 2007, military in
failed to achieve any breakthrough.
Pakistan was the strongest institution. For six
Oslo Talks in 1993 led to setting up Palestinian decades after Independence, Pakistan‘s military,
authority but failed to resolve the issues like specifically its Army, has reigned supreme over
return of Palestinian refugees, status of Jerusalem the political economy of Pakistan.
etc. Camp David Summit also failed to reach a However, since 2007, military‘s hegemony has
solution. been challenged by the Judiciary, Parliament and
to some degree, until recently, the media.
Again US Push the Peace agreement to solve the
Signs of breaking of military hegemony
Palestinian problem.
• symbolic indictment of General Pervez
If agreement failed again then Palestinian s are Musharraf himself.
poised to seek recognition in in ICC and UN • The military in Pakistan is also responsible for
bodies. its fall from grace, after having had to explain the
presence of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan,

America‘s night raid to kill him and numerous causing jihad groups and also lending economic
insider attempts to attack Pakistan‘s military and cultural assistance to government and
personnel. making it an ally. Second perspective, completely
• There is also a sense that the narrative in negates the first perspective, by assisting Taliban
Pakistan may have shifted towards democracy, and similar jihadi groups to serve the hidden
away from military rule — at least for the Pakistan interests and hence forth controlling the
moment. region and creating hostile situation for the
Despite Pakistan military‘s denuded power, it neighbours. Contrasting perspectives have made
still remains an influence in public policy and has it difficult at the world stage to get clarity on this
the ability to conduct another coup. While doctrine.
military-led governments in Pakistan have, The recent episodes of increased violence across
ironically, benefitted India-Pakistan relations, the Durand line and in the Wazirstan region has
they have been disastrous for Pakistan back fired the Pakistan policy and makes it
One needs to be reminded that such transitions, relevant by basis of strategic doctrine concept. To
where civilian institutions begin to dominate and serve its purpose of either empowering or
when the military recedes, can take years. In destabilizing Afghanistan, it has to eliminate the
countries where the military has ruled for so long anti Pakistan jihad groups, so is the accelerated
it takes around a decade in losing its supreme military operations been carried out across
power. In the case of Indonesia, for example, it Balochistan recently. The challenge with the
took almost a decade before the military lost even military is to pursue the balancing acts with the
its power to veto key civilian decisions. pro Pakistan and anti Pakistan jihadi groups and
Conclusion related governmental intricacies. Eliminating
Pakistan‘s civil and political dispensation need to jihad groups is faced with serious obstacles and
speed up democratic transition by being more the lack of international support to reach
assertive, efficient in delivering services and consensus in its military motive has been
justice, and be a little less afraid. questioned.
Q-What are the main threats to democratic

Q--Critically evaluate Pakistan military‟s processes in Maldives? Analyze in the light of
„strategic depth‟ doctrine. Do you think it‟s last two year‟s developments in the island
relevant in the light of recent developments in nation. (200 Words)
the region? Examine. Maldives is a small island nation in the Indian
Ocean. After three decades of dictatorship, real
The strategic depth doctrine, a concept emerged democracy was instituted to the islands in 2008.
in early 1980s in Pakistan, Mirza aslam beg , On assuming office in 2008, Nasheed had closed
being the architect pursued to utilize Afghan
the book on the past and decided not to prosecute
territories at times of attack from neighbors such
as India and Russia. In recent decades, concept key-figures from the old regime, including the
has evolved significantly in multiple dimensions dreaded dictator, Maumoon Gayoom.
and defeats the core objectives of it. In the midst
of these developments, various jihadi groups of It was a decision that would come back to haunt
the Balochistan, creating instability, devoiding Nasheed. On February 7, 2012, forces loyal to the
Pakistan of pursuing its ill set of ideologies old dictatorship staged a mutiny and forced
through this doctrine. Nasheed to resign and hand power to a
This doctrine has emerged in to two set of Mohammed Waheed, a puppet of the former
perspectives, first, the original concept of using
regime. With the forced resignation of Nasheed,
Afghan territories is defeated and replaced by ,
influencing ,Afghan territories by its military and the historic march to democracy in the Maldives
non military interventions to enhance peace and had taken a drastic U-turn.
security. This is achieved by fighting the trouble

In the ensuing battle to regain democracy, the decrease in foreign investment has also helped.
Maldivian judiciary has turned out to be a The realization or relatice opportunism by Pak
particular big obstacle. According to a recent UN- army that it can serve its interests better from
report, incompetence and corruption is backstage has given a boost to the elected
widespread within the judiciary and it was government.
therefore hardly a shock that the Supreme Court
• The increase in violence can be related to the
decided to annul the result of the first round of
rampant underdevelopment with high inflation,
the presidential elections on the basis of a far-
shortages of food, effect of natural calamities like
fetched complaint of election fraud by a losing
flood and earthquakes, which have temporarily
candidate By overruling the positive assessment
boosted recruitment by sectarian and terrorist
of the election by international election observers
groups. American aid is decreasing and American
and the independent Election Commission, the
interference in internal affairs as well as the
judges robbed the Maldivian people of their long
Abbottabad raid violating Pak‘s sovereignty has
awaited right to determine their own future and
increased resentment among people.
perpetrated their own de facto coup.
Afghanistan‘s independence has led to an
Frustration over politics has already brought increase in cross border influences. A faction-
protesters onto the streets, along with strikes and ridden society witnessed further polarization due
some violence. A longstanding anxiety is Islamist to the ongoing electoral process with religious
extremism. The country, by law, is Muslim, and
elements openly preaching.
one longtime observer sees growing conservatism
among believers, especially those who have lived • Such developments negatively affect
in the Gulf or Pakistan. Instability could
democracy. They threaten voters and prevent
encourage more, though it is unclear what form it
might take them from voting, political assassinations are
carried out, government is unable to enforce its
Q-On one hand Pakistan appears to be orders and development funds are diverted to the
stabilizing because of stable transition of power charitable front of such organisations. Inability of
in political and military circles, but on the other democratic government to carry out its mandate
hand there is an increase in sectarian and further strengthens these negative developments
terrorist violence undermining the democratic and weakens it ability.
processes.” Reflect on the causes for this
growing contradiction in Pakistani society. • Democratic government must tackle this
• Pakistan nation recently witnessed a milestone menace by bringing army in its confidence as a
when the first democratically elected government stable and prospering Pak is vital for the
completed full term and transferred power to development of its neighbourhood as well as the
another government by way of elections. This world.
maturing od democracy has however been
witnessed with the concomitant increase of Question - “It is in Pakistan‟s best interests to
sectarian and terrorist violence across Pakistan. help stabilize the situation in Afghanistan.”
Elaborate. (200 Words)
• Political maturation can be attributed to the
increasing demand for peace and stability from
Answer - The drawdown of security forces in
its citizens, which helped in ousting Musharraf.
Afghanistan will be at its denouement in 2014
Pressure from international civil society like UN,
GCC and nations like USA, China, EU as well as and the onus will be on Pakistan-a prominent US
ally-to maintain peace and stability in the region.

