Microthemes Final

Microthemes
GS-Mains 2013-2024
Last 12 Yrs of PYQ Analysis | Updated with Questions of UPSC CSE Mains 2024
Microthemes in UPSC Mains (GS 2013-2024)
Table of Contents
Art and Culture 6
Modern History 8
Post Independence 10
World History 11
Society 12
Geography 17
Polity 27
Governance 35
Social Justice 41
International Relations 44
Economic Development 52
Agriculture 59
Science & Technology 63
Environment 67
Disaster Management 69
Internal Security 71
Ethics 78
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Art forms • Bhakti and Sufi movement • Buddhism • Civilizations and their Highlights • Indian Philosophy • Kingdoms and their
Highlights • Miscellaneous • Sources of Indian History • Colonial rule and impact • Gandhi X Indian Leaders of Freedom Struggle
• Revolt and Mutiny • Socio-religious reform • Viceroy and their Administration • Acts and their Features • Important contributors/
contribution • Various stages of Freedom struggle • Foreign influence on Independent India's policies • Land reform • Personalities
Contribution • Slogan based • States Reorganistion • Wars after Independence • American and French revolution • Anti-colonial
struggles • Great Economic Depression • Industrial Revolution • Miscellaneous • World wars • Diversity and pluralism • Family
• Uniqueness of Indian society • Population and associated issues • Poverty and Developmental issues. • Women and Associated
concerns • Environmental Problems • Government Programme • Emerging urban issues • Miscelleneous • Globalisation • Caste system
• Communalism • Miscellaneous • Regionalism • Secularism • Social empowerment • Climatology • Cryosphere and Himalayan Eco-
system • Geomorphology • Monsoon • Oceanography • Energy • Natural resources Potential • Water Management • Primary sector
• Secondary sector • Tertiary sector • Cyclone • Desertification • Landslides • Volcanic activity • Cloudbursts • Twisters • Flora & Fauna
and related changes • Geographical features and their location • Miscellaneous • Amendments • Case Laws • DPSP • Fundamental
Rights • Making of the Constitution • Center-State Relations • Emergency • Nature of Indian Federalism • Special Provisions • Executive
Vs Judiciary • Executive Vs Legislature • Judiciary Vs Legislature • Separation of Powers • Local Self Government • Constitutional
Comparison • Bicameralism • Parliamentary Committees • Parliamentary Privileges • Presiding Officers • Role of MPs • Informal
associations and their role in polity • Alternate Dispute Resolution • Judiciary • Pressure Groups • Union Executive • ECI • Elections
• Political Parties • RP Act • Government Schemes and Policies • Structural reforms and Actions • Civil Society • Donor Agencies
• SHGs • Citizens Charter • E-governance • Transaparency and Accountability • Civil Services • Constitutional Bodies • Enforcement
Agencies • Quasi judicial Bodies • Sectoral Regulatory Bodies • Statutory Bodies • Children • Disables • Welfare and Development
Schemes • Women • Education • Health • Human Resources • Miscellenous • Hunger • Miscellenous • Poverty • Neighbourhood
• Bilateral Relations • Groupings involving Immediate and Extended neighbours • Groupings beyond South Asia • Geo-politics
Microthemes
affecting India's Interest • Indian Diaspora • Miscelleneous • Miscelleneous • International Funding Agencies • United Nations • WTO
• Jobless growth • Capital formation in Economy • Care X Monetized Economy • Demographic Dividend • Digitalization of Economy
• GDP • GDP X Saving Rate • Labour Activity
X Economic Growth • Miscellaneous
• Monetary policy • MSME X Economic
Growth • Niti Aayog X Planning Commission
• Taxes • Trends of Macro economy
• Unemployment • Urban Development
• Corporate Social Responsibilty • Financial
Inclusion • Inclusive Growth • Inclusive
Growth X Capitalism • Inclusive Growth X Infrastructure • Inclusive Growth X Public Expenditure • Inclusive Growth X Sustainable
Development • Current Budget • Gender Budgeting • Static Budget • Static X Current Budget • Food Processing Sector • Revolutions
and Missions • BoP and External value of rupee X Gold Monetization Scheme • FDI • Globalisation X Formal & Informal Economy
• Industrial Reform • Labour Reform • Labour-intensive X Capital-intensive Export • Post-reform period X Industrial Growth • Post-reform
period X Service-Led Transition • Protectionism and Currency Manipulations • Special Economic Zones • Airports X Infrastructure
• Energy X SDGs • Green Energy X Infrastructure • Hydroelectricity • PPP X Infrastructure • Renewable Energy • Transport • Crop
Diversification • Cropping pattern • Horticulture • Integrated Farming System • Millets • Organic Farming • Irrigation system and
Challenges • Micro-Irrigation • Water storage and Conservation • Agri-marketing • Tech in Agri Production and Marketing • Tech in
Agriculture Credit • Tech in Farm Productivity and Income • Agri finance & Subsidies • Agriculture Vulnerability & Crop Insurance
• Buffer stock & food security • Miscellaneous • MSP • PDS • Revolutions and Missions • Non-Farm Activities (Livestock) • Act
based • Contract farming & Land leasing • Land Reforms • Miscellaneous • Innovative Technologies • Material Science and Industry
Applications • Medical and Health Technologies • Miscellaneous • Nobel Prizes • Sports and Technology • Tech in crisis Management
• Tech solutions for daily challenges • Achievements of Indians in S&T • Indigenisation of technology • Artificial Intelligence • Bio-
Technology • Defence Technology • Intellectual Property Rights • IT • Nano Technology • Robotics • Space Technology • Biodiversity
• Climate Change Impact • Ecosystem carrying capacity and SDG • EIA • Environmental Pollution and Mitigation • EVs • IPCC Reports
• Mining and Erosion • River Iinking and Impact • UNFCCC • Wetlands • Cloudburst • Disaster Preparedness • Disaster Risk Reduction
• Drought • Earthquake • Government Disaster Initiatives • Landslide • Structural failure causing Disaster • Tsunami • Urban floods
• Vulnerability and Risk Assessment • Left-Wing Extremism • N-E Insurgency • Threat from External state and Non-state actors
• Threat from Non-state Actors • Threat from State Actors • Act based • Cyber security • Drug trafficking and its Linkages • Mob
Violence • Money-laundering and Prevention • Role of Media and Social Networking sites in Internal Security Threats • Border Area
Management • Maritime Security challenges • Organized Crime and Terrorism • Act based • Security Forces and Their Mandates
• Applied Ethics • Consequences of Ethics • Normative Ethics (Deontology vs Teleology) • Determinants of Ethics • Dimensions
of Ethics • Essence of Ethics • Ethics in Private and Public sphere • Term Based • Innovative Measures to Curb Sexual Violence
• Role of Educational institutions • Teachings of Great Leaders • Value Based Questions • Attitude for Civil Servants • Attitude
for Individuals • Moral and Political Attitude • Organisational Attitude • Social influence and persuasion • EI in Administration • EI
X Crisis of Conscience • EI: Concept and utility • EQ vs IQ • A.P.J. Abdul Kalam • Abraham Lincoln • Aristotle • Dalai Lama • Erik
Erikson • Immanuel Kant • Jawaharlal Nehru • John Rawls's concept of social Justice • Kautilya • Mahatma Gandhi • Plato • Potter
Stewart • Sardar Patel • Socrates • Swami Vivekananda • Tirukkural • Empathy and compassion • Foundational values • Impartiality
and Non-Partisanship • Integrity • Integrity X Intelligence X Energy • Trustworthiness and Fortitude • Accountability and Ethical
Governance • Public/Civil Service Values • Corporate Governance • Conflict of interest • Ethical dilemmas in Public Administration
• Ethical Issues in International Relations and funding • Laws, Rules, Regulations and Conscience as Ethical Guidance • Challenges
of Corruption • Citizen's Charter • Codes of Ethics and Codes of Conduct • Information Sharing and Transparency in Government X
RTI • Probity in Governance • Utilization of public funds • Quality of Service Delivery
GS-I
01. Indian Culture-Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature
and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
02. Modern Indian History-Mid-18th century - Present
(significant events, personalities, issues);
03. Freedom Struggle-various stages, important
contributors/contributions from different parts of
the country
04. Post-Independence-consolidation and reorganisation
within country
05. History of the world will include events from 18th
century such as industrial revolution, world wars,
redrawal of national boundaries, colonization,
decolonization, political philosophies like communism,
capitalism, socialism etc.— their forms and effect on
the society.
06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India;
07. Role of women and women’s organization,
population and associated issues, poverty and
developmental issues.
08. Urbanisation: problems and remedies
09. Globalisation and its effects on Indian society
10. Social empowerment, communalism, regionalism &
secularism.
11. Salient Features of World Physical Geography
12. Distribution of key Natural Resources (world, South Asia
and Indian subcontinent)
13. Factors responsible for the location of primary,
secondary, and tertiary sector industries in various
parts of the world (including India).
14. Important Geophysical phenomena such as
earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.,
15. Geographical features and their location-changes in
critical geographical features (including water-bodies
and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects
of such changes.
GS 1 Year-wise PYQ Analysis
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
01. Indian Culture-Salient aspects of Art Forms, 3 4 2 2 1 3 1 4 1 3 3 3 30
Literature and Architecture from ancient to
modern times.
02. Modern Indian History-Mid-18th century 1 3 2 2 3 1 1 1 1 2 2 19
- Present (significant events, personalities,
issues);
03. Freedom Struggle-various stages, import- 2 1 1 2 3 1 2 1 13
ant contributors/contributions from different
parts of the country
04. Post-Independence-consolidation and 5 1 1 1 1 1 10
reorganisation within country
05. History of the world will include events 4 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 16
from 18th century such as industrial revolu-
tion, world wars, redrawal of national bound-
aries, colonization, decolonization, political
philosophies like communism, capitalism,
socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the
society.
06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of 1 1 2 2 2 1 2 3 14
India;
07. Role of women and women’s organi- 1 3 3 1 2 2 2 3 2 3 22
zation, population and associated issues,
poverty and developmental issues.
08. Urbanisation: problems and remedies 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 1 15
09. Globalisation and its effects on Indian 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8
society
10. Social empowerment, communalism, 1 1 1 2 2 3 1 3 2 2 1 19
regionalism & secularism.
11. Salient Features of World Physical Geog- 2 2 2 1 3 3 2 2 2 3 2 1 25
raphy
12. Distribution of key Natural Resources 2 2 2 3 1 1 1 3 1 3 2 1 22
(world, South Asia and Indian subcontinent)
13. Factors responsible for the location of 2 3 1 1 3 2 2 1 1 16
primary, secondary, and tertiary sector indus-
tries in various parts of the world (including
India).
14. Important Geophysical phenomena such 2 1 1 1 2 1 3 11
as earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity,
cyclone etc.,
15. Geographical features and their loca- 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 15
tion-changes in critical geographical features
(including water-bodies and ice-caps) and
in flora and fauna and the effects of such
changes.
Grand Total 30 25 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 255
Art and Culture

01. Indian Culture- Salient aspects of Art Forms, Literature
and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Discuss the significance of the lion and bull figures in Indian mythology, art and
2022 15
architecture.
Art forms
Discuss the Tandava dance as recorded in the early Indian inscriptions. 2013 10
Safeguarding the Indian art heritage is the need of the moment. Discuss. 2018 10
Evaluate the nature of the Bhakti literature and its contribution to Indian cul-
2021 10
ture.
Sufis and medieval mystic saints failed to modify either the religious ideas and
Bhakti and Sufi movement practices or the outward structure of Hindu/Muslim societies to any appreciable 2014 10
extent. Comment.
The Bhakti movement received a remarkable re-orientation with the advent of
2018 15
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Discuss.
Early Buddhist Stupa-art, while depicting folk motifs and narratives successfully
2016 12.5
expounds Buddhist ideals. Elucidate.
Buddhism
Gandhara sculpture owed as much to the Romans as to the Greeks. Explain. 2014 10
Highlight the Central Asian and Greco -Bactrian elements in Gandhara art. 2019 10
The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt,
Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved 2015 12.5
without a breakdown to the present day. Comment.
Civilizations and their
To what extent has the urban planning and culture of the Indus Valley Civiliza-
Highlights 2014 10
tion provided inputs to the present day urbanization? Discuss.
Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to
2024 10
the later Vedic period.

