GS2 - Final-1 - 2024-07-12T144751.672

INSIGHTSIAS
IA SIMPLIFYING IAS EXAM PREPARATION
INSTA SECURE SYNOPSIS

MAINS MISSION 2024
GS- 1I
JUNE 2024
www.insightsactivelearn.com | www.insightsonindia.com
NOTE: Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They
are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is
content that both meets demand of the question and at the same time gives you
extra points in the form of background information.
Table of Contents
Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant
provisions and basic structure. .......................................................................................................... 5
The parliamentary form of government features a fusion of executive and legislative powers,
ensuring accountability and responsiveness but potentially leading to instability and dominance
by the majority party. Analyse. (250 words) ................................................................................. 5
Article 22 of the Indian Constitution provides safeguards against arbitrary arrest and detention,
but its effective implementation faces various challenges. Examine. (250 words) ....................... 8
Money bills and financial bills in India have distinct characteristics and implications for the
legislative process. Compare and contrast. (250 words) ............................................................. 11
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act. ................................................................... 13
The anti-defection law, while intended to maintain political stability, has several shortcomings
that need to be addressed. Critically analyse. (250 words) ......................................................... 13
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries and
Departments of the Government; pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in
the Polity. ........................................................................................................................................ 16
The characterization of the President of India as merely a symbolic figure overlooks their
symbolic significance, constitutional responsibilities, and potential influence in certain
situations, beyond their largely ceremonial role. Comment. (250 words) .................................. 16
Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, the conduct of business, powers &
privileges and issues arising out of these. ........................................................................................ 19
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The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in maintaining the
democratic fabric of the country by ensuring government accountability and providing an
alternative vision for governance. Discuss. (150 words) ............................................................. 19
Effective parliamentary debates ensure that multiple viewpoints are considered, leading to
more comprehensive and well-rounded legislation. Discuss. (250 words) .................................. 21
Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State in the Indian Parliament serve different but
complementary roles. Compare and Contrast. (150 words) ........................................................ 24
In the context of India, both coalition governments and single-party majority governments have
their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Which type of government do you believe is
more suited for India in the present day? State your own opinion. ............................................ 27
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the
federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. ...... 30
The Finance Commission ensures equitable financial distribution between the central and state
governments, promoting balanced development and fiscal federalism. Examine. (250 words) . 30
Discuss the measures that are needed to ensure a more balanced and effective fiscal federal
structure, fostering equitable development and economic stability. (250 words) ...................... 32
The issues surrounding Special Category Status in India highlight the complexities of federalism,
regional development, and fiscal policy. Critically analyse. (250 words) .................................... 36
Critically evaluate the impact of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) on
forest conservation in India. (15M) ............................................................................................. 39
Panchayats struggle to function as self-governing institutions due to financial dependence on
state funds and excessive bureaucratic control, limiting their autonomy and effectiveness.
Critically examine. (250 words) ................................................................................................... 42
The bifurcation of states in India, though aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency and
addressing regional aspirations, presents significant challenges that require careful
consideration. Critically analyse. (250 words) ............................................................................. 44
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of
various Constitutional Bodies. ......................................................................................................... 46
The Deputy Speaker’s constitutionally mandated role is vital for maintaining parliamentary
order and ensuring smooth proceedings especially in the Speaker’s absence. Comment. (250
words) ......................................................................................................................................... 46
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is pivotal in the parliamentary system of India, acting as a
facilitator, administrator, and guardian of the house’s decorum and integrity. Discuss. (250
words) ......................................................................................................................................... 48
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies. ................................................................... 52
Delimitation of electoral constituencies is essential for ensuring equal representation and
adapting to demographic changes and the Delimitation Commission plays a critical role in this
process. Explain. (250 words)...................................................................................................... 52
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of
their design and implementation. .................................................................................................... 55
Why are paper leaks rampant in India? How does the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair
Means) Act, 2024, address this issue? Outline the Act’s major provisions aimed at curbing
cheating in public exams. (250 Words) ....................................................................................... 55
Andaman & Nicobar Islands are strategically crucial for India’s maritime security and power
projection in the Indo-Pacific. In the light of the proposed Great Nicobar project, examine the
aforementioned statement. (250 words) .................................................................................... 58
Delayed census data stalls progress towards sustainable development and exacerbates
inequalities. Analyse. (250 words) .............................................................................................. 62
India’s poor performance on the Global Gender Gap report is attributed to several factors.
Improving political participation of women is pivotal for achieving gender equality and has far-
reaching impacts on society. Discuss. (250 words) ...................................................................... 65
Gig workers face issues like job insecurity and lack of benefits, necessitating legal protections,
fair wages, and social security to safeguard their rights. Analyse. (250 words) .......................... 69
Reforming entrance exams in India by enhancing security, transparency, and equity is essential
to prevent violations and ensure a fair and effective system that will protect the future of
students. Analyse. (250 words) ................................................................................................... 71
Making healthcare in India more accessible and affordable is essential for improving public
health, fostering economic stability, and promoting social equity. Discuss. Suggest steps to make
healthcare more accessible and affordable. (250 words) ............................................................ 74
The government must prioritize education, nutrition, and health of children in their policies due
to their critical role in fostering socio-economic development and ensuring future well-being.
Discuss. (250 words) ................................................................................................................... 75
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health,
Education, Human Resources. ......................................................................................................... 78
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) remains high in certain parts of India, posing a significant
public health challenge. Examine. (250 words) ........................................................................... 78
Improving the participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM) is crucial for achieving gender equality and fostering innovation. Analyse. (250 words)81
Issues relating to poverty and hunger. ............................................................................................. 84
Hooch tragedies in India resulting from the consumption of illicitly brewed alcohol, have been a
recurring problem. Examine the reasons the same. Suggest measures to prevent them. (250
words) ......................................................................................................................................... 84
Despite various ways to measure poverty in India, it remains a complex task. Do you think time
has come to revise the poverty line? Critically analyse. (250 words) ......................................... 87
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications,
models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and
institutional and other measures. .................................................................................................... 91
By effectively harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), governments can enhance their interactions
with citizens and improve the efficiency and quality of public services. Discuss. (250 words) .... 91
India and its neighborhood- relations. ............................................................................................. 94
A sustained commitment to dialogue and collaboration will be crucial for India and Bangladesh
to foster long-term stability and prosperity in their bilateral relations. Elaborate. (250 words) . 94
India must maintain a principled stance on the Tibet issue, while managing diplomatic relations
with China. Critically analyse. (150 words) ................................................................................. 97
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian
diaspora. ......................................................................................................................................... 99
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) coordinates petroleum policies
among member countries to stabilize oil markets and prices. As a major oil importer, India is
significantly impacted by OPEC’s production decisions. Analyse. ............................................... 99
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s
interests. ....................................................................................................................................... 101
The recent approval of a draft logistics agreement between Russia and India is a significant
development in the context of international relations and defence cooperation. Analyse its
importance and its potential impact on India’s relations with the U.S. (250 words) ................. 101
The G-7 (Group of Seven), faces an evolving landscape that necessitates a reassessment of its
purpose and must adapt to contemporary global challenges. Examine. (150 words) ............... 103
The evolution of Indo-Japan relations from historical ties to a robust strategic partnership
highlights the potential for deepening bilateral cooperation. Discuss. (250 words) ................. 105
The India-U.S. relationship, strong in strategic and economic ties, faces challenges like trade
disputes and human rights concerns, requiring careful diplomacy to maintain resilience and
mutual benefit. Analyse. (250 words) ....................................................................................... 107
Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments,

significant provisions and basic structure.
The parliamentary form of government features a fusion of executive and legislative
powers, ensuring accountability and responsiveness but potentially leading to instability
and dominance by the majority party. Analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Indian Express , Insights on India
Why the question:
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha suspended 141 Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) for disrupting
its proceedings in the ongoing winter session of Parliament.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about features of parliamentary form of government, its pros and cons.
Directive word:
Analyse – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the
topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by describing parliamentary form of government adopted by India.
Body:
In the first part, write about the major features of Parliamentary forms of government in India.
Nominal and Real Head, Executive is a Part of Legislature, Majority Party Rule, Collective
Responsibility etc.
Next, write about its advantages – Represents Diverse Group, Better Co-Ordination Between
Legislature and Executive etc.
Next, write about its limitations of the parliamentary form of government.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a balanced opinion on parliamentary form of government.
Introduction
India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic and Republic country which follows
the Parliamentary form of government which is also known as Westminster model of government
or Cabinet government or Responsible government. This form of government is prevalent in Britain,
Japan, Canada and India among others. Parliamentary system has been taken from the United
Kingdom because U.K. constitution is the mother constitution of parliamentarianism.
Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha suspended 141 Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) for
disrupting its proceedings in the previous winter session of Parliament.
Body
Major features of parliamentary form of government
 Bicameral legislature: System may be either bicameral (two houses of the parliament)
or unicameral(single house of the parliament). India follows a bicameral legislature in which
the members of the Lower House (Lok sabha) are elected by the people and members
of Upper house (Rajya sabha) by elected representatives.
 The President can dissolve the Lok Sabha on recommendation of the Prime Minister while
Rajya Sabha is a permanent house and cannot be dissolved.
 Nominal and Real Executives:There are two parts of the executive in India, nominal
executive, and real executive. The President, the Head of the State is the nominal
executive.
 Theoretically, the Constitution of India vested all the executive powers in the President of
India. But, in practice, are actually used by the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.
The Prime Minister is the real executive.
 Majority Party Rule:The party which wins majority seats in the elections of the Lower House
forms the government. The President appoints the leader as the Prime Minister and the
other ministers on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
 The President may invite a coalition of parties to form the government, in case no party got
a clear majority.
 Collective Responsibility:The council of ministers is collectively responsible to the

parliament. The lower house of parliament can dissolve the government by exercising the no
confidence motion.
 Opposition:Party who gets the second highest vote counts in elections forms an opposition
party. The opposition plays a crucial role in keeping a check on the ruling government.
 Secrecy:The members of the executive follow the principle of secrecy in official legal matters
of the country. Ministers take oaths of secrecy before entering their office.
Advantages of parliamentary form of government
 Better coordination between the administration and the legislation: Since the
administration is part of the legislation, and most legislatures generally support the
government, it is easier to pass laws and implement them.
 Prevent authoritarianism:since the executive branch is accountable to the legislature and

can vote against it with motions of no confidence, there is no authoritarianism. Also, unlike a
presidential system, power will not be concentrated in one hand.
 Participatory and inclusive decision-making.
 Responsible government ministers are accountable to Parliament for their actions.

Tools: time for questions, debates, motions for adjournment, motions of no confidence.
 Be prepared to replace the government if you lose majority support. “The leader of the
opposition party is the deputy prime minister” Jennings.
 Representation of different groups:In this system, the parliament provides representation
for different groups in the country. This is especially important for countries like India.
 Flexibility: The system is flexible because the PM can be easily changed as needed. During
World War II, British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain was replaced by Winston Churchill.
This is different from the presidential system, which can only be replaced after the entire
term or in the event of impeachment.
Demerits of Parliamentary form of Government
 Unstable Government: The parliamentary system does not provide a stable government.
The government depends on the mercy of the majority legislators for their continuity and
survival in office. Political defection or evils of the multiparty coalition can make the
government unstable.
 No Continuity of Policies:The parliamentary system is not conducive for the formulation and
implementation of long-term policies. A change in the ruling party is usually followed by
changes in the policies of the government.
 Dictatorship of the Cabinet:Whenever the ruling party enjoys an absolute majority in the
Parliament, the cabinet becomes autocratic and exercises nearly unlimited powers.
 Against Separation of Powers:In the parliamentary system, the legislature and the executive
are together and inseparable. The cabinet acts as the leader of the legislature as well as the
executive. Hence, the whole system of government goes against the letter and spirit of the
theory of separation of powers.
 Government by Amateurs:The parliamentary system is not conducive to administrative

efficiency as the ministers are not experts in their fields. The Prime Minister has a limited
choice in the selection of ministers; his choice is restricted to the members of Parliament
alone and does not extend to external talent.
Conclusion
As the representative body that checks the government’s activities, Parliament plays a crucial role in
our democracy. It is critical for Parliament to function properly in order to fulfil its constitutional
purpose.
Value addition
Reasons for India to adopt parliamentary system of Government:
 By the time of constitution framing, India already had some experience of the parliamentary
system under the Government of India Act 1919 and 1935. So Indian people were familiar
with it.
 This experience also showed that the executives can be effectively controlled by the
representatives of the people.
 The makers of the constitution wanted to make the government responsible to people’s
demands and should be accountable to them.
 The makers were reluctant to go for the presidential system as it gives excessive powers to
the president who works independently with the legislature.
 The presidential system is also prone to the personality cult of the president.
 The makers of the constitution wanted to have a strong executive branch but with strong
safeguards to avert the risk of a personality cult.
 In the parliamentary system, there are several mechanisms to make the executive more
answerable to and controlled by the people’s representatives.
 So, the constitution adopted a parliamentary system for India.
Article 22 of the Indian Constitution provides safeguards against arbitrary arrest and
detention, but its effective implementation faces various challenges. Examine. (250
words)
Reference: The Hindu , Insights on India
Why the question:
The Supreme Court says that the custody of an accused is not necessary prior to the filing of the
charge sheet in certain criminal cases.
To about the significance of Article 22 of the Constitution and various issues in its implementation.
Directive word:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect
it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so
we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Introduction:
Begin by writing about article 22 of the constitution.
Body:
First, write about the Article 22 of the Indian Constitution as a cornerstone for protecting individual
liberty against arbitrary state action, ensuring rights such as being informed of the grounds of arrest,
consulting a legal practitioner, and being produced before a magistrate within 24 hours.
Next, write about the various issues in its implementation – misuse of preventive detention laws,
prolonged detention without trial, inadequate legal aid, lack of timely communication of arrest
grounds, judicial backlogs, and potential abuse during emergency periods etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward.
Introduction
Article 22 pertains to the protection of an individual’s right to personal liberty and safeguards
against arbitrary detention or arrest. It is considered one of the fundamental rights guaranteed to
citizens of India.
The Supreme Court says that the custody of an accused is not necessary prior to the filing of the
charge sheet in certain criminal cases.
Body
 Right to be Informed and Consult Legal Practitioner (Article 22(1)):
o No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody without being informed

promptly of the grounds for such arrest.
o The arrested individual has the right to consult and be defended by a legal
practitioner of their choice.
 Production Before Magistrate (Article 22(2)):
o The arrested person must be produced before a judicial magistrate within 24 hours
of their arrest.
o This provision ensures that the individual’s detention is subject to judicial scrutiny
and prevents prolonged detention without trial.
 Safeguards Against Preventive Detention (Article 22(3)):
o Preventive detention refers to detaining a person to prevent them from committing

certain acts that may be prejudicial to public order or security.
o Article 22(3) lays down specific safeguards for preventive detention, including the
right to be informed of the grounds, the right to representation, and the right to
make a representation against the detention.
Issues in Implementation
Despite the constitutional safeguards, several challenges persist in the implementation of Article 22:
 Misuse of Preventive Detention Laws:
o Authorities sometimes misuse preventive detention laws to suppress dissent or

target political opponents.
o Striking a balance between national security and individual rights remains a

challenge.
 Prolonged Detention Without Trial:
o Delays in legal proceedings often lead to prolonged detention without a fair trial.
o Overburdened courts and procedural bottlenecks contribute to this issue.
 Inadequate Legal Aid:
o Many detainees lack access to competent legal representation.
o Strengthening legal aid services is crucial to ensuring effective defense.
 Lack of Timely Communication of Arrest Grounds:
o Some arrested individuals are not promptly informed of the reasons for their arrest.
o This violates their right to know the grounds for detention.
 Judicial Backlogs:
o Overcrowded courts and lengthy legal processes delay justice.
o Streamlining judicial procedures can address this challenge.
 Emergency Periods and Abuse of Rights:
o During emergency situations, fundamental rights, including those under Article 22,
may be curtailed.
o Safeguards are essential to prevent abuse of power during such times.
Way Forward
 Strengthen Legal Aid Services:
o Ensure that every arrested person has access to legal representation.
o Legal aid clinics and pro bono services can bridge the gap.
 Fast-Track Judicial Processes:
o Expedite trials and reduce case pendency.
o Specialized courts for preventive detention cases could help.
 Transparency and Accountability:
o Strictly enforce the right to be informed promptly about arrest grounds.
o Monitor detention practices to prevent misuse.
 Public Awareness and Education:
o Educate citizens about their rights under Article 22.
o Empower them to seek legal remedies when their rights are violated.
Conclusion
Safeguarding individual liberty through effective implementation of Article 22 requires a concerted
effort from all stakeholders – the judiciary, legal fraternity, and citizens. By addressing the challenges
and promoting awareness, we can uphold the spirit of this constitutional provision.
Money bills and financial bills in India have distinct characteristics and implications for
the legislative process. Compare and contrast. (250 words)
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2.
To differentiate between a money bill and a financial Bill along with relevant constitutional provisions
and contentious issue with money bill.
Directive word:
Compare and contrast – provide for a detailed comparison of the two types, their features that are
similar as well as different. One must provide for detailed assessment of the two.
Introduction:
Given context of Articles 110 and 117 of the Indian Constitution.
Body:
Compare and contrast the money bills and financial bills on the following – while both money bills
and financial bills deal with financial matters, lies in their origination, the requirement of the
President’s recommendation, the process of passage, the role of the Rajya Sabha, and the Speaker’s
certification etc. Give examples to substantiate.
Next, throw light on the present controversy related to money bill and how often used as a tool for
bypassing the Rajya Sabha, which can only make recommendations on such bills.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving your balanced opinion.
Introduction
A Finance Bill is a bill that deals with the country’s finances, as the name implies – it could be about
taxes, government spending, government borrowings, revenues, and so on. Any bill related to
revenue or expenditure is a Financial Bill. A Money Bill is a specific type of Finance Bill that deals
only with matters specified under Article 110(1) and deals with taxes, borrowing, expenditure, etc.
It can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha and must be certified by the Speaker.
Recently, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs clarified that The Digital Personal Data Protection
(DPDP) Bill is a normal Bill and not a Money Bill.
Body
Comparison of Money Bills and Financial Bills:
Aspect Money Bills Financial Bills
Can only be introduced in Can be introduced in either the

Introduction
the Lok Sabha Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha.
President’s recommendation is
Must be introduced on necessary for Category I at the
President’s
the President’s introduction stage and
Recommendation
recommendation. for Category II at the
consideration stage.
Category II can originate

Must originate only in the
Originating House in either the Lok Sabha or the
Lok Sabha.
Rajya Sabha.
Rajya Sabha’s
involvement is limited; it Rajya Sabha can fully
Rajya Sabha
can only provide participate, including
Involvement
recommendations. amendments and discussions.
(Article 117)
Not mandatory for Money

Provision for Rajya Sabha’s
Inclusion of RS Bills to include Rajya
recommendations to be
Recommendations Sabha’s
included in Financial Bills.
recommendations.
Deals exclusively with Deals with matters beyond

matters listed in Article those listed in Article
Subjects Covered
110(1) of the 110(1) and can include other
Constitution. financial provisions.
Certified by the Speaker

Certification as a Money Bill if it falls
under Article 110(1).
Lok Sabha’s decision

Overriding prevails in case of Requires agreement of both
Authority disagreements with the Houses for passage.
Rajya Sabha.
President’s President’s recommendation is

recommendation required if the Bill involves
President’s Role
is essential for the expenditure from
introduction the Consolidated Fund of India.
Conclusion
The primary distinction between a money bill and a finance bill is that a money bill may only be
introduced in the lower house of parliament, namely the Lok Sabha, but a finance bill can be
introduced in either of the two chambers. Although a money bill is a form of finance bill, most
people use the phrases interchangeably; yet, they differ in terms of content.
Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

The anti-defection law, while intended to maintain political stability, has several
shortcomings that need to be addressed. Critically analyse. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Why the question:
With the defection of MLA M. Sanjay Kumar, who represents the Jagtial constituency in Telangana,
from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) to the ruling Congress, the strength of the principal
Opposition has come down from 39 to 33 in the State Assembly.
To write about the shortcomings of the anti-defection law and measures needed to fix them.
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature
of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’
is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a
balanced judgment on the topic.
Introduction:
Write about objectives of anti-defection.
Body:
First, write about various features of anti-defection pertaining to disqualification.
Next, write as to why the anti-defection has been ineffective in preventing defection and horse
trading. Substantiate with examples.
Next, suggest measures needed to rectify this.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
Introduction
Defection is “desertion by one member of the party of his loyalty towards his political party” or
basically it means “When an elected representative joins another party without resigning his present
party for benefits”. The institutional malaise is defection and party-hopping is state- neutral, party-
neutral, and politics-neutral.
With the defection of MLA M. Sanjay Kumar, who represents the Jagtial constituency in Telangana,
from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) to the ruling Congress, the strength of the principal
Opposition has come down from 39 to 33 in the State Assembly.
Body
Background
 For a very long time, the Indian political system was impacted by political defections by
members of the legislature. This situation brought about greater instability and chaos in the
political system.
 Thus, in 1985, to curb the evil of political defections,the 52nd constitution amendment act
on Anti-defection lawwas passed and the 10th Schedule was added in the Indian
Constitution.
 The main intent of the law was to combat “the evil of political defections” which may be due
to reward of office or other similar considerations.
 The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies. However, there are several issues
in relation to the working of this law.
 91st Constitution Amendment Act-2003was enacted and was aimed at limiting the size of
the Council of Ministers to debar defectors from holding public offices, and to strengthen
the anti-defection law.
Flaws of the current Anti-defection law
 Does not prevent Defection: The Anti-defection law has failed to curb “horse trading” and
defection, leading to toppling of governments through machinations of corrupt legislators.
o Eg: The 17-MLA’s of coalition government resigned in Karnataka, leading to change

in government. The 17 MLA’s later contested from the party that formed new
government.
 Wholesale defection: The law prevents individual defections, but not wholesale defections.
o Eg: Congress government in Madhya Pradesh lost majority due to resignations of

MLA’s.
 Against the true spirit of representative democracy:The anti-defection law seeks to provide
a stable government by ensuring the legislators do not switch sides.
o However, this law also enforces a restriction on legislators from voting in line with
their conscience, judgement and interests of his electorate.
 Impedes legislative control on government:The anti-defection law impedes the oversight

function of the legislature over the government, by ensuring that members vote based on
the decisions taken by the party leadership.
o In short, if legislators are not able to vote on laws independently, they would not act
as an effective check on the government.
o The Anti-Defection Law, in effect, dilutes the separation of powers between the
Executive and the Legislature – and centralises power in the hands of the executives.
 Role of presiding officer of the house:The law lays down that legislators may be disqualified
on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any
other member of the House.
o However, there are many instances when presiding officers play a part with the
vested interests of a political party/government in power.
o Also, the law does not specify a time period for the Presiding Officer to decide on a
disqualification plea.
o The decision thus is sometimes based on the whims and fancies of the presiding
officer.
 Affects the debate and discussion:The Anti-Defection Law has created a democracy of
parties and numbers in India, rather than a democracy of debate and discussion.
o In this way, it does not make a differentiation between dissent and defection and
weaken the Parliamentary deliberations on any law.
Steps to be taken
 To be used for major decision making: Several experts have suggested that the law should
be valid only for those votes that determine the stability of the government. e.g. passage of
the annual budget or no-confidence motions as recommended by Dinesh Goswami
Committee.
 Non-partisan authority: Various commissions including National Commission to review the

working of the constitution (NCRWC) have recommended that rather than the Presiding
Officer, the decision to disqualify a member should be made by the President (in case of
MPs) or the Governor (in case of MLAs) on the advice of the Election Commission.
 Independent committee for disqualification: Justice Verma in Hollohan judgment said that
tenure of the Speaker is dependent on the continuous support of the majority in the House
and therefore, he does not satisfy the requirement of such independent adjudicatory
authority.
o Also, his choice as the sole arbiter in the matter violates an essential attribute of the
basic feature.
o Thus, the need for an independent authority to deal with the cases of defection.
 Intra-party democracy: 170th Law Commission report underscored the importance of intra-
party democracy by arguing that a political party cannot be a dictatorship internally and
democratic in its functioning outside.
o Thus, the parties should listen to the opinions of the members and have discussions
on the same. This would give the freedom of speech and expression to its members
and promote inner-party democracy.
 Limiting Speaker’s discretion: Recent Supreme Court Judgement ruled that Speaker must
decide on disqualification within three months of receiving application. It cannot be the
discretion of the Speaker to take no action.
Conclusion
There is a need to prevent unholy defections that lead to instability in the governance system of the
nation. The current law is clearly flawed and has not effectively curbed defection due to lure of
power and money. There is a need for a more rationalised version of anti-defection laws which will
help establish a truly representative democracy.
Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and the Judiciary—