However considering the concept of ―strategic • His orders were ignored and anti-democratic
depth‖ elucidated in Pakistan‘s Defence doctrine forces teamed up with religious conservatives to
that sees Afghanistan as a playground for organise mass protests against him. Last year he
Pakistan‘s fight for Kashmir, the international resigned under controversial conditions and the
vice-president Mohammad Waheed took over.
community particularly India is wary of Pak‘s
Nasheed claimed it was a coup détat while others
machinations in Afghanistan post 2014.
claimed against this.
But security and stability in Afghanistan should
be the priority of Pakistan. It is evident that • Fresh elections were organised and Nasheed
Pakistan has been most vulnerable to terrorism. just fell short of majority, leading the election to
their second stage, a run-off. But supreme Court
Most of these terrorist groups active in Pakistan
annulled these elections and it is not clear when
have safe havens in the Af-Pak border. A stable
fresh election will be held.
and legitimate government in Afghanistan with
necessary clout and power can coordinate with • The above political drama has occurred because
Pakistan to obliterate the terrorist menace. of the transition of the country from dictatorship
to democracy. The status-quoist forces are
A stable Afghanistan augurs well for Pakistani
seeking a return of Gayoom to further their
economy which is presently in coma. Afghanistan
interests. Tourism, the major industry, is used to
with its proven trove of natural resources can be a
state subsidies and is uncomfortable with
vital source of raw materials for Pakistani
democracy.Bureaucracy is as usual seeking its self
industry. A peaceful Afghanistan can act as a
interest and Army has joined in to keep existing
conduit for energy (oil and gas) from Central
perks and privileges.
Asian countries, providing relief to Pakistan from
its festering energy crisis. Also a developed and • The victim has been the common man which
peaceful Afghanistan society can be a lively has twice voted for democracy. The struggle
market for Pakistani exports. between bourgeoise and proletariat in manifested
vividly in this scenario. With political
So a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is the
uncertainity, development process has virtually
keystone for a prosperous Pakistan. It will be stopped. Tourism industry is witnessing
foolish on Pakistan‘s part to cling to ―strategic downfall. Foreign investment in infrastructure
depth‖ and forego this opportunity for peace and sector is dwindling.
development.
• Democracy has become a victim here and there
Q-Maldives is experiencing a series of political
is a chance of return of authoritarian rule. This
uncertainties in its quest for strong democracy.”
will be a negative development and against
Comment.(200 Words)
• Maldievs, a British protectorate till 1965, came global trends. It is imperative that the election
under authoritarian rule of Maumoon Gayoom. process is to be followed in its entirety and
The transition to democracy was made only in judiciary should restrain itself from unnecessary
2008 when Mohammad Naseed won elections. activism.
However with Gayoom-era appointees present in
bureaycracy, judiciary, police, military and even
among businessmen, Nasheed faced an uphill
task.

Q-For meaningful devolution of powers and merely provides a framework for reconciliation.
more autonomy to Tamil regions in North and The actual modalities has to be operationalized
East Sri Lanka, the solution lies in the by political will.
constitutional reform and political will from the
Sri Lankan government and not in the 13th Q-“13th Amendment is like a vessel with a hole
amendment alone.” Comment. (200 Words) and seems good for nothing,” Comment. (150
Words)
The 13th amendment refers to the amendment of
• Sri Lanka two largest ethnic group are Sinhalese the Srilankan Constituion.
and Tamils. Tamils are mainly concentrated in
north and east and have been given second grade Sri Lankan population consists of Sinhalese as
treatment by the majority Sinhalese group which majority(residing in Southern part) and Tamilians
dominates most of the country‘s politico- as minority(residing in the Northern part).
economic as well as military institutions.
It is being seen that Northern part of the Srilank
• After defeating LTTE in 2011, there has been i.e Tamil dominated does not enjoy autonomy. So
demand for granting more autonomy by the amendment deals with
Tamil groups. 13th amendment was passed as per
1.Creation of the Northern provincial
Indo-Sri Lanka accord to devolve powers to
Council(NPC).
Tamil provinces. It was subliminally understood
to be devolution of land and law and order 2.Devolution of land and police rights to the
related provisions. Northern part of the Srilanka.
• But successive governments have failed to Though the first point is achieved but still it
adhere to 13 amendment. Supreme Court has suffers from several lacunae.
nullified the previous understanding stating that
the amendment was never related to devolution The northern part of the area is highly
of powers. Semantics of law aside, the grievances militarized. Though NPC is created but
of tamilians needs to be addressed properly. constitutionally is headed by governor who is a
There regions are underdeveloped with severe military major.Also it has been seen that most of
food shortages, widespread epidemics and they the northern people land is aquired by
have no role in formulating policies at Colombo. military.Thus Tamilians does bot enjoy land
rights.
• Till the political brethren of both Sinhalese and
Tamil activities work together, peace will not be Also the NPC is guarded by the Police who
achieved by this region. 13 amendment does not reports to the centre or military. This clearly
provide in toto solution. It has to be put in indicates that Srilankan government is fully
perspective by way of either a constitutional capable to take this area back into its
amendment or meaningful interpretation by the administration at any time.Also Srilankan
executive converted into policy. The political government can make the NPC to act the way in
strife is adversely affecting the capacity of both which it wants through the institution of
the communities to march on the development governor. The stand of Srilankan government is
path. that it did try to give the police powers to
northern part in 1990s but that time by having
• The reform process has to be undertaken by police powers Northern area declared
involving stakeholders as the 13 amendment