Indian philosophy and tradition played a significant role in conceiving and shap-
Indian Philosophy 2020 15
ing the monuments and their art in India. Discuss.
Chola architecture represents a high watermark in the evolution of temple
2013 10
architecture. Discuss.
Discuss the main contributions of Gupta period and Chola period to Indian heri-
2022 15
tage and culture.
How do you justify the view that the level of excellence of Gupta numismatic art
2017 10
is not at all noticeable in later times?
Krishnadeva Raya, the King of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar
2016 12.5
himself but was also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.
Kingdoms and their High-
lights Pala period is the most significant phase in the history of Buddhism in India.
2020 10
Enumerate.
What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate
2023 15
period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?
Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and
2024 10
literature of South India.
“Though the great Cholas are no more yet their name is still remembered with
great pride because of their highest achievements in the domain of art and 2024 15
architecture.” Comment.
Explain the role of geographical factors towards the development of Ancient
2023 10
India.
Miscellaneous Taxila university was one of the oldest universities of the world with which were
associated a number of renowned learned personalities of different disciplines.
2014 10
Its strategic location caused its fame to flourish, but unlike Nalanda, it is not
considered as a university in the modern sense. Discuss.
Assess the importance of the accounts of the Chinese and Arab travellers in the
2018 10
reconstruction of the history of India.
How will you explain that medieval Indian temple sculptures represent the
2022 10
social life of those days?
Mesolithic rock cut architecture of India not only reflects the cultural life of the
times but also a tine aesthetic sense comparable to modern painting. Critically 2015 12.5
evaluate this comment.
Sources of Indian History Persian literary sources of medieval India reflect the spirit of the age. Comment. 2020 15
The rock-cut architecture represents one of the most important sources of our
2020 10
knowledge of early Indian art and history. Discuss.
Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of
South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions 2013 10
of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment.
What are the main features of Vedic society and religion? Do you think some of
2023 15
the features are still prevailing in Indian society?
Modern History
02. Modern Indian History- Mid-18th century -
Present (significant events, personalities, issues);

Colonial rule and impact Examine critically the various facets of economic policies of the British in India
from mid-eighteenth century till independence. 2014 10
Examine how the decline of traditional artisanal industry in colonial India crip-
pled the rural economy. 2017 15
How did the colonial rule affect the tribals in India and what was the tribal re-
sponse to the colonial oppression? 2023 15
Why did the armies of the British East India Company - mostly comprising of In-
dian soldiers-win consistently against the more numerous and better equipped
armies of the then Indian rulers ? Give reasons. 2022 10
Why was there a sudden spurt in famines in colonial India since the mid-eigh-
teenth century ? Give reasons. 2022 10
Gandhi X Indian Leaders of Highlight the differences in the approach of Subhash Chandra Bose and Mahat-
Freedom Struggle ma Gandhi in the struggle for freedom. 2016 12.5
How different would have been the achievement of Indian independence with-
out Mahatma Gandhi? Discuss. 2015 12.5
Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, despite having divergent approaches
and strategies, had a common goal of amelioration of the downtrodden. Eluci-
date. 2015 12.5
Throw light on the significance of the thoughts of Mahatma Gandhi in the pres-
ent times. 2018 10
What was the difference between Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore in
their approach towards education and nationalism?
2023 10

Revolt and Mutiny Clarify how mid-eighteenth century India was beset with the spectre of a frag-
mented polity. 2017 10
Explain how the Uprising of 1857 constitutes an important watershed in the
evolution of British policies towards colonial India. 2016 12.5
In what ways did the naval mutiny prove to be the last nail in the coffin of British
colonial aspirations in India? 2014 10
The 1857 Uprising was the culmination the recurrent big and small local rebel-
lions that had occurred in the preceding hundred years of British rule. Elucidate. 2019 10
The third battle of Panipat was fought in 1761. Why were so many empire-shak-
ing battles fought at Panipat? 2014 10
Socio-religious reform The women’s questions arose in modern India as a part of the 19th century
social reform movement. What were the major issues and debates concerning
women in that period? 2017 15
Trace the rise and growth of socio-religious reform movements with special
reference to Young Bengal and Brahmo Samaj. 2021 10
Viceroy and their Adminis- In many ways, Lord Dalhousie was the founder of modern India. Elaborate. 2013 10
tration
Evaluate the policies of Lord Curzon and their long term implications on the
national movement. 2020 10
Modern History
03. Freedom Struggle- Various stages, important contributors/
contributions from different parts of the country

Acts and their Features It would have been difficult for the Constituent Assembly to complete its historic
task of drafting the Constitution for Independent India in just three years but for
the experience gained with the Government of India Act, 1935. Discuss. 2015 12.5
Important contributors/ Several foreigners made India their homeland and participated in various move-
contribution ments. Analyze their role in the Indian struggle for freedom. 2013 10
Why did the ‘Moderates’ fail to carry conviction with the nation about their pro-
claimed ideology and political goals by the end of the nineteenth century? 2017 10
Highlight the importance of the new objectives that got added to the vision of
Indian independence since twenties of the last century. 2017 15
Discuss the role of women in the freedom struggle especially during the Gand-
hian phase. 2016 12.5
Various stages of Freedom Many voices had strengthened and enriched the nationalist movement during
struggle the Gandhian phase. Elaborate. 2019 15
Bring out the constructive programmes of Mahatma Gandhi during Non-Cooper-
ation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement. 2021 15
Assess the role of British imperial power in complicating the process of transfer
of power during the 1940s. 2019 15
Examine the linkages between 19th centuries ‘Indian Renaissance’ and the
emergence of national identity. 2019 10
What were the events that led to the Quit India Movement? Point out its re-
sults. 2024 10
Post Independence
04. Post-Independence- Consolidation and
reorganisation within country

Foreign influence on Inde- The New Economic Policy - 1921 of Lenin had influenced the policies adopted by
2014 10
pendent India’s policies India soon after independence. Evaluate.
Land reform Critically discuss the objectives of Bhoodan and Gramdan movements initiated
2013 10
by Acharya Vinoba Bhave and their success.
Personalities Contribution Discuss the contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to pre-and post-indepen-
2013 10
dent India.
Slogan based Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan “Jai Jawana
2013 10
Jai Kisan”.
States Reorganistion Assess the main administrative issues and socio-cultural problems in the integra-
2021 10
tion process of Indian Princely States. (150 words)
Discuss whether formation of new states in recent times is beneficial or not for
2018 15
the economy of India.
Has the formation of linguistic States strengthened the cause of Indian Unity? 2016 12.5
The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been
a continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with 2022 15
examples.
Wars after Independence Analyze the circumstances that led to Tashkent Agreement in 1966. Discuss the
2013 10
highlights of the agreement.
Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive roles
2013 10
in the emergence of Bangladesh.
World History
05. History of the world will include events from 18th
century such as industrial revolution, world wars, redrawal
of national boundaries, colonization, decolonization,
political philosophies like communism, capitalism,
socialism etc.— their forms and effect on the society.

American and French rev- American Revolution was an economic revolt against mercantilism. Substantiate. 2013 10
olution
Explain how the foundations of the modern world were laid by the American
and French revolution. (15m,250 words) 2019 15
Anti-colonial struggles Africa was chopped into states artificially created by accident of European com-
petition. Analyse. 2013 10
The anti-colonial struggles in West Africa were led by the new elite of West-
ern-educated Africans. Examine. 2016 12.5
What problems were germane to the decolonization process of Malay Peninsula. 2017 10
What were the major political, economic and social developments in the world
which motivated the anti-colonial struggle in India? 2014 10
Great Economic Depression What policy instruments were deployed to contain the great economic
depression? 2013 10
Industrial Revolution How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of
handicrafts and cottage industries in India? 2024 15
Latecomer Industrial revolution in Japan involved certain factors that were
markedly different from what west had experience. 2013 10
Why did the industrial revolution first occur in England? Discuss the quality of
life of the people there during the industrialization. How does it compare with
that in India at present? 2015 12.5
Miscellaneous Bring out the socio-economic effects of the introduction of railways in different
countries of the world. 2023 10
What were the events that led to the Suez Crisis in 1956? How did it deal a final
blow to Britain’s self-image as a world power? 2014 10
Why indentured labour was taken by the British from India to other colonies?
Have they been able to preserve their cultural identity over there? 2018 15
World wars “There arose a serious challenge to the Democratic State System between the
two World Wars.” Evaluate the statement. 2021 15
How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for
the preservation of balance of power? 2024 15
To what extent can Germany be held responsible for causing the two World
Wars? Discuss critically 2015 12.5
Society
06. Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India;

Diversity and pluralism Describe any four cultural elements of diversity in India and rate their relative
significance in building a national identity. 2015 12.5
Do we have cultural pockets of small India all over the nation? Elaborate with examples. 2019 15
Given the diversities among tribal communities in India, in which specific con-
texts should they be considered as a single category ? 2022 10
In the context of diversity of India, can it be said that the regions form cultural
units rather than the States? Give reasons with examples for your viewpoint. 2017 10
What is regional disparity? How does it differ from diversity? How serious is the
issue of regional disparity in India? 2024 15
Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s
cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities. 2024 15
Family Child cuddling is now being replaced by mobile phones. Discuss its impact on
the socialization of children. 2023 10
Do you think marriage as a sacrament in losing its value in Modern India? 2023 10
The life cycle of a joint family depends on economic factors rather than social
values. Discuss. 2014 10
Intercaste marriages between castes which have socio-economic parity have in-
creased, to some extent, but this is less true of interreligious marriages. Discuss. 2024 10
Uniqueness of Indian Examine the uniqueness of tribal knowledge system when compared with main-
society stream knowledge and cultural systems. 2021 10
How does Indian society maintain continuity in traditional social values? Enu-
merate the changes taking place in it. 2021 15
The spirit tolerance and love is not only an interesting feature of Indian society from
very early times, but it is also playing an important part at the present. Elaborate. 2017 15
What makes Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss. 2019 10
Society
07. Role of women and women’s organization, population
and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues.

Population and associated Critically examine whether growing population is the cause of poverty OR pover-
issues ty is the main cause of population increase in India. 2015 12.5
Discuss the changes in the trends of labour migration within and outside India in
the last four decades. 2015 12.5
Discuss the main objectives of Population Education and point out the measures
to achieve them in India in detail. (250 words) 2021 15
How do you explain the statistics that show that the sex ratio in Tribes in India is
more favourable to women than the sex ratio among Scheduled Castes? 2015 12.5
Why did human development fail to keep pace with economic development in
India? 2023 15
Why do some of the most prosperous regions of India have an adverse sex ratio
for women? Give your arguments. 2014 10
What is the concept of a ‘demographic winter’? Is the world moving towards
such a situation? Elaborate. 2024 10
Poverty and Developmen- An essential condition to eradicate poverty is to liberate the poor from depriva-
tal issues. tion. Substantiate this statement with suitable examples 2016 12.5
COVID-19 pandemic accelerated class inequalities and poverty in India. Com-
ment. 2020 10
Despite implementation of various programmes for eradication of poverty by
the government in India, poverty is still existing.’ Explain by giving reasons. 2018 10
How have digital initiatives in India contributed to the functioning of the educa-
tional system in the country? Elaborate your answer. 2020 15
What is Cryptocurrency? How does it affect global society? Has it been affecting
Indian society also? (250 words) 2021 15
In dealing with socio-economic issues of development, what kind of collabora-
tion between government, NGO’s and private sector would be most productive? 2024 10
Women and Associated “Empowering women is the key to control population growth”. Discuss
concerns (10m,150 words) 2019 10
Discuss the various economic and socio-cultural forces that are driving increas-
ing feminization of agriculture in India. 2014 10
Examine the role of ‘Gig Economy’ in the process of empowerment of women in
India. (150 words) 2021 10
Explain why suicide among young women is increasing in Indian Society. 2023 10
How does patriarchy impact the position of a middle class working woman in
India? 2014 10
Male membership needs to be encouraged in order to make women’s organiza-
tion free from gender bias. Comment. 2013 10
What are the continued challenges for women in India against time and space?
(15m,250 words) 2019 15
Women’s movement in India has not addressed the issues of women of lower
social strata. Substantiate your view. 2018 15
Distinguish between gender equality, gender equity and women’s empower-
ment. Why is it important to take gender concerns into account in programme
design and implementation? 2024 10
Society
08. Urbanisation: problems and remedies

Environmental Problems Account for the huge flooding of million cities in India including the smart ones
like Hyderabad and Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. 2020 15
Bring out the causes for the formation of heat islands in the urban habitat of the
world. 2013 5
Major cities of India are becoming more vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. 2016 12.5
What are the environmental implications of the reclamation of water bodies
into urban land use? Explain with examples. 2021 10
Government Programme Mention core strategies for the transformation of aspirational districts in India
and explain the nature of convergence, collaboration and competition for its
success. 2018 15
With a brief background of quality of urban life in India, introduce the objectives
and strategy of the ‘Smart City Programme’. 2016 12.5
Emerging urban issues Explore and evaluate the impact of ‘Work From Home’ on family relationships. 2022 10
How is the growth of Tier 2 cities related to the rise of a new middle class with
an emphasis on the culture of consumption? 2022 10
The growth of cities as I.T. hubs has opened up new avenues employment but
has also created new problems. Substantiate this statement with examples.
2017 15
What are the main socio-economic implications arising out of the development
of IT industries in major cities of India? (250 words) 2021 15
Why do large cities tend to attract more migrants than smaller towns? Discuss in
the light of conditions in developing countries. 2024 10

Miscelleneous Discussion the various social problems which originated out of the speedy pro-
cess of urbanization in India. 2013 10
Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor
in Indian metropolises? 2023 15
How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic
development of India? 2019 15
Smart cities in India cannot sustain without smart villages. Discuss this state-
ment in the backdrop of rural urban integration. 2015 12.5
Society
09. Globalisation and its effects on Indian society
Globalisation Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss. (15m,250 words) 2019 15
Critically examine the effects of globalization on the aged population in India. 2013 10
Discuss the positive and negative effects of globalization on women in India. 2015 12.5
Elucidate the relationship between globalization and new technology in a world
of scarce resources, with special reference to India. 2022 15
Globalization is generally said to promote cultural homogenization but due to
this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian Society. Eluci-
date. 2018 15
Is diversity and pluralism in India under threat due to globalisation? Justify your
answer. 2020 15
To what extent globalization has influenced the core of cultural diversity in
India? Explain. 2016 12.5
Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried
women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal
freedom and relationship with family? 2024 15
Society
10. Social empowerment, communalism,
regionalism & secularism.
Caste system Caste system is assuming new identities and associational forms. Hence, caste
system cannot be eradicated in India. Comment. 2018 10
Has caste lost its relevance in understanding the multi-cultural Indian Society?
Elaborate your answer with illustrations. 2020 10
Why is caste identity in India both fluid and static? 2023 15
Communalism Communalism arises either due to power struggle or relative deprivation. Argue
by giving suitable illustrations. 2018 15
Discuss the impact of post-liberal economy on ethnic identity and communalism. 2023 15
Distinguish between religiousness/religiosity and communalism giving one example
of how the former has got transformed into the latter in independent India. 2017 15