Ministries and Departments of the Government; pressure groups and
formal/informal associations and their role in the Polity.
The characterization of the President of India as merely a symbolic figure overlooks
their symbolic significance, constitutional responsibilities, and potential influence in
certain situations, beyond their largely ceremonial role. Comment. (250 words)
Reference: Insights on Indxia
Why the question:
To write about the role of President of India in the Indian executive.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall
opinion thereupon.
Introduction:
Begin by giving a brief about president as the head of the Indian state.
Body:
First, discuss how he is just a titular head – He is the nominal head of the government but the real
power lies with the Prime Minister. Discuss article 53, 74, 75 etc. Use suitable examples of recent
incidents from which it is evident that he is a mere rubber stamp.
Next, give the counter view – situations where President has powers and does not act as a rubber
stamp. For Example -Veto powers of president like pocket veto, suspensive veto etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a balanced opinion.
Introduction
Article 53 reads as ‘The executive power of the Union shall be vested in the President and shall be
exercised by him either directly or through officers’ subordinate to him’. In spite of the expression
‘directly’ in Article 53 of the Constitution, India’s President merely ‘reigns and does not rule’. The
role of president is largely ceremonial in nature. This was the consequence of 42nd Constitutional
Amendment that drastically curtailed the President’s powers with respect to the Council of
Ministers. Article 74 (1) now mandates the President to act on the aid and advice of the Council of
Ministers. This prevents the president becoming a power center rivalling that of prime minister.
Body
President’s role in Indian political setup:
 The President of India is the Head of State and the Chief Executive. The executive powers of
the Union are in the hands of the President.
 The President of India is vested with Legislative, Executive and Judicial powers. But as the
advice given by CoM is binding on Indian President, in reality, most of these powers rest with
the COM; but decisions are taken in the name of President of India.
 He exercises these either directly or through officers subordinate to him. However, being the
head of a parliamentary system, he is only a constitutional/titular head and exercises
nominal power.
 The President always acts in accordance with the advice of the Council of Ministers and the
Prime Minister. All his powers are really used by the Prime Minister and the Union Council of
Ministers.
 The President holds the highest office in India, represents the sovereignty of India, enjoys
the highest position and plays a valuable part in the working of the Indian Constitutional
system.
 President is also the supreme commander of armed forces and has powers to prorogue or
dissolve the Parliament.
 He/She further makes appointments to important posts including the PM, state governors
and Supreme Court and High Court judges.
By looking at the powers of the President, it becomes quite easy to evaluate the position of the
President. At the face value, the powers of the President appear to be very big and formidable. A
close review, however, reveals that President of India is a nominal and constitutional executive
head who exercises all his powers on the advice of the Prime Minister and his Council of Ministers.
The President is always bound to accept the advice of the Prime Minister and the Council of
Ministers. However, despite such a provision, the President is neither merely a titular head nor a
rubber stamp in the hands of the Ministry.
President’s discretionary powers:
 Suspensive Veto:
o The President has discretionary power when he exercises suspensive veto ie. when
he returns a bill (not money bill) for reconsideration of the parliament.
o However, if the bill is passed again by the Parliament with or without amendments
and presented again to the President, it is obligatory for him to give his assent to the
bill.
 Pocket Veto:
o This is not a provision mentioned in the Indian constitution, but this is a possible
situation when the President of India can use his discretionary power. In this case,
the President neither ratifies nor reject nor return the bill, but simply keeps the bill
pending for an indefinite period.
o As the time limit within which the President has to take the decision with respect to
a bill presented to him for assent, has not been mentioned in the constitution, in
effect the inaction of the President stops the bill from becoming an act.
 President can seek information from Prime Minister:
o Under article 78 the President enjoys the right to seek information from the PM
regarding the administration of the affairs of the union.
o Under the established convention, the President has the right to warn or encourage
the Council of Minister (CoM) in the exercise of its power.
 Case of no sitting of both houses:
o Under Article 85, the President can summon each House of Parliament to meet at
such time and place as he thinks fit, to ensure that six months shall not intervene
between its last sitting in one session and the date appointed for its sitting in the
next session.
 Case of no majority:
o When no political party or coalition of parties enjoy the majority in Lok Sabha, then
the President has discretion in inviting the leader of that party or coalition of parties
who in his opinion is able to form a stable government.
 Case of no-confidence with CoM- dissolving Loksabha:

o It is for the president to decide if he should dissolve Loksabha or not when CoM
loses the majority in Lok Sabha. The President can dissolve Lok Sabha only on the
advice of CoM but the advice is binding only if the government is a majority
government.
 Case of no-confidence with CoM- dissolving CoM:
o It is for the president to decide if he should dissolve CoM or not when CoM loses the
majority in Lok Sabha.
 Case of a caretaker government:
o A caretaker government does not enjoy the confidence of Lok Sabha and hence it is
not expected to take major decisions but only to make the day-to-day administrative
decisions. It is for the President to decide the day-to-day decisions.
Indian Presidents are not titular heads or mere rubber-stamps:
 While India’s first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad is known to have frequently disagreed with
then PM Jawaharlal Nehru, seventh President Giani Zail Singh is known to have a rocky
relationship with PM Rajiv Gandhi.
 K R Narayanan, India’s tenth President, famously told the Parliament that he is ‘not a rubber
stamp’ while returning a proposal calling for imposition of President’s rule in UP.
 Pranab Mukherjee was more assertive than any of his predecessors. Although he is known to
have rejected 28 mercy petitions, a record number, he commuted four sentences, in
defiance of the government’s wishes and refrained from sending those back to the
government for reconsideration.
President can play an effective role:
The President is not a silent institution and his role stands beyond the constitutional provisions and
established conventions. The powers of the President flow from the oath he takes under Article
60 to ‘preserve, protect and defend the Constitution and submit himself to the service and well -
being of people of India’. Therefore, new norms can be devised and used to preserve the faith and
belief of the common man in the system. These norms can be:
 The Constitution is silent on the limitations on the President’s activities in public affairs.
Public speaking of president can initiate the debate in the society.
 Use of pocket veto in the cases which are considered to be undermining the Constitution.
 Reaching out to the people of India.
Conclusion
The office of the President should not be conceived as merely a ceremonial post or a rubber stamp.
Within the confines of constitution, a president can redefine the activities of his office. The President
can declare Emergency, suspend rights, dissolve state Assemblies and declare the government
bankrupt.
Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, the conduct of

business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these.
The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in maintaining the
democratic fabric of the country by ensuring government accountability and providing
an alternative vision for governance. Discuss. (150 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The 2024 general election is historic in as much as it resulted in the numerically largest Opposition in
the Lok Sabha. It is perhaps the largest in the history of the House.
To write about the importance of the role of leader of opposition in the look Sabha.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of LoP.
Body:
First, write about the role played by LoP – government accountability, represents diverse viewpoints,
facilitates legislative scrutiny, provides policy alternatives, and upholds democratic values. Cite
examples to substantiate.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
Introduction
The Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha is a crucial position in the parliamentary system.
The LoP is the leader of the largest party in opposition to the ruling government. The post ensures
effective functioning of democratic institutions.
The 2024 general election is historic in as much as it resulted in the numerically largest Opposition in
the Lok Sabha. It is perhaps the largest in the history of the House.
Body
Role and Responsibilities of the LoP:
 Government Accountability:
o The LoP holds the government accountable for its actions, policies, and decisions.
o By questioning ministers, the LoP ensures transparency and checks executive power.
 Representing Diverse Viewpoints:
o The LoP voices the concerns and perspectives of various opposition parties.
o They articulate dissenting opinions during debates and discussions.
 Facilitating Legislative Scrutiny:
o The LoP actively participates in parliamentary committees.
o They scrutinize bills, propose amendments, and contribute to legislative processes.
 Providing Policy Alternatives:
o The LoP presents alternative policies to those proposed by the ruling party.
o Their role is to offer constructive criticism and propose viable alternatives.
 Upholding Democratic Values:
o The LoP defends democratic norms, constitutional principles, and individual rights.
o They safeguard the integrity of democratic institutions.
Examples to Substantiate:
 Debates and Questioning:
o During budget sessions, the LoP questions the Finance Minister on fiscal policies.
o In no-confidence motions, they challenge the government’s stability.
 Committee Work:
o The LoP leads opposition members in committees like Public Accounts Committee
(PAC).
o They scrutinize government spending, audit reports, and policy implementation.
 Policy Advocacy:
o When the government introduces controversial bills, the LoP proposes
amendments.
o They advocate for policies aligned with the opposition’s vision.
 Addressing Public Concerns:
o The LoP raises issues affecting citizens, such as unemployment, inflation, and social
justice.
o They ensure that public grievances are heard.
Conclusion
The Leader of Opposition plays a pivotal role in maintaining the balance of power, fostering debate,
and safeguarding democratic values. Their active engagement ensures robust governance and
accountability.
Effective parliamentary debates ensure that multiple viewpoints are considered, leading
to more comprehensive and well-rounded legislation. Discuss. (250 words)
Reference: Indian Express, Insights on India
Why the question:
With a higher proportion of opposition MPs in the new Lok Sabha, one hopes the House would no
longer be treated as a mere notice board for the government.
To write about importance of debates in the parliament for our democracy.
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the
details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for
and against arguments.
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the importance of parliamentary debates and discussion to our democracy.
Body:
Further elaborate how these debates and deliberations are enriching for our democracy. Cite
examples to substantiate your points.
Next, give instances of reduced discussions on debates in key national issues in the parliament.
Next, evaluate the legislative process with respect of debates and discussions. Mention hasty
passage of bills, frequent litigations, lack of expertise, bypassing Rajya Sabha, lack of referral to
parliamentary committees etc.
Mention the measures that are needed to remedy this situation.
Conclusion:
Introduction
In any democracy, the main function of the Parliament is to make laws. Parliamentary debates are
regarded as most important since the pros and cons of all the bills are highlighted before it gets
converted to law. Indian Parliament was once known for its high-quality debates.
The 18-day winter session of Parliament that was adjourned sine die on December 21 marked a new
low in India’s parliamentary democracy as the ruling Party refused to engage with the Opposition,
evaded executive accountability and passed a battery of Bills with far-reaching consequences for the
country while a majority of the Opposition members remained suspended.
With a higher proportion of opposition MPs in the new Lok Sabha, one hopes the House would no
longer be treated as a mere notice board for the government.
Body
Debates, discussions and deliberations: Cornerstone of parliamentary democracy
 Parliament is the crucible of criticism, deliberation and even consensus-making.
 Democratic accountability demands that the executive decisions be subjected to

legislative scrutiny.
 Debate in the House is important to ensure that every legislation is scrutinized extremely
wellon the floor of the House.
 Debates in Parliament ensures that the views of persons who are adversely affected by a law
are heard and actively engaged with.
 Rushed law-making, rendering Parliament a rubber stamp, sacrifices two core ideals of a
constitutional democracy, namely, equal participation and respect for fundamental rights.
 The debates and discussions are also important because when the courts have to interpret a
law, one of the things that they consider is the debate in the House.
 Debates provide a forum for MPs to express their opinions and concerns, and contribute
towards making policy.
 It allows parliamentarians to voice the interest and issues of the people of their
constituencies.
Deteriorating parliamentary productivity in recent times
 Disruption has become the norm, with the Opposition seeking to use thedebates as a ploy
to gain publicity. This is a sad state of affairs as the ruling party with absolute majority is
passing the bills without any adequate deliberations or discussions.
 The basic problem starts with the government’s refusal to acknowledge the legitimacy of the
Opposition and give space to it to express its position on any issue.
 With the Opposition not falling in line, the government has used its majority to push through
important Bills without discussion.
 The extent to which parliamentary proceedings have degenerated can be seen from the
astonishing speed in passing Bills.
 The Lok Sabha, on an average, took less than 10 minutes to pass a law, and the Rajya Sabha
passed laws in less than half an hour. There were 13 Bills in this LS session in which no
Member of Parliament spoke, other than the minister in charge of the Bill.
 the PRS Legislative Research data has shown a significant decrease in the involvement of
standing committees in legislative matters. So far, only 17 of the 82 Bills since the NDA
government was re-elected in 2019 have been referred to standing committees for review.
 Passing Bills without debate in the House or scrutiny by a committee reduces Parliament to a
clearance window for legislations. This effectively means Parliament was neither fulfilling its
function of deliberative lawmaking nor of holding the executive accountable.
 Ordinary Bills are not so much discussed, either because their texts are handed over to the
MPs at the last minute or because there is little time for debates.
 In order to circumvent Parliamentary debates, the government has often followed the
ordinance route.
 The number of Bills that have been referred to parliamentary committees — the deliberative
core of parliamentary work — has shrunk dramatically.
Measures needed
 Code of Conduct:To curb disorder in Parliament there is a need for strict enforcement of
code of conduct for MPs and MLAs.
o These ideas are not new. For example, the Lok Sabha has had a simple code of
conduct for its MPs since 1952. Newer forms of protest led to the updating of these
rules in 1989.
o The Lok Sabha Speaker should suspend MPs not following such codes and
obstructing the Houses’ business.
 Increasing Number of Working Days:Recommended by the 2001 conference, there should

be an increase in the working days of Parliament. It resolved that Parliament should meet
for 110 days every year and state legislative assemblies for 90 days.
o In the United Kingdom, where Parliament meets over 100 days a year, opposition
parties get 20 days on which they decide the agenda for discussion in Parliament.
Canada also has a similar concept of opposition days.
 Democratic Participation:Not all disruptions in the Parliament are necessarily counter-

productive. Thus, the government of the day needs to be more democratic and allow the
opposition to put their ideas in free manner.
 Proposals in Individual Capacity:
o In 2019, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairperson mooted an idea of evolving a ‘Parliament

Disruption Index’to monitor disruptions in Parliament and state legislature.
o In the Lok Sabha, some members proposed automatic suspension of members who
cause disruptionand rush to the Well of the House.
o But the proposals are still in a nascent stage.

 Productivity Meter:The overall productivity of the session also can be studied and
disseminated to the public on a weekly basis.
o For this, a “Productivity Meter” could be created which would take into
consideration the number of hours that were wasted on disruptions and
adjournments, and monitor the productivity of the day-to-day working of both
Houses of Parliament.
Way forward
 The Pre-Legislative Consultation Policy (PLCP) was instituted in 2014 requiring that every
Ministry and Department “proactively” publish every proposed draft legislation or
subordinate legislation, its justification, essential elements, financial implications and an
estimated impact assessment on rights, lives, livelihoods, environment, etc.
 The policy also provides that all such information should be put in the public domain for a
minimum period of 30 days and the feedback received should also be published on the
website of the concerned ministry or department.
 The policy also provides that the summary of this pre-legislative process should be made
available to any Parliamentary standing committeeto which the subsequent Bill may be
referred.
 Thus, the policy envisaged a consultation while the Bill is being drafted and a study and
consultation by a Parliamentary committee after it is introduced in Parliament.
Conclusion
The founding fathers of Indian Constitution adopted Parliamentary system of government by

considering the fact that it will be more suitable to India’s pluralism and heterogeneity character.
But at present healthy debate and discussions, the hall mark of Parliamentary democracy, was
overshadowed by disruption, confrontation, forced adjournment of the houses and adopting other
non-democratic alternatives.
Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State in the Indian Parliament serve different but
complementary roles. Compare and Contrast. (150 words)
Why the question:
President Draupadi Murmu administered oaths to the Central Council of Ministers of the new NDA
government.
To write compare and contrast the roles and responsibilities of Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of
State in the Indian Parliament.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of Article 74 of the constitution.
Body:
Compare and contrast the roles and responsibilities of Cabinet Ministers and Ministers of State in the
Indian Parliament on the following parameters – position and rank, role and responsibilities, policy
making, authority and decision-making, reporting and responsibility, leadership, powers, budget
control, and meeting participation etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by summarising.
Introduction
Article 74 states that there shall be a Council of Ministers with the Prime Minister at the head. Their
role is to aid and advise the President in the exercise of his functions.
President Draupadi Murmu administered oaths to the Central Council of Ministers of the new NDA
government on 9th June 2024 evening at Rastrapati Bhawan in New Delhi.
Body
Roles and Responsibilities:
Cabinet Ministers:
 Position and Rank:
o Cabinet Ministers hold senior positions within the Council of Ministers.
o They head key ministries such as Home, Defense, External Affairs, etc.
 Role and Responsibilities:
o Formulate policies crucial for national development and welfare.
o Coordinate among government departments for effective policy implementation.
o Act as chief crisis managers during emergencies.
o Handle major legislative and financial matters.
 Policy Making:
o Chief policy-formulating body of the Central government.
o Supreme executive authority.
o Advisory body to the President, and its advice is binding.
 Authority and Decision-Making:
o Key decision-makers in the government.
o Responsible for major policy directions.
 Reporting and Responsibility:
o Report directly to the Prime Minister.
o Accountable to Parliament for their actions.
 Leadership and Powers:
o Hold significant portfolios.
o Represent the government at national and international levels.
 Budget Control:
o Influence budgetary allocations for their ministries.
 Meeting Participation:
o Regularly attend Cabinet meetings.
Ministers of State (MoS):
 Position and Rank:
o MoS are junior ministers.
o Assist Cabinet Ministers.
 Role and Responsibilities:
o Support Cabinet Ministers in their duties.
o Handle specific areas within ministries.
 Policy Making:
o Participate in policy discussions but have limited influence.
 Authority and Decision-Making:
o Limited decision-making authority.
o Implement policies set by Cabinet Ministers.
 Reporting and Responsibility:
o Report to the respective Cabinet Minister.
o Accountable for their assigned tasks.
 Leadership and Powers:
o Limited leadership roles.
o Represent the government in specific contexts.
 Budget Control:
o Involved in budget discussions but not primary decision-makers.
 Meeting Participation:
o Attend Cabinet meetings occasionally.
Difference between Cabinet and Council of Ministers India
Cabinet Council of Ministers
The Cabinet is a smaller, select group

within the Council of Ministers, The Council of Ministers is a larger group
consisting of key ministers and senior comprising all ministers, including junior ministers.
members.
The Council of Ministers serves as an advisory body

The Cabinet is the decision-making
to the President/Prime Minister, providing
body that handles important policy
suggestions and recommendations on policy
decisions and governs the country.
matters.
The Cabinet consists of ministers

The Council of Ministers includes all ministries and
who hold significant portfolios and
departments, covering a wide range of areas and
ministries that are crucial for
sectors.
governance.
The members of the Cabinet are The members of the Council of Ministers are
appointed by the President/Prime appointed by the President/Prime Minister on the
Minister based on their expertise and advice of the Prime Minister, considering factors
seniority. such as political representation and expertise.
The Cabinet is a smaller group, The Council of Ministers can have a larger number
typically comprising around 15-20 of members, including both senior ministers and
members, focused on key decision- junior ministers, supporting the functioning of
making and policy formulation. various ministries.
The Cabinet plays a crucial role in the The Council of Ministers supports the functioning of
governance of the country, making the Cabinet, assists in the execution of policies, and
significant policy decisions and coordinates efforts among ministries to achieve
ensuring their implementation. government objectives.
The meetings of the Cabinet are The meetings of the Council of Ministers are
chaired by the President/Prime presided over by the Prime Minister or a designated
Minister, who leads discussions and Minister, who facilitates discussions and seeks input
finalizes decisions. from the members.
The members of the Cabinet share

The members of the Council of Ministers also bear
collective responsibility for the
collective responsibility for government policies and
decisions taken collectively, ensuring
actions, working together to achieve common goals.
unity and accountability.
Conclusion
Cabinet Ministers wield significant authority, formulate policies, and lead major ministries. Ministers
of State play supportive roles, assist in implementation, and handle specific tasks. Together, they
form a cohesive team responsible for governing the nation.
In the context of India, both coalition governments and single-party majority

governments have their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Which type of
government do you believe is more suited for India in the present day? State your own
opinion.
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: The Hindu , Live Mint
Why the question:
The 2024 Lok Sabha election result, which has left the BJP with less than a majority of seats, will likely
lead to changes — not just in terms of how the coalition, if it fructifies in governmental terms, is run,
but also in the internal dynamics of the BJP.
To write about pros and cons of coalition governments and single-party majority governments and
your opinion of better suited government for India.
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.