independence. This bitter experience prohibits it like Jamat-i-Islami and one faction of the Jamiat
from giving the complete autonomy. Ulema-e-Islam are supporter for sharia law and
are trying to bring that through violence.Where
Thus Srilanka without diluting its sovereignty as Pakistan government is appeasing TTP with a
must also ensure the genuine demand of the hope that it will help them in longer run by
Northern people.Thus closing the hole of the having access and influence in Afghanistan
through their Taliban.
vessel.
This will not only be dangerous for Afghanistan
but also may back fire on Pakistan as both
Taliban and its offshoot are too adamant to give
Q-Critically comment on Sri Lanka‟s policy up violence and gender equality .Although they
are cultural,social and religious ideology needs
towards its minority communities.
to be respected but it has to be though
Democratic means,by people‘s driven
Sri Lankan government‘s stance has not been
Government with adequate protection for
very appreciable in context to violence against
women.
minority communities. Recent attacks on Muslims
Pakistan need to understand that any
in southern Sri Lankan coast by extremist
compromise with TTP and Taliban are to be
Buddhist group.
clearly laid out and legitimized by the people of
Ethnic division
both sides of Durand line.Till this is done India
Few steps taken can be listed as:
has to be proactive in terms of playing bigger
• Infrastructural development- Rods, Electricity,
role in Afghan politics ,economic investment
Communication etc
and as proponent of human rights but should
• Taking help of India to build the houses and
avoid complacency and keep north western
other amenities.
borders heavily guarded.
• Politically giving minorities representation in
the legislature
Q- “South Asian unity is essential if we are to
• Amendment 13 of the constitution is being
deliver an improved quality of life to hundreds
acted on the ground giving much freedom to the
Sinhalese minority in north eastern region. of millions, through growth made possible by
economic efficiencies and commerce.”
Q- “The recent talks between Pakistan and the Comment. (200 Words)
Taliban is driven by Pakistan‟s desire for Answer - In this inter-connected world, where
influence in Afghanistan, plus the delusion that countries in different parts of the globe form
it can somehow control the Taliban and other regional fora for mutual cooperation and
militants on both sides of the Durand Line.” development, the South Asian region risks being
Comment. (200 Words) left behind, unable to realize its potentials
Answer - The recent talks between Pakistan and without much cooperation.
the Taliban is driven by Pakistan‘s desire for
influence in Afghanistan, plus the delusion that Not only history, culture and geography, but also
it can somehow control the Taliban and other poor quality of life binds us all together. Along
militants on both sides of the Durand Line.‖ with Africa, the South Asian region is one of the
most backward regions of the world, with
post 2014 when US forces are withdrawing from
rampant poverty, illiteracy and poor health
Afghanistan,the security equation of the region
will be changing.Stake holders like conditions making life miserable for millions.
Islamabad,TTP (theerek-e-taliban pakistan) and That should be reason enough to start regional
Kabul,Taliban has failed to find common cooperation with a renewed emphasis. However,
grounds till date making it potential Flash point. low level of mutual trust, spillover effects of the
Pakistan is currently struggling with growing ethnic and religious conflicts and the magnitude
fundamentalism,with TTP and its informal allies
of bilateral disputes in South Asia makes it strategic agenda in the region. The Karakoram
unrealistic to believe that any substantial growth Highway passing through the region is of critical
of regional cooperation is possible without easing significance as it gives China greater access to the
political tensions. Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
Given that political disputes take time to be The huge amount of PLA deployment across the
resolved, it is mutual economic interdependence Indo-Pak LoC, issuing stapled visas to Indian
laid on the bedrock of historical and cultural passport holders in J&K rather than stamped ones
continuity that can build trust. The India-Sri is like putting diplomatic and military pressure
Lanka Free Trade Agreement and open borders on India and contributing to further degradation
with Nepal can be a lesson towards the need for of Indo-Pak relations.
more cooperation. At the same time, more
By increasing development projects and military
cooperation is necessary among regions having
involvement in the PoK and mainland Pakistan
more commonality such as subunits of India and
region China seems to be pursuing an aggressive
adjacent countries, such as between the two engagement strategy in the region. However, the
Punjabs and between Bangladesh and West hidden motive may be to achieve political,
Bengal/North East, which can be in the field of territorial and economic supremacy of the East
culture, cinema, sports, etc. in addition to Asian region
economic interdependence.
Commercial meshing in the whole region Q-Do you think Taliban has become existential
bringing together stakeholders from different threat to Pakistan? Comment on the evolution of
countries is the need of the hour who will act as
Taliban movement and its threat to world
buffer in times of geopolitical turbulence, giving
peace. (200 Words)
backbone to the politicians who need to fight
populism and make the tough decisions Answer)
Taliban – A fundamentalist Muslim group
Q-How would the proposed economic corridor controlled much of Afghanistan from 1995 until
between China and Pakistan impact the region? U.S. military intervention in 2001.
Examine. (200 Words) It imposed strict adherence to Islamic customs in
Answer - China and Pakistan jointly envisage to areas it controlled and they were accused of
build a economic corridor connecting Pakistan‘s various human rights and cultural abuses, in 2001
Gwadar Port to China‘s Xingjiang region. Road it destroyed the famous Bamiyan Buddha statues
links, railway lines, energy pipelines etc are in central Afghanistan.
planned to built in the region. Taliban has become existential threat to Pakistan
as a major Pakistani group, Tehrik-e-Taliban
China‘s increasing presence especially in the PoK Pakistan, TTP primarily challenges the
region is raising alarms for India. It has already government of Pakistan supporting Taliban-
implemented its ‗Strings of Pearl‘ policy to controlled areas on the Afghan side of the border.
encircle India by building ports at various places All of the insurgent groups in Afghanistan
in the Indian Ocean region. Through this move, it benefit, from narcotics trafficking. In recent years
aims to gain both military and politico-diplomatic Pakistan has been tough with Taliban militants
control over the region. carrying out attacks on its soil.
At least three key leaders of the Pakistani Taliban
As a part of the project the development activities have been killed in US drone strikes like Mullah
taken up by the Chinese PLA members in the PoK Nazir, Waliur Rehman and Hakimullah Mehsud
region point towards a expansionist Chinese geo- in 2013.
There is evidence that their influence in Karachi 5.―Afghan-led, Afghan owned peace process‖ is a
has significantly increased. Most internationally sham. Pakistan wants a Taliban govt. in Afghanistan,
criticized Taliban attacks took place in October for a ‗strategic back-yard‘. China wants to exploit the
2012, when schoolgirl Malala Yousafzai was
mineral reserves. India wants democracy in Kabul,
attacked on her way home in the town of
because it wants to counter Pakistan, and wants a
Mingora.
share of resources. USA wants a stable democracy in
In recent years the Taliban have also increasingly
Kabul. All expect Pakistan is flexing their financial
relied on roadside bombs as a means of fighting
NATO and Afghan forces. muscle and influencing the process. To complicate
things, the inter-relations between these powers is not
Terrorism continues to pose a grave threat to
only complex, but confusing and transient.
international peace and security. Only through
continued co-operation and recognition of the
need to strengthen collaborative efforts will states
be able to effectively counter terrorism.
Q-Critically examine the challenges that Q-What possible role can China, India and
Afghanistan faces in its efforts towards Russia together play in Afghanistan once US
achieving domestic stability. withdraws most of its troops? Comment. (200
Words)
The said challenges are:
The War in Afghanistan (2001–present) refers to
1. Taliban is gathering strength. Their brand of Islam the intervention by NATO and allied forces in the
can‘t accommodate democracy, and today‘s ongoing Afghan civil war, following the terrorist
Afghanistan is a democracy. They want to destabilize attacks of September 11, 2001, to dismantle the al-
the govt. Qaeda terrorist organization and to remove from
power the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (Taliban
2. Given the volatile internal security situation, the government, which at the time controlled 90% of
central authority has to visibly assert power, so that Afghanistan).
the people perceive that power. For that, a strong Once the NATO led forces will withdraw from the
military is needed INSIDE own territory, which country, the regional stability alongwith the
Afghanistan does not have. stability of the Afghanistan itself might be
affected. So, it is important for the countries,
3. Afghanistan hasn‘t had a credible and long- especially, India, China, and Russia to work hard
standing experience of democracy, which they can to bring peace, regional harmony and a kind of
build on. Afghan politicians bring their tribal ethos to stability in the war torn country. India is
democratic institutions; that doesn‘t work that way. committed to building economic and political links
with Afghanistan both to prevent the re-
4. What the world sees as one country is actually a establishment of terrorist sanctuaries in the
collection of de facto Tribal Republics. The infighting country and to gain trade and energy access to
between the tribes is the major headache for Kabul. Central Asia. India has pledged nearly $2 billion in
The crux of Afghanistan issue lies here: arming aid to Afghanistan, making it one of the top
illiterate, uncivilized, semi-nomadic tribes with AK donors to the country, and is moving forward with
47s. major economic investments. President Karzai and
Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
completed a Strategic Partnership Agreement in