Miscellaneous Analyse the salience of ‘sect’ in Indian society vis-a-vis caste, region and religion. 2022 15
Customs and traditions suppress reason leading to obscurantism. Do you agree? 2020 15
Regionalism Do you agree that regionalism in India appears to be a consequence of rising
cultural assertiveness? Argue. 2020 10
Growing feeling of regionalism is an important factor in the generation of de-
mand for a separate state. Discuss. 2013 10
What is the basis of regionalism? Is it that unequal distribution of benefits of
development on regional basis eventually promotes regionalism? Substantiate
your answer. 2016 12.5
Secularism Are tolerance, assimilation and pluralism the key elements in the making of an
Indian form of secularism? Justify your answer. 2022 15
How do the Indian debates on secularism differ from the debates in the West? 2014 10
How the Indian concept of secularism is different from the western model of
secularism? Discuss. 2018 10
What are the challenges to our cultural practices in the name of secularism.
(10m,150 words) 2019 10
Social empowerment Debate the issue of whether and how contemporary movements for assertion
of Dalit identity work towards annihilation of caste. 2015 12.5
What are the two major legal initiatives by the State since Independence, ad-
dressing discrimination against Scheduled Tribes (STs)? 2017 10
Why are the tribals in India referred to as the Scheduled Tribes? Indicate the
major provisions enshrined in the Constitution of India for their upliftment. 2016 12.5
Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged
sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action envisaged by
the Constitution. Comment. 2024 15
Geography
11. Salient Features of World Physical Geography

Climatology Discuss the concept of air mass and explain its role in macro-climatic changes. 2016 12.5
Most of the unusual climatic happenings are explained as an outcome of the
El-Nino effect. Do you agree? 2014 10
Troposphere is a very significant atmospheric layer that determines weather
processes. How? 2022 15
What do you understand by the phenomenon of temperature inversion in mete-
orology? How does it affect the weather and the habitants of the place? 2013 5
What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered?
2024 15
Cryosphere and Himalayan Bring out the relationship between the shrinking Himalayan glaciers and the
Eco-system symptoms of climate change in the Indian sub-continent. 2014 10
How can the mountain ecosystem be restored from the negative impact of de-
velopment initiatives and tourism? 2019 15
How does the cryosphere affect global climate? 2017 10
How does the melting of the Arctic ice and glaciers of the Antarctic differently
affect the weather patterns and human activities on the Earth? Explain. 2021 15
How will the melting of Himalayan glaciers have a far-reaching impact on the
water resources of India? 2020 10
Why is India taking keen interest in resources of Arctic Region? 2018 10

Geomorphology Define mantle plume and explain its role in plate tectonics. 2018 10
Describe the characteristics and types of primary rocks. 2022 10
Discuss the geophysical characteristics of Circum-Pacific Zone. 2020 10
How are the fjords formed? Why do they constitute some of the most pictur-
esque areas of the world? 2023 10
What do you understand by the theory of continental drift? Discuss the promi-
nent evidences in its support. 2013 5
Why is India considered as a subcontinent? Elaborate your answer. 2021 10
Monsoon How far do you agree that the behavior of the Indian monsoon has been chang-
ing due to humanizing landscapes? Discuss. 2015 12.5
What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feed-
ing more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? 2017 15
Why is the South-West monsoon called ‘Purvaiya’ (easterly) in Bhojpur Region?
How has this directional seasonal wind system influenced the cultural ethos of
the region? 2023 10
Oceanography What are the consequences of spreading of ‘Dead Zones’ on marine ecosystem? 2018 10
How do ocean currents and water masses differ in their impacts on marine life
and the coastal environment? Give suitable examples? 2019 15
Explain the factors responsible for the origin of ocean currents. How do they
influence regional climates, fishing and navigation? 2015 12.5
Account for variations in oceanic salinity and discuss its multi-dimensional
effects. 2017 15
Geography
12. Distribution of key Natural Resources (world,
South Asia and Indian subcontinent)

Energy Discuss the multi-dimensional implications of uneven distribution of mineral oil
in the world. 2021 15
Examine the potential of wind energy in India and explain the reasons for their
limited spatial spread. 2022 10
India has immense potential of solar energy though there are regional variations
in its development. Elaborate. 2020 15
It is said the India has substantial reserves of shale oil and gas, which can feed
the needs of country for quarter century. However, tapping of the resources
doesn’t appear to be high on the agenda. Discuss critically the availability and
issues involved. 2013 10
What are the economic significances of discovery of oil in Arctic Sea and its
possible environmental consequences? 2015 12.5
With growing scarcity of fossil fuels, the atomic energy is gaining more and
more significance in India. Discuss the availability of raw material required for
the generation of atomic energy in India and in the world. 2013 10

Natural resources Potential Account for the present location of iron and steel industries away from the
source of raw material, by giving examples. 2020 15
Comment on the resource potentials of the long coastline of India and highlight
the status of natural hazard preparedness in these areas. 2023 15
Critically evaluate the various resources of the oceans which can be harnessed
to meet the resource crisis in the world. 2014 10
Describing the distribution of rubber producing countries, indicate the major
environmental issues faced by them. 2022 15
Discuss the natural resource potentials of ‘Deccan Trap’. 2022 10
How does India see its place in the economic space of rising natural resource
rich Africa? 2014 10
Water Management In what way can flood be converted into a sustainable source of irrigation and
all-weather inland navigation in India? 2017 15
In what way micro-watershed Development projects help in water conservation
in drought prone and semi-arid regions of India. 2016 12.5
India is well endowed with fresh water resources. Critically examine why it still
suffers from water scarcity. 2015 12.5
Present an account of the Indus Water Treaty and examine its ecological, eco-
nomic and political implications in the context of changing bilateral relations. 2016 12.5
The effective management of land and water resources will drastically reduce
the human miseries. Explain 2016 12.5
The ideal solution of depleting ground water resources in India is water harvest-
ing system. How can it be made effective in urban areas? 2018 15
The interlinking of rivers can provide viable solutions to the multi-dimensional
inter-related problems of droughts, floods and interrupted navigation. Critically
examine. 2020 15
What is water stress? How and why does it differ regionally in India? 2019 15
Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to
freshwater resources? 2023 10
The groundwater potential of the gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How
may it affect the food security of India? 2024 15
Geography
13. Factors responsible for the location of primary,
secondary, and tertiary sector industries in
various parts of the world (including India).
Primary sector Despite India being one of the countries of the Gondwanaland, its mining
industry contributes much less to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in percentage.
Discuss. 2021 10
From being net food importer in 1960s, India has emerged as a net food export-
er to the world. Provide reasons. 2023 15
In spite of adverse environmental impact, coal mining is still inevitable for devel-
opment.” Discuss. 2017 10
Mention the advantages of the cultivation of pulse because of which the year
2016 was declared as the International Year of Pulses by the United Nations. 2017 10
Whereas the British planters had developed tea gardens all along the Shivaliks
and Lesser Himalayas from Assam to Himachal Pradesh, in effect they did not
succeed beyond the Darjeeling area. Explain. 2014 10
Why did the Green Revolution in India virtually by-pass the eastern region de-
spite fertile soil and good availability of water? 2014 10
Secondary sector Account for the change in the spatial pattern of the Iron and Steel industry in
the world. 2014 10
Analyze the factors for highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India 2013 5
Can the strategy of regional-resource based manufacturing help in promoting
employment in India? 2019 10
Discuss the factors for localization of agro-based food processing industries of
North-West India. 2019 10
Do you agree that there is a growing trend of opening new sugar mills in the
Southern states of India? Discuss with justification 2013 5
Petroleum refineries are not necessarily located nearer to crude oil producing
areas, particularly in many of the developing countries. Explain its implications. 2017 15
What is the significance of Industrial Corridors in India? Identify industrial corri-
dors, explain their main characteristics. 2018 15
Tertiary sector Enumerate the problems and prospects of inland water transport in India. 2016 12.5
The states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand reaching
the limits of their ecological carrying capacity due to tourism. Critically evaluate. 2015 12.5
Why is Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System (IRNSS) needed? How does
it help in navigation? 2018 10
Geography
14. Important Geophysical phenomena such as
earthquakes, Tsunami, Volcanic activity, cyclone etc.,

Cyclone Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas
given by India Meteorological Department. 2022 10
The recent cyclone on the east coast of India was called “Phailin”. How are the
tropical cyclones named across the world? 2013 5
Tropical cyclones are largely confined to South China Sea, Bay of Bengal and Gulf
of Mexico. Why? 2014 10
What is sea surface temperature rise? How does it affect the formation of tropi-
cal cyclones? 2024 10
Desertification The process of desertification does not have climatic boundaries. Justify with
examples. 2020 10
Landslides Bring out the causes for more frequent landslides in the Himalayas than in West-
ern Ghats 2013 5
Differentiate the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region and Western
Ghats. 2021 10
The Himalayas are highly prone to landslides. Discuss the causes and suggest
suitable measures of mitigation. 2016 12.5
Volcanic activity Mention the global occurrence of volcanic eruptions in 2021 and their impact
on regional environment. 2021 10
Cloudbursts What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain.
2024 10
Twisters What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around
the Gulf of Mexico? 2024 15
Geography
15. Geographical features and their location- Changes in
critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-
caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.

Flora & Fauna and related Assess the impact of global warming on coral life system with examples. 2019 15
changes
Define blue revolution, explain the problems and strategies for pisciculture
development in India. 2018 15
Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in
maintaining coastal ecology. 2019 10
Examine the status of forest resources of India and its resultant impact on cli-
mate change. 2020 15
Identify and discuss the factors responsible for diversity of natural vegetation
in India. Assess the significance of wildlife sanctuaries in rain forests regions of
India. 2023 15
Geographical features and Briefly mention the alignment of major mountain ranges of the world and ex-
their location plain their impact on local weather conditions, with examples. 2021 15
Explain the formation of thousands of islands in Indonesian and Philippines
archipelagos. 2014 10
Major hot deserts in northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 degree
north and on the western side of the continents. Why? 2013 10
Mention the significance of straits and isthmus in international trade. 2022 15
Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata are the three mega cities of the country but the air
pollution is much more serious problem in Delhi as compared to the other two.
Why is this so? 2015 12.5
South China Sea has assumed great geopolitical significance in the present con-
text. Comment. 2016 12.5
There is no formation of deltas by rivers of the Western Ghat. Why? 2013 5
Why are the world’s fold mountain systems located along the margins of
continents? Bring out the association between the global distribution of Fold
Mountains and the earthquakes and volcanoes. 2014 10
Miscellaneous Discuss the consequences of climate change on the food security in tropical
countries. 2023 10
How does the Juno Mission of NASA help to understand the origin and evolution
of the Earth? 2017 10
GS-II
01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features,
amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution
02. Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the States; issues
and challenges of federal structure;
03. Separation of Powers between different organs, dispute redressal
mechanisms and institutions
04. Devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and
challenges therein
05. Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries’
06. Parliament and State Legislatures (structure, functioning, conduct
of business, powers & privileges; issues therein)
07. 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
08. Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
09. Appointment to various Constitutional posts; Constitutional
Bodies (powers, functions and responsibilities); Statutory,
Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies
10. Government Policies & Interventions for development of various
sectors (issues in their design, implementation)
11. Development processes and the development industry —the role
of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations, donors, charities,
institutional and other stakeholders.
12. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by
the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes;
mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the
protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.
13. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/
Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.
14. Issues relating to poverty and hunger
15. Transaparency and accountability (institutional and other
measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance (applications, models,
successes, limitations, potential)
16. Role of Civil Services in a democracy.
17. India and its neighborhood- relations.
18. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving
India and/or affecting India’s interests.
19. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries
on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
20. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their
structure, mandate.
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
1. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings 1 1 2 3 2 1 1 2 2 1 16
& evolution; Features, amendments, significant
provisions, basic structure of Constitution
2. Functions & responsibilities of the Union 3 1 1 2 1 1 2 2 1 14
and the States; issues and challenges of
federal structure;
3. Separation of Powers between different 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 13
organs, dispute redressal mechanisms and
institutions
4. Devolution of powers and finances up to 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8
local levels and challenges therein
5. Comparison of Indian constitutional 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7
scheme with other countries'
6. Parliament and State Legislatures 1 1 2 1 1 2 2 1 2 13
(structure, functioning, conduct of business,
powers & privileges; issues therein)
7. Structure, organization and functioning of 1 3 1 1 2 2 1 11
the Executive and the Judiciary—Ministries
and Departments of the Government; pres-
sure groups and formal/informal associations
and their role in the Polity
8. Salient features of the Representation of 1 2 1 1 1 3 1 10
People’s Act.
9. Appointment to various Constitutional 3 2 1 2 1 5 1 1 3 1 1 1 22
posts; Constitutional Bodies (powers,
functions and responsibilities); Statutory,
Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies
10. Government Policies & Interventions for 1 2 1 1 2 1 8
development of various sectors (issues in
their design, implementation)
11.Development processes and the 1 1 3 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 13
development industry —the role of NGOs,
SHGs, various groups and associations,
donors, charities, institutional and other
stakeholders.
12. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 8
of the population by the Centre and States
and the performance of these schemes;
mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies
constituted for the protection and betterment
of these vulnerable sections.
13. Issues relating to development and 1 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 2 1 2 1 18
management of Social Sector/Services
relating to Health, Education, Human
Resources.
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
14. Issues relating to poverty and hunger 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 9
15. Transaparency and accountability (institu- 2 2 2 2 1 2 1 1 1 3 17
tional and other measures); Citizens Charter,
E-Governance (applications, models, success-
es, limitations, potential)
16. Role of Civil Services in a democracy. 1 1 1 1 1 5
17.India and its neighborhood- relations. 4 2 1 7
18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and 1 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 2 3 1 2 21
agreements involving India and/or affecting
India’s interests.
19.Effect of policies and politics of developed 2 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 13
and developing countries on India’s interests,
Indian diaspora.
20.Important International institutions, agen- 1 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 12
cies and fora- their structure, mandate.
Grand Total 25 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 245
Polity
01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings
& evolution; Features, amendments, significant
provisions, basic structure of Constitution