Body:
In the first part, discuss the pros and cons of single-party majority governments – offer stability,
efficient decision-making, and clear accountability, but they risk authoritarianism, lack diverse
representation, and can lead to political polarization etc.
Next, discuss the pros and cons of coalition governments – more inclusive, representing a wide range
of interests, and ensure checks and balances, but they often suffer from instability and slow decision-
making.
Conclusion:
Based on above arguments give a fair and balanced view as conclusion.
Introduction
Recently, for the first time since 1962, a government has returned for a third term after completing
two consecutive terms spanning a decade. However, the result signifies the end of single-party
dominance and heralds the return of a true coalition government at the Centre.
Body
Coalition government and Single-party majority government
 Coalition government is defined as when several political parties join hands to form a
government and exercise political power based on a common agreed programme.
o Coalitions usually occur in modern parliaments when no single political party gets
clear majority.
o If several parties with a majority of elected members can agree on a shared plan
without compromising too much with their policies, they can form a government.
 Coalition politics is not a static but a dynamic affair as coalition players and groups dissolve
and form new ones.
 A coalition government works based on a minimum programme, which may not satisfy
aspirations of all the members of the coalition government.
Critical Analysis of coalition government
Merits
 A coalition government brings together different parties to make decisions that

are balanced and satisfy interests of various stakeholders.
 India’s diverse cultures, languages, and groups make coalition governments more
representative and reflective of popular opinion than single-party governments.
 Coalition politics strengthens India’s federal system by being more attentive to regional
needs than a single-party government.
Demerits:
 They are unstable because disagreements on policy issues among coalition partners can
cause the government to collapse.
 In a coalition government, the Prime Minister’s authority is restricted as they must consult
with coalition partners before making significant decisions.
 The Steering Committee, like a ‘Super-Cabinet’ for coalition partners, diminishes the
authority of the cabinet in governing.
 Smaller parties in a coalition government might have significant influence by demanding

more than their fair share of power in Parliament.
 Leaders of regional parties influence national decisions by advocating for issues specific to
their regions, exerting pressure on the central government to align with their interests under
the threat of coalition withdrawal.
 In a coalition government, the Council of Ministers tends to be larger due to the interests of
all major parties in the coalition.
 In coalition governments, members often avoid taking responsibility for mistakes by blaming
each other, thus avoiding both collective and individual accountability.
Critical Analysis of single party majority government
 Risk of Centralization: A single-party majority can lead to the centralization of power,

reducing the checks and balances that are essential in a democratic system. This can result in
the marginalization of minority groups and regions not aligned with the ruling party.
 Policy Rigidity: While a single-party majority can lead to stable governance, it can also result
in the imposition of a rigid policy agenda that might not be in sync with the diverse needs of
the country. Such governments might prioritize the party’s interests over broader national
interests.
 Reduced Accountability: When a single party dominates, accountability can diminish as
there are fewer political forces to challenge or question the government. This can lead to
complacency and a lack of responsiveness to public concerns.
Suitable type of government for India

A coalition government, while potentially more cumbersome and slower in decision-making, ensures
that multiple viewpoints are considered, leading to more balanced and representative governance.
This inclusivity can foster a sense of participation and ownership among various groups,
strengthening national unity.
In the present-day context, India’s political landscape is marked by significant regional disparities
and diverse socio-economic challenges. The pluralistic fabric of the nation, with its myriad of
languages, cultures, and local issues, requires a form of governance that can accommodate and
address this diversity effectively.
Conclusion
Given India’s complexity and diversity, a coalition government appears more suited for the present
day. It promotes inclusive representation, ensures checks and balances, and pays attention to
regional autonomy, which are essential for the holistic development of a country as vast and varied
as India.
Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges
pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local
levels and challenges therein.
The Finance Commission ensures equitable financial distribution between the central
and state governments, promoting balanced development and fiscal federalism.
Examine. (250 words)
Why the question:
The Finance Commission is a constitutional body instituted by the Union government once in five
years without any transparent discussion on selecting its members and its terms of reference (ToR).
To write about the role of Finance Commission in fiscal federalism in the country.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin the giving the context of article 280.
Body:
In the first part, write about the role of the Finance Commission – financial needs and capacities of
the central and state governments, promoting economic development, and ensuring that resources
are distributed equitably for the benefit of the entire nation.
In the next part, mention the major limitations of the commission.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward to overcome the limitations.
Introduction
The Finance Commission is constituted by the President under article 280 of the Constitution,
mainly to give its recommendations on distribution of tax revenues between the Union and the
States and amongst the States themselves. Two distinctive features of the Commission’s work
involve redressing the vertical imbalances between the taxation powers and expenditure
responsibilities of the centre and the States respectively and equalization of all public services
across the States.
The Finance Commission is a constitutional body instituted by the Union government once in five
years without any transparent discussion on selecting its members and its terms of reference (ToR).
Body:
Composition of Finance Commission:
The Finance Commission is appointed by the President under Article 280 of the Constitution. As per
the provisions contained in the Finance Commission [Miscellaneous Provisions] Act, 1951 and The
Finance Commission (Salaries & Allowances) Rules, 1951, the Chairman of the Commission is
selected from among persons who have had experience in public affairs, and the four other
members are selected from among persons who:
 are, or have been, or are qualified to be appointed as Judges of a High Court; or
 have special knowledge of the finances and accounts of Government; or
 have had wide experience in financial matters and in administration; or
 have special knowledge of economics.
Functions of the finance commission:
 It is the duty of the Commission to make recommendations to the President as to:
 the distribution between the Union and the States of the net proceeds of taxes which are to
be, or may be, divided between them and the allocation between the States of the
respective shares of such proceeds;
 the principles which should govern the grants-in-aid of the revenues of the States out of the
Consolidated Fund of India;
 the measures needed to augment the Consolidated Fund of a State to supplement the
resources of the Panchayats and Municipalities in the State on the basis of the
recommendations made by the Finance Commission of the State;
 any other matter referred to the Commission by the President in the interests of sound
finance.
 The Commission determines its procedure and have such powers in the performance of their
functions as Parliament may by law confer on them.
Role of Finance Commission as a Neutral arbitrator
 To balance the horizontal and vertical fiscal imbalances
 Balance the fiscal issues due to differing historical backgrounds or resource endowments
 Distribution of net proceeds of taxes between Centre and the States
 Determine factors governing Grants-in-Aid to the states and the magnitude of the same.
 Ensuring greater financial autonomy to states by increasing the share of revenue- 14th FC
 Measures needed to augment the Fund of a State to supplement the resources of the
panchayats and municipalities in the state on the basis of the recommendations made by
the finance commission of the state.
 Any other matter related to it by the president in the interest of sound finance.
Threats to the neutrality
 Dominance of the centre in the financial sphere
 GST and associated irregularities and delayed compensation
 Increasing cess and surcharges from 9% in 2014-15 to 15.3% in 2019-20- States have no
share in the same.
 Shrinking of divisible pool of taxes
 Inefficient devolution of the 42% fiscal share to the states as per the 14th finance commission
recommendation.
 15th FC Recommendations
o Use of 2011 census for devolution- southern states find the move, a disincentive
o The viability of creating a separate defence and national security fund as suggested
by the Centre; this would result in lower share of funds to the states. – 15th Finance
commission recommendation.
Way forward
 Any attempt to shift the uneasy balance in favour of the Centre will strengthen the
argument that this government’s talk of cooperative federalism serves as a useful mask to
hide its centralising tendencies.
 As a neutral arbiter of Centre-state relations, the Finance Commission should seek to

maintain the delicate balance in deciding on contesting claims.
 This may well require giveaways especially if states are to be incentivised to push
through legislation on items on the state and concurrent list.
 The fiscal stress at various levels of the government necessitates a realistic assessment of
the country’s macro-economic situation, the preparation of a medium-term roadmap, as
well as careful calibration of the framework that governs Centre-state relations.
 At this critical juncture, the Finance Commission should present the broad contours of the
roadmap.
 Though it could request for another year’s extension to present its full five-year report citing
the prevailing uncertainty.
 A relook at the Centre’s expenditure priorities would create greater fiscal space
 The Centre can reduce States’ fears by tabling the report of FC without delay, and address
any apprehensions it may give rise to.
Conclusion:
The Indian federal system allows for the division of power and responsibilities between the centre
and states. Correspondingly, the taxation powers are also broadly divided between the centre and
states. State legislatures may devolve some of their taxation powers to local bodies.
Discuss the measures that are needed to ensure a more balanced and effective fiscal
federal structure, fostering equitable development and economic stability. (250 words)
Why the question:
The Lok Sabha verdict has brought back Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu and Bihar
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to pole positions in the country’s governance. This will go a long way in
strengthening the federal polity and make decision-making more democratic.
To write about the evolution of fiscal federalism in India, issues in it and measures needed to
overcome the issues.
Directive:
Introduction:
Begin by defining fiscal federalism in India.
Body:
First, write about the various issues with respect to fiscal federalism in India – opacity, fiscal
imbalances, GST implementation challenges, constraints on state autonomy persist and FRMBA
issues, etc.
Next, write about the measures needed to rectify the above.
Conclusion:
Introduction
While fiscal federalism in India has a long history, its practice has grown increasingly opaque over
the years. Serious attention is required to improve its principles and practices. The India of today,
notably through its governance “matrix”, economic development, institution-building and
multilateral relations, are vastly different from the India that drafted its constitution in 1950. India
is going through a transition in its intergovernmental relations. Boundaries based on linguistic
factors and administrative convenience are blurring, given changes brought on by innovation and
migration. Socio-economic trends such as technological change, rising mobility and market
integration will affect the future of fiscal federalism in India.
The Lok Sabha verdict has brought back Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu and Bihar
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to pole positions in the country’s governance. This will go a long way in
strengthening the federal polity and make decision-making more democratic.
Body
Development of fiscal federalism in India
 Broadly speaking, with the evolution of fiscal federalism in India, there has beenmarked
stability in its process and procedures.
 The annual budgetary processes of both the central and federal governments are
independent exercisesand must pass through the Parliament or state legislature.
 The Finance Commission, which was first constituted in 1951, performs the functions
broadly enshrined inArticle 280 of the Indian Constitution.
 For most of the post-independence era, the existence of the Planning Commission injected
centralising dependence in more ways than one.
o The Planning Commissionbecame a parallel institution for the transfer of resources

from the Union of States.
 While the focus of the Finance Commission remained on the revenue account, the Planning
Commission was concerned predominantly with the capital account.
 Successive Finance Commissions commented on this as being inconsistent with the spirit of
the Constitution in the devolution of resources.
 There were other developments, like the73rd and 74th Amendments of the Constitution in
1992 giving status to Panchayat Raj institutions and Urban Local Bodies with specific
functions assigned to them under the 11th and 12th schedules.
 The Fourteenth Finance Commission decided that 42% of NDP (net divisible pool) should go
to the subnational governments by way of devolution, or net proceeds of taxes, and the
balance should go to the central government. In addition, after projecting the likely growth
rates of individual subnational governments and their likely buoyancy in appropriate cases, a
revenue deficit grant under Article 275 was given.
Various issues regarding fiscal federalism in India
 GST: States have lost the autonomy to decide the tax rates of subjects that fall within the
State List.
o Previously, state governments used to fix tax rates by taking into account their
spending requirements, revenue base, etc.
o The inability of states to fix tax rates to match their development requirements
implies greater dependence on the centre for funds.
 Cess and surcharges: Another emerging challenge is that cesses and surcharges are
becoming a disproportionate proportion of the overall divisible revenue, withnon-tax
revenues being kept outside the divisible pool.
o These are worrisome issues, and there should be some mechanism to ensure that
the basic spirit of the devolution process should not be undercut by clever financial
engineering or by the manipulation of methods that makes them technical and
legally tenable, but perhaps not morally so.
 Increasing dependency on Centre: The dependency of states on the Centre for revenues has
increased, with the share of the revenue from own sources declining from 55% in 2014-15 to
50.5% in 2020-21.
o While part of this is inherent in India’s fiscal structure, wherein states are the big
spenders and the Centre controls the purse strings, the situation has been
exacerbated by the introduction of the GST.
o Barring a few exceptions, such as petroleum products, property tax, and alcohol
excise, indirect taxes have, to a large degree, been subsumed under the GST regime,
eroding the ability of states to raise their own revenues.
 Shortfall in devolution: Adding to state woes is the significant divergence in past periods
between the amount of GST compensation owed and the actual payments made, including
for states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand that need greater fiscal support.
o Even before Covid-19 hit, 11 states estimated a revenue growth rate below the
estimated 14% level, implying higher amounts will be owed as GST compensation.
o With the bulk of the states’ GST coming from goods such as electronics, fashion, and
entertainment — all of which have been impacted by the pandemic — these
revenues are likely to decline further.
Measures needed
To sum up, for a large federal country of a mind-boggling diversity, India’s ability to fight Covid-19
pandemic largely rests on how well it manages its Centre-state relation.
 When compared with other large federal countries such as the US, the country has done
very well to minimize the frictions and provide a sense of direction to the states.
 However, tackling Covid-19 as seen from the experience of other countries would require
adifferential and agile response across states and the Centre has at best to play the role of
a mentor in providing leadership and resource support.
 The rigid approach as evident in lockdown phase would prove a major hurdle. States must
becleared their dues and be given ample fiscal space to ensure economy is revived.
 States must be allowed to lead in terms of reviving economy, generating income support,
jobs while contain the virus at the same time.
 The next big change will come when the current Centre-state relationship gets redefined in a
way that enables the 28 states to become federal in the true sense – as self-sustaining
economic territories in matters of energy, water, food production and waste recycling.
 Our economic geography of production, transport and communication has to change – it has
to become distributive rather than being focused towards the Centre.
 Centrally distributed funds will need to be directed specifically to build the capacities of each
state.
o The instruments will enable them to embark on a sustainable economic recovery

whose base is widely distributed across the various panchayats and districts of each
state.
o Driving distributive recovery will be energy, transport, supply chains, public

administration, rule of law, agriculture and rural development.
 a buoyant tax system can ease the battle for resources in our federal system, and hopefully
minimize the mistrust that has grown in recent years between the Centre and states.
 The 15th Finance Commission has thus recommended a slew of fiscal reforms to increase
the tax-to-GDP ratio, especially through an overhaul of the goods and services tax.
 In short, the real cooperative federalism which the Centre has been espousing for many
years is now put on test and the Centre must ensure states are given full cooperation to
battle the challenge.
Conclusion
It is important now to rethink the design and structure of a genuine fiscal partnership, which should
not merely be a race to garner more resources, but a creative attempt to move towards a vibrant
Indian value chain that can catapult India’s growth rate closer to the quest for double-digit growth.
Times of economic slowdown must be viewed anecdotally as they are transient in nature and cannot
impair India’s vision, both with regard to its potential and its historical compulsions. It is necessary to
recast the ideology in a more contemporary context; only then will the practice become more
transparent, and India will benefit from congruence between its precepts and practice.
The issues surrounding Special Category Status in India highlight the complexities of
federalism, regional development, and fiscal policy. Critically analyse. (250 words)
Reference: Indian Express , moneycontrol.com , Insights on India
Why the question:
With Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) merging with the NDA at the Centre
following the declaration of the 2024 Lok Sabha Election results, and pledging the party’s support to
the BJP, the Special Category Status (SCS) issue for Andhra Pradesh has come to the spotlight again.
To write about performance of SCS and changes required in SCS.
Directive word:
Critically analyse –
When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by
separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or
prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced
judgment on the topic.
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the aims and objectives behind the grant of SCS.
Body:
First, mention the various criteria on which SCS is granted to states that face geographical and socio-
economic disadvantages. Mention the various benefits associated with it.
Next, analyse the performance of states granted SCS over the years. With facts and examples write
as to what extent they befitted from the grant of SCS. Mention the drawbacks of grant of SCS.
Next, write about the changes needed in the SCS categorisation and steps required for the same.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving a balanced opinion about SCS.
Introduction
Special Category Status (SCS) a classification given by the Centre to assist development
of states that face geographical and socio-economic disadvantages. This classification was done on
the recommendations of the Fifth Finance Commission in 1969. It was based on the Gadgil formula.
With Nara Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP) merging with the NDA at the Centre
following the declaration of the 2024 Lok Sabha Election results, and pledging the party’s support to
the BJP, the Special Category Status (SCS) issue for Andhra Pradesh has come to the spotlight again.
Body
Background: Objectives of SCS and reasons for implementation
 The concept of a special category status was first introduced in 1969 when the fifth Finance
Commission sought to provide certain disadvantaged states with preferential treatment in
the form of central assistance and tax breaks, establishing special development boards,
reservation in local government jobs, educational institutions, etc.
 This formula was named after the then Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Dr
Gadgil Mukherjee and is related to the transfer of assistance to the states by centre under
various schemes.
 Initially, three states; Assam, Nagaland and Jammu & Kashmir were granted special status
but from 1974-1979, five more states were added under the special category. These
include Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura.
 In 1990, with the addition of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram, the states increased to 10.
The state of Uttarakhand was given special category status in 2001.
 But after the dissolution of the planning commission and the formation of NITI Aayog, the
recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission were implemented which meant the
discontinuation of the Gadgil formula-based grants.
Various criteria on which SCS is granted
 The rationale for special status is that certain states, because of inherent features, have a
low resource base and cannot mobilize resources for development.
 The state which is facing the problem of resources crunch must get the benefit.
 Main key criteria are:
o Low per capita income
o Non-viable nature of state finances
o Economic and infrastructural backwardness
o Presence of sizeable tribal population
o Hilly and difficult terrain
o Strategic location along international borders
o Low population density
 Must be economically backward with poor infrastructure.
Performance of states granted SCS over the years
 States which are granted special category status enjoy several benefits.
 These include :
o Preferential treatment in getting central funds
o Concession on excise duty to attract industries to the state
o A significant 30% of the centre’s gross budget also goes special category states
o These states can avail the benefit of debt-swapping and debt relief schemes
 In the case of Centrally Sponsored Schemes and external aid, Special Category States get it in
the ratio of 90% as grant, and 10% as loans.
 Other states, however, get 30% of their funds as grants f) Special Category States also get
tax breaks to attract investment
 A Special Category Status catalyses the inflow of private investments and generates
employment and additional revenue for the state.
o Besides, the State can create more welfare-based schemes from the new savings
since the Center bears 90% of the expenditure on all Centrally Sponsored Schemes.
o Further, more grants from the Center helps in building state infrastructure and
social-sector projects.
 The Constitution of India does not include any provision for the categorization of any state
as a Special Category Status state.
o However, in the past, Central Planned Assistance were given to certain states on the
ground that they are historically disadvantaged in comparison to others.
Issues with SCS status
 14th Finance Commission recommendation: The Commission did away with the ‘special
category’ status for states, except for the North-eastern and three hill states.
 NDA government which came to power at the Centre in 2014 has been saying that the 14th
Finance Commission doesn’t provide for such treatment to Andhra Pradesh.
 The Constitution never mentioned it: The commission appears to have been guided by the
fact that the Constitution never categorized some states as special, treating all of them on
an equal footing.
 No power to allocate funds: the NITI Aayog, which has replaced the Planning Commission,
has no powers to allocate funds. Therefore, the discretion that the ruling party at the Centre
had to dole out special favors to states through the Plan panel, no longer exists.
Measures needed
 The Constitution of India does not include any provision for the categorization of any state in
India as a ‘special category state.
 However, a wide range of provisions are available to as many as 10 states that have been
listed under Articles 371, 371-A to 371-H, and 371-J.
 Some of these states are Maharashtra and Gujarat, Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Andhra
Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Telangana.
 Moreover, if states are in need of additional support, Centre may give a special package on
case-to-case basis.
Conclusion
The intention behind these provisions is to safeguard the interest and aspirations of certain
backward regions or to protect cultural and economic interests of the tribal people or to deal with
the disturbed law and order in some parts. However, such categorisation leads to States playing
victim card for ulterior motives as well. Hence, special packages to states based on merit can be a
good way forward. An independent committee with statutory backing and executive powers with
representation from states and centre may make a recommendation in this regard.
Critically evaluate the impact of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act
(PESA) on forest conservation in India. (15M)
Difficulty level: Medium
To critically evaluate the impact of PESA on forest conservation in India.
Directive word: Critically evaluate – Provide a balanced assessment of the impacts, considering both
positive and negative aspects.
Introduction:
Provide an overview of the PESA Act and its objectives.
Body:
Discuss the positive impacts of PESA on forest conservation, such as empowering local
communities, promoting sustainable forest management practices, and enhancing biodiversity.
Mention the challenges and limitations faced in the implementation of PESA, including issues of
governance, resource allocation, and conflicts with other laws.
Use examples and evidence to support both sides.
Conclusion:
Summarize the overall impact of PESA on forest conservation, emphasizing the importance of
addressing challenges to realize its full potential.
Introduction
Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 is a law enacted by Government of India to
cover the “Scheduled Areas”, which are not covered in the 73rd Constitutional amendment. This
particular act extends the provisions of Part IX to the Scheduled Areas of the country. PESA brought
powers further down to the Gram Sabha level. The Gram Sabha in the Panchayat Act were entrusted
with wide ranging powers starting from consultation on land acquisition to that of ownership over
minor forest produces and leasing of minor minerals.
Body:
Under the PESA, the Gram Sabha or Panchayats at appropriate level shall have the following
powers:
 To be consulted on matters of land acquisition and resettlement.

 Grant prospecting license for mining lease for minor minerals and concessions for such
activities.
 Planning and management of minor water bodies.
 The power to enforce prohibition or to regulate or restrict the sale and consumption of any
intoxicant.
 The ownership of minor forest produces.
 The power to prevent alienation of land and to restore any unlawfully alienated land of a
scheduled tribe.
 The power to manage village markets.
 The power to exercise control over money lending to scheduled tribes.
Success of PESA
 Empowering Local Communities:
o Local Decision-Making:
 PESA devolves powers to gram sabhas (village councils) in Scheduled Areas.
 Communities actively participate in forest management decisions.
o Ownership and Stewardship:
 Tribals and forest dwellers gain a sense of ownership over their ancestral
lands.
 They become stewards of forest resources, leading to better conservation.
o Promoting Sustainable Forest Management Practices:
 Traditional Knowledge:
 PESA recognizes indigenous knowledge about forests.
 Communities use sustainable practices like rotational grazing and

non-destructive harvesting.
 Conservation-Based Livelihoods:
 Tribals engage in eco-friendly livelihoods (e.g., honey collection,

herbal medicine).
 Reduced dependence on destructive activities like illegal logging.
 Enhancing Biodiversity:
 Community Forest Rights:
 PESA grants rights to manage and protect community

forests.
 Tribals conserve diverse flora and fauna.
 Biodiversity Hotspots:
 Local communities safeguard critical habitats.