2011 that allowed, among other things, Indian America has failed to root out the Taliban.
training of Afghan security forces. Also, Since, Sharing a 2500 km porous border with Pakistan,
because of Indo-Afghan border linkage, threat also the threat is both external and internal.
emanates from Pakistan which can cause Talibani
2. Ruling various ethnic group: various areas of
extremists to instigate terrorism in areas in Jammu
Afghanistan are divided on ethnic lines like :
and Kashmir. China and Russia, the major
Tajik, pashtuns, Uzbeks etc. Post-2014 withdrawal
competitors of India shall strive towards building
of U.S, Afghan government will have an uphill
a peaceful Afghanistan so that they can carry
task to assimilate the aspirations of all the ethnic
profitable trade with the country as also the
country‘s democracy shall be strengthened. groups into national discourse.
In this direction, the three countries recently hold 3. Women empowerment: The condition of
trilateral consultations reiterated their support for women has improved since the ouster of Taliban.
strong, united and prosperous Afghanistan. However, women do not enjoy the equal status.
Earlier also, at Moscow, the three countries held Afghan government has to work towards
similar consultations China too said that it was inclusion of women in mainstream.
ready to work together with all relevant parties to
take part in the peaceful reconstruction and The democratic institutions and internal security
reconciliation in Afghanistan, so as to jointly of the country would be affected both by the
maintain peace and stability. countries in the region and the internal factions.
China is not opposed to Afghanistan under

Shariah law and has been conducting talks with
Taliban. China is interested in the mineral
resource rather than preserving the democracy in
Afghanistan.Taliban would make efforts to gain
the position that it held before the advent of the
US forces. It may also get supported by the
Pakistan who may want to weaken the
democratic institutions in the country and control
it using the Taliban forces.Pakistan may not want
Q. What are the main challenges that a stronger Afghanistan as it may lead to
Afghanistan would face in coming days in its resurfacing of the demands of Pakhtoonistan .
quest to become democracy and a stable Despite the presence of the US forces and the
country? Analyze. military training by India, the ANSF may not be
capable enough to counter the threats arising
from Taliban.
Answer-
Therefore there are significant threats to
Afghanistan concluded its presidential election in democracy in Afghanistan. India , which has
fair and secured manner. However, other than made significant contributions to the
passing test of election; there are certain other development of the country, will not want
constraints which Afghanistan has to face to resurfacing of extremism. The resurgence of
become a democracy and stable country: Taliban and undermining of the democracy may
strengthen the Pakistan in creating security
1.The largest threat to Afghanistan is that of threats for India. The countries in the region need
security. A decade long military campaign by

to cooperate and ensure the preservation of Q-“Once USA pulls out of Afghanistan, the new
democracy in Afghanistan. great game in Afghanistan is going to be
between India and Pakistan.” Do you agree with
this view? Explain why. (200 Words)
Answer)
Q-“Afghanistan faces war on many fronts, and
Once USA pulls out of Afghanistan, the new
the deadliest might be on the narcotics front.”
great game in Afghanistan is going to be between
India and Pakistan who are armed with nuclear
Answer) weapons.
Afghanistan is troubled by the adversities such as Pakistan has suffered immensely due to two
long-running war and rampant corruption along Afghan wars as it provided refuge to Afghans
with highest number of drug users. during the first war in the 1980s.
Afghanistan has become one of the world‘s most The two countries are linked by ethnicity, culture
addicted societies suffering with problems and religion; over 55,000 Afghans cross daily into
including damage of liver and lungs and lethal Pakistan through the two crossing points
illnesses such as AIDS and cancer besised having Torkham and Chaman, hundreds cross over the
other long-term public health impacts. Durand Line as well. More than one lakh
Drug abuse inflicts irretrievable social harms such Pakistanis stay in Afghanistan.
as lack of etiquette, criminality, violence, A stable Afghanistan augurs well for Pakistani
kidnapping and killing; even disease can spread economy which is presently in coma. Afghanistan
out to other family members, including new born with its proven trove of natural resources can be a
babies. vital source of raw materials for Pakistani
industry. A peaceful Afghanistan can act as a
According to a recent report from the Bureau of conduit for energy (oil and gas) from Central
International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Asian countries, providing relief to Pakistan from
Affairs it was found that nationwide, one in 10 its festering energy crisis. Also a developed and
urban households has at least one drug user. peaceful Afghanistan society can be a lively
Government funding for treatment and outreach market for Pakistani exports.
is less than $4 million a year.
There are less than 28,000 formal treatment slots India‘s search for influence in Afghanistan makes
available nationwide and these programs rely Pakistan insecure, forcing Islamabad to support
heavily on roughly $12 million a year in extra and seek to install proxy actors in Kabul to
international funding for treatment. safeguard its interests which is one of the biggest
obstacle to stability in that country.
However the focus of the international
community and the Afghan government has Its developmental assistance to Kabul now tops
instead been on reducing opium production. $2 billion and it has undertaken infrastructure
projects in Afghanistan as it could become India‘s
The threat from drugs is as deadly as terrorism,
economic gateway to Central Asia.
chemical weapons or nuclear menaces
devastating the human body and brain control Since 2005, Islamabad has alleged that Indian
system ultimately jeopardizing the entire culture, consulates in Afghanistan, especially in Jalalabad
economy and social life and Kandahar, which are close to the Pakistan-
Afghan border, are a cover for anti-Pakistan
activities.
It alleges that Afghanistan is where India arms
and funds Baloch secessionists. Pakistan has
emerged as a key player in facilitating talks with
the Taliban and it does not mind speaking to

every other country with an interest in required capability to fight against non-
Afghanistan, including Russia and China, it has
state factors. Also, this will help in
cold-shouldered India.
maintaining the regional stability by
The ideal method would be to go for trilateral diminishing the role of external factors in
talks involving Kabul, Islamabad and New Delhi.
influencing the internal matters of
Before dealing with Afghanistan, Pakistan and
India must improve their bilateral relations as Afghanistan through covert means. The
Afghanistan is not just a piece of strategic real training being provided to Afghan forces
estate but a sovereign country made up of real will also strengthen the security forces of
people.
Afghanistan and this will also promote
Co-operation = good for regional stability and regional stability
development = to check terrorism = TAPI
pipeline = Energy security for both nations = Question - “At the end of 12 years of American
Afghanistan is geopolitically important for occupation, Afghanistan has not emerged as a
INDIA, Pakistan & China too (terrorism hit more secure place; nor has the U.S. had much of
Xinjiang province, investment in Afghanistan) a success in nation-building.” Comment. (200
Words) (topic converges with India and its
neighbours)
Q- Why is there an opposition to the proposed
Bilateral Security Agreement (BSA) between The American occupation of Afghanistan begin
Kabul and Washington? Examine highlighting post 9/11 incident in pretext of countering global
the implications of such an agreement to the terrorism.
regional security.(200 Words) Today, the Afghan society remains an ehtnically
fragmented and regionally divided society. The
1. The Bilateral Security Agreement
major ethnic tribes Pashto, Tajiks, Hazara, Turks
between charts out the future roadmap for & Uzbeks fight amongst themselves and with
defence co-operation between the United other minor tribes. There is Shia-Sunni strife.
States and Afghanistan. According to this Taliban and Mujahideen continue to target each
agreement, US will retain some of its there and security personnel.
Further, the indigenous security structure and
troops in Afghanistan after its 2014 exit for
personnel are grossly inadequate. There are
the purpose of assisting the Afghan forces. already rising incidences of ―green on blue
2. This agreements envisages that the US attacks‖, situation of Armed forces will decline
when US led coalition forces leave the country.
Defence forces and its civilian components
The US led occupation has resulted in decline of
in Afghanistan will not be subjected to illicit opium trade and arms trade in Afghanistan,
Afghan Civil and Criminal Laws and they but there traditional occupations like Animal
will be under United States jurisdiction Husbandry and Agriculture has declined. Neither
only. This clause is a bone of contention there has been any significant contribution by US
to tap vast mineral resources of the country or set
between the two states. Also this
up Industries, Education or Employment
agreement does not include Afghanistan‘s opportunities.
demand that in case of any external The lack of above facilities have lacked the
aggression on Afghanistan, United States growth of Human Resource in the country, thus
will protect it. the youth turning towards militant outfits and
extremist ways, posing further challenge to
This agreement will help to provide
security and nation building.
stability in Afghanistan after the exit of US The US Af-Pak policy failed to notice multiple
forces since Afghanistan does not have the dimensions of security and social structure in
Afghanistan. It only relied on Pakistan not
involving other strong regional countries as preserve the quota, at 20 per cent instead of 25.
stakeholders during 12 years of occupation.
Another proposal allows a father to arrange child
Finally, US has failed to install a Constitution
based on truly secular and democratic principles marriages, giving fathers guardianship rights
which will be inclusive of Afghan society. The over children that trump those of mothers and the
current condition is of near anarchy outside courts. A third proposal would prohibit the
certain core areas. nation‘s courts from hearing testimony of one
Hence, the situation of Afghanistan from nation
family member against another, making it almost
building and security is real challenge as it was
utilized by the US its hegemonic ends in Western impossible to prosecute domestic violence and
and Central Asian geopolitics. abuse cases.
In this tough time, India and other SAARC