Amendments “Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot
be enlarged into absolute power.” In the light of this statement explain whether
Parliament under Article 368 of the Constitution can destroy the Basic Structure
of the Constitution by expanding its amending power? 2019 15
Explain the salient features of the constitution(One Hundred and First Amend-
ment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough ‘to remove cascading
effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services’? 2017 15
Case Laws ‘Constitutional Morality’ is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its
essential facets. Explain the doctrine of ‘Constitutional Morality’ with the help
of relevant judicial decisions. 2021 10
Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of rele-
vant Constitutional Provisions and case laws. 2023 15
The most significant achievement of modern law in India in the constitutional-
ization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court. Discuss this statement
with the help of relevant case laws. 2022 10
What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial
review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? 2016 12.5
DPSP Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uni-
form civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. 2015 12.5
Making of the Constitution Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution? Discuss. 2016 12.5
Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the preamble. Are they
defendable in the present circumstances? 2016 12.5

Fundamental Rights “The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous
dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society”. Illustrate with special
reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty. 2023 15
Discuss Section 66A of IT Act, with reference to its alleged violation of Article 19
of the Constitution. 2013 10
Does the right to clean environment entail legal regulations on burning crackers
during Diwali? Discuss in the light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and
Judgement(s) of the Apex Court in this regard. 2015 12.5
Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of
the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. 2017 15
Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely
available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute. Comment 2022 10
What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”?
Does it cover hate speech also? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly
different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. 2014 12.5
Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protect-
ed under Article 21 of the Constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law
relating to D.N.A. testing of a child in the womb to establish its paternity. 2024 15
Polity
02. Functions & responsibilities of the Union and the
States; issues and challenges of federal structure;
Center-State Relations Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anoma-
lies, if any that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected repre-
sentatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration
of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of
the Indian federal politics? 2016 12.5
Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what
extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism? 2023 15
From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative
powers by the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Con-
struction’ have emerged. Explain. 2019 10
Many State Governments further bifurcate geographical administrative areas
like Districts and Talukas for better governance. In light of the above, can it also
be justified that more number of smaller States would bring in effective gover-
nance at State level? Discuss. 2013 10
What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain
of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust
between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism. 2024 15
Emergency Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency
of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s. 2023 15
Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the
President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains
in force? 2018 10

Nature of Indian Constitutional mechanisms to resolve the inter-state water disputes have failed
Federalism to address and solve the problems. Is the failure due to structural or process
inadequacy or both? Discuss. 2013 10
How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the
nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer. 2020 10
Indian Constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain unity and in-
tegrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act,
1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts. 2020 15
The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in
recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to
which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. 2015 12.5
Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle
is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian
Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against
the concept of strong federalism. Discuss. 2014 12.5
Special Provisions Recent directives from Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas are perceived by
the `Nagas’ as a threat to override the exceptional status enjoyed by the State.
Discuss in light of Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. 2013 10
To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note
“Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary?
Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. 2016 12.5
Polity
03. Separation of Powers between different organs,
dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions
Executive Vs Judiciary Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appoint-
ments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to appointment of judges of higher
judiciary in India. 2017 10
Executive Vs Legislature Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the
Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor
without placing them before the Legislature. 2022 15
Resorting to ordinances has always raised concern on violation of the spirit of
separation of powers doctrine. While noting the rationales justifying the power
to promulgate ordinances, analyze whether the decisions of the Supreme Court
on the issue have further facilitated resorting to this power. Should the power to
promulgate ordinances be repealed? 2015 12.5
To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of
the executive in India? 2021 10
Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle
between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine. 2018 15
“The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of
the parliamentary supremacy.” Elucidate. 2024 10
Judiciary Vs Legislature Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as
envisaged in the Indian Constitution. In this context justify the filing of large
number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive
authorities. 2020 15
The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament
in amending the Constitution. Discuss critically. 2013 10

Separation of Powers “Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democ-
racy”. Comment. 2023 10
Do you think that constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation
of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’? Explain. 2019 10
Polity
04. Devolution of powers and finances up to
local levels and challenges therein
Local Self Government “The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instru-
ment of governance”. Critically examine the statement and give your views to
improve the situation. 2017 10
“The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self- government
has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political
Process.” Comment. 2019 15
“The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both func-
tionally as well as financially.” Comment. 2023 10
Assess the importance of Panchayat system in India as a part of local govern-
ment. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out
for financing developmental projects. 2018 15
In absence of a well-educated and organized local level government system,
`Panchayats’ and ‘Samitis’ have remained mainly political institutions and not
effective instruments of governance. Critically discuss. 2015 12.5
The strength and sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their
formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries and Funds’ to the contemporary
stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institu-
tions in terms of their functionality in recent times. 2020 15
To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India
changed the governance landscape at the grassroots ? 2022 10
Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring
out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies. 2024 10
Polity
05. Comparison of Indian constitutional scheme with other countries
Constitutional Comparison Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Con-
stitutions of the USA and India. 2021 15
Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty. 2023 10
Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and
France are elected. 2022 15
India and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenants on which
the two political systems are based. 2018 15
The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging
in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence be-
tween the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. 2020 10
What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism? 2019 10
Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution 2024 15
Polity
06. Parliament and State Legislatures (structure, functioning,
conduct of business, powers & privileges; issues therein)

Bicameralism Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya
Sabha. 2022 10
Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are
established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with
suitable illustrations. 2021 15
Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless stepney tyre’ to the most
useful supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the
areas in which this transformation could be visible. 2020 15
The Indian Constitution has provisions for holding joint session of the two
houses of the Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this would normally
happen and also the occasions when it cannot, with reasons thereof. 2017 15
Parliamentary Committees Discuss the role of Public Accounts Committee in establishing accountability of
the government to the people. 2017 10
Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the adminis-
tration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the
working of such committees with suitable examples. 2021 15
Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the
financial committees helped in the institutionalization of Indian Parliament? 2023 15
Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary
work? Discuss, in this context, the role or the Estimates Committee. 2018 10

Parliamentary Privileges The ‘Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and its Members’ as
envisaged in Article 105 of the Constitution leave room for a large number of
un-codified and un-enumerated privileges to continue. Assess the reasons for
the absence of legal codification of the ‘parliamentary privileges’. How can this
problem be addressed? 2014 12.5
Presiding Officers ‘Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopt-
ed to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could
be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? 2020 10
Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order
and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic
practices. 2023 10
Role of MPs Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national lawmaker is on a decline, which
in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Dis-
cuss. 2019 15
The role of individual MPs (Members of Parliament) has diminished over the
years and as a result healthy constructive debates on policy issues are not usual-
ly witnessed. How far can this be attributed to the anti-defection law, which was
legislated but with a different intention? 2013 10
Polity
07. 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
Informal associations and Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional
their role in polity authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights vio-
lations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and the
judiciary to set the things right in this regard. 2015 12.5
Alternate Dispute Resolu- What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act,
tion 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will
it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss. 2015 12.5
Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal
Services Authority(NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India. 2023 10
Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether
they entertain civil as well as criminal cases ? 2024 10
Judiciary Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judi-
ciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. 2021 10
Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a
highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy.
In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achiev-
ing the ideals of democracy. 2014 12.5
Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a
result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful
judiciary? 2024 15

Pressure Groups “Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India.”
Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. 2021 10
How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with
this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as powerful than formal
pressure groups in recent years? 2017 10
Pressure group politics is sometimes seen as the informal face of politics. With
regards to the above, assess the structure and functioning of pressure groups in
India. 2013 10
What are the methods used by the Farmers organizations to influence the poli-
cy- makers in India and how effective are these methods? 2019 10
Union Executive “The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government
of India.” Discuss. 2019 15
Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under
public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time limit specified for the
President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse. 2014 12.5
The size of the cabinet should be as big as governmental work justifies and as
big as the Prime Minister can manage as a team. How far the efficacy of a gov-
ernment then is inversely related to the size of the cabinet? Discuss. 2014 12.5
Polity
08. Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.

ECI Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution
of the Model Code of Conduct. 2022 15
To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India
has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and
how far are they significant to make democracy successful? 2017 15
Elections ‘Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the
amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the govern-
ment’s accountability to the people’ Discuss. 2017 10
In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Ma-
chines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India
to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? 2018 10
Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees
with particular reference to “one nation-one election” principle. 2024 10
Political Parties The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to
be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. 2016 12.5
While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional
parties are in favour of State autonomy. Comment. 2022 15
RP Act “There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons
found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”.
Comment. 2020 10
Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a
Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the
People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned
candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved
party against the decision? Refer to the case laws. 2022 15
On what grounds a people’s representative can be disqualified under the Rep-
resentation of People Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such
person against his disqualification. 2019 15
Governance
09. Appointment to various Constitutional posts;
Constitutional Bodies (powers, functions and responsibilities);
Statutory, Regulatory and Quasi-judicial bodies
Constitutional Bodies Discuss the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission which have been
a departure from the previous commissions for strengthening the local govern-
ment finances. 2013 10
Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of
its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body. 2022 10
Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States
is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of
the Government’s Policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own
(CAG) jurisdiction. 2016 12.5
How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India en-
abled the States to improve their fiscal position? 2021 10
How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you about the
terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss. 2018 15
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play. Explain
how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the
range of powers he can exercise. 2018 10
Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the
implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the
religious minority institutions? Examine. 2018 10
“The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the
legality of expenditure but also its propriety.” Comment. 2024 10
Enforcement Agencies The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging
an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by
various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI
is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. 2021 15
Quasi judicial Bodies “The Central Administration Tribunal which was established for redressal of
grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowa-
days is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain. 2019 10
How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of
ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and
competency of the tribunals in India. 2018 15
What is a quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples. 2016 12.5
Sectoral Regulatory Bodies For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulato-
ry institutions remain independent and autonomous. Discuss in the light of the
experiences in recent past. 2015 12.5
The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies,
resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the
merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify. 2013 10
The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash
strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-prof-
itable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power
sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the
Indian Railways or the private container operators. 2014 12.5

Statutory Bodies ‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of
immorality in public affairs’. Discuss. 2013 10
Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse
of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the
recent decisions. 2023 10
Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the
problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in
support of your answer. 2017 15
Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections or the society
leads to problems or overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it
better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission?
Argue your case. 2018 15
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective
when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the
accountability of a government. In light of the above observation assess the role
of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in
promoting and protecting human rights standards. 2014 12.5
Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the
protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves
against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limita-
tions, suggest remedial measures. 2021 15
Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you
think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would
ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons. 2020 15
Governance
10. Government Policies & Interventions for development
of various sectors (issues in their design, implementation)