 Preservation of endemic species and ecosystems
Problems with PESA:
 Dilution of role of Tribal Advisory Councils: PESA comes under the Fifth Schedule, which
mandates Tribal Advisory Councils to oversee tribal affairs and also gives extrajudicial, extra
constitutional powers to the Governors of each State to intervene in matters where they see
tribal autonomy being compromised.
 However, the councils, with the Chief Minister as their chairperson, have evolved into a non-
assertive institution amid the machinations of upper-class politics, and its representatives
hardly speak against the State governments’ policies.
 The Governors, in order to have friendly relations with the Chief Ministers, have desisted
from getting involved in tribal matters. Tribal activists have constantly complained that there
is not even a single instance where the Governors have responded to their petitions for
interventions in threatening crises, such as deepening clashes over land, mining or police
excesses.
 Lack of coordination at Centre: Even if one were to expect proactive intervention from the
Centre, PESA would get entangled in bureaucratic shackles. Two different ministries, the
Ministry of Panchayati Raj and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, have an overlapping influence
on the implementation of PESA and they function almost without any coordination.
 Lack of operationalization: In most of the state the enabling rules are not in place more
than eight years after the adoption of the Act suggests that the state governments are
reluctant to operationalize the PESA mandate.
 Ignoring the spirit of PESA: The state legislations have omitted some of the fundamental
principles without which the spirit of PESA can never be realised. For instance, the premise
in PESA that state legislations on Panchayats shall be in consonance with customary laws
and among other things traditional management practices of community resources is
ignored by most of the state laws.
 Ambiguous definitions: No legal definition of the terms like minor water bodies, minor
minerals etc. exist in the statute books. The states in their conformity legislations have also
not defined the term leading to ambiguity and scope of interpretation by the bureaucracy.
Conclusion:
In recent years, many reports ‘The Report of Expert Group of the Planning Commission on
Development Challenges in Extremist Affected Areas’ (2008), ‘The Sixth Report of the Second
Administrative Reforms Commission’ (2007), ‘The Balchandra Mungekar Committee Report’
(2009), etc. have clearly underlined the dismal situation of the implementation of PESA.
Therefore, there is an urgent need to opt for an effective device whereby maximum people can be
informed, made aware and motivated to come forward for the proper implementation and
execution of PESA. There is an urgent need to break the culture of silence among tribal and to strive
for capacity building, sensitization and orientation to improve the tribal self-rule scenario.
Panchayats struggle to function as self-governing institutions due to financial

dependence on state funds and excessive bureaucratic control, limiting their autonomy
and effectiveness. Critically examine. (250 words)
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
The 16th Finance Commission should give more voice to local governments.
To write about the shortcomings of PRI’s on fiscal and functional decentralisation and suggest
measures to overcome them.
Directive word:
Critically examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we have to look into the topic (content words) in
detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question.
While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the
topic and give a fair judgment.
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the aims and objectives of 73rd Constitution Amendment Act.
Body:
First, write in detail about how political decentralisation has been a success with respect to PRI’s.
Write about the various achievements of these bodies.
Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on fiscal decentralisation – lack of funds, issues with
CSS, lack of agency to generate own revenues etc.
Next, write about various shortcomings of PRIs on functional decentralisation – overlapping functions
with state government, absence of a proper workforce, accountability issues etc.
Next, suggest measures to overcome the above.
Conclusion:
Introduction
The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act 1992 is a significant landmark in the evolution of grassroot
democratic institutions in the country. It transformed the representative democracy into
participatory democracy. It is a revolutionary concept to build democracy at the grassroot level in
the country.
However, after decades of this historic amendment, Panchayati Raj Institutions have remained
laggard in the developmental process.
Body
Success of Panchayati Raj
Gandhiji’s dream of Gram Swaraj and Oceanic Circles of Power were realised through the Panchayati
Raj System.
 The PRIs are the local self-governing bodies that ensure the opportunity for people’s
participation and involvement in the formulation and implementation of rural development
programmes.
 The main objective of Panchayat System in India is to strengthen the base of democracy at
the grass root level.
 It was introduced as a real democratic political apparatus which would bring the masses into
active political control from below, from the vast majority of the weaker, poor sections of
rural India.
 They play the role of a catalytic agent in integrating development of tribal masses in rural
areas.
 Plan documents of both the central and state governments and various committees have
emphasised the importance of these bodies in the polity. Five-year plans have also laid
special emphasis on the role of Panchayats in rural developments.
 Rural Development includes measures to strengthen the democratic structure of society

through the PRIs.
 PRIs have been used to improve the rural infrastructure, income of rural households and
delivery systems pertaining to education, health and safety mechanisms. These institutions
are to be galvanised to become effective instruments of social and economic change at the
local level.
 Reservation for women (33%) has increased their presence in the public life.
Failures of democratic decentralisation especially in Panchayats
 Overwhelming dependency on government funding: Panchayat’s own resource base to

raise finances is low and the financial resources are tied to certain schemes and initiatives.
When Panchayats do not raise resources and instead depend on external funding, people
are less likely to enforce social audit and efficacy of the schemes.
o : In case of Urban local bodies, majority of municipalities have not increased

property tax since many years and have not leveraged the municipal bonds for
betterment of city infrastructure.
 Creation of Parallel Bodies: Parallel Bodies have usurped the legitimate space of local
bodies. For instance, Smart City scheme is being implemented in major cities through Special
Purpose Vehicles, squeezing the limited space of urban local governance in municipalities.
 Lack of adequate Devolution: Many states have not devolved the 3F’s of function, funds and
functionaries, to enable local bodies to discharge their constitutionally stipulated functions.
 Excessive control by bureaucracy
o In many Gram Panchayats, Sarpanches have to spend an extra ordinary amount of

time visiting block Officers for funds and/or technical approval. These interactions
with the Block staff office distort the role of Sarpanches as elected representatives.
o Multiple institutions like parastatals, development authorities, public works

departments, and ULBs themselves report to different departments of the state
government and have been entrusted with overlapping responsibilities.
 Poor Infrastructure: It is found that nearly 25% of Gram Panchayats do not have basic office
buildings. Capacity building of elected representatives is another hindrance in the grass
roots democracy. In case of urban local bodies, Mayor position is merely ceremonial.
Measures Need to strengthen Panchayats
 Central Government has started the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyaan.The campaign is
undertaken under the name of“Sabka Sath, Sabka Gaon, Sabka Vikas”.
o It aims to draw up Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs)in the country and
place them on a website where anyone can see the status of the various
government’s flagship schemes.
o Gram Panchayats have been mandated for the preparation of GPDP for economic
development and social justiceutilizing the resources available to them.
o Government of India formulated E-Panchayat Mission Mode Project for e-

enablement of all the Panchayats, to make their functioning more efficient and
transparent.
 Social Audit: The power of social audit was proven by Jan Sunwai in Rajasthan. Transparent,
third party Social Audit can enable people to hold the representatives accountable.
 Citizen Participation: In case of Gram Sabhas, their functions and roles must be clearly
defined as in the PESA Act, to enable to function effectively.
Conclusion
The need of the hour is to bring about a holistic change in the lives of people among the villagers by
uplifting their socioeconomic and health status through effective linkages through community,
governmental and other developmental agencies. People’s demands for the sustainable
decentralisation and advocacy should focus on a decentralisation agenda. The framework needs to
be evolved to accommodate the demand for decentralisation.
The bifurcation of states in India, though aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency

and addressing regional aspirations, presents significant challenges that require careful
consideration. Critically analyse. (250 words)
Why the question:
It is 10 years since Andhra Pradesh was divided into two States.
To write about the aims and impact of bifurcation of states in India.
Directive:
Introduction:
Body:
First, write about the reasons behind bifurcation of states – better governance, economic
development, and recognition of distinct ethnic, cultural, or linguistic identities etc.
Next, write about the impact of the above – administrative and governance issues, economic
disparities, social and cultural disruptions, and political instability. Cite examples to substantiate your
points.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a balanced opinion on the issue.
Introduction
It is 10 years since Andhra Pradesh was divided into two States. A decade is a long enough time
examine the political, economic and historical implications of the division of the political geography
of the Telugu people, for them as well as for the Indian Republic. The messy way in which the state
was divided and the ongoing tussle with respect to resources shows that bifurcation of state is a
complex matter and must not be done in haste for political gains.
Body
Advantages of bifurcation of state
 Better Governance and Administration: Smaller states can lead to more focused
governance.
o For instance, Chhattisgarh, post its formation, saw a more targeted approach to its
tribal areas and mineral-rich regions.
 Cultural and Regional Identity: Creation of new states can recognize and preserve the
unique cultural and linguistic identities of regions.
o The formation of Uttarakhand, for example, was a result of distinct regional

aspirations.
 Economic Development: With the formation of a new state, there’s a fresh emphasis on
infrastructural and economic development.
o For instance, Uttarakhand witnessed an influx of industries and businesses after its
formation.
 Enhanced Political Representation:
o New states often ensure better political representation for regions that might have
felt marginalized in a larger state setup.
Challenges associated with bifurcation

 Economic Strain: The initial setup of administrative machinery, infrastructure, and
institutions in a new state can strain financial resources.
 Boundary Disputes: New states can lead to territorial disputes with neighboring regions,
leading to prolonged conflicts and tensions, as seen in the case of Assam-Nagaland or
Karnataka-Maharashtra border disputes.
 Resource Allocation: Dividing resources, especially if they are scarce, like water in the case
of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, can lead to inter-state disputes.
 Potential Social Disruptions: If not managed properly, the process of state bifurcation can
lead to social tensions and conflicts, as populations adjust to the new political reality.
Conclusion and way forward
 The idea of the linguistic reorganisation of India had a long incubation period. It was thought
through, elaborately debated, agreed upon and then implemented.
 That idea was seen in the national context. But a departure from it was neither thought
through nor debated. It was done as a political expediency to pacify an ongoing agitation.
 Therefore, from the clumsy drafting of the act, its messy passing, the placatory assurances
and their half-hearted implementation characterised the departure of a six-and-a-half
decade-old mature Republic from a core organising principle of its political geography.
 The Republic cannot afford such clumsy and thoughtless handling of major departures from
its core organising principles. The Andhra Pradesh bifurcation and its fallout merit a deeper
and mature examination to ensure a firm footing for our Republic.
Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and

responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies.
The Deputy Speaker’s constitutionally mandated role is vital for maintaining
parliamentary order and ensuring smooth proceedings especially in the Speaker’s
absence. Comment. (250 words)
Why the question:
With the Opposition’s increased strength in Lok Sabha, its members are hoping to get the post of
Deputy Speaker. There was no Deputy Speaker for the entire duration of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-
24).
To write about the powers of the Deputy Speaker and importance of his office.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall
opinion thereupon.
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning Article 93 of the Indian Constitution.
Body:
First, in detail enumerate the various roles and responsibilities of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok
Sabha in the functioning of our parliamentary democracy. Mention the process of the election of the
Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha. Shed light on the convention followed in electing the Deputy
Speaker.
Next, write about that importance of the office of Deputy Speaker in the Indian parliamentary
proceedings.
Conclusion:
Conclude by underscoring the need to fill constitutionally mandated positions.
Introduction
Article 93 of the Constitution provides for the election of both the Speaker and the Deputy
Speaker. The constitutional office of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is more symbolic of
parliamentary democracy than some real authority. There is no need to resign from their original
party though as a Deputy Speaker, they have to remain impartial.
With the Opposition’s increased strength in Lok Sabha, its members are hoping to get the post of
Deputy Speaker. There was no Deputy Speaker for the entire duration of the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-
24).
Body
Election of the Deputy Speaker of Lok Sabha:
 The Constitution neither sets a time limit nor specifies the process for election of Deputy
Speaker.
 It leaves it to the legislatures to decide how to hold these elections.
 In Lok Sabha and state legislatures, the President/Governor sets a date for the election of
the Speaker, and it is the Speaker who decides the date for the election of the Deputy
Speaker.
 Usually, the Deputy Speaker is elected in the first meeting of the Lok Sabha after the
General elections from amongst the members of the Lok Sabha.
 It is by convention that position of Deputy Speaker is offered to opposition party in India.
Importance of post of deputy speaker in Lok Sabha:
 The post of the Deputy Speaker is not ceremonious but constitutionally mandated by Article
93 of the Indian Constitution
 The Deputy Speaker is the second highest ranking legislative officer of the Lok Sabha.
 According to Article 95(1), the Deputy Speaker performs the duties of the Speaker if the post
is vacant.
 The Deputy Speaker has the same general powers as the Speaker when presiding over the
House.
 All references to the “Speaker” in the Rules are deemed to be references to the Deputy
Speaker as well for the times when he or she presides.
 A Deputy Speaker also presides when a Speaker is not there or when the Speaker’s office is
vacant on account of resignation, or illness, or death or any other reason, thereby ensuring
the continuity of the Speaker’s office.
 When the Speaker’s post falls vacant, it is the Deputy Speaker who assumes all the powers
of the Speaker and exercises both legislative powers and administrative powers
 A Deputy Speaker is also the ex-officio chairman of some committees by virtue of his
position.
 The Deputy Speaker has an important role in ensuring that the “varied functions” of the
Parliament are discharged effectively and that the business of the House is conducted in a
manner befitting the needs of India’s representative democracy.
 In addition, when a resolution for removal of the Speaker is up for discussion, the
Constitution specifies that the Deputy Speaker presides over the proceedings of the House.
 It is thus a matter of grave importance that the post of Deputy Speaker in Lok Sabha lying
vacant for over two years now, which amounts to flouting of the parliamentary norms by the
government.
 Keeping the post of deputy speaker vacant is a violation of Article 93 of the Indian
constitution.
Conclusion
The Constitution does not specify a time frame for making the appointments. It is this gap in the
provision that allows governments to delay or avoid appointing a Deputy Speaker. However,
constitutional experts have pointed out that both Article 93 and Article 178 use the words “shall”
and “as soon as may be” – indicating that not only is the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker
mandatory, it must be held at the earliest.
The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is pivotal in the parliamentary system of India, acting as a
facilitator, administrator, and guardian of the house’s decorum and integrity. Discuss.
(250 words)
Why the question:
As the 18th Lok Sabha prepares to meet, the TDP and JD(U), key allies of the BJP in the National
Democratic Alliance (NDA), are said to be jockeying for the post of Speaker.
To write about the powers of Speaker and importance of his office.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning Article 93 of the Indian Constitution.
Body:
First, in detail enumerate the various roles and personalities of the Speaker of the Lok Sabha in the
functioning of our parliamentary democracy – As the presiding officer, the Speaker conducts sessions,
maintains order, and ensures adherence to parliamentary procedures. They manage the business of
the house, including scheduling debates and prioritizing bills, while remaining impartial and fair to all
members.
Next, write about its significance – impartiality, authority in procedural matters, and
representational roles are essential for the effective functioning of the Lok Sabha and the broader
democratic process in India.
Introduction
The Speaker is the presiding officer of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), the lower house of the
Parliament of India. The speaker is elected generally in the very first meeting of the Lok Sabha
following general elections. Serving for a term of five years, the speaker chosen from sitting
members of the Lok Sabha (House of the People), and is by convention a member of the ruling party
or alliance.
As the 18th Lok Sabha prepares to meet, the TDP and JD(U), key allies of the BJP in the National
Democratic Alliance (NDA), are said to be jockeying for the post of Speaker.
Body
Functions and powers of Lok Sabha speaker:

 Speaker of Lok Sabha is basically the head of the house and presides over the sittings of
Parliament and controls its working.
 The constitution has tried to ensure the independence of Speaker by charging his salary on
the consolidated Fund of India and the same is not subject to vote of Parliament.
 While debating or during general discussion on a bill, the members of the parliament have to
address only to the Speaker.
 Whenever there is a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha & Rajya
Sabha),the Speaker of the Lok Sabha presides over this meeting.
 In the normal circumstances the Speaker does not cast his vote over any matter in Lok
Sabha. But whenever there is a tie on votes between the ruling party and opposition, the
Speaker at that time can exercise his vote.
 It is the Speaker who decides the agenda of various discussions.
 The speaker has the power to adjourn or suspend the house/meetings if the quorum is not
met.
 The Speaker ensures the discipline and decorum of the house. If the speaker finds the
behaviour and a member of Parliament is not good, he/she can punish the unruly members
by suspending.
 The Speaker decides whether a bill brought to the house is a money bill or not. In the
case Speaker decides some bill as a money bill, this decision cannot be challenged.
 Speaker is the final and sole authorityto allow different types of motions and resolutions
such as No Confidence Motion, Motion of Adjournment, Censure Motion
 The Speaker of Lok Sabha does not leave the office just after dissolution of the assembly. He
continues to be in the office till the newly formed assembly takes its first meeting and elects
the new Speaker.
Importance of office of Speaker:
 The office of the Speaker occupies a pivotal position in our parliamentary democracy.
 It has been said of the office of the Speaker that while the members of Parliament represent
the individual constituencies, the Speaker represents the full authority of the House itself.
 She symbolizes the dignity and power of the House over which she is presiding.
 In the Lok Sabha, as in the United Kingdom, the Speaker is the supreme authority; she has
vast powers and it is his primary duty to ensure the orderly conduct of the business of the
House.
 Every textbook of constitutional law points out the two essential qualities of a
Speaker: Independence and impartiality.
 GV Mavlankar, the first Speaker, observed: “Once a person is elected Speaker, he is

expected to be above parties, above politics. In other words, he belongs to all the
members or belongs to none. He holds the scales of justice evenly, irrespective of party or
person”.
 Pandit Nehru referred to the Speaker as “the symbol of the nation’s freedom and liberty”
and emphasised that Speakers should be men of “outstanding ability and impartiality”.
 MN Kaul and SL Shakdher, in their book Practice and Procedure of Parliament, refer to him
as the conscience and guardian of the House.
 As the principal spokesperson of the Lok Sabha, the Speaker represents its collective
voiceand speaks for the House as a whole.
 Her unique position is illustrated by the fact that she is placed very high in the Warrant of
Precedence in our country, standing next only to the President, the Vice-President and the
Prime Minister.
 In India, through the Constitution of the land, through the Rules of Procedure and Conduct
of Business in Lok Sabha and through the practices and conventions, adequate powers are
vested in the office of the Speaker to help her in the smooth conduct of the parliamentary
proceedings and for protecting the independence and impartiality of the office.
 The Constitution of India provides that the Speaker’s salary and allowances are not to be
voted by Parliament and are to be charged on the Consolidated Fund of India.
 Therefore, it is expected that the holder of this office of high dignity has to be one who can
represent the House in all its manifestations.
However, there have been many instances when the Speaker’s office has been in the dock:
 Appointment and tenure: The structural issues regarding the manner in which the Speaker
is appointed and his tenure in office. Usually, the speaker is from the ruling party and this
makes it a more of a political liability on speaker to favour his party.
 Lack of Tenure security: With no security in the continuity of office, the Speaker is
dependent on his or her political party for re-election. This makes the Speaker susceptible to
pulls and pressures from her/his political party in the conduct of the proceedings of the Lok
Sabha.
 Anti-defection law: In recent times, there are number of instances where the role of
speaker has been criticized for decision on membership of MLAs under the anti-defection
law and their ruling have been challenged in courts. The Tenth Schedule says the
Speaker’s/Chairperson’s decision on questions of disqualification on ground of defection
shall be final and can’t be questioned in courts. It was anticipated that giving Speakers the
power to expel legislators would prevent unnecessary delays by courts and make anti-
defection law more effective.
 Discretionary power: There are various instances where the Rules vest the Speakers with
unbridled powers such as in case of declaration of bill as money bill (Lok Sabha Speaker).
This discretionary power comes under criticism when Aadhar bill was introduced in Lok
Sabha as Money Bill.
 Referral to DSRCs: The Speaker is also empowered to refer the Bill to a Standing
Committee. As per prevailing practice house members or speaker usually refers all
important bills to the concerned Departmentally Related Standing Committees for
examination and report. But in recent time speaker uses its discretionary power to pass
many important bills on day after introduction of bill without proper discussion and
references.
 Increased disruptions: Frequent disruptions reduced the time required for important
discussions and compel speaker to allocate less time for discussion. This often questions the
impartiality of speaker as he allegedly provides more time to ruling party. Also, it is alleged
that speaker took harsh punishment against the disrupting member of opposition compared
to government
 Elections: The position of the Indian Speaker is paradoxical. They contest the election for the
post on a party ticket. Yet they are expected to conduct themselves in a non-partisan
manner, while being beholden to the party for a ticket for the next election.
 Political Aspirations: The position is often used to woo the political parties by favouring
them to harbour political ambitions. The need for re-election also skews incentives for the
Speaker. The fear of losing the position in case of not favouring their political parties also
pushes them to compromise neutrality.
Measures needed to ensure Speaker’s impartiality:
 The Page Committee, headed by V.S. Page, suggested that if the Speaker had conducted
himself or herself in an impartial and efficient manner during the tenure of his or her office,
he or she should be allowed to continue in the next Parliament.
 Anyone seeking the office of the Speaker might be asked to run for election on an
independent ticket.
 Any Speaker should be barred from future political office, except for the post of President,
while being given a pension for life.
 Following the UK model of Speaker where the Speaker elect compulsorily resigns from the
party membership. This will ensure neutrality of the office.
 The Speaker should be allowed to recommend a range of disciplinary actions like cuts in
salary, reduction in speaking time for the member based on the recommendation of the
parliamentary committee.
 The Speaker can arrange informal sessions with the members who frequently disrupt the
house. He can try to resolve their grievances if any with respect to the conduct of the house.
 A code of ethics for MPs must be formed to clearly define cases for suspension and
dismissals.
 Power must be given to speaker to form a parliamentary committee to recommend removal

of MPs regularly disrupting the house. The decision of the committee must be subject to
judicial review.
 Ethics committee of Lok Sabha need to be given more mandate like other mature
democracies
Conclusion:
The office of the Speaker in India is a living and dynamic institution which deals with the actual
needs and problems of Parliament in the performance of its functions. It is in her that the
responsibility of conducting the business of the House in a manner befitting the place of the
institution in a representative democracy is invested.
The founding fathers of our Constitution had recognized the importance of this office in our
democratic set-up and it was this recognition that guided them in establishing this office as one of
the prominent and dignified ones in the scheme of governance of the country smoothly.
Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.

Delimitation of electoral constituencies is essential for ensuring equal representation
and adapting to demographic changes and the Delimitation Commission plays a critical
role in this process. Explain. (250 words)
Reference: Indian Express ,Insights on India
Why the question:
The Delimitation Commission is a statutory body, but it lacks the protection of comprehensive
constitutional guidelines.
To write about delimitation, functions of delimitation commission and problems associated with it.
Directive word:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the
context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant
associated facts.
Introduction:
Begin by defining delimitation under Article 82.
Body:
In the first part, write about rationale behind the delimitation – follow the principle of “One Vote One
Value”, equality, Fair division of geographical areas etc.
Next, write in detail about the functions of delimitation commission.
Next, write about the various issues associated with delimitation and ways that it can be addressed.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Delimitation literally means the act or process of fixing limits or boundaries of territorial
constituencies in a country or a province having a legislative body. A four-member Delimitation
Commission, including a member of the EC, carries out this task. Under Article 82 of the
Constitution, Parliament enacts a Delimitation Act after every Census which establishes a
delimitation commission. The main task of the commission is redrawing the boundaries of the
various assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies to ensure an equitable population distribution.In
India, such Delimitation commissions have been set up four times in the past under ‘Delimitation
Commission Acts’ of 1952, 1962, 1972 and 2002.
The subject of constituency delimitation has become controversial over the past several months due
to the Women’s Reservation Bill and the population disparity between the southern and northern
states.
Body:
Rationale behind Delimitation
 To provide equal representation to equal segments of a population.
 Fair division of geographical areasso that one political party doesn’t have an advantage over
others in an election.
 To follow the principle of“One Vote One Value”.
Delimitation and RPA:
 The provisions of Delimitation Act, 2002, says that as of date, all Assembly and
Parliamentary constituencies are to be delimited on the basis of the 2001 Census.
 According to the guidelines of the EC and the 84th and 87th amendments to the
Constitution, the “state average per assembly constituency” is obtained by dividing the total
number of the state population (as per 2001 census) by the total number of constituencies
in the state.
 This method is aimed at having an equal population in each constituency.
 However, a deviation of plus-minus 10 per cent is acceptable if the geographical features,

means of communication, public convenience, contiguity of the areas, and necessity to avoid
breaking of administrative units so demand.
 As per the guidelines, seats have to be reserved for the SCs and STsin the proportion of their
population separately both for the Assembly and Parliamentary constituencies in each state.
 The commission, after completing the process from its end, puts out papers and draft
proposals for discussions and holds public meetings on the same.
 These proposals are notified in the Gazette of India and the state’s gazette after the
President’s approval.
 The commission’s order cannot be challenged in any courtas it has the force of law.
 The copies of orders are also presented before the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative
Assembly concerned, but both these houses are not allowed to make modifications in that.
Challenges faced
 Disparity in representation between north and southern part ofIndia in the Lok sabha due to
population as a deciding factor.
 The delimitation based solely on population disregards the progress made by the southern
states in population controland may lead to disparities in the federal structure.
 Despite having only 18% of the country’s population,the southern states contribute 35% to
the country’s GDP.
 The northern states, which did not prioritize population control, are expected to benefit in
the delimitation process due to their higher population growth.
 In 2002-08,Delimitation was done based on the 2001 census, but the total number of seats
in the Assemblies and Parliament decided as per the 1971 Census was not changed.
 The 87thAmendment Act of 2003 provided for the delimitation of constituencies on the basis
of 2001 census and not 1991 census. However, this can be done without altering the
number of seats allotted to each state in the Lok Sabha.
 After the 15thFinance Commission used the 2011 Census as a basis for its recommendation,
concerns were raised about southern states losing funding and representation in
parliament.
 Previously, the 1971 Census was used as the base for funding and tax devolution
recommendations to states.
 The scheduled delimitation and reallocation of seats may result in not only a loss of seats for
southern states but also an increase in power for political parties with their base of support
in the north.
 This could potentially lead to a shift of power toward the north and away from the south.
 The exercise will also affect the division of seats reserved for the Scheduled Castes and
Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) in each state (under Articles 330 and 332).
 The Constitution has also capped the number of Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha seats to a
maximum of 550 & 250 respectivelyand increasing populations are being represented by a
single representative.
Way forward
 The need of the hour is to set up a Delimitation Commission to redraw constituency