Q- Critically comment on the plight of women countries have a greater role to play ranging from
in Afghanistan and possible threats they might security and military cooperation to ensuring the
face once US withdraws its troops from there. human rights and to keep control the Taliban
(200 Words) (this question has also an ethical insurgency in the region. Upcoming SAARC
face)
foreign ministers meet in Maldives and SAARC
summit in Nepal should focus on the opportunity
As the time of departure of U.S. and other for the regional block to enhance cooperation
international security forces and aid agencies is
with Afghanistan in a crucial time of US
coming near, fear for women‘s rights and security withdrawal of its troops from the country and
in Afghanistan is increasing within the country.
sensitive presidential election
Women activist groups and Help groups are
fearful from the Taliban insurgency which have
mounted a string of violent attacks on female
officials and the government which is about to
approve some legislations that would strip away
crucial legal protections.
South East Asia
The international agencies have been by far the
strongest proponents for women here; their Q--Critically comment on Sri Lanka‟s efforts of
departure may provide the way to Taliban reconstruction in its Northern and Eastern
insurgency again. The other threat is that many of regions post 2009 war on LTTE.
the 11 candidates for President in incoming
election are dominated by warlords and Though the civil war in Sri Lanka ended the
LTTE and reduced the disturbances ,
fundamentalists who share the Taliban‘s view
Concerns have been raised for the political
that women should never be allowed out of their devolution of powers and ensuring
homes. accountability of the attacks, little has been
done for the social and economic
Parliament of Afghanistan is on the way to
reconstruction.
approve some anti-women laws under some The disruption in the region had reduced
pressure. One of the proposed laws would have production potential and capital
repealed a requirement that one-quarter of the accumulation. The lack of investment in the
seats on provincial councils be reserved for region for the development of industries has
aggravated the economic concerns. The
women. After intense lobbying, activists
capital infusion for reconstruction has been
managed to get the bill amended to partly
utilized by the private contractors and meager support from the government.
external labours. Consequently, they are committing suicides.
Little has been done on the fisherman Women, low castes and poor people are the
concerns on Indian trawlers. The lack of worst affected section. People are starving
safety net against the vagaries of nature has for the basic facilities but four complete
increased the vulnerability of the years has been passed and rate of
agricultural sector. reconstruction is very low.
Though there has been an increase in the
infrastructure, connectivity and banking Q--Critically comment on Rohingya related
services , little has been done for the controversy in Myanmar
reconstruction recognizing the social and
economic concerns. Rising indebtness of the Rohingya muslims in Mynmmar are one of the
people has driven them to middle east world‘s most persecuted minorities. This ethnic
countries for employment. This has community is going through an identity crisis;
increased the vulnerability of the women their citizenship and civil rights are trampled by
subject to abuse and violence. Mynmmar authorities. While all the historical
It should be realized that the reconstruction records confirm that Mynammer always had a
recognizing the social and economic significant muslims population, they are labelled
concerns is as essential as ensuring political as Bangladeshi immigrants in Buddhist
accountability. India should complement its dominated Mynammer. Mynammr is still largely
infrastructure construction by providing a military junta and because their is no active civil
technical and capital assistance for greater society or media, the government is getting away
employment opportunities.Efforts should be with its unconscionable acts like ethnic cleansing.
undertaken to promote the growth of Due to this identity crisis in their homeland,
cooperatives and small scale industries in Rohingya muslims are fleeing to neighboring
the effected region to engage the labour in areas of Bangladesh and India. And this is
constructive employment . resulting into ethnic clashes in those areas too.
This is an account of people who are alienated
from their land and identity.

some positive aspects post 2009, like global Violence in Myanmar is not purely an ethnic
concern of Human rights violations and conflict but ethnic cleansing. It is not a case in
thus UN resolution, President‘s of Sri which two factions clash with each other purely
Lanka‘s vocal commitment to bring back the because of differences between them but a case in
left out Tamils into mainstream political and which, state actions provoke violence and there
economic stream. exists overt support by the same to one group.
The ethnic tensions between the Buddhist
dominated Myanmar and Rohingya Muslim
minority are ever present and boil into violence in
no time.
Three decades long civil war between Sri
Lankan Government & LTTE came to an The discrimination of the minority group by the
end in 2009 and reconstruction program for state is the cause of the latest series of violent
the redevelopment & making up to the par incidents. The Rohingya are not recognized as
was started but it is not upto the mark. citizens and cannot exercise many basic rights
The northern & eastern regions are suffering which essential for leading a dignified life. Infact,
from different kind of basic problems like UN considers them as the most persecuted
electrification, transport facilities & specially minorities. The absence of basic medical care and
food availability. inhuman treatment in relief camps, rather
Even most of the citizens are suffering from concentration camps, are testimonial to the
indebtedness, poverty, insecurity due to

degree of state persecution. The opposition demands reform before elections;