Government Schemes and The basis of providing urban amenities in rural areas (PURA) is rooted in estab-
Policies lishing connectivity. Comment. 2013 10
The Gati-Shakti Yojana needs meticulous coordination between the government
and the private sector to achieve the goal of connectivity. Discuss. 2022 10
Two parallel run schemes of the Government viz. the Adhaar Card and NPR, one
as voluntary and the other as compulsory, have led to debates at national levels
and also litigations. On merits, discuss whether or not both schemes need run
concurrently. Analyse the potential of the schemes to achieve developmental
benefits and equitable growth. 2014 12.5
Structural reforms and ‘In the context of neo-liberal paradigm of development planning, multi-level
Actions planning is expected to make operations cost effective and remove many imple-
mentation blockages.’-Discuss. 2019 15
Has the Indian governmental system responded adequately to the demands
of Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization started in 1991? What can the
government do to be responsive to this important change? 2016 12.5
Policy contradictions among various competing sectors and stakeholders have
resulted in inadequate ‘protection and prevention of degradation’ to environ-
ment. “ Comment with relevant illustration. 2018 10
The need for cooperation among various service sector has been an inherent
component of development discourse. Partnership bridges bring the gap among
the sectors. It also sets in motion a culture of ‘Collaboration’ and ‘team spirit’. In
the light of statements above examine India’s Development process. 2019 15
Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade pub-
lication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the
proposal for increased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference
would an increase in FDI make? Critically evaluate the pros and cons. 2014 12.5
Governance
11.Development processes and the development industry
—the role of NGOs, SHGs, various groups and associations,
donors, charities, institutional and other stakeholders.
Civil Society Can Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations present an alternative
model of public service delivery to benefit the common citizen? Discuss the
challenges of this alternative model. 2021 15
Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women’s effective and mean-
ingful participation and representation in state legislatures in India. 2023 15
Examine critically the recent changes in the rules governing foreign funding of
NGOs under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA), 1976. 2015 12.5
How can the role of NGOs be strengthened in India for development works
relating to protection of the environment? Discuss throwing light on the major
constraints. 2015 12.5
In the Indian governance system, the role of non-state actors has been only
marginal. Critically examine this statement. 2016 12.5
Donor Agencies Do you agree with the view that increasing dependence on donor agencies for
development reduces the importance of community participation in the devel-
opment process ? Justify your answer. 2022 15
Public charitable trusts have the potential to make India’s development more
inclusive as they relate to certain vital public issues. Comment. 2024 10
SHGs ‘The emergence of Self Help Groups(SHGs) in contemporary times points to the
slow but steady withdrawal of the state from developmental activities’. Examine
the role of the SHGs in developmental activities and the measures taken by the
Government of India to promote the SHGs. 2017 15
“Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine, is aimed at asset creation and in-
come security of the rural poor in India”. Evaluate the role of Self Help Groups in
achieving the twin objectives along with empowering women in rural India. 2020 15
Can the vicious cycle of gender inequality, poverty and malnutrition be broken
through microfinancing of women SHGs? Explain with examples. 2021 10
The legitimacy and accountability of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and their patrons,
the micro-finance outfits, need systematic assessment and scrutiny for the sus-
tained success of the concept. Discuss. 2013 10
The penetration of Self Help Groups (SHGs) in rural areas in promoting participa-
tion in development programmes is facing socio-cultural hurdles. Examine. 2014 12.5
The Self-Help Group (SHG) Bank Linkage Programme (SBLP), which is India’s own
innovation, has proved to be one of the most effective poverty alleviation and
women empowerment programmes. Elucidate. 2015 12.5
Governance
15. Transaparency and accountability (institutional
and other measures); Citizens Charter, E-Governance
(applications, models, successes, limitations, potential)

E-governance “The emergence of Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated
e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. 2020 10
E-Governance is not only about utilization of the power of new technology, but
also much about critical importance of the ‘use value’ of information Explain. 2018 10
e-governance, as a critical tool of governance, has ushered in effectiveness,
transparency and accountability in governments. What inadequacies hamper
the enhancement of these features? 2023 10
Electronic cash transfer system for the welfare schemes is an ambitious project
to minimize corruption, eliminate wastage and facilitate reforms. Comment. 2013 10
Has digital illiteracy, particularly in rural areas, coupled with lack of Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) accessibility hindered socio-economic
development? Examine with justification. 2021 15
Implementation of information and Communication Technology (ICT) based
Projects / Programmes usually suffers in terms of certain vital factors. Identify
these factors, and suggest measures for their effective implementation. 2019 10
e-governance is not just about the routine application of digital technology
in service delivery process. It is as much about multifarious interactions for
ensuring transparency and accountability. In this context evaluate the role of the
‘Interactive Service Model’ of e-governance. 2024 15

Citizens Charter Citizens’ Charter is an ideal instrument of organizational transparency and
accountability, but it has its own limitations. Identify the limitations and suggest
measures for greater effectiveness or the Citizens Charter. 2018 15
Though Citizen’s charters have been formulated by many public service delivery
organizations, there is no corresponding improvement in the level of citizens’
satisfaction and quality of services being provided. Analyze. 2013 10
The Citizens’charter has been a land mark initiative in ensuring citizen-centric
administration. But it is yet to reach its full potential. Identify the factors hinder-
ing the realisation of its promise and suggest measures to overcome them. 2024 15
Transaparency and Ac- “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have profound impact
countability on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss. 2020 10
Effectiveness of the goverment system at various levels and people’s participa-
tion in the governance system are inter-dependent. Discuss their relationship
with each other in context of India. 2016 12.5
If amendment bill to the Whistleblowers Act, 2011 tabled in the Parliament is
passed, there may be no one left to protect. Critically evaluate. 2015 12.5
In the integrity index of Transparency International, India stands very low.
Discuss briefly the legal, political, economic, social and cultural factors that have
caused the decline of public morality in India. 2016 12.5
In the light of the Satyam Scandal (2009), discuss the changes brought in corpo-
rate governance to ensure transparency, accountability. 2015 12.5
Reforming the government delivery system through the Direct Benefit Transfer
Scheme is a progressive step, but it has its limitations too. Comment. 2022 10
What are the aims and objects of the recently passed and enforced, The Public
Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State
Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act ? 2024 15
Governance
16. Role of Civil Services in a democracy.
Civil Services “Institutional quality is a crucial driver of economic performance”. In this con-
text suggest reforms in Civil Service for strengthening democracy. 2020 10
Has the Cadre based Civil Services Organisation been the cause of slow change
in India? Critically examine. 2014 12.5
Initially Civil Services in India were designed to achieve the goals of neutrality
and effectiveness, which seems to be lacking in the present context. Do you
agree with the view that drastic reforms are required in Civil Services. Comment 2017 15
Traditional bureaucratic structure and culture have hampered the process of
socio-economic development in India. Comment. 2016 12.5
The Doctrine of Democratic Governance makes it necessary that the public per-
ception of the integrity and commitment of civil servants becomes absolutely
positive. Discuss. 2024 10
Social Justice
12. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of
the population by the Centre and States and the
performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws,
institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection
and betterment of these vulnerable sections.

Children Examine the main provisions of the National Child Policy and throw light on the
status of its implementation. 2016 12.5
Disables Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 ensure effective mech-
anism for empowerment and inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the
society? Discuss 2017 10
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 remains only a legal document
without intense sensitisation of government functionaries and citizens regarding
disability. Comment. 2022 10
Welfare and Development “Development and welfare schemes for the vulnerable, by its nature, are dis-
Schemes criminatory in approach.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. 2023 15
Do government’s schemes for up-lifting vulnerable and backward communi-
ties by protecting required social resources for them, lead to their exclusion in
establishing businesses in urban economics? 2014 12.5
Performance of welfare schemes that are implemented for vulnerable sections
is not so effective due to absence of their awareness and active involvement at
all stages of policy process – Discuss. 2019 15
The Central Government frequently complains on the poor performance of the
State Governments in eradicating suffering of the vulnerable sections of the
society. Restructuring of Centrally sponsored schemes across the sectors for
ameliorating the cause of vulnerable sections of population aims at providing
flexibility to the States in better implementation. Critically evaluate. 2013 10

Women “Though women in post-Independent India have excelled in various fields, the
social attitude towards women and feminist movement has been patriarchial.”
Apart from women education and women empowerment schemes, what inter-
ventions can help change this milieu? 2021 15
Social Justice
13. Issues relating to development and
management of Social Sector/Services relating
to Health, Education, Human Resources.
Education “Earn while you learn’ scheme needs to be strengthened to make vocational
education and skill training meaningful.” Comment. (150 words) 2021 10
National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Develop-
ment Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient education system in
India. Critically examine the statement. 2020 15
Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed to retain premier status,
allowed more academic independence in designing courses and also decide
mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light of the growing challeng-
es. 2014 12.5
The quality of higher education in India requires major improvements to make
it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational
institutions would help improve the quality of higher and technical education in
the country? Discuss. 2015 12.5
The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 remains in-
adequate in promoting incentive-based system for children’s education without
generating awareness about the importance of schooling. Analyse. 2022 15
Health ‘To ensure effective implementation of policies addressing water, sanitation and
hygiene needs, the identification of beneficiary segments is to be synchronized
with the anticipated outcomes’ Examine the statement in the context of the
WASH scheme. 2017 10
“Besides being a moral imperative of a Welfare State, primary health structure is
a necessary precondition for sustainable development.” Analyse.(150 words) 2021 10
Appropriate local community-level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to
achieve ‘Health for All ‘ in India. Explain. 2018 10
Identify the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that are related to health.
Discuss the success of the actions taken by the Government for achieving the
same. 2013 10
In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate
health care policies are needed particularly in the fields of geriatric and mater-
nal health care. Discuss. 2020 10
Public health system has limitations in providing universal health coverage. Do
you think that the private sector could help in bridging the gap? What other
viable alternatives would you suggest? 2015 12.5
In a crucial domain like the public healthcare system, the Indian State should
play a vital role to contain the adverse impact of marketisation of the system.
Suggest some measures through which the State can enhance the reach of pub-
lic healthcare at the grassroots level. 2024 15

Human Resources An athlete participates in Olympics for personal triumph and nation’s glory;
victors are showered with cash incentives by various agencies, on their return.
Discuss the merit of state sponsored talent hunt and its cultivation as against
the rationale of a reward mechanism as encouragement. 2014 12.5
Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpow-
er becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative. What measures have
been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be
more productive and employable? 2016 12.5
Despite Consistent experience of High growth, India still goes with the lowest
indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and
inclusive development elusive. 2019 10
Skill development programs have succeed in increasing human resources supply
to various sectors. In the context of the statement analyze the linkages between
education, skill and employment. 2023 15
The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention
paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can
address this adequacy. 2023 10
Miscellenous Professor Amartya Sen has advocated important reforms in the realms of pri-
mary education and primary health care. What are your suggestions to improve
their status and performance? 2016 12.5
Social Justice
14. Issues relating to poverty and hunger
Hunger How far do you agree with the view that the focus on lack of availability of food
as the main cause of hunger takes the attention away from ineffective human
development policies in India? 2018 15
The concept of Mid Day Meal (MDM) scheme is almost a century old in India
with early beginnings in Madras Presidency in pre-independent India. The
scheme has again been given impetus in most states in the last two decades.
Critically examine its twin objectives, latest mandates and success. 2013 10
There is a growing divergence in the relationship between poverty and hunger in
India. The shrinking of social expenditure by the government is forcing the poor to
spend more on Non- Food essential items squeezing their food – budget.- Elucidate. 2019 10
Miscellenous Hunger and Poverty are the biggest challenges for good governance in India still
today. Evaluate how far successive governments have progressed in dealing with
these humongous problems. Suggest measures for improvement. 2017 10
Poverty ‘Poverty Alleviation Programmes in India remain mere show pieces until and un-
less they are backed by political will’. Discuss with reference to the performance
of the major poverty alleviation programmes in India. 2017 15
“The incidence and intensity of poverty are more important in determining pov-
erty based on income alone”. In this context analyse the latest United Nations
Multidimensional Poverty Index Report. 2020 15
Besides the welfare schemes, India needs deft management of inflation and unem-
ployment to serve the poor and the underprivileged sections of the society. Discuss. 2022 15
Though there have been several different estimates of poverty in India, all indi-
cate reduction in poverty levels over time. Do you agree? Critically examine with
reference to urban and rural poverty indicators. 2015 12.5
Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capi-
tal formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? 2024 10
International Relations
17.India and its neighborhood- relations.

Neighbourhood Discuss the political developments in Maldives in the last two years. Should they
be of any cause of concern to India? 2013 10
In respect of India-Sri Lanka relations, discuss how domestic factors influence
foreign policy. 2013 10
India is an age-old friend of Sri Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in
Sri Lanka the light of the preceding statement. 2022 10
Project `Mausam’ is considered a unique foreign policy initiative of the Indian
Government to improve relationship with its neighbors. Does the project have a
strategic dimension? Discuss. 2015 12.5
Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India-Pakistan relations. To
what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help
generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples. 2015 12.5
The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental
split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its signifi-
cance for India? 2013 10
What is meant by Gujral doctrine? Does it have any relevance today? Discuss. 2013 10
18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements
involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Bilateral Relations ‘The time has come for India and Japan to build a strong contemporary rela-
tionship, one involving global and strategic partnership that will have a great
significance for Asia and the world as a whole.’ Comment. 2019 10
“What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is
that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy,
which would satisfy India’s National self-esteem and ambitions” Explain with
suitable examples. 2019 15
Economic ties between India and Japan, while growing in recent years, are still
far below their potential. Elucidate the policy constraints which are inhibiting
this growth. 2013 10
India’s relations with Israel have, of late, acquired a depth and diversity, which
cannot be rolled back.” Discuss. 2018 10
What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence
deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. 2020 15
With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising
tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom
of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the
bilateral issues between India and China. 2014 12.5
Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with
a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relation-
ship affects India’s maritime security and regional stability amidst international
competition? 2024 10