boundaries based on the 2031 Census.
 A State Reorganisation Actshould be enacted to split states into smaller ones based on the
population recommendations made by the Delimitation Commission.
 There has been significant population growth in India since the last delimitation exercise,
emphasizingthe need to address the resulting asymmetry in political representation.
 Instead of relying solely on population as the criterion for delimitation, other factors such as
development indicators,human development indices, and efforts in implementing
family planning programs could be considered. This would provide a more comprehensive
and equitable representation of states’ needs and achievements.
 States that have effectively implemented family planning programs should be acknowledged
and rewardedfor their efforts.
 The guidelines for the devolution of funds should be reviewed to incorporate a more
balanced approach.
 The growth potential of the localities proposed for the merger and their growth in
population were taken as criteria for the delimitation exercise.
Conclusion:
While 2026 is still a few years away, if we do not start a debate now on how to deal with the
problems that are likely to arise, we will be forced to postpone the lifting of the freeze to a future
date as was done in 2001. This will only postpone the problem for which we must find a solution
sooner or later. Even the various proposals for electoral reforms which have been recommended by
various Commissions over the past decade do not address these issues. These are challenges which
our political leaders have to address in the immediate future.
Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and

issues arising out of their design and implementation.
Why are paper leaks rampant in India? How does the Public Examinations (Prevention
of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, address this issue? Outline the Act’s major provisions aimed
at curbing cheating in public exams. (250 Words)
Difficulty level: Medium
Reference: IE, Insights
Why the question:
The Centre on Monday notified the Rules required to operationalise The Public Examinations
(Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the anti-cheating law passed by Parliament in February. The
law itself came into force on June 21, after it was notified in the official gazette.
This question asks about the prevalent issue of paper leaks in India and how the newly introduced
Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aims to tackle this problem.
Introduction:
Start by giving the context of the question.
Body:
Give an explanation of why paper leaks are a widespread issue in the country. Factors contributing to
the frequency of these incidents. Cite examples.
Next, write the purpose and objectives of the Act. Also, write the specific measures introduced to
prevent cheating in public examinations.
Conclusion:
Write potential outcomes and improvements anticipated from the implementation of the Act.
Introduction
Instances of paper leaks for competitive exams and government posts in India can be attributed to a
combination of systemic issues, corruption, and the high stakes associated with these examinations.
The Union government has implemented the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means)
Bill, 2024, effective from June 21, to curb malpractices and organised cheating in government
recruitment exams.
Body
Broad reasons for paper leaks in India
 Corruption and Bribery: Corruption is a significant challenge in many sectors in India,

including the education system. Individuals within examination boards, coaching centers, or
even government offices may be susceptible to bribery, leading to the compromise of the
examination process. Those seeking to gain an unfair advantage may be willing to pay
substantial amounts to secure leaked question papers.
 Lack of Stringent Security Measures: Some examination centers may lack robust security
measures to safeguard question papers. Insufficient surveillance, inadequate background
checks on personnel involved in the examination process, and lax control over the
distribution and storage of question papers contribute to vulnerabilities that can be
exploited.
 Inefficient Handling of Sensitive Information: The process of creating, distributing, and

storing examination papers involves multiple stakeholders. Any weak link in this chain can be
exploited for leaks. Insufficient oversight, poor management of confidential information, and
lack of technological safeguards can all contribute to paper leaks.
 Pressure and Competition: The competitive nature of exams in India, especially for
government jobs, can lead to desperation among candidates. The high demand for these
positions can create a black market for leaked question papers. As candidates face intense
pressure to succeed, some may succumb to the temptation of obtaining leaked papers to
secure an advantage.
 Inadequate Punishment: The legal consequences for those involved in paper leaks may not
be severe enough to deter potential wrongdoers. A perception that the chances of being
caught and punished are low can embolden individuals to engage in such activities.
Need for the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024:
The act is introduced against the backdrop of widespread exam cancellations (including the recent
NEET and NET exams controversy) due to paper leaks in various competitive tests across states like
Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat, and Bihar. Over 1.5 crore students have been affected by paper leaks
from 2016 to 2023, with more than 70 cases reported during this period. Despite these
incidents, there is currently no specific law to address unfair practices in public examinations
conducted by the central government and its agencies.
Key Highlights of the Public Examinations Act:
Highlights Description
Objective Enhance transparency, fairness, and credibility in public exams.
Reassure youth of fair rewards for sincere efforts.
It will supplement the other initiatives government in this direction such

as introducing self-attestation; shortening the examination cycle (from
18-22 months to 6-10 months), etc.
Covers central recruitment and entrance exams conducted by UPSC, SSC,

RRBs, IBPS, and NTA.
Applicability
All central ministries, departments, and recruitment offices are included.
Section 2(k) of the Act defines a public examination as any exam

Definition of conducted by a public examination authority listed in the Act’s Schedule
Public or designated by the Central Government through notification.
examination
Candidates are not targeted by the bill.

Exclusion of
Students Students are covered under existing administrative provisions of exam
authorities.
Prison terms of 3-5 years for paper leak involvement.
Up to 10 years if linked to organised crime.

Punishments
A fine of Rs 1 crore; exam organising firms may be barred from

conducting exams.
Section 3 lists 20 offences, including impersonation, tampering, Leakage

Unfair
of question papers or answer keys, Unauthorized access to question
Means
papers or Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) response sheets, Creating fake
Defined
websites, etc.
Cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable.

Nature of
Offences Cognizable: Offenses for which police can make an arrest without a
warrant
Non-bailable: Offenses for which bail is not guaranteed and must be

determined by a magistrate
Non-compoundable: Offenses that cannot be settled out of court,

requiring a trial to proceed regardless of any agreement between parties
involved
Led by officers of rank, not below Deputy Superintendent of Police or

Assistant Commissioner of Police.
Investigation
States have the option to send a probe to a Central agency.
National NTC was formed to enhance security in computerized exams.

Technical
Committee It will develop protocols for IT security and surveillance.
Model Draft
The act is binding for central authorities and; a model for states.
for States
Concerns with the Bill:
 State Government Discretion:The bill’s reliance on state governments to draft their own
acts may lead to partisan interests, as seen in past model bills.
 Exploitable Loopholes:Excluding students from criminal sanctions may allow paper leak
gangs to pose as students to evade punishment.
 Lack of Committee Composition:The absence of clarity on the composition and

qualifications of the National Technical Committee on Public Exams raises concerns about
potential partisanship.
 Subordinate Legislation Scope:The bill’s allowance for subordinate legislation grants

executive authorities extensive discretionary power in implementation.
Conclusion
Addressing the issue requires a comprehensive approach, including improving security measures,
implementing stricter penalties for wrongdoers, and promoting a culture of integrity within the
education and recruitment systems. Additionally, leveraging technology for secure paper generation,
distribution, and examination processes can help mitigate the risk of leaks.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands are strategically crucial for India’s maritime security and
power projection in the Indo-Pacific. In the light of the proposed Great Nicobar project,
examine the aforementioned statement. (250 words)
Why the question:
The Congress party has described the proposed Rs 72,000-crore infra upgrade at the Great Nicobar
Island as a “grave threat” to the island’s indigenous inhabitants and fragile ecosystem.
To understand the importance of Andaman & Nicobar Islands both strategically and economically for
India.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving a brief on the geographical location of Andaman & Nicobar Islands with respect to
mainland India.
Body:
First, write about the features of Great Nicobar project and its major proposals.
Next, Mention the economic importance such as the prospects of blue economy, tourism sector and
strategic importance such as critical role it plays in India’s engagement with the East Asian nations,
potential to act as a check on Chinese aggression in the seas, access to important trade routes and
sea routes etc.
Next, mention the need to develop the island to harness its importance through regional
infrastructure development as well as robust policy formulation. Write about the various issues in it.
Conclusion:
Conclude by stating that the island is filled with best opportunities and needs to be harnessed rightly
for India’s benefit.
Introduction
The strategic and economic importance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands is increasing in the power
corridors of New Delhi. The enhanced focus of New Delhi on the strategic importance of Andaman
and Nicobar Islands is reflected by the renewed emphasis on the creation of major military
infrastructure (revamping of airfields, jetties, habitat for troops) in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Government of India had earlier constituted Islands Development Agency (IDA) and a NITI Aayog
committee for holistic socio-economic development of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Body
Great Nicobar Project
The Great Nicobar Project is a significant infrastructure development initiative aimed at harnessing
the economic and strategic potential of Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar
archipelago.
 Transshipment Port:
o A transshipment port is planned on the eastern side of Galathea Bay.
o It aims to facilitate trade and connectivity by serving as a hub for cargo

transshipment.
 Dual-Use International Airport:
o The project includes the construction of a dual-use military-civil international

airport.
o The airport will enhance connectivity, tourism, and defense capabilities.
 Power Plant:
o A power plant is proposed on the western side of Great Nicobar Island.
o It will address the energy needs of the island and support economic activities.
 Township Development:
o The project envisions a township covering 149.60 sq km.
o It includes residential, commercial, and industrial zones.
 Relocation of Villages:
o To accommodate the airport and other infrastructure, villages like Gandhinagar and
Shastrinagar will be relocated.
o Balancing development with the welfare of indigenous inhabitants is crucial.
Importance and Significance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands for India
Geo-strategic and Geo-Political Significance
 Crucial Node for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific:India can leverage the strategic
position of the Andaman and Nicobar islands to emerge as the ‘net security provider’ in
the Indo-Pacific region.
 Enhances the scope of Maritime Partnership: Andaman and Nicobar’s geo-strategic location
enhances the scope for India’s maritime partnership with the US, Japan, Australia and
France. For ex-Enhances their scope for participation in Exercise KAVACH.
 Countering the growing Chinese influence:Andaman and Nicobar Islands is like a ‘Metal
chain‘ strung right down the Bay of Bengal to the mouth of the Malacca, with the potential
to block China’s access to the Indian Ocean. Beefing up of military infrastructure creates a
‘Malacca Dilemma‘ for China due to the proximity of Andaman and Nicobar Island to the
Malacca Strait.
 Protection of Maritime Choke points:Its geo-strategic location gives India advantage of

securing the Malacca Strait from where more than 90,000 merchant ships carrying about 30
per cent of the world’s traded goods pass every year.
Geo-Economic Significance
 Mineral Deposits:The island provides India with 300,000 sq km of exclusive economic zone
with the potential of undersea hydrocarbon and mineral deposits.
 Tourism Potential:The pristine beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Island has a large
tourism potential which can attract FDI in the hospitality sector in India.
 Maritime and Startup Hub:NITI Aayog has identified the potential for development of
Andaman and Nicobar Island as a maritime and startup Hub. For ex- NITI Aayog’s proposed
project for Great Nicobar which includes international container trans-shipment terminal,
a greenfield international airport, a power plant and a township complex.
Social Importance
 Treasure of Tribes:The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to 5 Particularly Vulnerable
Tribal Groups- Great Andamanese, Jarawas, Onges, Shompens and North Sentinelese. These
tribal groups are a treasure for enrichment of our anthropological understanding.
 Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR):The Andaman and Nicobar Island
provides an opportunity for India to undertake disaster-relief, medical aid, countering piracy
and human smuggling, aircraft/submarine search and rescue operations for the social
welfare in the Indo-Pacific region.
Challenges in the realisation of full development potential of these Islands

 Environmental Concerns:There are environmental concerns around the large scale
development projects being undertaken in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These
developmental projects can endanger the flora and fauna of the island state. For ex-
Proposed Great Nicobar project will endanger the Giant Leatherback in the Galathea Bay
area & threat to coral reefs and mangroves in the area.
 Geo Political insecurity: The geopolitical influence of Chinese military facility at Myanmar’s
Coco Islands lying 55 km north of A&N Islands poses a threat to India’s blue economy and
maritime security.
 Maritime Challenges: There are maritime threats and challenges arising from illegal
migration, human trafficking, poaching, and subversive threats from the seas.
 Geological Vulnerability:The Andaman and Nicobar island group’s location in the highly
active geological zone makes it prone to a number of natural disasters. For ex- 2004
earthquake and tsunami wiping one-fifth of the population and 90% of mangroves
in Nicobar and Car Nicobar island.
 Lack of coordination: The development of islands and strategic infrastructure is a

multidimensional project involving several ministries, departments, and agencies, that
presents significant coordination challenges
 Encroachment in Tribal Space: There has been intrusion in the tribal space due
to encroachment into their areas in the name of development, and lack of effective
rehabilitation program.
 Socio-economic Challenges: The influx of settlers, job-seekers, labourers, and migrants that
has created socio-economic problems on the island. The high cost of living, lack of
employment opportunities, and distance from the mainland have led to a sense of negativity
among the islanders.
Way forward
 Development in accordance with Sustainable Island Development

Framework: Environmental and Social Impact Assessment should be made mandatory for
any development activity in the Andaman and Nicobar Region. Planned habitation of
uninhabited islands should be considered by providing incentives such as free or subsidised
land, where eco-friendly entrepreneurial efforts could be encouraged.
 Developing Island Security Model:A long-term Capability Development Plan must be

prepared for the Andaman and Nicobar Command, the Coast Guard, and the Andaman
Police for developing and implementing an Island Security Model. There must be robust
maritime security to keep the vast area around the islands under surveillance.
 Increasing the pace of Development Works:The pace of Socio-economic and Infrastructural

Development works must be increased for the holistic development of the Andaman and
Nicobar Islands.
It’s crucial to develop infrastructure on the southern group of islands, strategically
positioned along the main shipping route from the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia, to
support India’s maritime economy.
 Making the Andaman’s a formidable maritime bastion: This will extend India’s defensive
perimeter and also bestow the ability to project power or extend a hand of friendship to
maritime neighbours.
Delayed census data stalls progress towards sustainable development and exacerbates
inequalities. Analyse. (250 words)
Why the question:
Census data are essential for many purposes, including the implementation of welfare schemes.
To write about benefits of collecting census data and impact of delayed census.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of census in India.
Body:
In the first part, discuss the advantages of census – essential for planning the provision of health
care, education, employment, etc, helpful in the debate related to reservation policy, targeted
poverty reduction programmes etc
Next, Discuss the limitations of not conducting census – inefficient resource allocation, outdated
policies, inadequate urban planning, overlooked vulnerable populations, and compromised public
health and emergency responses etc.
Conclusion:
Introduction
A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members
of a given population. Census provides information on size, distribution, socio-economic,
demographic and other characteristic of countries population.
The Census was first started under British Viceroy Lord Mayo in 1872. It helped in framing new
policies, government programs to uplift areas of improvement in the community. The first
synchronous census in India was held in 1881. Every ten years: Since then, censuses have been
undertaken uninterruptedly once every ten years.
Study of India’s experience under colonial rule by Dylan Sullivan and Jason Hickel concludes that
data from the Census of India reveal that between 1880 and 1920 approximately 100 million Indians
died due to British policy in India.
Without a reliable and dynamic database, governments will find it hard to reach the poorest of
households in need of state support. They will have to either rely on extra-official agents to help
identify the poorest lot, or devise quasi-universal schemes to cut down exclusion errors.
Body
Need for census
 The census provides information on size, distribution and socio-economic, demographic and
other characteristics of the country’s population.
 The data collected through the census are used for administration, planning and policy
making as well as management and evaluation of various programmesby the government,
NGOs, researchers, commercial and private enterprises, etc.
 Census data is also used for demarcation of constituencies and allocation of representation
to parliament, State legislative Assemblies and the local bodies.
 Researchers and demographers use census data to analyze growth and trends of
population and make projections.
 The census data is also important for business houses and industries for strengthening and
planning their business for penetration into areas, which had hitherto remained,
uncovered.
Importance of Census
 Utility in Administration and Policy
o The population census provides the basic data for administrative purposes. One of
the most basic of the administrative uses of census data is in the demarcation of
constituenceis and the allocation of representation on governing bodies. Detailed
information on the geographic distribution of the population is indispensable for this
purpose. The Census also gives information on the demographic and economic
characteristics of the population at the district level.
 Utility of Census data for Research Purposes:
o The population census provides indispensable data for scientific analysis and
appraisal of the composition, distribution and past and prospective growth of the
population.
 Utility of Census data in Business and Industry:
o The census data has many important uses for individuals and institutions in business
and industry. It is very difficult to make a full assessment of the multiplicity of ways
in which trade and business make use of the census data.
 Census as frame for Sample Surveys:
o The rapidity of current changes in the size and other characteristics of populations
and the demand for additional detailed data on social and economic characteristics
which are not appropriate for collection in a full-scale census, have brought about
the need for continuing programmes of intercensal sample surveys to collect current
and detailed information on many topics which are usually investigated at ten-year
intervals in the population censuses.
 Utility of Census data in Planning:
o The census data is indispensable for social and economic planning of the Country.
The Planning Commission utilises the Census data on the distribution of population
by age, sex classified by rural and urban regions, cities, town areas and social groups
to analyse the growth of consumer demand and savings in the process of
development.
 Utility of Population Census to Electoral Rolls:
o Some countries have taken advantage of the enumeration for a population census to
collect, at the same time, information needed for the establishment of electoral
rolls. This procedure is not generally advisable because of the deleterious effect the
secondary purpose might have on the quality of the census results.
 Utility of Population Census to other types of Censuses:
o Certain information collected as part of a population census, or incidential to it, can

be most useful in conducting and/or utilizing the results of housing, agricultural or
establishment censuses taken at about the same time or near about as the
population census.
 Utility of population census to civil registration and vital statistics:
o Census data serve as denominators for the computation of vital rates, especially
rates specific for characteristics normally investigated only at the time of the census.
Challenges and Experiences:
 Cost of Conducting Census
o One of the biggest challenges associated with conducting census in poor countries is
the enormous financial costs of conducting the exercise. It is no secret that it is
extremely costly to conduct a census.
 High Illiteracy Rate in a Nation has a Negative Impact on the Conducting of Census
o Countries with large proportions of their populations being illiterates face a great
challenge during the conducting of censuses.
 Inadequate Infrastructural Facilities in Certain Areas
o There are certain places in the world where it is very difficult undertaking efficient
population census because of poor infrastructural facilities such as bad roads,
inaccessible roads or insufficient roads that connect various towns and villages.
 Traditional and Religious Beliefs can Interfere with the Census Exercise
o In many underdeveloped parts of the world where traditional beliefs are the order
of the day, census officers face serious challenges when they reach these places and
try counting the people.
 Corruption Interferes with Census
o Corruption during census can make it difficult to have an efficient population census
exercise that provides accurate population figures.
 Insufficient Census Experts
o Another problem associated with conducting censuses in certain parts of the world
is the insufficient number of professionals with the knowledge and experience of
conducting census.
 Insufficient and Ineffective Census Educational Campaign
o How effective an educational campaign on census is prior to the census taking place
determines how successful the census exercise eventually becomes.
 Poor Demographic Maps
o Because of demographic maps that aren’t reliable, it becomes very difficult for the
authorities to know all the remote areas (especially the very remote areas) in the
country and go there to conduct the census exercise.
Way forward
 Census data is first time being collected by mobile hence specific training should be given to
the collectors
 Also public must be aware about the methodology
 Method must be developed to tackle the problem faced in earlier phases
Conclusion
Census is a major pillar for development and hence, Centre, States as well as local bodies must help
for smoother process of Collection of data.
India’s poor performance on the Global Gender Gap report is attributed to several
factors. Improving political participation of women is pivotal for achieving gender
equality and has far-reaching impacts on society. Discuss. (250 words)
Reference: Down to Earth
Why the question:
Gender Gap Report 2024: India fares worse than Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan.
To write about the causes of gender gap prevalent in India, its impact, and role of improving political
participation of women to bridge gender gap
Directive:

Introduction:
Begin by giving background of the issue and relevant statistics.
Body:
First, write about the Factors leading to gender gap viz. – low female labour force participation,
significant wage disparity, and high dropout rates among girls, skewed sex ratio, gender-based
violence etc.
Next, write about role of improving political participation of women to bridge gender gap – promotes
inclusive governance, empowers women, and leads to more equitable policy-making.
Next, write about the steps that are needed to overcome the above issues and address the gender
gap.
Conclusion:
Introduction
India has slipped two places on the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Gender Gap index to
129th place, while Iceland retained its top position in the rankings published on June 12, 2024.
Within South Asia, India was ranked fifth after Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Bhutan, while
Pakistan was ranked last. Globally, Sudan was ranked last on the index of 146 countries, while
Pakistan slipped three places to 145th.
India figured among the economies with the lowest levels of economic parity, alongside Bangladesh,
Sudan, Iran, Pakistan, and Morocco. All of them registered less than 30% gender parity in estimated
earned income.
Body
Other findings from report
 India showed the best gender parity in terms of enrolment in secondary education, while it
scored well on political empowerment of women at 65th rank globally.
 With regard to parity in the number of years with female/male heads of state for the last 50
years, India was ranked 10th.
 With a population of more than 140 crore, India has closed 64.1% of its gender gap in 2024
and the decline of two places from 127th last year, mainly happened due to small declines in
‘Educational Attainment’ and ‘Political Empowerment,’ parameters, while ‘Economic
Participation’ and ‘Opportunity’ scores slightly improved.
 The WEF said India’s economic parity score has trended upwards for the past four years.
 In the Political Empowerment subindex, India scored within the top-10 on the head-of-state
indicator, but its scores for women’s representation at the federal level, in Ministerial
positions (6.9%) and in Parliament (17.2%), remain relatively low.
 The WEF said the world has closed 68.5% of the gender gap, but at the current pace it will
take another 134 years — equivalent to five generations — to achieve full gender parity.
 Since last year, the gender gap has closed by 0.1 percentage points.
Factors Leading to Gender Gap:
 Low Female Labor Force Participation:
o Globally, only 55% of adult women participate in the labor market, compared to 78%
of men.
o In India, women face barriers such as social norms, caregiving responsibilities, and
lack of safe workplaces.
 Wage Disparity:
o Women still receive 34% less wages than men for the same work.
o The gender pay gap affects women of different ethnicities and races differently.
 High Dropout Rates Among Girls:
o Girls from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often lack access to education.
o Lack of toilets in schools and proper menstrual hygiene management facilities

contribute to dropout rates.
 Gender-Based Violence:
o Violence against women sets them back economically and perpetuates inequality.
o Discriminatory social norms and laws contribute to this issue.
Role of Improving Political Participation:
 Inclusive Governance:
o Women’s active political participation ensures diverse perspectives in decision-