the government the reverse.Protesters need to
The ruling junta over the years has been involved accept that the views of a majority as expressed at
in systematic cleansing of the minority group the ballot box cannot systematically be
through oppression and mass expulsions without overturned by the minority. The government, its
any fear or opposition. They got away because of supporters and Thaksin need to accept that long-
the military rule and absence of free expression. term stability requires that their opponents‘
Myanmar after years of military rule is taking concerns be addressed.
baby steps towards democracy, thanks to the
international pressure for several decades now.
But, no democracy can justify unfair treatment of Q-The current crisis in Thailand is an extension
minorities let alone their persecution. It is of the same partisan deadlock that has
imperative for the international community to characterised the country‟s politics for years.”
pressurize the ruling government to end this Elaborate.
genocide and work for the establishment of a Thailand, the late kingdom of Siam was a
peaceful and harmonious society. Only then will
kingdom till 1932. In the year 1932 a ‗democratic
Myanmar become a true democracy and the
international community rest. revolution‘ was started by the westernized
intellectuals who wanted democracy in Thailand.
The country officially became under a
constitutional monarchy with a prime minister as
Q--Write a critical note on the recent political the head of government. But what followed till
crisis in Thailand. today has left the country with a oscillating
government and military rule. Immediately in
The current crisis in Thailand began in late 2013
1933 there was an attempt by military to outs the
triggered by a government amnesty bill. Critics
claimed that it could allow PM‘s exiled brother democratic government.
Thaksin Shinawatra, who was ousted by a coup
in 2006, to return. Street protests blockaded key
junctions and demanded people‟s council in
place of the government. In response the prime After the 1992 Bloody May incident People‘s
minister Yingluck Shinawatra downgraded her Constitution was successfully promulgated in 1997
government to a caretaker and called for early till it was again revoked when military generals
election in February. The protesters known as the
lead a coupe, removing Thaksin Shinawatra and
Yellow shirts, and the Democrats wanted the
elections to be annulled and boycotted the polls. establishing a junta government. Again in 2007 a
A Constitutional Court‘s controversial ruling new constitution was issued. The election which
recently ousted Yingluck and that has infuriated followed elected Yingluck Shinawatra as the PM.
her supporters, known as the Red Shirts, for what But again from nov 2013 there has been revolt
they say was a politically motivated verdict. The going on again the incumbent PM.
People‘s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC)
appoint an unelected prime minister. The Red
Till date Thailand has had seventeen charters and
Shirts responded by calling their own rally in
support of democracy on the outskirts of constitutions, reflecting a high degree of political
Bangkok. The meltdown threatens to take the instability and political deadlocks.
form of a civil war. Another danger would be the
splitting of the army itself. Now, the stand-off threatens to further
The crisis is severely affecting the country‘s undermine democratic governance in a country
economy specifically the tourism sector the where military coups have been all too
mainstay of Thai economy. commonplace, and where parties have rarely
accepted defeat peacefully.
Ukraine.
Trilateral discussions between Russia-Ukraine-EU
are a good option for the three nations. Mutual
Europe signing of agreements in economic, military and
political fields, beneficial for all three may serve
the cause. Both Russia and EU could mutually
Q-Do you think the European Parliament is divide among them, sectors of interest in Ukraine
truly a democratic institution? Critically which both would like to develop jointly.
evaluate its success as a representative Ukraine currently suffers from a number of
internal problems such as a demographic
institution of diverse European citizens.
imbalance where there is shortage of men, racial
discrimination against ethnic Russians and so on.
European Parliament is formed by Member of
These social problems if rooted out can bring
European Parliament elected from countries
about a more stable economy and polity which
across European Union. The recent election, in
could later focus on neighbourhood and
which European Peoples Party (EPP) claims
international relations in a better way.
victory reflects the shortcomings of the system. In
As per my opinion there is no immediate solution
these elections EPP won highest number of seats
to the problem as all three countries have mutual
however S&D , which came second, had highest
economic, political and military interests that are
percentage of voters‘ share. The problem lies in
so important to each one that none of the three
the size of constituency that MEPs‘ are
can look to compromise on any front.
representing. The population for each
However, on a long term basis, stable internal
constituency is much smaller in countries like
governance in Ukraine, solving its internal
Luxemburg, 26,000 compared to countries like
problems, effective trilateral talks among the
Italy, 370,000. Due to this one voter one vote
three are few solutions which could turn out to be
principle does not hold good for EP. Individual
fruitful.
voter of larger countries counts less compared to
that of smaller countries. Due to above distortion
there cannot be equal representation across the
countries.
Also there is no pan-European political party, but Q- Why is anti-immigration a hot political issue
loose alliances of different national parties. This in many EU and non-EU countries in Europe?
makes democratic process at EP level subject to
Explain. (200 Words)
back-room dealing of national parties and their
leaders.
Middle
Many European countries including UK,
Q- What possible options are there between EU Switzerland etc are facing calls for stringent anti-
and Russia to resolve the crisis in Ukraine? In immigration law to prohibit illegal immigrants to
your opinion what should be a plausible enter in the country.This will affect both formal
solution to end the crisis? Comment. (200 and informal sector in these countries which was
Words) hugely dependent on immigrants for these
services.
Currently both EU and Russia seem to be at
loggerheads over Ukraine which occupies a The blame for current situation goes on these
strategic position on both economic and countries itself. Their colonial past flourished on
geopolitical fronts in the region. Russia cannot the expenses of slavery system. Even in modern
lose it because it harbours valuable steel and era, these countries benefitted by employing
agriculture related industries which are of
cheap and skilled labour available. Immigrants
significant importance to Russia‘s economy. On
the other hand 80% of EU‘s gas transits to
workers formed essential part of the industrial the reason of discrimination against U.S. exports.
To resolve these issues, several joint trade forums
growth of Europe.
such as U.S.-India SME Forum, U.S.-India
However, the changing economic waves have put Strategic Dialogue, Trade Policy Forum, Indo-US
the onus on the european governments. The large bilateral investment protection agreement (BIPA)
are formed.
unemployed youth population is demanding for
In spite of these all issues, India is the fastest
equal job opportunities. Till now immigrants growing sources of inward investment into the
used to cut into their share of job due to less wage U.S. and supporting thousands of U.S. jobs. U.S.
demand and high quality work. Also the exports to India (machinery, organic chemicals,
incidents of involvements of immigrants with and aircrafts) increased to $22 billion, while
India‘s exports (gems and jewelry, engineering
terrorism is coming into light.
goods, IT and agricultural products) grew to $41
The government is justified in taking anti- billion, resulted overall trade to $100 billion.
immigration stand to an extent. But stringent Trade brings people together, creates jobs and
new opportunities. So India-US should resolve
polices will hinder exchange of culture and
these issues not only for the benefits of them but
intellect withing european countries and outside also to promote stability, democracy, prosperity
world, a hallmark of rich heritage of Europe. and peace across the world.
Question - Examine the key trade issues between
USA and India. (200 Words) (can also come in
Indian economy)
Question - Why is there a demand for revision
Answer - Since the opening up of Indian
of certain treaties of the European Union?
economy in 1991, India-US Trade and investment
relationship grew healthy. But various trade Examine. (200 Words)
issues such as compulsory licensing, patent Answer- Currently Germany had raised demands
protection, preferential market access, to reform the treaties to strengthen joint economic
immigration bill and FDI in defence and financial
governance in the bloc following the euro‘s debt
services also influenced relations between both
countries. crisis while France and other important
U.S. companies suffered a host of IP issues in stakeholders like Britain are opposing any kind of
renewable energy and bio-pharmaceuticals. Their reforms.
appeals to revoke patents are denied by Indian
courts. Furthermore, the issuing of compulsory Corruption is the biggest concern to Germany
license (CL) by Indian government caused and other well performing nations of the EU as
concern because innovation and the protection of their share of funds to EU are misused and they
IP are significant driving engines of the U.S. are unable to reap any privileges proportional to
economy.
their contribution. Across the European Union‘s
Several states in US banned outsourcing to India
had impacted both business and visa procedures. 28 countries costs about €120 billion ($162 billion)
India expressed its discomfort over the per year — a sum equal to the EU‘s entire annual
immigration bill of US. sDual use of high budget. Corruption is draining the legal economy
technology transfers, High tariff rates on imports of resources and is a breeding ground for
and Non-tariff barriers on US exports have
organised crime. European Union has been
always posed a problem. US policy of ―trade
enforcement action‖ is another area of tension in economically stagnant for the better part of a
the bilateral relationship. decade. Per capita incomes in the EU are
Recently US took disputes under GATT and essentially unchanged since 2006 and the
TRIM to WTO, pertaining to India‘s National
unemployment figures are staggering. Levels of
Solar Mission and Food Security Bill and stating
sovereign and private debt across EU are still too
high. Serious problems in Spain such as countries like Norway and Finland
unemployment and problems of weak corporate impacting the production and demand.
balance sheets persist. Britain was identified as
The Eurozone crisis has origins in over welfare
having high private sector debt, while
attitude and negligence on the part of members;
Luxembourg was cited for problems including a
over dependence on US market. The member
loss of export market share in its important
countries like PIGS, France has overspend a lot on
financial services sector.
pension and unemployment allowance.
Amidst all these problems EU members are Consequently, they run into deficits. Instead of
expressing mixed opinion to revision of cutting down spending, countries like Greece
important treaties. tampered the national accounts and continued
the deficit finacing to dangerous levels.
The countries expected rising demand will