Groupings involving Increasing cross-border terrorist attacks in India and growing interference in
Immediate and Extended the internal affairs of several member-states by Pakistan are not conducive for
neighbours the future of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation). Explain
with suitable examples. 2016 12.5
Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the
context of the post-Cold War international scenario. 2016 12.5
Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold
for India? 2021 15
Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are
the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign
policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? 2022 10
‘Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO’. In the light of the above
statement point out the role of India in mitigating problems. 2023 10
Critically analyse India’s evolving diplomatic, economic and strategic relations
with the Central Asian Republics (CARs) highlighting their increasing significance
in regional and global geopolitics. 2024 10
Groupings beyond South Increasing interest of India in Africa has its pros and cons. Critically examine. 2015 12.5
Asia
“If the last few decades were of Asia’s growth story, the next few are expected
to be of Africa’s.” In the light of this statement, examine India’s influence in
Africa in recent years. 2021 10
The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of
India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West
Asian Countries. 2017 15
‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)’ is transforming itself into a trade bloc
from a military alliance, in present times - Discuss. 2020 15
The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed at countering China’s ambi-
tions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to supersede the existing partnerships
in the region? Discuss the strength and impact of AUKUS in the present scenar-
io. 2021 15
How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping transform India’s position in
global politics ? 2022 15
19.Effect of policies and politics of developed and
developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.
Indian Diaspora ‘Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of Ameri-
ca and European Countries’. Comment with examples. 2020 10
Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South-East Asian countries’
economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South- East Asia in
this context 2017 15
Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and
political benefits for India. 2023 10

Geo-politics affecting In- The proposed withdrawal of International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) from
dia’s Interest Afghanistan in 2014 is fraught with major security implications for the countries
of the region. Examine in light of the fact that India is faced with a plethora of
challenges and needs to safeguard its own strategic interests. 2013 10
What do you understand by ‘The String of Pearls’? How does it impact India?
Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this. 2013 10
‘China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to
develop potential military power status in Asia’, In the light of this statement,
discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. 2017 10
A number of outside powers have entrenched themselves in Central Asia, which
is a zone of interest to India. Discuss the implications, in this context, of India’s
joining the Ashgabat Agreement, 2018. 2018 10
In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear Pact Controversy affect the
national interest of India? How should India respond to this situation? 2018 15
“The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginal-
ised Nations has disappeared on account of its new found role in the emerging
global order”. Elaborate. 2019 15
‘The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic
partnership works well in India.’ What is your opinion about this statement?
Give reasons and examples to support your answer. 2023 15
The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce dependence on China’s
supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s political and economic
dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples. 2024 10
Miscelleneous “The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more
challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.” Explain. 2021 10
20.Important International institutions, agencies
and fora- their structure, mandate.
International Funding Some of the International funding agencies have special terms for economic
Agencies participation stipulating a substantial component of the aid to be used for sourc-
ing equipment from the leading countries. Discuss on merits of such terms and
if, there exists a strong case not to accept such conditions in the Indian context. 2014 12.5
The World Bank and the IMF, collectively known as the Bretton Woods Insti-
tutions, are the two inter-governmental pillars supporting the structure of the
world’s economic and financial order. Superficially, the World Bank and the IMF
exhibit many common characteristics, yet their role, functions and mandate are
distinctly different. Elucidate. 2013 10
India has recently signed to become founding a New Development Bank (NDB)
and also the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) .How will the role of
the two Banks be different? Discuss the significance of these two Banks for
India. 2014 12.5

United Nations ‘Too little cash, too much politics, leaves UNESCO fighting for life.’ Discuss the
statement in the light of US’ withdrawal and its accusation of the cultural body
as being ‘anti-Israel bias’. 2019 10
What are the aims and objectives of the McBride Commission of the UNESCO?
What is India’s position on these? 2016 12.5
What are the main functions of the United Nations Economic and Social Council
(ECOSOC)? Explain different functional commissions attached to it. 2017 10
Critically examine the role of WHO in providing global health security during the
Covid-19 pandemic. 2020 10
Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UN
Security Council. 2015 12.5
Terrorism has become a significant threat to global peace and security’. Evaluate
the effectiveness of the United Nations Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism
Committee (CTC) and its associated bodies in addressing and mitigating this
threat at the international level. 2024 15
WTO The aim of Information Technology Agreements (ITAs) is to lower all taxes and
tariffs on information technology products by signatories to zero. What impact
should such agreements have on India’s interests? 2014 12.5
The broader aims and objectives of WTO are to manage and promote interna-
tional trade in the era of globalization. But the Doha round of negotiations seem
doomed due to differences between the developed and the developing coun-
tries. Discuss in the Indian perspective. 2016 12.5
What are the key areas of reform if the WTO has to survive in the present con-
text of ‘Trade War’, especially keeping in mind the interest of India? 2018 15
WTO is an important international institution where decisions taken affect
countries in profound manner. What is the mandate of WTO and how binding
are their decisions? Critically analyse India’s stand on the latest round of talks on
Food security. 2014 12.5
Miscelleneous ‘Sea is an important Component of the Cosmos’. Discuss in the light of the
above statement the role of the IMO(International Maritime Organisation) in
protecting environment and enhancing maritime safety and security. 2023 15
Clean energy is the order of the day. Describe briefly India’s changing policy to-
wards climate change in various international fora in the context of geopolitics. 2022 15
GS-III
01. Indian Economy (issues re: planning, mobilisation of resources,
growth, development, employment);
02. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it
03. Government Budgeting
04. Major Crops - Cropping patterns in various parts of the country
05. Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
06. Storage, transport and marketing of Agricultural produce and issues and
related constraints
07. E- technology in the aid of farmers
08. Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and MSP; PDS
(objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping, issues of buffer
stocks & food security), Technology Missions
09. Economics of Animal-Rearing
10. Food processing and related industries in India (scope & signif-
icance, location, upstream-downstream requirements, supply
chain management);
11. Land Reforms in India
12. Effects of Liberalisation on the economy; Changes in Industrial policy
& their effects on industrial growth
13. Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, airports, railways); Invest-
ment models
14. Science and Technology- developments and their applications and
effects in everyday life
15. Achievements of Indians in S&T; Indigenisation of technology &
developing new technology
16. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, na-
no-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual
property rights
17. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental
impact assessment
18. Disaster and Disaster Management
19. Linkages between Development & spread of Extremism
20. Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges
to internal security.
21. Challenges to internal security through communication networks,
role of media and social networking sites in internal security chal-
lenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its preven-
tion.
22. Security challenges and their management in border areas - linkages
of organized crime with terrorism.
23. Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
1. Indian Economy (issues re: planning, mo- 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 3 2 2 4 1 21
bilisation of resources, growth, development,
employment);
2. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 10
3. Government Budgeting 2 1 1 1 1 1 7
4. Major Crops - Cropping patterns in various 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 11
parts of the country
5. Different types of irrigation and irrigation 1 1 2 1 1 6
systems
6. Storage, transport and marketing of Agricultur- 1 1 1 1 4
al produce and issues and related constraints
7. E- technology in the aid of farmers 1 1 1 3
8. Issues related to direct and indirect 2 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 12
farm subsidies and MSP; PDS (objectives,
functioning, limitations, revamping, issues
of buffer stocks & food security), Technology
Missions
9. Economics of Animal-Rearing 1 1
10. Food processing and related industries 1 1 1 1 1 1 6
in India (scope & significance, location,
upstream-downstream requirements, supply
chain management);
11. Land Reforms in India 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 7
12.Effects of Liberalisation on the economy; 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 13
Changes in Industrial policy & their effects on
industrial growth
13. Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads, air- 3 3 1 1 1 2 1 2 1 15
ports, railways); Investment models
14. Science and Technology- developments 5 1 1 2 1 2 2 14
and their applications and effects in every-
day life
15. Achievements of Indians in S&T; Indi- 1 1 1 1 4
genisation of technology & developing new
technology
16. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Com- 1 1 4 2 1 1 3 1 2 1 3 2 22
puters, robotics, nano-technology, bio-tech-
nology and issues relating to intellectual
property rights
17. Conservation, environmental pollution and 2 2 1 1 2 3 2 2 3 3 4 2 27
degradation, environmental impact assessment
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
18. Disaster and Disaster Management 1 1 1 2 1 1 2 1 2 1 1 2 16
19. Linkages between Development & 1 1 1 1 1 1 6
spread of Extremism
20. Role of external state and non-state 2 1 1 1 5
actors in creating challenges to internal
security.
21. Challenges to internal security through 3 2 2 2 1 1 2 1 2 16
communication networks, role of media and
social networking sites in internal security
challenges, basics of cyber security; mon-
ey-laundering and its prevention.
22. Security challenges and their management 1 2 3 1 2 1 1 2 3 2 18
in border areas - linkages of organized crime
with terrorism.
23. Various Security forces and agencies and 1 1 1 1 4
their mandate.
Grand Total 28 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 248
Economic Development
01. Indian Economy (issues re: planning, mobilisation
of resources, growth, development, employment);

Jobless growth The nature of economic growth in India in described as jobless growth. Do you
2015 12.5
agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer.
Capital formation in Econ- Explain the meaning of investment in an economy in terms of capital formation.
omy Discuss the factors to be considered while designing a concession agreement 2020 15
between a public entity and a private entity.
Care X Monetized Economy Distinguish between ‘care economy’ and ‘monetized economy’. How can care
2023 15
economy be brought into monetized economy through women empowerment?
Demographic Dividend While we flaunt India’s demographic dividend, we ignore the dropping rates of
employability. What are we missing while doing so? Where will the jobs that 2014 12.5
India desperately needs come from? Explain.
Digitalization of Economy What is the status of digitalization in the Indian economy? Examine the prob-
2023 10
lems faced in this regard and suggest improvements.
GDP Define potential GDP and explain its determinants. What are the factors that
2020 10
have been inhibiting India from realizing its potential GDP?
Do you agree with the view that steady GDP growth and low inflation have left
2019 10
the Indian economy in good shape? Give reasons in support of your arguments.
Explain the difference between computing methodology of India’s gross domes-
2021 10
tic product (GDP) before the year 2015 and after the year 2015.
GDP X Saving Rate Among several factors for India’s potential growth, savings rate is the most
effective one. Do you agree? What are the other factors available for growth 2017 10
potential?
Labour Activity X Economic Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour activity.”
Growth Explain this statement. Suggest the growth pattern that will lead to creation of 2022 15
more jobs without compromising labour productivity.

Miscellaneous Success of ‘Make in India’ programme depends on the success of ‘Skill India’
2015 12.5
programme and radical labour reforms. Discuss with logical arguments.
The increase in life expectancy in the country has led to newer health challenges
in the community. What are those challenges and what steps need to be taken 2022 10
to meet them ?
Monetary policy What are the causes of persistent high food inflation in India? Comment on the
2024 10
effectiveness of the monetary policy of the RBI to control this type of inflation.
MSME X Economic Growth Faster economic growth requires increased share of the manufacturing sector
in GDP, particularly of MSMEs. Comment on the present policies of the Govern- 2023 10
ment in this regard.
Niti Aayog X Planning Com- How are the principles followed by the NITI Aayog different from those followed
2018 15
mission by the erstwhile Planning Commission in India?
Taxes Discussion the rationale for introducing Good and services tax in India. Bring out
2013 10
critically the reasons for delay in roll out for its regime.
Enumerate the indirect taxes which have been subsumed in the Goods and Ser-
vices Tax (GST) in India. Also, comment on the revenue implications of the GST 2019 10
introduced in India since July 2017.
Explain the rationale behind the Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to
States) Act of 2017. How has COVID-19 impacted the GST compensation fund 2020 15
and created new federal tensions?
Trends of Macro economy Do you agree that the Indian economy has recently experienced a V-shaped
2021 15
recovery? Give reasons in support of your answer.
Unemployment Most of the unemployment in India is structural in nature. Examine the method-
ology adopted to compute unemployment in the country and suggest improve- 2023 15
ments.
Urban Development What are ‘Smart Cities? Examine their relevance for urban development in In-
dia. Will it increase rural-urban differences? Give arguments for Smart Villages’ 2016 12.5
in the light of PURA and RURBAN Mission.
02. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it
Corporate Social Respon- With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Com-
sibilty panies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the
2013 10
challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other
provisions in the Bill and their implications
Financial Inclusion Is inclusive growth possible under market economy ? State the significance of
2022 10
financial inclusion in achieving economic growth in India.
Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is necessary for bringing unbanked to
the institutional finance fold. Do you agree with this for financial inclusion of the 2016 12.5
poorer section of the Indian society? Give arguments to justify your opinion.
Inclusive Growth Comment on the challenges for inclusive growth which include careless and use-
less manpower in the Indian context. Suggest measures to be taken for facing 2016 12.5
these challenges.
What are the salient features of ‘inclusive growth’? Has India been experiencing
2017 15
such a growth process? Analyze and suggest measures for inclusive growth.
Inclusive Growth X Capi- Capitalism has guided the world economy to unprecedented prosperity. How-
talism ever, it often encourages shortsightedness and contributes to wide disparities
2014 12.5
between the rich and the poor. In this light, would it be correct to believe and
adopt capitalism driving inclusive growth in India? Discuss.