making.
o Inclusive policies benefit society as a whole.
 Empowerment:
o Political representation empowers women, giving them a voice in shaping policies.
o It challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes.
 Equitable Policy-Making:
o Women bring unique insights and priorities to policy discussions.
o Gender-sensitive policies address specific needs and promote equality.
Steps to Overcome Gender Gap:
 Education and Skill Development:
o Ensure equal access to quality education for girls.
o Skill-building programs can enhance employability.
 Workplace Policies:
o Implement maternity leave policies that support working mothers.
o Promote flexible work arrangements and equal pay for equal work.
 Role Models and Mentoring:
o Encourage more female role models and mentors.
o Representation matters for inspiring future generations.
 Transparent Pay Structures:
o Eliminate wage disparities by ensuring transparent salary structures.
o Regular audits can identify and rectify gender-based pay gaps.
 Political Participation:
o Encourage women to participate in local and national politics.
o Quotas or reserved seats can increase representation.
Way Forward:
 Holistic Approach:
o Address gender inequality across education, health, and economic sectors.
o Recognize intersectionality (race, ethnicity, caste, etc.) in policy formulation.
 Legal Reforms:
o Strengthen existing laws and enforce them rigorously.
o Promote gender-sensitive legislation.
 Awareness and Sensitization:
o Educate society about gender equality.
o Challenge stereotypes and discriminatory practices.
 Corporate Responsibility:
o Companies should promote diversity and equal opportunities.
o Mentorship programs can foster women’s leadership.
 Community Engagement:
o Grassroots initiatives can empower women at the local level.
o Encourage women’s participation in community decision-making.
Conclusion
Achieving gender equality requires concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and
individuals. By addressing systemic barriers and promoting women’s active participation, we can
bridge the gap and create a more equitable world.
Gig workers face issues like job insecurity and lack of benefits, necessitating legal
protections, fair wages, and social security to safeguard their rights. Analyse. (250
words)
Why the question:
The article highlights the importance of prioritizing gig economy workers, who encounter challenges
like job instability and insufficient social security.
To write about the issues faced by gig workers, need to ensure and protect rights of gig workers.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by defining gig workers and present a statistic regarding the number of gig workers in the
Indian economy.
Body:
In the first talk about the ambiguity in gig economy which results in the exploitation of gig workers –
lack of formal employer-employee relationship, remuneration, rigidity of working hours and the
working conditions etc.
Next, write about the benefits of regulating the gig economy and steps needed to protect the rights
of workers and grant them social protection.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Gig workers are independent contractors who perform temporary, flexible jobs, often through
digital platforms. They’re paid for each “gig” they complete, such as a ride-share trip or a freelance
assignment, rather than receiving a regular salary or benefits from an employer.
A gig economy is a free market system in which temporary positions are common and organizations
contract with independent workers for short-term engagements Examples of gig employees in the
workforce could include freelancers, independent contractors, project-based workers and
temporary or part-time hires.
According to the Oxford Internet Institute’s ‘Online Labor Index’, India leads the global gig economy
with a 24% share of the online labor market.
Body
Issues faced by gig economy workers
 This workforce has limited employment rights like minimum wages, health benefits, sick
leaves or even retirement benefits to fall back on.
 Also, the payment is assured only on the completion of the project giving a sense of
financial insecurity.
 The lack of any kind of protection was also deterring several talented workers against
participating in the economy
 No stable and secure employment: These so-called jobs do not provide health insurance,
nor pay for overtime with no sick leave.
 Lack of income security: There is no room for wage negotiations, and unions are absent. In
the gig economy, job creation should be seen as the provision of livelihoods for
entrepreneurs.
 Grievance redressal mechanism: For instance, when Ola and Uber started cutting back
incentives, the drivers in Mumbai decided to go on ‘strike’.
o But there was no clarity against whom they were striking. When the strikers agitated
at a local transport commissioner’s office, he had to tell them that he did not
regulate the hail-a-taxi business.
 The Central government recently passed the social security code which could cover gig
worker as well.
 One of the key proposals includes the creation of a social security fund which is around 1
per cent of the aggregators’ annual turnover.
 This fund would be used primarily for the welfare of the unorganized and the gig workforce
Regulation of gig economy
 Constant upskilling and reskilling is required for such talents to stay industry relevant and
market ready.
 A categorical clarification could ensure that social security measures are provided to
workers without compromising the touted qualities of platform work.
 Countries must come together to set up a platform to extend their labour protection to the
workforce who are working part-time in their country.
 Companies employing the workforce on a temporary basis should also be made responsible
to contribute to their insurance and social obligation other than just their tax commitment.
 There is a need for a socio-legal acknowledgement of the heterogeneity of work in the gig
economy, and the ascription of joint accountability to the State and platform
companies for the delivery of social services.
 In the Code on Social Security, 2020, platform workers are now eligible for
benefits. Actualising these benefits will depend on the political will at the Central and State
government-levels and how unions elicit political support.
Way forward
 The government needs to come out with some more regulations to protect the workforce of
the gig economy.
 Also, at present, there is no mechanism to address the issue of redress of disputes.
 It could also mean countries coming together to set up a platform to extend their labour
protection to the workforce who are working part-time in their country.
 Companies employing the workforce on a temporary basis should also be made responsible
to contribute to their insurance and social obligation other than just their tax commitment.
Conclusion
The scope of the gig economy in a country like India is enormous. The government needs to come
out with a comprehensive legislation to empower and motivate many to take this path. The gig
economy and its workforce cannot be overlooked when we talk about the future of employment.
With a population of over 1.3 billion, and a majority of them below the age of 35, relying on the “gig
economy” is perhaps the only way to create employment for a large semi-skilled and unskilled
workforce. Therefore, it is important to hand-hold this sector and help it grow. We need policies and
processes that give clarity to the way the sector should function.
Value addition
Statistics
 Human resources firm TeamLease estimates that 13 lakh Indians joined the gig economy in
the last half of 2018-19, registering a 30% growth compared to the first half of the fiscal
year.
 Better Place, a digital platform that does background verification and skill development in
the informal sector, estimates that of the 21 lakh jobs that will be created in the metros in
2019-20, 14 lakh will be in the gig economy.
 Food and e-commerce delivery will account for 8 lakh positions and drivers will account for
nearly 6 lakh positions, says the report, based on 11 lakh profiles in over 1,000 companies.
 Delhi, Bengaluru and other metros are expected to be the biggest drivers of this sector.
And two-thirds of this workforce will be under the age of 40.
Reforming entrance exams in India by enhancing security, transparency, and equity is

essential to prevent violations and ensure a fair and effective system that will protect
the future of students. Analyse. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu , Indian Express
Why the question:
The National Testing Agency, which conducts NEET, has been forced to appoint a four-member
committee to go into the charges and allegations made about the conduct of the eligibility and
entrance test for medicine for 2024.
To write about the issues in entrance exams and ways to reform them.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Body:
First, write about the various challenges students face in entrance exams – scams, leaks,
manipulations, rural-urban divide, leading to detrimental effects such as stress and inequality,
pressures, suicides etc.
Next, suggest measures to overcome the above challenges – security measures, promoting
transparency, ensuring equity, accountability and continuously monitoring the processes,
Conclusion:
Introduction
Entrance exams in India play a pivotal role in determining admission to various educational
programs. After completing the 12th grade, students appear for specialized entrance exams based
on their career aspirations. These exams shape students’ academic journeys and open doors to
diverse career paths. There are various exams like IEEE- JEE, CLAT, NEET, CET etc.
The National Testing Agency, which conducts NEET, has been forced to appoint a four-member
committee to go into the charges and allegations made about the conduct of the eligibility and
entrance test for medicine for 2024.
Body
Challenges Faced by Students:
 Scams and Leaks:
o Instances of question paper leaks and cheating mar the integrity of exams.
o Students face immense pressure to perform well, leading to unethical practices.
 Rural-Urban Divide:
o Urban students often have better access to coaching centers, study materials, and
technology.
o Rural students face disadvantages due to limited resources and infrastructure.
 Stress and Mental Health:
o The intense competition and high stakes cause stress, anxiety, and burnout.
o Mental health issues impact performance and overall well-being.
 Inequality and Pressure:
o Socioeconomic disparities affect access to quality education and coaching.
o Unrealistic expectations from parents and society add to the burden.
 Suicides and Desperation:
o Tragically, some students resort to extreme measures due to exam-related stress.
o The pressure to secure a seat in prestigious institutions can be overwhelming.
Measures to Overcome Challenges:
 Enhanced Security Measures:
o Implement biometric identification, secure exam centers, and digital surveillance.
o Prevent leaks and ensure fair conduct.
 Transparency:
o Publish detailed exam guidelines, syllabi, and evaluation criteria.
o Make past question papers available for practice.
 Equity and Access:
o Bridge the rural-urban divide by providing online resources and coaching.
o Scholarships and fee waivers can promote equal opportunities.
 Accountability:
o Hold exam conducting bodies, coaching centers, and schools accountable.
o Regular audits and strict penalties for malpractices.
 Continuous Monitoring:
o Regularly review exam processes, adapt to changing needs, and address issues
promptly.
o Involve experts, educators, and students in decision-making.
Way Forward:
 Holistic Approach:
o Recognize that exams are not the sole determinants of success.
o Encourage skill development, creativity, and critical thinking alongside exam

preparation.
 Emphasize Well-Being:
o Promote mental health awareness and stress management.
o Schools and parents should prioritize student well-being over results.
 Diverse Assessment Methods:
o Explore alternatives like project-based assessments, interviews, and portfolios.
o Move beyond rote memorization.
 Collaboration and Research:
o Involve stakeholders in designing better exam systems.
o Research global best practices and adapt them to the Indian context.
Conclusion
Entrance exams can be stepping stones to success, but they need to be fair, transparent, and
supportive.
Making healthcare in India more accessible and affordable is essential for improving
public health, fostering economic stability, and promoting social equity. Discuss.
Suggest steps to make healthcare more accessible and affordable. (250 words)
Why the question:
As we navigate the dynamic landscape of Indian health care, cost considerations are increasingly
influencing every aspect of service delivery and patient care
To write about the importance of making healthcare more accessible and affordable.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Body:
First, write about the various bottlenecks in accessibility and affordability of health care in India.
Next, write about the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare.
Suggest reforms to ensure the that healthcare is accessible and affordable by all.
Conclusion:
Introduction
With rising health disparities and uneven access to medical services, the need for equitable and
sustainable health-care policies has never been more urgent than now. Ongoing discussions about
setting rates for medical services are not just bureaucratic exercises. They fundamentally shape how
we perceive, access, and deliver health care across India. In this globalised era, we see a variety of
responses to similar challenges worldwide, shaped by differing cultural, economic, and systemic
factors.
Body
Challenges in Healthcare Accessibility and Affordability:

 Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE):India faces high OOPE, where households directly bear a
significant portion of healthcare costs. In 2016, India’s OOPE was around 65%, far above the
global average of approximately 20%.
 State-Level Disparities:States like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh have OOPE constituting 80% and
75% of total health expenditure, respectively. Even in relatively better-performing states like
Karnataka and Gujarat, households still cover nearly half of healthcare costs.
 Medicine Expenses:Medicines account for a substantial share of OOPE (around 43% in 2015-
16). Ensuring affordable access to quality medicines is critical.
 Impoverishment:Health expenses can push households below the poverty

line. Approximately 7% of households experience impoverishment due to healthcare costs.
Importance of Accessible and Affordable Healthcare:

 Public Health:Improved access leads to better preventive care, early diagnosis, and reduced
disease burden. It enhances overall public health and productivity.
 Economic Stability:Healthy citizens contribute more effectively to the economy. Reduced

healthcare costs alleviate financial stress on households.
 Social Equity:Equal access ensures that vulnerable populations receive necessary care,
bridging gaps in health outcomes.
Reforms for Accessible and Affordable Healthcare:
 Universal Health Coverage (UHC):Implementing UHC ensures that everyone has access to
essential health services without financial hardship. It involves expanding insurance
coverage and reducing OOPE.
 Strengthening Primary Healthcare:Investing in robust primary care facilities can address

health issues at an early stage, reducing the need for expensive treatments later.
 Generic Medicine Promotion:Encouraging the use of generic drugs lowers costs. India’s Jan
Aushadhi stores provide affordable generic medicines.
 Telemedicine and Digital Health:Leveraging technology can improve access, especially in
rural areas. Teleconsultations, e-pharmacies, and health apps enhance convenience.
 Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):Collaborations between government and private sectors

can enhance infrastructure, service delivery, and affordability.
 Health Infrastructure Investment:Building more hospitals, clinics, and health centers
ensures proximity to healthcare services.
 Health Literacy and Awareness:Educating citizens about preventive measures, early

detection, and available services empowers them to make informed choices.
 Regulating Drug Prices:Stricter price controls on essential medicines can curb excessive
costs.
 Community Health Workers:Deploying trained community health workers can improve

outreach and awareness.
Conclusion and Way Forward:
 India must prioritize accessible and affordable healthcare as a fundamental right.
 Coordinated efforts by policymakers, healthcare providers, and citizens are essential.
 By addressing bottlenecks, promoting reforms, and ensuring equitable access, India can
achieve better health outcomes for all.
 A comprehensive approach involving policy reforms, infrastructure development, and public

awareness will pave the way toward a healthier and more equitable India
The government must prioritize education, nutrition, and health of children in their
policies due to their critical role in fostering socio-economic development and ensuring
future well-being. Discuss. (250 words)

Why the question:
Children form about 30% of India’s population, but they are invisible during elections.
To write about the need for prioritising education, nutrition, and health of children in its policies.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Body:
In the first part, write about the importance of child education – enhances human capital, drives
economic growth, and promotes social stability.
Next, write about the importance of child nutrition – physical and cognitive development, leading to
better educational outcomes and long-term health etc.
Next, write about the importance of child health – boosts productivity, reduces healthcare costs, and
improves quality of life. Mentions ways to achieve the above
Conclusion:
Introduction
Children form about 30% of India’s population, but they are invisibilised during elections. India has
the largest child population in the world, yet most political parties turn a blind eye to children’s
interests.
Body
Importance of Child Education:
 Enhancing Human Capital:
o Education equips children with knowledge, skills, and abilities, enhancing their
human capital.
o Well-educated individuals contribute more effectively to society, the economy, and

technological advancements.
 Driving Economic Growth:
o A literate and skilled workforce drives economic productivity and innovation.
o Countries with higher literacy rates tend to experience faster economic growth.
 Promoting Social Stability:
o Education fosters social cohesion by promoting understanding, tolerance, and

empathy.
o An educated populace is more likely to engage in peaceful dialogue and democratic

processes.
Importance of Child Nutrition:
 Physical and Cognitive Development:
o Proper nutrition during early childhood is crucial for physical growth and brain
development.
o Malnutrition can lead to stunted growth, impaired cognitive function, and reduced
learning capacity.
 Educational Outcomes:
o Well-nourished children perform better academically.
o Adequate nutrition improves attention span, memory, and overall cognitive abilities.
 Long-Term Health Benefits:
o Childhood nutrition impacts long-term health outcomes.
o Proper nutrition reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Importance of Child Health:
 Boosting Productivity:
o Healthy children are more likely to attend school regularly and actively participate.
o Good health contributes to better concentration and overall productivity.
 Reducing Healthcare Costs:
o Preventive measures, such as vaccinations and regular check-ups, reduce healthcare

expenses.
o Early detection and intervention prevent costly treatments in the long run.
 Improving Quality of Life:
o Healthy children experience a better quality of life, both physically and emotionally.
o Physical fitness enhances their ability to engage in recreational activities and social
interactions.
Way Forward:
 Integrated Approach:
o Governments, NGOs, and communities should collaborate to address education,

nutrition, and health simultaneously.
o Integrated programs yield better results than isolated efforts.
 Early Childhood Interventions:
o Invest in early childhood education and nutrition programs.
o Target vulnerable populations to break the cycle of poverty and malnutrition.
 Parental Education:
o Educate parents on the importance of balanced diets, hygiene, and preventive

healthcare.
o Empower parents to make informed decisions for their children.
 School Health Programs:
o Schools can serve as hubs for health education and screenings.
o Regular health check-ups and awareness campaigns benefit students and their
families.
 Community Engagement:
o Involve local communities in promoting child health and education.
o Community health workers can play a pivotal role in disseminating information.
Conclusion
Holistic approach that integrates education, nutrition, and health is essential for nurturing healthy,
educated, and productive future generations.
Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services

relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) remains high in certain parts of India, posing a
significant public health challenge. Examine. (250 words)
Why the question:
A The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 2.
To write about the high MMR in certain parts and measures needed to tackle it.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Start by giving statistic regarding MMR in India and how it is relatively high in certain parts of the
country.
Body:
Frist, write about the various measures against MMR – LaQshya, Poshan Abhiyan, Janani Suraksha
Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan, Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana,
Surakshit Matritva Aashwasan Initiative (SUMAN) etc.
Next, write the reasons why there are high trends of MMR in India despite above measures.
Next, write about the measures that are needed to reduce mortality rates in low performing states.
Conclusion:
Introduction
India’s maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has improved to 103 in 2017-19, from 113 in 2016-18. This
is according to the special bulletin on MMR released by the Registrar General of India March 14,
2022.
As per the World Health Organisation, maternal death is the death of a woman while pregnant or
within 42 days of termination of pregnancy, from any cause related to or aggravated by the
pregnancy or its management.
According to a recent report, the progress made by countries towards reducing maternal and
newborn deaths has stagnated since 2015. The report, released by the United Nations, revealed that
more than 2.5 million newborns and 260,000 women die annually, mostly due to preventable
causes.
Body
MMR in states: Findings
 Researchers from the International Institute for Population Sciences triangulated data from
routine records of maternal deaths under the Health Management Information System, with
Census data and the Sample Registration System (SRS) to provide the MMR for all States and
districts of India.
 The analysis suggests that 70% of districts (448 out of 640 districts) in India have reported
MMR above 70 deaths — a target under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals
(SDG).
 The number of States that have achieved the SDG target has now risen from five to seven
— Kerala(30), Maharashtra (38), Telangana (56), Tamil Nadu (58), Andhra
Pradesh (58), Jharkhand (61), and Gujarat (70).
o Keralahas recorded the lowest MMR which puts Kerala way ahead of the national
MMR of 103.
o Kerala’s Maternal MMR has dropped by 12 points. The last SRS bulletin (2015-17)
had put the State’s MMR at 42(later adjusting it to 43).
 There are now nine States that have achieved the MMR target set by the NHP, which include
the above seven and Karnataka (83) and Haryana (96).
 Uttarakhand(101), West Bengal (109), Punjab (114), Bihar (130), Odisha (136)
and Rajasthan (141) — have the MMR in between 100-150,
while Chhattisgarh (160), Madhya Pradesh (163), Uttar Pradesh (167) and Assam (205) have
the MMR above 150.
Measures undertaken to tackle MMR
Under the National Health Mission (NHM), some of the important steps taken to reduce maternal
deaths in the country are as follows:
 Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), a demand promotion and conditional cash transfer scheme is
implemented with the objective of reducing Maternal and Infant Mortality by encouraging
institutional deliveries.
 Under Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), every pregnant woman is entitled to free
delivery, including caesarean section in public health institutions. This also includes free
transport, diagnostics, medicines, other consumables, food and blood, if required.
 Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) has been launched to provide fixed-
day assured comprehensive and quality antenatal care universally to all pregnant women on
the 9thof every month. While antenatal care is routinely provided to pregnant women,
special ANC services are provided by OBGY specialists/ Radiologist/ Physicians at
government health facilities under PMSMA.
 Surakshit Matratva Ashwasan (SUMAN) 2019 aspires to provide every mother and a
newborn who visits a public health institution with guaranteed, dignified, respectful, and
high-quality healthcare at no cost.
 ‘LaQshya – Labor room Quality improvement Initiative’ has been launched on 11thDec
2017.
 Special provision of birth waiting homes under NHM in tribal areas.
 Maternal Death Surveillance and Response (MDSR) is implemented to take corrective action
for averting maternal deaths.
 Funds are provided for strengthening of ‘Delivery Points’ for provision of comprehensive
Reproductive, Maternal, New Born Child Health and Adolescent (RMNCH+A)services. Placing
quality emergency obstetric care services at “Delivery Points” is a priority area.
 Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Wings are established at high caseload facilities.
Causes for high MMR
 According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the major causes for maternal
mortality are severe bleeding, infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy, anaemia,
complications from delivery, and unsafe abortions.
 A large number of these issues can be alleviated with proper medical support, which is
sometimes not easy to access. These complications are a result of compounded social,
cultural and medical factors.
 Early pregnancy between 15 and 19 years of age, when the adolescent girls are themselves
growing, can lead to numerous complications that often result in the death of the mother.
 Child marriage, still followed in some parts of India even though it has been declared illegal,
aggravates cases of pregnancy-related complications in young girls.
 Other causes that result in maternal deaths are lack of necessary medical care during
childbirth or financial constraints to access medical care.
 In conclusion, women deserve the right to safe maternity services. This includes physical and
emotional safety for the mother and baby.
 Hence, a well-managed system that allows pregnant women to access maternal health care
with minimum exposure risk is essential during the outbreak.
 Simultaneously, task sharing with community health workers under regulatory and legal
provisions must be explored.
 E-training mechanisms and capacity building exercises must be undertaken for the
additionally requisitioned health workforce to reduce the workload of time-sensitive
commitments and non-health work.
 Importantly, the health workers must also be trained to reduce the risk, stigma and
sensitization of pregnant women on COVID-19 symptoms, prevention and hygiene.
Improving the participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and

Mathematics (STEM) is crucial for achieving gender equality and fostering innovation.
Analyse. (250 words)
Reference: Live Mint , Insights on India
Why the question:
Historically, academies have been male bastions with the significant exclusion of women scientists,
irrespective of their contributions and work.
To write about how to improve participation of women in STEM courses and be made more inclusive
and sensitive for women empowerment.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving a statistic about the representation of women in higher academic sciences.
Body:
In the first part, mention how historically gender norms and patriarchal attitudes continue to affect
women in academic sciences.
Next, write about the measures that are needed make higher science inclusive and sensitive –
promoting awareness, giving choice, continuous academic support, re-inclusion after a break, policy
support etc.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Science, technology, engineering, and medicine –together known as ‘STEM’ fields –suffer from lack
of women, especially in India. In school exam results, we hear of how girls have outshone boys, but
when it comes to those who take up research in later life, the number of women is minuscule. This
means that many of our best brains that showed the maximum potential do not pick research as a
career.
Since independence, successive governments in India have taken many steps in bringing gender
empowerment. However, various developmental indices reflect that still, a lot needs to be done in
this regard. One such area of improvement is increasing gender participation in STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Body
India tops world rankings in producing female graduates in STEM with 43% but employs only 14% of
them. In comparison, Sweden produces 35% female STEM graduates and employs 34% of them.
Status of Women in STEM Fields
 About 43% of STEM graduates in India may be women, which is the highest in the world, but
women’s share in STEM jobs in India is a mere 14%.
 Most of the women STEM graduates in India either pursue another career or do not work at
all. Women across the world face the ‘leaky pipeline’ problem in STEM fields.
 Women leave the workforce, due to the absence of supportive institutional structures
during pregnancy, safety issues in fieldwork and the workplace.
 The STEM field is so perpetuated with gender stereotypes. It has a very strong male-
dominated culture. Further, there is a lack of role models for girls and women.
 Not just societal norms but issues related to poor education and healthcare access are
responsible for a lesser number of women in these fields.
However, as per the Department of Science and Technology data, the number of women
scientists has gone up in over the past two decades. The findings of a report in August 2022 are as
follows
 Women among researchers: Increased from 9% (2015) to 18.7% (2018)
 Good number of participation of women till post-graduate level and then there is a drop at
the post-doctoral level.
 Women in Engineering (14.5%) < Women in natural Science (22.5%) < Women in Health
(24.5%)
Reasons for this gender gap
 When highly qualified women drop out of the workforce, it results in considerable depletion
of national resources in science and technology.
 Stereotypes encountered by girls to the family-caring responsibilities.
 Patriarchal society.
 Women face bias when choosing a career.
 Women continue to face the same kind of discrimination at work as they face in society.
 According to a recent Accenture research report, the gender pay gap in India is as high as 67
percent.
 Various studies have found that girls excel at mathematics and science-oriented subjects in
school, but boys often believe they can do better, which shapes their choices in higher
studies.
 In 2015, an analysis of PISA scores by OECD found that the difference in math scores
between high-achieving boys and girls was the equivalent of about half a year at school.
 But when comparing boys and girls who reported similar levels of self-confidence and
anxiety about mathematics, the gender gap in performance disappeared — when girls were
more anxious, they tended to perform poorly.
Government Initiatives so far to bridge the gender gap in STEM:
 Vigyan Jyoti scheme:
o Announced in the 2017 budget for the Ministry of Science and Technology.
o The scheme aims to arrange for girl students of classes 9, 10 and 11 meet women
scientists, with the IITs and the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research.
o It is intended to create a level-playing field for the meritorious girls in high school to
pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in their higher
education
o It also offers exposure for girl students from the rural background to help to plan
their journey from school to a job of their choice in the field of science.
 GATI Scheme:
o The Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) will develop a

comprehensive Charter and a framework for assessing Gender Equality in STEM.
 Inspire-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspiration and Knowledge)

o Attract talented young boys and girls to study science and pursue research as a
career.
 Unnat Bharat Abhiyan programme
o Launched by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in 2014.
o Connect India’s elite institutes with local communities and address their
developmental challenges with appropriate technological interventions.
 Indo-US fellowship for women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and

medicine to participate in international collaborative research in premier institutions in
America
 Women-centric programmes under the Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement

through Nurturing (KIRAN)initiative
 Bio-technology Career Advancement and Reorientation (Bio-Care)
Way Forward
 Promote gender equality as an explicit human right.
 Identify and eliminate practices that create systemic and structural impediments to the
advancement of women in science.
 Support the empowerment of women to enable them to flourish in the scientific profession.
 Identify potential risks and hindrances to women in their pursuit of science and implement
strategies to eliminate them.
 Engage with the Government of India, scientific institutions and the civil society to promote
and support gender equality in general, and in science in particular.
 Replicating ISRO Model:The role of women engineers in the launch of the Indian Space
Research Organisation’s second moon mission, Chandrayaan-2 shows that how social
shackles pertaining to women are loosening. Thus, there is a need for emulating ISRO’s
model in STEM fields.
 Bringing Behavioural Change:Subdued gender participation emanates from social-economic

issues, which can be treated by bringing behavioural change. For this, the contributions of
women in the STEM sector should be highlighted in textbooks. This may motivate the next
generation of girls to be leaders in the STEM sector.
 Women’s participation in STEM should be encouraged from primary school level rather only
in higher studies.
 Awareness about gender inequality and its outcome has to be increased and the community
should be supportive and understanding of career prospects for women.
 Companies can provide more internship opportunities for women and give STEM
scholarships to meritorious yet economically backward girls.
 India’s forthcoming Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (STIP) should focus on the
thrust on gender equity and inclusion. Digital India too provides an opportunity to impart
education in the STEM field to women.
Conclusion
A research report by McKinsey said that narrowing the gender gap in STEM can lead to an increase
of $12-28 trillion in the global economy. Thus, India should look at Gender equality as an essential
facet of the development perspective.
Issues relating to poverty and hunger.