Q-What are the strengths and weaknesses of generate income for their government . However,
Eurozone? What were the causes of recent the sub-prime crisis in US decreases demand.
Eurozone crisis? Analyze. (200 Words) Consequently, the production was hit in the zone.
 Eurozone is home for large market of The unemployment increased and demand
unified production and demand, which decreased in the domestic economy. The
encourages investment. bankruptcy of few members further accentuated
 The members of the zone are politically the crisis.
well-established without any territorial
disputes, unlike other regions. Its currency
Euro is recognized for international
Q-Post- Eurozone crisis, analyze how the
denomination, within short time of
measures of austerity had an effect on the
introduction.
economies of Greece and other PIIGS countries?
 Payments for overseas trade, thus,
Do you think austerity measures yielded the
doesn‘t require any other denomination
desired results? Comment. (200 Words)
currency like USD. The population are
The PIIGS(Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, Spain)
literate and high consumption nature
countries‘s insolvency, post the euro sovereign
prevails. Large demand is generated for
debt crisis left them with no option but to
new products, making their introduction
undertake belt-tightening austerity measures.
less risky.
Effects of these measures on the economy are:
 However, the work for achieving a single
Massive cuts in spending on welfare benefits and
market consciousness isn‘t completed.
salaries of Govt employees and drastic cuts in
Despite single currency, the policies of
employment to reign on fiscal deficits. As these
ECB, European Central Bank and
countries lost credibility amongst the foreign
individual member countries doesn‘t
lenders they were forced to borrow from official
converge easily.
organizations like IMF and the European stability
 There is dissatisfaction in countries like mechanism(ESM) and consequently accept their
Germany over bail out packages to PIGS. conditions for structural reforms. Due to austerity
The austerity measures suggested by ECB and adjunct factors like structural reforms labour
are opposed in few member countries. The costs have come down. This has made exports
demographic profile is regressive in attractive resulting in surplus CAD. This

eventually will help these countries pay off their Q- Orange Revolution
external debt. However tensions have prevailed The Orange Revolution was a series of protests
in these countries due to the frustrations and political events that took place in Ukraine
associated with jobless growth envisioned by the from late November 2004 to January 2005, in the
austerity measures. immediate aftermath of the run-off vote of the
2004 Ukrainian presidential election which was
Although Debt/GDP ratio have declined due to
claimed to be marred by massive corruption,
the shrinking GDP resulting from the fiscal cuts,
voter intimidation and direct electoral fraud.
the overall solvency of these economies have
Kiev, the Ukrainian capital, was the focal point of
improved. Solvency depends on future growth
prospects and not debt/GDP ratio. The structural the movement‘s campaign of civil resistance, with
reforms have ensured brighter growth prospects. thousands of protesters demonstrating daily.
Austerity involves huge social costs. But the
external fundamentals of the PIIGs economy have Q-“The escalating political crisis in Ukraine has
drastically improved. Thus austerity has indeed cast a deep shadow over Russia‟s relations with
served the purpose it was intended to do. Europe.” Comment. (200 Words)
• Post Eurozone crisis, most of the European Ethno-linguistic division of the Ukraine was always
economies were bailed out by way of bonds. They there but the dividing line between the two division of
in return, were asked to adopt austerity measures Ukraine ,southeast region polarized toward Russia
so as to restore their financial health. whereas northwest toward EU, is going deep with the
• The austerity measures success has to be recent President Viktor Yanukovych‘s decision to
evaluated from their potential to reduce the reject a deal for closer integration with the European
negative effect caused by crisis and by their Union which will bring the country closer to Russia
ability to induce growth. While in Portugal,
Greece they have been able to reduce the Protest against this decision is mostly in the areas
downward slide, growth is yet to come by. The where people are inclined toward EU. this political
government has reduced welfare expenditure, conflict is due to long lasting unresolved identity crisis
reduces salaries and is planning to increase taxes. of Ukraine. As the conflict is at its most basic level is
Due to these measures, the recession phase of the over whether the country will lean toward Europe or
crisis is now over. toward Russia has become a bone of contention
• However growth process has not yet started. between Russia-Europe relations.in a blunt display of
Italy is slated to grow at a negative growth rate of this irritation European leaders have curtailed their
0.2%. Other PIIGS economies can only manage in summit scheduled with President Vladimir Putin.
the range of 0.2-0.5%. One reason for this is the both the countries are blaming each other for the crisis
low inflation in the economy. Austerity measures of Ukraine.
have reduced the supply of cash. As such
inflation is low and it is unable to provide the Q-What‟s happening in Ukraine is also about
much needed vitality for economic rejuvenation. Yanukovych‟s failures to fix the economy and
• As such austerity measures have failed to his draconian restrictions against basic
induce growth. It is the need of the hour that freedoms. but its more prominent identity crisis
export agreements be made and money should be conflicts are creating a rift between Europe and
Russia.
released in productive sectors so as to return to
post crisis phase of the economy.