Inclusive Growth X Infra- Investment in infrastructure is essential for a more rapid and inclusive economic
2021 15
structure growth. Discuss in the light of India’s experience.
Inclusive Growth X Public Examine the pattern and trend of public expenditure on social services in the
Expenditure post-reforms period in India. To what extent this has been in consonance with 2024 10
achieving the objective of inclusive growth?
Inclusive Growth X Sustain- Explain intra-generational and inter-generational issues of equity from the per-
2020 10
able Development spective of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
It is argued that the strategy of inclusive growth is intended to meet the objec-
2019 15
tives of inclusiveness and sustainability together. Comment on this statement.
03. Government Budgeting
Current Budget Comment on the important changes introduced in respect of the Long-term
Capital Gains Tax (LCGT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) in the Union Bud- 2018 10
get for 2018-2019.
One of the intended objectives of Union Budget 2017-18 is to ‘transform, ener-
gize and clean India’. Analyse the measures proposed in the Budget 2017-18 to 2017 15
achieve the objective.
Gender Budgeting Women empowerment in India needs gender budgeting. What are the require-
2016 12.5
ments and status of gender budgeting in the Indian context?
Static Budget Distinguish between capital budget and revenue budget. Explain the compo-
2021 10
nents of both these Budgets.
The public expenditure management is a challenge to the government of India
2019 15
in the context of budget-making during the post-liberalization period. Clarify it.
What are the reasons for introduction of Fiscal responsibility and Budget
Management (FRBM) act, 2003? Discuss critically its salient features and their 2013 10
effectiveness.
Static X Current Budget What is meaning of the term tax-expenditure? Taking housing sector as an ex-
2013 10
ample, discuss how it influences budgetary policies of the government.
10. Food processing and related industries in India
(scope & significance, location, upstream-downstream
requirements, supply chain management);
Food Processing Sector Elaborate on the policy taken by the government of India to meet the challenges
2019 15
of the food processing sector.
Elaborate the scope and significance of the food processing industry in India. 2022 10
What are the challenges and opportunities of food processing sector in the
country? How can income of the farmers be substantially increased by encour- 2020 10
aging food processing?
What are the impediments in marketing and supply chain management in devel-
oping the food processing industry in India? Can e-commerce help in overcom- 2015 12.5
ing these bottlenecks?
What are the reasons for poor acceptance of cost effective small processing
unit? How the food processing unit will be helpful to uplift the socio-economic 2017 10
status of poor farmers?
Revolutions and Missions India needs to strengthen measures to promote the pink revolution in food
2013 10
industry for better nutrition and health. Critically elucidate the statement.
12.Effects of Liberalisation on the economy; Changes in
Industrial policy & their effects on industrial growth
BoP and External value of Craze for gold in Indians have led to a surge in import of gold in recent years and
rupee X Gold Monetization put pressure on balance of payments and external value of rupee. In view of 2015 12.5
Scheme this, examine the merits of Gold Monetization Scheme.
FDI Discuss the impact of FDI entry into multi-trade retail sector on supply chain
2013 5
management in commodity trade pattern of the economy.
Foreign direct investment in the defence sector is now said to be liberalised.
What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the 2014 12.5
short and long run?
Justify the need for FDI for the development of the Indian economy. Why there
is gap between MOUs signed and actual FDIs? Suggest remedial steps to be 2016 12.5
taken for increasing actual FDIs in India.
Though India allowed foreign direct investment (FDI) in what is called multi
brand retail through joint venture route in September 2012, the FDI even after a 2013 5
year, has not picket up. Discuss the reasons.
Globalisation X Formal & How globalization has led to the reduction of employment in the formal sector
Informal Economy of the Indian economy? Is increased informalization detrimental to the develop- 2016 12.5
ment of the country?
Industrial Reform Examine the impact of liberalization on companies owned by Indian. Are the
2013 10
competing with the MNCs satisfactorily?

Labour Reform Discuss the merits and demerits of the four ‘Labour Codes’ in the context of la-
2024 15
bour market reforms in India. What has been the progress so far in this regard?
Labour-intensive X Capi- Account for the failure of the manufacturing sector in achieving the goal of
tal-intensive Export labour-intensive exports. Suggest measures for more labour intensive rather 2017 10
capital-intensive export.
Post-reform period X Indus- “Industrial growth rate has lagged behind in the overall growth of Gross-Domes-
trial Growth tic-Product(GDP) in the post-reform period” Give reasons. How far the recent 2017 15
changes in Industrial Policy are capable of increasing the industrial growth rate?
Post-reform period X Ser- Normally countries shift from agriculture to industry and then later to services,
vice-Led Transition but India shifted directly from agriculture to services. What are the reasons for
2014 12.5
the huge growth of services vis-a-vis industry in the country? Can India become
a developed country without a strong industrial base?
Protectionism and Currency How would the recent phenomena of protectionism and currency manipulations
2018 15
Manipulations in world trade affect macroeconomic stability of India?
Special Economic Zones There is a clear acknowledement that Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are a tool
of industrial development, manufacturing and exports. Recognizing this po-
tential, the whole instrumentality of SEZs requires augmentation. Discuss the 2015 12.5
issues plaguing the success of SEZs with respect to taxation, governing laws and
administration.
13. Infrastructure (energy, ports, roads,
airports, railways); Investment models

Airports X Infrastructure International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive
soverignity over the airspace above the territory. What do you understand
by airspace? What are the implications of these laws on the space above this 2014 12.5
airspace? Discuss the challenges which this poses and suggests ways to contain
the threat.
What is the need for expanding the regional air connectivity in India? In this
2024 15
context, discuss the government’s UDAN Scheme and its achievements.
Energy X SDGs Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua
non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Comment on the prog- 2018 10
ress made in India in this regard.
Green Energy X Infrastruc- Write a note on India’s green energy corridor to alleviate the problems of con-
2013 10
ture ventional energy.
Hydroelectricity What do you understand by run of the river hydroelectricity project? How is it
2013 5
different from any other hydroelectricity project?

PPP X Infrastructure Adaptation of PPP model for infrastructure development of the country has not
2013 10
been free from criticism. Critically discuss the pros and cons of the model.
Examine the developments of Airports in India through Joint Ventures under
Public-Private Partnership(PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the 2017 10
authorities in this regard.
Explain how private public partnership agreements, in longer gestation infra-
structure projects, can transfer unsuitable liabilities to the future. What arrange-
2014 12.5
ments need to be put in place to ensure that successive generations’ capacities
are not compromised?
Why is Public Private Partnership (PPP) required in infrastructural projects ? Ex-
2022 10
amine the role of PPP model in the redevelopment of Railway Stations in India.
Renewable Energy Describe the benefits of deriving electric energy from sunlight in contrast to the
conventional energy generation. What are the initiatives offered by our Govern- 2020 15
ment for this purpose?
Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable
energy by 2030 ? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil 2022 15
fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective ? Explain.
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining
to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of 2016 12.5
National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs).
To what factors can the recent dramatic fall in equipment costs and tariff of so-
lar energy be attributed? What implications does the trend have for the thermal 2015 12.5
power producers and the related industry?
With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy
2018 15
programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy.
Transport National urban transport policy emphasizes on moving people instead of mov-
ing vehicles. Discuss critically the success of various strategies of the govern- 2014 12.5
ment in this regard.
Agriculture
04. Major Crops - Cropping patterns in
various parts of the country

Crop Diversification What are the major reasons for declining rice and wheat yield in the cropping
system? How crop diversification is helpful to stabilize the yield of the crop in
the system? 2017 15
What is the present challenges before crop diversification? How do emerging
technologies provide an opportunity for crop diversification? 2021 15
Cropping pattern Explain the changes in cropping pattern in India in the context of changes in
consumption pattern and marketing conditions. 2023 15
How has the emphasis on certain crops brought about changes in cropping
patterns in recent past? Elaborate the emphasis on millets production and con-
sumption. 2018 15
What are the major factors responsible for making rice-wheat system a success?
In spite of this success how has this system become bane in India? 2020 15
What is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agri-
culture. 2016 12.5
Horticulture Assess the role of National Horticulture Mission (NHM) in boosting the produc-
tion, productivity and income of horticulture farms. How far has it succeeded in
increasing the income of farmers? 2018 15
Integrated Farming System How far is the Integrated Farming System (IFS) helpful in sustaining agricultural
production? 2019 10
What is Integrated Farming System ? How is it helpful to small and marginal
farmers in India ? 2022 15
Millets Explain the role of millets for ensuring health and nutritional security in India. 2024 10
Organic Farming Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India. What are the ecological and economi-
cal benefits of Organic State? 2018 10
Agriculture
05. Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems
Irrigation system and Chal- Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its
lenges judicious use under depleting scenario. 2020 15
What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times?
State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation manage-
ment. 2024 15
Micro-Irrigation How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water
crisis? 2021 10
What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing
the water-use efficiency. 2016 12.5
Water storage and Conser- Elaborate on the impact of the National Watershed Project in increasing agricul-
vation tural production from water-stressed areas. 2019 10
What are the salient features of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan launches by the Govern-
ment of India for water conservation and water security? 2020 10
Agriculture
06. Storage, transport and marketing of Agricultural
produce and issues and related constraints
Agri-marketing Examine the role of supermarkets in supply chain management of fruits, vegeta-
bles and food items. How do they eliminate number of intermediaries? 2018 10
There is also a point of view that agriculture produce market committees
(APMCs) set up under the state acts have not only impeded the development
of agriculture but also have been the cause of food inflation in India. Critically
examine. 2014 12.5
What are the main bottlenecks in upstream and downstream process of market-
ing of agricultural products in India ? 2022 15
What are the main constraints in transport and marketing of agricultural pro-
duce in India? 2020 10
Agriculture
07. E- technology in the aid of farmers
Tech in Agri Production and How does e-Technology help farmers in production and marketing of agricultur-
Marketing al produce? Explain it. 2023 10
Tech in Agriculture Credit “In the villages itself no form of credit organization will be suitable except the
cooperative society”. All India Rural Credit Survey. Discuss this statement in the
background of agricultural finance in India. What constraints and challenges do
financial institutions supplying agricultural finance face? How can technology be
used to better reach and serve rural clients? 2014 12.5
Tech in Farm Productivity How can the ‘Digital India’ programme help farmers to improve farm productivi-
and Income ty and income? What steps has the Government taken in this regards? 2015 12.5
Agriculture
08. Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and
MSP; PDS (objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping,
issues of buffer stocks & food security), Technology Missions
Agri finance & Subsidies In what way could replacement of price subsidy with Direct Benefit Transfer
(DBT) change the scenario of subsidies in India? Discuss. 2015 12.5
What are the different types of agriculture subsidies given to farmers at the
national and state levels? Critically analyze the agriculture subsidy regime with
the reference to the distortions created by it. 2013 10
What are the direct and indirect subsidies provided to farm sector in India?
Discuss the issues raised by the World Trade Organization(WTO) in relation to
agricultural subsidies. 2023 15
Agriculture Vulnerability & Given the vulnerability of Indian agriculture to vagaries of nature, discuss the
Crop Insurance need for crop insurance and bring out the salient features of the Pradhan Mantri
Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) 2016 12.5
Buffer stock & food security Elucidate the importance of buffer stocks for stabilizing agricultural prices in
India. What are the challenges associated with the storage of buffer stock?
Discuss. 2024 15
Food security bill is expected to eliminate hunger and malnutrition in India. Crit-
ically discuss various apprehensions in its effective implementation along with
the concerns it has generated in WTO. 2013 10
Miscellaneous How do subsidies affect the cropping pattern, crop diversity and economy of
farmers? What is the significance of crop insurance, minimum support price and
food processing for small and marginal farmers? 2017 15
MSP What do you mean by Minimum Support Price (MSP)? How will MSP rescue the
farmers from the low income trap? 2018 10
PDS What are the major challenges of Public Distribution System (PDS) in India ?
How can it be made effective and transparent ? 2022 10
What are the reformative steps taken by the government to make food grain
distribution system more effective? 2019 15
What are the salient features of the National Food Security Act, 2013? How has
the Food Security Bill helped in eliminating hunger and malnutrition in India? 2021 15
Revolutions and Missions Explain various types of revolutions, took place in Agriculture after Indepen-
dence in India. How these revolutions have helped in poverty alleviation and
food security in India? 2017 10
Agriculture
09. Economics of Animal-Rearing
Non-Farm Activities (Live- Livestock rearing has a big potential for providing non-farm employment and
stock) income in rural areas. Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this
sectors in India 2015 12.5
Agriculture
11. Land Reforms in India
Act based The right to fair compensation and transparency land acquisition, rehabilitation
and resettlement act, 2013 has come into effect from 1 January 2014. What 2014 12.5
implication would it have on industrialisation and agriculture in India?
Contract farming & Land In view of the declining average size of land holdings in India which has made
leasing agriculture non-viable for a majority of farmers, should contract farming and 2015 12.5
land leasing be promoted in agriculture? Critically evaluate the pros and cons.
Land Reforms Discuss the role of land reforms in agricultural development. Identify the factors
2016 12.5
that were responsible for the success of land reforms in India.
How did land reforms in some parts of the country help to improve the so-
2021 10
cio-economic conditions of marginal and small farmers?
State the objectives and measures of land reforms in India. Discuss how land
ceiling policy on landholding can be considered as an effective reform under 2023 10
economic criteria.
What were the factors responsible for the successful implementation of land
2024 10
reforms in some parts of the country? Elaborate.
Miscellaneous Establish the relationship between land reform, agriculture productivity and
elimination of poverty in Indian Economy. Discussion the difficulty in designing 2013 10
and implementation of the agriculture friendly land reforms in India.
Science & Technology

14. Science and Technology- developments and
their applications and effects in everyday life

Innovative Technologies How does the 3D printing technology work? List out the advantages and disad-
2013 5
vantages of the technology.
What is digital signature? What does its authentication mean? Giver various
2013 5
salient built in features of a digital signature.
Material Science and Indus- What is an FRP composite material? How are they manufactured? Discuss their
2013 5
try Applications applications in aviation and automobile industry
Medical and Health Tech- Can overuse and the availability of antibiotics without doctor’s prescription, the
nologies contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the
2014 12.5
available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various
issues involved.
Stem cell therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medi-
cal conditions including Leukaemia, Thalassemia, damaged cornea and several
2017 10
burns. Describe briefly what stem cell therapy is and what advantages it has
over other treatments?
What do you understand by fixed dose drug combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their
2013 10
merits and demerits.
What is the basic principle behind vaccine development? How do vaccines
work? What approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine manufacturers to 2022 15
produce COVID-19 vaccines ?
Miscellaneous Each year a large amount of plant material, cellulose, is deposited on the sur-
face of Planet Earth. What are the natural processes this cellulose undergoes 2022 10
before yielding carbon dioxide, water and other end products ?
Nobel Prizes The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to a Akasaki, Amano
and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in1990s. How has this invention 2021 15
impacted the everyday life of human beings?