Hooch tragedies in India resulting from the consumption of illicitly brewed alcohol, have
been a recurring problem. Examine the reasons the same. Suggest measures to prevent
them. (250 words)
Why the question:
The death toll from the illicit arrack tragedy in Kallakurichi rose to 39.
To write about reasons for hooch tragedies and measures to prevent them.
Directive:

Introduction:
Begin about the giving context.
Body:
First, write about the major causes for it – economic hardships, availability, lack of regulation, toxic
ingredients, Poor law enforcement, corruption, efficient illegal supply chains and cultural acceptance.
Next, write about the measures required to prevent them – stricter regulations and enforcement,
public education campaigns, economic interventions like subsidies for legal alcohol and job creation,
community involvement through vigilance committees etc.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Hooch tragedies refer to incidents where people suffer severe health consequences or lose their
lives due to consuming illegally brewed or adulterated alcohol. These tragedies often occur because
of factors like economic hardships, lack of regulation, and the presence of toxic ingredients in the
illicit liquor.
The death toll from the illicit arrack tragedy in Kallakurichi rose to 39 on Thursday, as several
victims being treated in various hospitals succumbed to the poisoning without showing signs of
improvement. The deceased include 34 men, four women and one transgender person.
Body
Causes of Hooch Tragedies in India:
 Economic Hardships:
o Many individuals, especially those facing financial difficulties, turn to cheap, illicitly
brewed alcohol due to its affordability compared to legally produced brands.
 Availability and Lack of Regulation:
o Illicitly brewed alcohol is readily available in local markets and often evades
regulatory oversight.
o Bootleggers operate outside the legal framework, making it challenging to enforce

regulations effectively.
 Toxic Ingredients:
o Illicit liquor often contains harmful additives such as pesticides or methanol to

increase potency.
o These toxic ingredients pose severe health risks to consumers.
 Poor Law Enforcement:
o Inadequate enforcement of existing laws allows illegal alcohol production and

distribution to thrive.
o Lack of stringent penalties for offenders contributes to the persistence of this

problem.
 Corruption:
o Corruption within law enforcement agencies and local administration enables the
illicit alcohol trade.
o Bribery and collusion hinder effective crackdowns on bootlegging operations.
 Efficient Illegal Supply Chains:
o Well-established networks facilitate the production, distribution, and sale of illicit

alcohol.
o These supply chains operate seamlessly, making it difficult for authorities to

dismantle them.
 Cultural Acceptance:
o In some regions, consuming homemade or illicit alcohol is culturally accepted or

even normalized.
o Social attitudes play a role in perpetuating this dangerous practice.
Preventive Measures:
 Stricter Regulations and Enforcement:
o Strengthen existing laws related to alcohol production, distribution, and sale.
o Increase penalties for offenders, including both producers and suppliers.
o Regular inspections and raids should target illicit distilleries and supply chains.
 Public Education Campaigns:
o Raise awareness about the dangers of consuming illicit alcohol.
o Educate communities about the risks associated with toxic additives.
o Promote responsible alcohol consumption and discourage reliance on cheap,

unregulated liquor.
 Economic Interventions:
o Provide subsidies for legal alcohol to make it more affordable for low-income
individuals.
o Create job opportunities in legal alcohol production and distribution to discourage
involvement in the illicit trade.
 Community Involvement:
o Establish vigilance committees at the local level.
o Encourage community members to report illegal alcohol operations.
o Foster a sense of responsibility and ownership in preventing hooch tragedies.
Way Forward:
 Integrated Approach:
o Collaborate across government departments, law enforcement agencies, and civil

society organizations.
o Address hooch tragedies holistically by combining legal, social, and economic

strategies.
 Strengthen Legal Framework:
o Amend existing laws to enhance penalties for bootlegging.
o Streamline procedures for licensing legal alcohol production.
 Target High-Risk Areas:
o Identify regions with a history of hooch tragedies.
o Conduct targeted awareness campaigns and enforcement operations.
 Community Empowerment:
o Involve local communities in monitoring and reporting illicit alcohol activities.
o Educate citizens about their role in preventing tragedies.
 Swift Justice:
o Expedite legal proceedings against offenders.
o Ensure that justice is served promptly to deter others.
 Long-Term Solutions:
o Invest in economic development to reduce poverty and dependency on cheap

alcohol.
o Promote a cultural shift toward responsible drinking.
Conclusion
Addressing hooch tragedies requires a multi-pronged approach involving regulation, education,

community engagement, and economic upliftment. By working together, we can prevent further loss
of lives due to illicitly brewed alcohol.
Despite various ways to measure poverty in India, it remains a complex task. Do you
think time has come to revise the poverty line? Critically analyse. (250 words)
Reference: Live Mint
Why the question:
EAC-PM Chairman Bibek Debroy has said India may require a new way to measure poverty.
To write about various ways to measure poverty and issues in regards to poverty measurement.
Directive word:

Introduction:
Begin by writing about importance of poverty measurement.
Body:
First, write about the various ways to measure poverty – National Sample Survey (NSS) based per
capita consumption, Income based poverty line, consumption-based poverty line, Poverty line basket,
Various committees and international standards etc.
Next, write about the various issues with poverty measurement in India.
Next, write about the need for a revised poverty line. Mention its pros and cons.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a balanced opinion.
Introduction
Poverty can be defined as a condition in which an individual or household lacks the financial
resources to afford a basic minimum standard of living. Economists and policymakers estimate
“absolute” poverty as the shortfall in consumption expenditure from a threshold called
the “poverty line”.
The official poverty line is the expenditure incurred to obtain the goods in a “poverty line
basket” (PLB). Poverty can be measured in terms of the number of people living below this line (with
the incidence of poverty expressed as the head count ratio). The “depth” of poverty indicates how
far the poor are below the poverty line.
EAC-PM Chairman Bibek Debroy has said India may require a new way to measure poverty.
Body
Various ways to measure poverty
 Planning Commission Expert Group (1962),working group constituted by the Planning

Commission formulated the separate poverty lines for rural and urban areas (₹20 and ₹25
per capita per year respectively).
 VM Dandekar and N Rath (1971),made the first systematic assessment of poverty in India,
based on National Sample Survey (NSS) data.
o Unlike previous scholars who had considered subsistence living or basic minimum
needs criteria as the measure of poverty line, VM Dandekar and N Rathwere of the
view that poverty line must be derived from the expenditure that was adequate to
provide 2250 calories per day in both rural and urban areas.
o Expenditure based Poverty line estimation,generated a debate on minimum calorie

consumption norms.
 Alagh Committee (1979):Task force constituted by the Planning Commission under the
chairmanship of YK Alagh, constructed a poverty line for rural and urban areas on the basis
of nutritional requirements and related consumption expenditure.
o Poverty estimates for subsequent years were to be calculated by adjusting the price
level for inflation.
 Lakdawala Committee (1993):Task Force chaired by DT Lakdawala, based on the assumption

that the basket of goods and services used to calculate Consumer Price Index-Industrial
Workers (CPI-IW) and Consumer Price Index- Agricultural Labourers (CPI-AL) reflect the
consumption patterns of the poor, made the following suggestions:
o Consumption expenditureshould be calculated based on calorie consumption as

earlier.
o State specific poverty linesshould be constructed and these should be updated

using the CPI-IW in urban areas and CPI-AL in rural areas.
o Discontinuation of scalingof poverty estimates based on National Accounts

Statistics.
 Tendulkar Committee (2009): Expertgroup constituted by the Planning Commission and,

chaired by Suresh Tendulkar, was constituted to review methodology for poverty estimation
and to address the following shortcomings of the previous methods:
 Obsolete Consumption Pattern:Consumption patterns were linked to the 1973-74 poverty

line baskets (PLBs) of goods and services, whereas there were significant changes in the
consumption patterns of the poor since that time, which were not reflected in the poverty
estimates.
 Inflation Adjustment:There were issues with the adjustment of prices for inflation, both
spatially (across regions) and temporally (across time).
 Health and Education Expenditure:Earlier poverty lines assumed that health and education
would be provided by the state and formulated poverty lines accordingly.
Various poverty alleviation programs in India since Independence:
 Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP)
 Jawahar Rozgar Yojana/Jawahar Gram Samriddhi Yojana
 Rural Housing – Indira Awaas Yojana
 Food for Work Programme
 National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS)
 Annapurna
 Sampoorna Gramin Rozgar Yojana (SGRY)
 Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) 2005
 National Rural Livelihood Mission: Ajeevika (2011)
 National Urban Livelihood Mission
 Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana
 Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
Assessment
 However, none resulted in any radical change in the ownership of assets, process of
production and improvement of basic amenities to the needy.
 Scholars, while assessing these programmes, state three major areas of concern which
prevent their successful implementation. Due to unequal distribution of land and other
assets, the benefits from direct poverty alleviation programmes have been appropriated by
the non-poor.
 Compared to the magnitude of poverty, the amount of resources allocated for these
programmes is not sufficient. Moreover, these programmes depend mainly on government
and bank officials for their implementation.
 Since such officials are ill motivated, inadequately trained, corruption prone and vulnerable
to pressure from a variety of local elites, the resources are inefficiently used and wasted.
There is also non-participation of local level institutions in programme implementation.
 Government policies have also failed to address the vast majority of vulnerable people who
are living on or just above the poverty line. It also reveals that high growth alone is not
sufficient to reduce poverty.
 Without the active participation of the poor, successful implementation of any programme is
not possible
Measures needed
 Immediate support package will need to quickly reach both the existing and new poor.
o While existing safety net programs can be mobilized to get cash into the pockets of
some of the existing poor relatively quickly, this is not the case for the new poor.
o In fact, the new poor are likely to look different from the existing poor, particularly
in their location (mostly urban) and employment (mostly informal services,
construction, and manufacturing).
o the identification of poor and vulnerable groups is need of the hour.
o India should consider fixing a universal basic income in the post-Covid period
through a combination of cash transfers, expansion of MGNREGA, and introduction
of an urban employment guarantee scheme
 Employment generation for the masses:
o A large fiscal stimulus along with intermediate informal employment insurgency

through MGNREGA and other employment generation programmes are urgent to
rein the adverse impact of covid-19 on the welfare of the masses.
 Multilateral global institutions must support the developing nations:
o Oxfam is calling on world leaders to agree on an Emergency Rescue Package of 2.5

trillion USD paid for through the immediate cancellation or postponement of 1
trillion in debt repayments, a 1 trillion increase in IMF Special Drawing Rights
(international financial reserves), and an additional 500 billion in aid.
 An effective response in support of poor and vulnerable households will require significant
additional fiscal resources.
o Providing all the existing and new extreme poor with a cash transfer of $1/day
(about half the value of the international extreme poverty line) for a month would
amount to $20 billion —or $665 million per day over 30 days.
o Given that impacts are likely to be felt by many non-poor households as well and
that many households are likely to need support for much longer than a month, the
sum needed for effective protection could be far higher.
 Decision-makers need timely and policy-relevant information on impacts and the

effectiveness of policy responses.
o This can be done using existing, publicly available data to monitor the unfolding
economic and social impacts of the crisis, including prices, service delivery, and
economic activity, as well as social sentiment and behaviours.
o In addition, governments can use mobile technology to safely gather information

from a representative sample of households or individuals.
o Phone surveys can collect information on health and employment status, food
security, coping strategies, access to basic services and safety nets and other
outcomes closely related to the risk of falling (further) into poverty.
 The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index-2018released by the UN noted that 271 million
people moved out of poverty between 2005-06 and 2015-16 in India. The poverty rate in the
country has nearly halved, falling from 55% to 28% over the ten-year period. Still a big part
of the population in India is living Below the Poverty Line.
 Rapid economic growth and the use of technology for social sector programs have helped
make a significant dent in extreme poverty in the country.
 Despite rapid growth and development, an unacceptably high proportion of our population
continues to suffer from severe and multidimensional deprivation. Thus, a more
comprehensive and inclusive approach is required to eradicate poverty in India.
Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-

governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens
charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.
By effectively harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), governments can enhance their
interactions with citizens and improve the efficiency and quality of public services.
Discuss. (250 words)
Why the question:
To write about how artificial intelligence will transform governance to improve service delivery and
what applications will these technologies offer in the near future.
Directive:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the rising use of A.I in governance with examples.
Body:
First, mention the potential uses of artificial Intelligence and machine learning in governance and its
advantages – efficiency, transparency, seamless connectivity etc. Cite examples to substantiate.
Next, mention various limitations and bottlenecks that hinder use of A.I in governance to improve
service delivery – security issues, privacy, lack of infrastructure etc.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the branch of computer science concerned with developing machines
that can complete tasks that typically require human intelligence. The growing use of artificial
intelligence in public policy is perhaps the most important thing to track about India’s governance.
Body
Background on India’s artificial intelligence journey

 India’s National Programme for AI, which was developed by NITI Aayog, defines artificial
intelligence for social good (and for all) as its goal.
 One of its first steps towards this goal has been the development of PARAM SIDDHI AI,
the country’s largest High Performance Computing (HPC) supercomputer.
 This is ranked among the top 100 supercomputers in the world.
 Some of the key areas where India first wants to deploy artificial intelligence are health,
agriculture, education, manufacturing and the financial sector.
 Thus, the national Jal Shakti Ministry has been using internet of things (IoT)-based sensors
to monitor water availability and flow in 6,00,000 villages, and the Tamil Nadu
administration has used AI-based screening (through a mobile app called e-Paarwai) to
check for cataract problems in patients.
AI in governance
 Economic impact:The widespread adoption of AI has the potential to stimulate economic

growth by creating new industries, job opportunities, and revenue streams. It can also lead
to the development of novel business models.
 Smart cities: AI can contribute to the development of smart cities by optimizing

transportation systems, managing energy consumption, and enhancing public services. This
can lead to more sustainable and efficient urban living.
 Healthcare Advancements: AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving

diagnostics, treatment planning, and drug discovery. Machine learning algorithms can
analyze medical data to identify patterns and assist in the early detection of diseases.
 Automation and Efficiency: AI enables the automation of repetitive and routine tasks,
leading to increased efficiency in various industries. This can result in cost savings, improved
productivity, and the ability to allocate human resources to more complex and creative
tasks.
 Autonomous Systems: The use of autonomous systems, such as unmanned aerial vehicles
(UAVs) and ground-based robots, powered by AI, can enhance military capabilities. These
systems can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and even in certain combat situations,
reducing the risk to human lives.
 Cyber Warfare and Defense: AI plays a crucial role in both offensive and defensive cyber
operations. AI-driven tools can be used to identify vulnerabilities, conduct automated
attacks, and develop countermeasures to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
 Surveillance and Reconnaissance: AI-powered surveillance systems can analyze vast

amounts of data from various sources, including satellite imagery, drones, and social media,
to enhance situational awareness. This capability is crucial for monitoring borders,
identifying security threats, and responding to potential risks.
AI in public service delivery
 Reducing fraud and error in the tax and benefits systems: Governments today can benefit
from the application of anomaly detection to benefits claims and tax rebates.
 Examine service delivery processes: Many public services are becoming digital, creating
electronic footprints of the business processes in operation.
o The use ofprocess mining, a technology which uses timestamps to identify

workflows, can be used to understand the flows of citizens through public services.
o This can help understand where there are bottlenecks, where processes are going
awry, and where digital services are failing.
 Efficiently allocate resources: Resource allocation is paramount in delivering effective public

services, whether it is the management of intensive-care beds or the maintenance of the
road and rail network.
o Eg: During covid pandemic, bed allocation, detecting outbreak in

communities were all modelled using artifical intelligence.
o The ability to predict need before it occurs allows managers to make better
decisions; giving them this capability will become increasingly important in the
public sector.
 Precision farming: Accurate weather prediction, information dissemination on right time to

harvest, even identifying any pest infestation using image processing are use cases in
Agriculture. Government can provide these services to farmers.
These are just some of the examples of how AI is beginning to impact public services. As
governments seek to speed up the pace of implementation, we can look forward to increased
benefits because of this approach. Governments that form a clear data strategy, complete with AI
implementation guidelines and ethical framework, are well placed to realize these gains and
increase public trust. In a time of scepticism towards government around the world, AI is an
opportunity to redefine what public services can deliver.
Conclusion
Governments are just starting to explore the potential of AI to transform public services. It is crucial
to design systems to capture the right data at the outset, so that AI can be deployed efficiently. This
will all be made possible by tailoring systems to the subject matter at hand, with the help of policy-
makers, public servants and data scientists, all working together to fully realize the benefits of this
technology.
India and its neighborhood- relations.

A sustained commitment to dialogue and collaboration will be crucial for India and
Bangladesh to foster long-term stability and prosperity in their bilateral relations.
Elaborate. (250 words)
Why the question:
The third consecutive innings of the partnership between Indian Prime Minister Modi and Bangladesh
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina marks a pivotal moment in relations between the two South Asian
neighbours.
To write about the various strengths and issues in Indo-Bangladesh relations and ways to overcome
them.
Directive word:
Elaborate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must
be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Introduction:
Start by giving context of the question.
Body:
First, give a brief snapshot of India- Bangladesh relation and how it has progressed over the years.
Economic, Energy, Security ties etc. Cite recent developments in it.
Next, write about the issues still holding the relationship back – water sharing, illegal migration,
trade imbalances, the Rohingya crisis. Cite examples to support your points.
Next, suggest how those issues can be addressed.
Conclusion:
Introduction
India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture, and multitude of other
commonalities. The excellent bilateral ties reflect an all-encompassing partnership based on
sovereignty, equality, trust, and understanding that goes far beyond a strategic partnership.
Recently, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh visited India for 2-day state visit.
Body
Key Highlights of the Bilateral Meet:
Key Highlights Description
Promotion of Peace, prosperity, and development focusing on connectivity,

Shared Vision commerce, and collaboration.
Digital and Green Collaboration on digital and green technologies, joint development
Partnership of a small satellite.
Trade and Strengthening trade links, CEPA negotiations, and operationalizing

Investment SEZs in Bangladesh.
Power and Energy Intra-regional electricity trade and high-capacity grid

Collaboration interconnections.
Regional and
Global Anchoring regional integration under BIMSTEC, SAARC, and IORA.
Cooperation
Cross-Border E-Medical Visa facilities for Bangladeshi citizens, new Assistant

Travel High Commission in Rangpur.
Water Resource
Renewing Ganges Water Sharing Treaty, managing Teesta River.
Management
BBIN Motor
Vehicle Operationalization for transit facilities to Nepal and Bhutan.
Agreement
Indo-Pacific Co-leading the ‘Disaster Risk Reduction and Management’ pillar

Cooperation of IPOI.
Dimensions of India-Bangladesh Relations:
Dimensions Description
Historical India and Bangladesh share a deep-rooted relationship marked by

Ties historical ties and growing cooperation across multiple fronts. Initially
forged during the 1971 Liberation War, bilateral relations have evolved
positively under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership since 1996, culminating in

significant agreements such as the Ganga water-sharing treaty
Bilateral trade growth, reaching USD 14 billion in 2023-24. Bangladesh

Economic is India’s biggest trade partner in South Asia and India is the second
Cooperation biggest trade partner of Bangladesh in Asia. Joint feasibility study
for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)
Resolved Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) and maritime disputes.