Russia used economic pressure to block the EU‘s trade speculated and Russia, an alley of Ukraine has openly
agreements with Ukraine and Armenia. offered its military services.
Russia and the EU have blamed each other for the The Ukraine protests started with purely the
crisis in Ukraine, triggered by the decision of economic reasons might transform into a major
war ground involving many nations owing to
President Viktor Yanukovych to ditch an EU free trade
external helps being received both by the ruling
and association pact last November in favour of party as well as the opposition
building closer ties with Russia.
Q-What is the significance of local elections
Russia provides approximately a quarter of the held in Kosovo? Briefly explain the causes of
natural gas consumed in the European Union; tension between Serbia and Kosovo
approximately 80% of those exports travel through Answer)
pipelines across Ukrainian soil prior to arriving in the Recently under the April accord agreement,
EU Serbia agreed to recognize the authority of
Kosovo‘s government over the police and the
A serious dispute began in March 2005 over the courts in the ethnically divided north of the
price of natural gas supplied and the cost of country in return for greater autonomy for
transit. During this conflict, Russia claimed Kosovo‘s Serbs in the north.
Ukraine was not paying for gas, but diverting it The government in Belgrade put pressure on
intended to be exported to the EU from the Kosovo‘s Serb population to take part in the
pipelines. municipal elections. The change was down to a
new agreement between Serbia and Kosovo to
Q-What are the reasons behind protests against
normalize relations, as Serbia seeks membership
the government in Ukraine? Comment on the of the European Union.
external factors in causing the protests. (200
It is the first time that voters in all of Kosovo will
Words)
choose local Councillors and Mayors since the
country seceded from Serbia in 2008.
Ukraine has been struggling with protests from
Serbia rejects Kosovo‘s independence, as do many
opposition parties since November 2013 on account of
Kosovo Serbs. The United States and majority of
its president‘s refusal to sign the Free Trade the EU countries have recognized the new state.
Agreement with European Union (EU) and instead
chose to receive the bailout package from Russia.
The tension between Serbia and Kosovo was due
to territorial and border demarcation disputes
Ukraine has been facing problems at economic front that brought diverse challenges to republics and
which is affecting its growth, employment and provinces funded after dissolution of SFR
development. Yugoslavia.
Underdevelopment is the biggest challenge of
not signing the far reaching impactful agreement with Kosovars who state that society is divided along
EU and turn to Russia for Loans (in terms of Bailout ethnic lines and other problems are non-
package) and cheap gas. recognition of degrees awarded in Kosovo, the
prolonged presence of armed forces in this region
and lack of freedom of movement for the people
Although the protests seems to be internal where
living here.
political rivals of the state are fighting for more
powers and demands to be met, the possibility of
external support to the protestors are also being

Q-Comment on important issues that decided economic cooperation , in view of the diplomatic and
the outcome of recently held elections to the the geopolitical reliance. The two have recently
European Parliament. decided to boost the economic cooperation in the
fields of aircraft manufacturing , biotechnology,
The European Parliament is the only elected body nanotechnology, computer sciences and medicine.
under EU which has the responsibility of passing They have decided the use of their national currencies
laws and supervising the commissioners under
instead of the US Dollar for the bilateral trade between
European Commission. Its election thus has great
significance on how the laws applicable to all 28 them.With the EU arms embargo on China , China
EU members will be placed and what would be became a reliable client of Russian military export,
their implications on world relations. accounting for the 20-50% of the foreign military sales.
The European parliament elections conducted
this year heavily got tilted to Eurosceptic parties 1) Collaboration between two on Syria and Iran Issue.
who got a bigger vote share and seats on the
2) Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
account of protest vote by the citizen of all EU
3) How these 2 are collaborating to counter USA
countries against the damaging post recession
economic policies of their own national hegemony.
government and of EU. 4) Lessons China is learning from USSR failure to
Another major issue in this election was sustain Communism and its eventual disintegration.
immigration and hence the anti-EU and anti-
immigration party won in UK. The other places World, especially India watches this with a lot of
have also seen similar sentiments in surging the
anticipation with little mix of cynicism as well.
anti-EU votes. It was highly debated that the free
labour markets in EU has resulted into many For China, road to west goes through Russia. Even
emigrants who are taking away the job from current Russia is no where near erstwhile USSR as far
natives. as power and prodigy is concerned, but nonetheless it
The current EU parliament elections though has is no less significant even now. Russia also needed to
shown the sentiments of concerned citizen, it is a look beyond India to strengthen it‘s position in Asia.
serious concern if the anti-EU and anti-
immigration parties get their dominance in EU Indo-Russia relation was never of two equals.
parliament. They may then affect the law making China – Russia relations are predominantly focused
process and blocking many progressive on energy and defence cooperation. Other economic
legislations concerning trade, employment and relations are include cooperation in aircraft
free market. manufacturing, technology, medicine, bio-technology,
etc. Due to manufacturing industry boom, China has
Q-As two Communist states, what has been the
become one of the biggest consumer of petroleum.
relationship between China and Russia since
Russia being petroleum export centric nation and
the break-up of USSR. Examine. (200 Words)
geographical proximity to China was a clear candidate
for cooperation in this front.
Relations between Russia and China improved after
Recently Russia -China has started joint naval war
the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The two
games in the Mediterranean sea. It follows joint
demarcated their land borders in 1991. China became
venture in sea of Japan last year. Strategically it is
the petroleum importer . The large energy
viewed as an act of muscle flexing in the foreign
consumption of china forced it to import large
waters and an attempt to balance the influence caused
volumes of petroleum and natural gas.
US and it‘s western allies.
The two signed the treaty of good neighborliness and

friendship in 2001 to promote peaceful existence and

India should view Russia-China relations with

enthusiasm. Russia being it‘s oldest and most
trusted ally might help it iron out geo-political
issues with China
Russia
Q-Critically comment on the recent assertive
and independent foreign policy stance of Russia
in its sphere of influence. (200 Words)
• With the declining influence of USA, increasing

assertiveness of China, Russia has started
aggressively pursuing its interests in the global
arena. This bodes well with its economic revival
and rise in nationalism.
• Russia has managed to find a diplomatic
solution to Syrian crisis. It urged Iran to forgo
nuclear path and in return promised to provide
nuclear technology for peaceful purpose. It has
solved its border dispute with China and has
increased economic cooperation. It plays a major
role in SCO and is planning to open military base
in Belarus, Fergana valley and in Black sea.
Russia has already embarked aggressively in
Artic and has increased cooperation with Japan
and Korea.
• However Russian intervention in Moldova and
Georgia, where it threatened by military force
shows that it has not shed its cold war mentality.
There should be more cooperation in the global
policy arena and such unilateral action be
avoided,
• Russia‘s resurgence should be seen as a positive
development due to the balance it provides in a
single power dominated world, be it USA or
China. This will lead to more discussion oriented
approach in global arena and will increase the
efficacy of UN

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INSIGHTS

[INSIGHTS SECURE Q&A

What are the functions of Law Commission? (150 Words) ...................................................... 21

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Q-Write a critical note on Kerala government‘s Kudumbashree scheme. ........................... 137

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can acquire any property in the state.

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Answer - The Parliament is the fountainhead of

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A world economy would be on strong

Democracy hives freedom to unleash our

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• But these are long entrenched institution of our

Q--Critically comment on how freedom of

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• it is based on the premise that there is • Politicization

• Covers areas like marriage, divorce, Way forward

• Article 25 and 26 guarantee freedom of religion

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President or parliament can go ahead with the

Hence the constitution authorizes the parliament

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The Government has introduced the communal

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STATE OF TAMIL NADU

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Q:Critically examine the issues involved in

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Q:Briefly explain the causes for the demand of

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2. Distribution of tax revenues The HLWG constituted by MoEF under the

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Political class is responsible for poor governance

Originally there was no provision of tribunals in

Through the tribunals the judicial activities are

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Ministries and Departments Devolution of powers and finances to local

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What do you understand by democratic

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Government must also be complimented for it‘s

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 Encourage and support universal chief to step down is criticized to be an act of

 Voter participation is the reflection of the

• The rise in awareness about the governance