Inauguration of Akhaura-Agartala Rail Link. BIMSTEC Master Plan for
Infrastructure
Transport Connectivity. Matarbari Port development connecting Dhaka
and Northeast India.
Bangladesh’s electricity imports from India. Cooperation in the

Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant project.
Energy
India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline will transport one million Metric
Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) of High-Speed Diesel from Siliguri, West
Bengal, to Parbatipur, Dinajpur district, Bangladesh.
Defence Shared border of 4096.7 km. Joint military exercises (Army – Exercise
Cooperation Sampriti, Navy – Exercise Bongo Sagar).
Engagement in SAARC, BIMSTEC, and IORA forums.
Multilateral
Cooperation According to the India Tourism Statistics Report 2022 of the Ministry of
Tourism, Bangladesh has been the second-largest tourist-generating
market for India in the year 2021.
Issues between the two countries:
 Illegal Migration: Concerns over illegal migration from Bangladesh to India, impacting
resources and security, including Rohingya refugees and implications of India’s National
Register of Citizens (NRC).
 Sharing of Transboundary River Waters: Unresolved treaties for major rivers like Teesta and
Feni despite sharing 54 rivers, impacting water management and bilateral relations.
 Growing Chinese Influence in Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s involvement in China’s Belt and

Road Initiative (BRI), raises concerns for India’s regional influence and strategic interests.
 Drug Smuggling & Trafficking: Challenges with cross-border drug smuggling, human
trafficking (especially women and children), and wildlife poaching, affecting both countries’
security and stability.
Way forward
 Efforts to strengthen India-Bangladesh relationsshould focus on establishing joint task

forces to combat cross-border drug smuggling and human trafficking effectively.
 Utilizing shared intelligence and coordinated operationscan disrupt illegal networks.
 Implementing smart border management solutions, leveraging artificial intelligence and

data analytics will enhance security and efficiency.
 Furthermore, creating a digital connectivity corridorwith high-speed internet and digital

services will spur trade, collaboration, and technological exchange between the two nations.
India must maintain a principled stance on the Tibet issue, while managing diplomatic
relations with China. Critically analyse. (150 words)
Why the question:
The timing of the visit by a delegation of U.S. lawmakers to Dharamshala made it clear what it would
be about. The delegation arrived just days after the passage of the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the
Tibet-China Dispute Act’ in both Houses of U.S. Congress, which now awaits U.S. President Joe Biden’s
signature.
To write about the Tibet issues, how India must maintain a stance while managing relations with
China.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of Tibet issues.
Body:
First, in brief, write about the evolution of Tibet issue since independence.
Next, write about how India must continue its stand on Tibet – historical support for the Dalai Lama
and the Tibetan cause serves as strategic leverage against China and aligns with its democratic
values. India must actively engage with its neighbors, and uphold its principled stance on Tibet to
safeguard its regional and global standing.
Next, suggest ways to manage its relationship with China.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Tibet, once an independent nation, faced Chinese Communist invasion in 1950. Since then, it has
been a contentious issue, impacting regional dynamics and global politics. India’s position on Tibet is
delicate, balancing its relationship with China and historical ties with the Tibetan people.
The timing of the visit by a delegation of U.S. lawmakers to Dharamshala made it clear what it would
be about. The delegation arrived just days after the passage of the ‘Promoting a Resolution to the
Tibet-China Dispute Act’ in both Houses of U.S. Congress, which now awaits U.S. President Joe
Biden’s signature.
Body
India’s Stand on Tibet:
 Historical Support for the Dalai Lama:
o India has long provided refuge to the Dalai Lama and Tibetan refugees. This support
aligns with India’s democratic values and commitment to human rights.
o The Dalai Lama’s “middle path” approach, seeking genuine autonomy for Tibetans
within China, resonates with India’s nuanced position.
 Strategic Leverage Against China:
o India’s historical ties with Tibet serve as leverage. By advocating for Tibetan rights, India
signals its commitment to democratic principles and counters China’s territorial claims.
o The recent US legislation supporting Tibet underscores the importance of this issue on
the global stage.
 Engagement with Neighbors:
o India must actively engage with neighboring countries, including China, to address
regional concerns. Diplomatic dialogue can prevent escalation.
o Balancing Tibet-related issues while managing bilateral relations is crucial for regional
stability.
Managing India-China Relations:
 Communication and Dialogue:
o High-level bilateral strategic dialogues are essential. Identifying core interests,

complementary areas, and conflicts can foster understanding.
o Regular communication can prevent misunderstandings and promote cooperation.
 Three Mutuals:
o Mutual Respect: Acknowledge each other’s sensitivities and concerns.
o Mutual Sensitivities: Understand red lines and avoid actions that provoke tensions.
o Mutual Interests: Identify areas of cooperation and shared benefits.
 Balancing Economic Dependence:
o India should reduce economic reliance on China. Import substitution, attracting

investments, empowering local substitutes, and reciprocal policies for Chinese firms can
help.
 Strategic Partnerships:
o Strengthen partnerships with like-minded major powers (e.g., US, Japan, Australia) to
balance China’s influence.
o Collaborate on diplomatic, defense, and security fronts to manage differences.
Conclusion
India’s recalibrated approach to Tibet and China involves assertiveness, engagement, and strategic
alliances. By maintaining principled stances and leveraging its historical ties, India can navigate this
complex relationship while safeguarding regional stability and its global standing.
Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s

interests, Indian diaspora.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) coordinates petroleum
policies among member countries to stabilize oil markets and prices. As a major oil
importer, India is significantly impacted by OPEC’s production decisions. Analyse.
Why the question:
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+), on June 2, decided to
extend its deep oil output cuts into 2025. At the same time, it hinted at a partial roll-back in the last
quarter of this year, as it reported a steady May output at 26.96 million barrels per day.
To write about OPEC and impact of its decisions on India.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by writing about OPEC and its objectives.
Body:
First, write about the role of OPEC – o coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member
countries to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers, ensure a regular supply of
petroleum to consuming nations etc.
Next, write about the potential impact of its decisions on India – influence global oil prices and,
consequently, India’s inflation, trade deficit, and economic growth. Cite statistics to substantiate.
Next, write about the measures India must take to prevent against the volatility of OPEC.
Conclusion:
Introduction
Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries(OPEC) is a permanent, intergovernmental
organization founded in 1960 by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. Its primary role is to
coordinate and unify petroleum policies among member countries. Key objectives include securing
fair and stable prices for petroleum producers and ensuring a regular supply of petroleum to
consuming nations.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+), on June 2, decided to
extend its deep oil output cuts into 2025. At the same time, it hinted at a partial roll-back in the last
quarter of this year, as it reported a steady May output at 26.96 million barrels per day.
Body
Impact on India
 Higher Import Bills and Inflation:
o India imports nearly 85% of its crude oil requirement.
o OPEC’s decisions directly influence global oil prices. When OPEC cuts production or
raises prices, India faces higher import bills.
o This leads to inflationary pressures, affecting the cost of living for citizens.
 Current Account Deficit (CAD) and Weakening Rupee:
o Increased oil prices contribute to India’s CAD, as oil imports constitute a significant
portion of the trade deficit.
o A higher CAD weakens the Indian rupee against major currencies, impacting
exchange rates.
 Economic Growth and Investment:
o Volatility in oil prices affects India’s economic growth. Higher prices reduce
disposable income and consumer spending.
o Additionally, global investors closely monitor oil prices. A sudden spike can lead to
capital outflows from Indian markets.
Measures to Mitigate OPEC Volatility
 Diversify Energy Sources:
o India should reduce dependence on fossil fuels by promoting renewable energy

(solar, wind, hydro, etc.).
o Investment in research and development for cleaner alternatives is crucial.
 Strategic Oil Reserves:
o Building and maintaining strategic petroleum reserves can buffer against sudden
supply disruptions.
o These reserves act as a safety net during price spikes.
 Energy Efficiency and Conservation:
o Encourage energy-efficient practices in industries, transportation, and households.
o Public awareness campaigns can promote responsible energy use.
 Negotiate Long-Term Contracts:
o India should negotiate long-term contracts with oil-producing countries to stabilize

prices.
o Diversifying suppliers reduces reliance on any single source.
 Enhance Domestic Production:
o Invest in domestic oil exploration and production.
o Policies that encourage exploration and reduce bureaucratic hurdles are essential.
Way Forward
 Global Cooperation:
o India should engage in dialogue with OPEC and other oil-producing nations.
o Collaborative efforts can address price volatility and ensure energy security.
 Strategic Hedging:
o Explore financial instruments to hedge against oil price fluctuations.
o Derivatives and futures contracts can mitigate risks.
 Investment in Green Technologies:
o Transition toward cleaner energy sources aligns with global trends.
o India’s commitment to sustainability will enhance its bargaining power.
Conclusion
India must adopt a multifaceted approach to navigate OPEC’s impact. Balancing economic growth,
energy security, and environmental sustainability is key.
Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or
affecting India’s interests.
The recent approval of a draft logistics agreement between Russia and India is a
significant development in the context of international relations and defence
cooperation. Analyse its importance and its potential impact on India’s relations with
the U.S. (250 words)
Why the question:
After being held up for several years, the India-Russia mutual logistics agreement is ready for
conclusion, with Russia approving the draft agreement over the past week.
To write about the Indo-Russia relations, the significance of logistics agreement and its impact.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context of ‘all weather’ friendship between India and Russia.
Body:
In the first part, Highlight the strength of the relationship – Special and Privileged Strategic
Partnership, cold war era friendship, the long history, defence partnership, nuclear power plants etc.
Next, write about the features of logistics agreement between Russia and India – military exchanges
for exercises, training, port calls, disaster relief, and ease access to Russian military facilities,
especially in the Arctic
Next, write about how it will affect India and U.S relations.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving a balanced opinion on the issue.
Introduction
As Russia and India both desire a multi-polar world, they are equally important for each other in
fulfilling each other’s national interests. However, due to the changing geopolitical scenario, Russia
is growing closer to China and becoming anti-west, while it is vice-versa for India.
Despite the changing dynamics, Indo-Russia ties have stood the test of times especially in defence
sector. Russia has approved a draft logistics agreement with India, ending years of
delays. Reciprocal Exchange of Logistics Agreement (RELOS) is an administrative arrangement
between India and Russia to enhance military cooperation. RELOS streamlines military logistics
support, making joint operations more efficient and cost-effective.
Body
Significance of RELOS
 Sustained Operations: Facilitates replenishment of supplies, providing berthing facilities for
troops, warships, and aircraft during both wartime and peacetime missions.
 Strategic Advantages: Enables smoother use of host nation’s logistics networks, swift crisis
response, and reduces overall mission costs.
 Expanded Military Reach: Enhances India’s maritime influence and awareness, and
improves information exchange about maritime activities.
 Balancing Quad Agreements: Balances India’s logistics agreements with Quad countries and
Russia’s non-Quad stance, countering US and Chinese regional influence.
 Scientific Interconnections: Supports India’s Arctic research, focusing on links between

Arctic Sea ice melt and Indian monsoon systems.
potential impact on India’s relations with the U.S
 The U.S. may view this as strengthening India’s military capabilities, potentially impacting
regional dynamics.
 The U.S. closely monitors India’s strategic partnerships. Closer ties with Russia may raise
questions about alignment in the Indo-Pacific.
 While the U.S. seeks to counter China’s influence, India’s collaboration with Russia could be
seen as a balancing act.
 The Arctic is a contested region. India’s scientific exploration aligns with global climate
concerns but may be noted by the U.S.
Conclusion
While RELOS strengthens India-Russia ties, it also warrants careful observation by the U.S.,
considering the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The G-7 (Group of Seven), faces an evolving landscape that necessitates a reassessment
of its purpose and must adapt to contemporary global challenges. Examine. (150 words)
Why the question:
Welcoming leaders of 10 countries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the “G-7 Outreach”
Summit, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said it was important to step away from the old trope
of the “West vs the Rest”.
To write about the various changes needed in G7 to adapt to changing geopolitics of the current
times.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Body:
First, in brief, write about aims and objectives of G-7.
Next, write about the major challenges G-7 faces in the current times – global instability, Geopolitical
tensions, non-traditional security threats, rise of emerging economies like China and India, Climate
Change etc.
Next, write about the steps that G-7 should take in this regard.
Conclusion:
Introduction
The G-7 is an informal bloc of industrialized democracies—the United States, Canada, France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK).
Welcoming leaders of 10 countries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the “G-7 Outreach”
Summit, Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said it was important to step away from the old trope
of the “West vs the Rest”.
Body
The primary objectives of G-7 are:
1. Global Economic Governance:
o Coordinating economic policies to promote stability, growth, and financial resilience.
o Addressing trade, investment, and monetary issues.
2. International Security:
o Discussing geopolitical challenges, arms control, and regional conflicts.
o Promoting peace and stability.
3. Multilateral Cooperation:
o Supporting multilateral institutions and rules-based international order.

o Advocating for human rights, democracy, and social progress.
Major Challenges Faced by G-7
 Global Instability:
o Ongoing conflicts (e.g., Ukraine, Gaza) threaten peace and security.
o Economic uncertainties, food crises, and energy shortages exacerbate instability.
 Geopolitical Tensions:
o Relations with Russia remain strained due to its actions in Ukraine.
o China’s rise poses economic, political, and security challenges.
 Non-Traditional Security Threats:
o Cybersecurity threats, terrorism, and pandemics (e.g., COVID-19) require collective

responses.
o Ensuring global health security is critical.
 Emerging Economies:
o China and India’s influence grows, impacting global governance.
o Balancing cooperation and competition with emerging powers is essential.
 Climate Change:
o Urgent action needed to mitigate climate risks.
o G-7 must lead by example in adopting sustainable practices.
Measures needed for G-7
 Unity and Coordination:
o Strengthen collective resolve to address common challenges.
o Coordinate policies on Russia, China, and other critical issues.
 Support Ukraine and Gaza:
o Provide humanitarian aid, economic assistance, and security support.
o Promote dialogue and de-escalation.
 Invest in Sustainable Infrastructure:
o Counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative with a transparent, sustainable alternative.
o Boost infrastructure investment in developing countries.
 Debt Relief and Economic Resilience:
o Address debt burdens in vulnerable countries.
o Enhance economic resilience through investment and financial stability.
 Climate Action:
o Commit to ambitious climate targets.
o Support green technologies, renewable energy, and climate adaptation.
Way Forward
 Inclusive Partnerships:
o Engage with non-G-7 countries, including China and India.
o Foster dialogue and cooperation on shared challenges.
 Human Rights and Democracy:
o Uphold democratic values and human rights.
o Promote transparency, accountability, and good governance.
 Global Health Preparedness:
o Strengthen pandemic response mechanisms.
o Collaborate on vaccine distribution and health infrastructure.
 Resilient Supply Chains:
o Diversify supply chains to reduce vulnerabilities.
o Ensure critical goods’ availability during crises.
 Youth and Education:
o Invest in education, skills development, and youth empowerment.
o Prepare future generations for global challenges.
Conclusion
the G-7 must adapt to a changing world, prioritize collective action, and lead by example. By
addressing these challenges, the G-7 can contribute to a more stable, prosperous, and sustainable
global order.
The evolution of Indo-Japan relations from historical ties to a robust strategic

partnership highlights the potential for deepening bilateral cooperation. Discuss. (250
words)
Why the question:
To write about the evolution of Indo-Japan relations and scope for deepening bilateral ties.
Directive word:

Introduction:
Start with a brief history of India-Japan ties and its evolution in the recent times.
Body:
First, Write about the Indo-Japan Strategic and Global Partnership – Balancing security policy against
China, Scope for technology partnership, Economic ties, Scope for expansion: Support for key
manufacturing initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and Japan Industrial Townships, secure
infrastructure investments in strategically vital connectivity, Japan’s economic assistance to India,
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, and increasing defense collaborations like the
Malabar naval exercises etc.
Next, write about the how countries can seek a deeper engagement in the current geopolitical
scenario.
Conclusion:
Conclude writing a way forward.
Introduction
It is significant that despite the recent developments in Ukraine, Tokyo and New Delhi have
managed to present a united front vis-a-vis China. While Kishida condemned the Russian attack, the
Indian side called for peace and dialogue. This is in line with the two countries’ positions, and
individual strategic needs — and that common interests outweigh the differences.
Body
India-Japan cooperation and bilateral relations
 Increased Economic Cooperation: Both signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership

Agreement (CEPA) in 2011 which helped in boosting bilateral trade.
o Japan has been one of the biggest sources of investment flows into India,
accounting for $28.16 billion in FDI between April 2000 and June 2018.
 Connectivity through Huge Infrastructure projects: Within India- Japan has been a
leading financial donor in the form of ODA (Official Development Assistance) to India.
o It continues to maintain a high degree of interest and support for India’s mega
infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Freight Corridor, Delhi-Mumbai
Industrial Corridor etc.
o North East integration– India’s Act east policy has North east development at its
core. Japan promises to undertake several projects in the region under north East
Forum. It has security (chicken neck corridor) and developmental implications for
India.
 Asia-Africa Growth Corridor AAGC: Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) announced in 2017
and joint projects in some third countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka and in
Africa as well will be taken jointly.
 Defence ties: Quadrilateral Security Dialogue is a strategic dialogue between India, United
States, Japan and Australia will be carried out.
o India and Japan signed an “Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement” that would
allow the militaries of the two countries to exchange supplies and services on a
reciprocal basis during exercises in which both participate, U.N. and humanitarian
assistance operations etc.
o Trilateral naval exercise Malabar involving the United States, Japan and India will be
carried on continuous basis.
 Global and regional partnership: Both have come together, through platforms like QUAD,
Asia-Africa Growth Corridor.
o Looming presence of China has led to the convergence of economic and strategic
imperatives, especially in the India-Pacific region.
 Space cooperation: India and Japan conducted their first Annual Bilateral Space Dialogue,
for enhancing bilateral cooperation in outer-space.
Ample scope to deepening the relations
 In spite of CEPA India Japan trade it has not produced the anticipated results.
o In 2011-12, the total volume of the bilateral trade was $18.43 billion, but it declined
to $13.48 billion during 2016-17.
 Both had diverging interest with respect to economic issues like on E-commerce
rules (Osaka track), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership etc.
 Both countries do not have a specific China policy. Despite, converging interests of Japan,
India, trade with China represents more than 20% of Japan’s total trade.
 No concrete action on projects like Asia Africa Growth Corridor, despite it being signed in
2017.
Conclusion
India Japan’s relationship has been defined as ‘indispensable natural partners.’ Also, Indian Prime
Minister said, there are few partnerships that enjoy so much goodwill in India as our relationship
with Japan. To realise the full potential of relationship, both need to expedite work on trade,
defence and infrastructural issues. A strong Indo- Japan will arrest the inconsistency being witnessed
in the region thus contributing to peace and prosperity in the Indo Pacific region and the world.
The India-U.S. relationship, strong in strategic and economic ties, faces challenges like
trade disputes and human rights concerns, requiring careful diplomacy to maintain
resilience and mutual benefit. Analyse. (250 words)
Why the question:
The article explores a year since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States,
where U.S. President Joseph Biden rolled out the red carpet and the U.S. offered to restart the
decade-old plan to transfer technology for jet engines to India.
To write about the major areas of agreements and disagreements between India and U.S and ways
to navigate the disagreements.
Directive word:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context regarding the growth of the India-U.S relationship in the recent past.
Body:
In the first part, write about the US as India’s most comprehensive strategic partner, and cooperation
between the two extends across multiple areas such as trade, defence, multilateralism, intelligence,
cyberspace, civil nuclear energy, education, and healthcare.
Next, write about how even though in all these spheres they cooperate and are parallel in ideologies
but not the same as both have diverged aspirations, and are based on different ideologies. Cite
examples to substantiate.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a balanced opinion.
Introduction
India USA have seen ascendance of relationship in the 21st century, which was crystalised by 2008
India Nuclear Civil Nuclear Agreement. Various factors, including LPG reforms, rise of China,
increasing influence of Indian community in USA are the factors behind this. Also, the shared values
of democracy, rule of law, human rights, religious freedom bind the countries together.
Its been a year since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States, where U.S.
President Joseph Biden rolled out the red carpet and the U.S. offered to restart the decade-old plan
to transfer technology for jet engines to India.
Body
India and USA relations aligned with each other
 Security: Combat terrorism and weapons of mass destruction Protect global commons like
sea routes and sea lanes of communication.
o Eg:India has mentioned Taiwan issue in public for the first time while USA has been
passing through South China sea and Taiwan straits to protect freedom of
navigation in high seas.
o Recently, India and the US have agreed to co-produce the Stryker armoured vehicles
that will give a big boost to India’s defence preparedness against China.
 Global cooperation:International Cooperation through platforms like UN, ASEAN, G-20, IMF,
Quad. Quad security dialogue has been initiated to reign in China’s dominance in the region.
 Defence cooperation: Defence agreements Iike LEMOA, COMCASA, Industrial Security

Agreement and BECA; Bilateral military exercises like Yudh Abhyaas, Vajra prahar, etc have
been taking place every year.
 Space cooperation: Indo-US science and technology cooperation agreement; Joint

Microwave remote sensing satellite named NISAR.
 Diaspora and people to people ties: Strength of Indian diaspora in US is around 4.5 million
which is around 1% of its population. Indian diaspora is a source and agent of soft power, an
effective public diplomacy tool and is acknowledged for its work ethos, discipline, non-
interference and peaceful living with the locals.
Divergences and friction areas
 Tariffs war: Since 2018 both countries were engaged in tariffs war. E.g. In 2018, the US
imposed additional tariffs of 25% on steel and 10% on aluminium imports from various
countries, including India. India’s refusal to remove the 20% tariffs on ICT products caused
the trade deal between India and USA to delay which remains still pending.
 WTO disputes: India USA are involved in WTO disputes on issues like, Capping prices of
medical devices by India, greater Indian market access for American agriculture and dairy
products etc.
 IPR: India is also on U.S.’s “Priority Watch List” which identifies countries posing challenges
to American intellectual property rights. Also, The US wants India to strengthen patent
regulations, and to ease the limitations American companies investing in India face.
 USA tensions with Iran, Russia: Putting unilateral curbs on Russian and Iranian imports
into India through CAATSA would impinge on India’s relations with Iran, Russia, both
relations in which India has strong stakes.
 Divergence of interests in Afghanistan: In the backdrop of Afghan Peace deal, U.S. left
Afghanistan. Decades of work was scrapped as Taliban took over and freedom of people and
the developmental work India did is hampered.
Conclusion
Despite the differences in some areas, the upward trajectory in India USA relations indicates a sense
of greater nuance to the need for institutionalisation of bilateral ties — towards not only graduating
the bilateral dynamic away from over-dependence on chemistry between the top political
leadership, but also design frameworks in a manner that maximise convergences between the two
countries.
The changing geopolitics, and increased Chinese aggression necessitates closer cooperation between
India USA. Thus, the relationship is two-sided. Just as India benefited from US inputs during Doklam
and recent India China standoff, the US has benefited from Indian defence spending.

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INSIGHTSIAS

IA SIMPLIFYING IAS EXAM PREPARATION

INSTA SECURE SYNOPSIS

Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments,

Major features of parliamentary form of government

 Collective Responsibility:The council of ministers is collectively responsible to the

Advantages of parliamentary form of government

 Prevent authoritarianism:since the executive branch is accountable to the legislature and

 Participatory and inclusive decision-making.

 Responsible government ministers are accountable to Parliament for their actions.

Demerits of Parliamentary form of Government

 Government by Amateurs:The parliamentary system is not conducive to administrative

Reasons for India to adopt parliamentary system of Government:

 So, the constitution adopted a parliamentary system for India.

 Right to be Informed and Consult Legal Practitioner (Article 22(1)):

o No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody without being informed

 Production Before Magistrate (Article 22(2)):

 Safeguards Against Preventive Detention (Article 22(3)):

o Preventive detention refers to detaining a person to prevent them from committing

 Misuse of Preventive Detention Laws:

o Authorities sometimes misuse preventive detention laws to suppress dissent or

o Striking a balance between national security and individual rights remains a

 Prolonged Detention Without Trial:

o Overburdened courts and procedural bottlenecks contribute to this issue.

 Inadequate Legal Aid:

o Many detainees lack access to competent legal representation.

o Strengthening legal aid services is crucial to ensuring effective defense.

 Lack of Timely Communication of Arrest Grounds:

o This violates their right to know the grounds for detention.

o Overcrowded courts and lengthy legal processes delay justice.

o Streamlining judicial procedures can address this challenge.

 Emergency Periods and Abuse of Rights:

o Safeguards are essential to prevent abuse of power during such times.

 Strengthen Legal Aid Services:

o Ensure that every arrested person has access to legal representation.

 Fast-Track Judicial Processes:

o Expedite trials and reduce case pendency.

o Specialized courts for preventive detention cases could help.

 Transparency and Accountability:

o Strictly enforce the right to be informed promptly about arrest grounds.

o Monitor detention practices to prevent misuse.

 Public Awareness and Education:

o Educate citizens about their rights under Article 22.

Conclude by giving your balanced opinion.

Comparison of Money Bills and Financial Bills:

Aspect Money Bills Financial Bills

Can only be introduced in Can be introduced in either the

Category II can originate

Not mandatory for Money

Deals exclusively with Deals with matters beyond

Certified by the Speaker

Lok Sabha’s decision

President’s President’s recommendation is

Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

Flaws of the current Anti-defection law

o Eg: The 17-MLA’s of coalition government resigned in Karnataka, leading to change

o Eg: Congress government in Madhya Pradesh lost majority due to resignations of

 Impedes legislative control on government:The anti-defection law impedes the oversight

 Non-partisan authority: Various commissions including National Commission to review the