Sports and Technology What do you understand by Umpire decision review in cricket? Discuss its
various components. Explain how silicon tape on the edge of a bat may fool the 2013 10
system?
Tech in crisis Management COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. How-
ever, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the
2020 15
crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management to the
pandemic.
The world is facing an acute shortage of clean and safe freshwater. What are
the alternative technologies which can solve this crisis? Briefly discuss any three 2024 15
such technologies citing their key merits and demerits.
Tech solutions for daily How is science interwoven deeply with our lives? What are the striking changes
2020 10
challenges in agriculture triggered off by the science-based technologies?
What is the technology being employed for electronic toll collection on high-
ways? What are its advantages and limitations? What are the proposed changes
2024 10
that will make this process seamless? Would this transition carry any potential
hazards?

15. Achievements of Indians in S&T; Indigenisation
of technology & developing new technology
Achievements of Indians Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose
2018 10
in S&T and show how it revolutionized the field of Physics.
How was India benefited from the contributions of Sir M.Visvesvaraya and Dr.
M. S. Swaminathan in the fields of water engineering and agricultural science 2019 10
respectively?
Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science
is not as attractive as our business operations, engineering or administration, 2014 12.5
and the universities are becoming consumer oriented. Critically comment.
Indigenisation of technol- Give an account of the growth and development of nuclear science and technol-
2017 15
ogy ogy in India. What is the advantage of fast breeder reactor programme in India?

16. Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers,
robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and
issues relating to intellectual property rights
Artificial Intelligence Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical
diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of 2023 10
AI in the healthcare?
Bio-Technology Discuss several ways in which microorganisms can help in meeting the current
2023 10
fuel shortage.
How can biotechnology improve the living standards of farmers? 2019 15
What are the research and developmental achievements in applied biotechnolo-
2021 15
gy? How will these achievements help to uplift the poor sections of the society?
Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How
2018 15
has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma?
Defence Technology How is S-400 air defence system technically superior to any other system pres-
2021 10
ently available in the world?
Intellectual Property Rights Bring out the circumstances in 2005 which forced amendment to section 3(d) in
the Indian Patent Law, 1970. Discuss how it has been utilized by Supreme court
2013 10
in its judgment rejecting Novartis patent application for “Glivec”. Discuss briefly
the pros and cons of the decision.
How is the government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine
2019 15
from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
In a globalised world, intellectual property rights assume significance and are a
source of litigation. Broadly distinguish between the terms – copyrights, patents 2014 12.5
and trade secrets.
India’s Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) which has a database con-
taining formatted information on more than 2 million medicinal formulations
is proving a powerful weapon in the country’s fight against erroneous patents. 2015 12.5
Discuss the pros and cons making this database publicly available under open-
source licensing
What is the present world scenario of intellectual property rights with respect
to life materials? Although, India is second in the world to file patents, still only
2024 10
a few have been commercialized. Explain the reasons behind this less commer-
cialization.
IT Discuss the advantage and security implications of cloud hosting of servers vis-a-
2015 12.5
vis in-house machine-based hosting for government businesses.
Nano Technology What do you understand by nanotechnology and how is it helping in health
2020 10
sector?
Why is nanotechnology one of the key technologies of the 21st century? De-
scribe the salient features of Indian Government’s Mission on Nanoscience and
2016 12.5
Technology and the scope of its application in the development process of the
country.
Robotics What are the areas of prohibitive labour that can be sustainably managed by
robots? Discuss the initiatives that can propel research in premier research insti- 2015 12.5
tutes for substantive and gainful innovation.

Space Technology Discuss India’s achievements in the field of Space Science and Technology. How
the application of this technology has helped India in its socio-economic devel- 2016 12.5
opment?
India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including
the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but has not ventured into manned 2017 10
space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Explain critically.
Launched on 25th December, 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been
much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superi-
2022 15
or to its predecessor Space Telescopes ? What are the key goals of this mission ?
What potential benefits does it hold for the human race?
What are asteroids? How real is the threat of them causing extinction of life?
2024 15
What strategies have been developed to prevent such a catastrophe?
What do you understand by ‘Standard Positioning Systems’ and ‘Protection Posi-
tioning Systems’ in the GPS era? Discuss the advantages India perceives from its 2015 12.5
ambitious IRNSS programme employing just seven satellites.
What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our
2019 10
space programme?
What is the main task of India’s third mood mission which could not be achieved
in its earlier mission? List the countries that have achieved this task. Introduce
the subsystems in the spacecraft launched and explain the role of the ‘Virtual 2023 15
Launch Control Centre’ at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre which contributed
to the successful launch from Sriharikota
Environment
17. Conservation, environmental pollution and
degradation, environmental impact assessment

Biodiversity How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act, 2002
2018 15
helpful in conservation of flora and fauna?
Climate Change Impact ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How India will be affected by climate
change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India will be affected by climate 2017 15
change?
Ecosystem carrying capaci- Define the concept of carrying capacity of an ecosystem as relevant to an en-
ty and SDG vironment. Explain how understanding this concept is vital while planning for 2019 15
sustainable development of a region.
EIA Environmental impact assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before
project is cleared by the government. Discuss the environmental impacts of 2014 12.5
coal-fired thermal plants located at Pitheads.
How does the draft Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2020
2020 10
differ from the existing EIA Notification, 2006?
Rehabilitation of human settlements is one of the important environmental im-
pacts which always attracts controversy while planning major projects. Discuss
2016 12.5
the measures suggested for mitigation of this impact while proposing major
developmental projects.
What role do environmental NGOs and activists play in influencing Environ-
mental Impact Assessment (EIA) outcomes for major projects in India? Cite four 2024 10
examples with all important details.
EVs The adoption of electric vehicles is rapidly growing worldwide. How do electric
vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits 2023 15
they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles?

Environmental Pollution Describe the key points of the revised Global Air-Quality Guidelines (AQGs)
and Mitigation recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these dif-
2021 10
ferent from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air
Programme are required to achieve these revised standards?
Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and
2022 10
mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg Protocol.
Enumerate the National Water Policy of India. Taking river Ganges as an ex-
ample, discuss the strategies which may be adopted for river water pollution
2013 10
control and management. What are the legal provisions for management and
handling of hazardous wastes in India?
Industrial pollution of river water is a significant environmental issue in India.
Discuss the various mitigation measures to deal with this problem and also the 2024 10
government’s initiatives in this regard.
The Namami Gange and National mission for clean Ganga (NMCG) programmes
and causes of mixed results from the previous schemes. What quantum leaps 2015 12.5
can help preserve the river Ganga better than incremental inputs?
What are the impediments in disposing the huge quantities of discarded solid
wastes which are continuously being generated? How do we remove safely the 2018 10
toxic wastes that have been accumulating in our habitable environment?
What are the key features of the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) initiated
2020 15
by the Government of India?
What is oil pollution? What are its impacts on the marine ecosystem? In what
2023 10
way is oil pollution particularly harmful for a country like India?
IPCC Reports The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change(IPCC) has predicted a global
sea level rise of about one metre by AD 2100. What would be its impact in India 2023 15
and the other countries in the Indian Ocean region?
Mining and Erosion Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats
to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, 2019 10
citing specific examples.
Explain the causes and effects of coastal erosion in India. What are the available
2022 15
coastal management techniques for combating the hazard ?
What are the consequences of illegal mining? Discuss the ministry of environ-
2013 10
ment and forests’ concept of “GO AND NO GO” zones for coal mining.
River Iinking and Impact Not many years ago, river linking was a concept but it is becoming reality in the
country. Discuss the advantages of river linking and its possible impact on the 2017 10
environment.
UNFCCC Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the
Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 2021 15
(UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference?
Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain
the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause 2022 15
global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.
Explain the purpose of the Green Grid Initiative launched at world leaders
Summit of the COP 26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glassgow in November, 2021 10
2021. When was this idea first floated in the International Solar Alliance (ISA)?
Should the pursuit of carbon credit and clean development mechanism set up under
UNFCCC be maintained even through there has been a massive slide in the value of 2014 12.5
carbon credit? Discuss with respect to India’s energy needs for economic growth.
Wetlands Comment on the National Wetland Conservation Programme initiated by the
Government of India and name a few India’s wetlands of international impor- 2023 15
tance included in the Ramsar Sites.
What is wetland? Explain the Ramsar concept of ‘wise use’ in the context of
2018 10
wetland conservation. Cite two examples of Ramsar sites from India.
Disaster Management
18. Disaster and Disaster Management

Cloudburst Explain the mechanism and occurrence of cloudburst in the context of the Indi-
2022 10
an subcontinent. Discuss two recent examples.
With reference to National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) guidelines,
discuss the measures to be adopted to mitigate the impact of the recent inci- 2016 12.5
dents of cloudbursts in many places of Uttarakhand.
Disaster Preparedness Disaster preparedness is the first step in any disaster management process.
Explain how hazard zonation mapping will help in disaster mitigation in the case 2019 15
of landslides.
Disaster Risk Reduction Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)
before and after signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)’. How is this 2018 15
framework different from ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005?
What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of
a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of the Sendai Frame- 2024 15
work for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).
Drought Drought has been recognised as a disaster in view of its party expense, temporal
duration, slow onset and lasting effect on various vulnerable sections. With a fo-
cus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National disaster management 2014 12.5
authority, discuss the mechanism for preparedness to deal with the El Nino and
La Nina fallouts in India.

Earthquake Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake related hazards. Give ex-
amples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes 2021 10
in different parts of India during the last three decades.
The frequency of earthquakes appears to have increased in the Indian subcon-
tinent. However, India’s preparedness for mitigating their impact has significant 2015 12.5
gaps. Discuss various aspects.
Government Disaster Ini- Discuss the recent measures initiated in disaster management by the Govern-
2020 15
tiatives ment of India departing from the earlier reactive approach.
Landslide Describe the various causes and effects of landslides. Mention the important
2021 15
components of the National Landslide Risk Management Strategy.
Structural failure causing Dam failures are always catastrophic, especially on the downstream side, re-
Disaster sulting in a colossal loss of life and property. Analyze the various causes of dam 2023 10
failures. Give two examples of large dam failures.
Tsunami On December 2004, tsumani brought havoc on 14 countries including India. Dis-
cuss the factors responsible for occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and
2017 15
economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms
for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.
Urban floods Flooding in urban areas is an emerging climate-induced disaster. Discuss the
causes of this disaster. Mention the features of two such major floods in the last
2024 15
two decades in India. Describe the policies and frameworks in India that aim at
tackling such floods.
The frequency of urban floods due to high intensity rainfall is increasing over
the years. Discussing the reasons for urban floods. highlight the mechanisms for 2016 12.5
preparedness to reduce the risk during such events.
Vulnerability and Risk How important are vulnerability and risk assessment for pre-disaster manage-
Assessment ment. As an administrator ,what are key areas that you would focus in a disaster 2013 10
management
Vulnerability is an essential element for defining disaster impacts and its threat
to people. How and in what ways can vulnerability to disasters be characterized? 2019 10
Discuss different types of vulnerability with reference to disasters.
Internal Security
19. Linkages between Development & spread of Extremism
Left-Wing Extremism Article 244 of Indian Constitution relates to Administration of Scheduled areas
and tribal areas. Analyze the impact of non-implementation of the provisions of 2013 10
fifth schedule on the growth of Left Wing Extremism.
Left Wing Extremism (LWE) is showing a downward trend, but still affects many
parts of the country. Briefly explain the Government of India’s approach to 2018 10
counter the challenges posed by LWE.
Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent
internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues gest a multi- 2022 15
layered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.
The persisting drives of the government for development of large industries in
backward areas have resulted in isolating the tribal population and the farmers
who face multiple displacements with Malkangiri and naxalbari foci, discuss 2015 12.5
the corrective strategies needed to win the left wing extremism (LWE) doctrine
affected citizens back into the mainstream of social and economic growth.
What are the sound determinants of left-wing extremism in Eastern part of In-
dia? What strategy should Government of India, civil administration and security 2020 15
forces adopt to counter the threat in the affected areas?
N-E Insurgency The north-eastern region of India has been infested with insurgency for a very
long time. Analyze the major reasons for the survival of armed insurgency in this 2017 10
region.
Internal Security
20. Role of external state and non-state actors
in creating challenges to internal security.
Threat from External state Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state
and Non-state actors actors, to the internal security of India. Also discuss measures required to take 2021 15
to be taken to combat the threats.
The diverse nature of India as a multireligious and multi-ethnic society is not im-
mune to the impact of radicalism which has been in her neighbourhood. Discuss 2014 12.5
along with the strategies to be adopted to counter this environment.
Threat from Non-state Use of Internet and social media by non-state actors for subversive activities
Actors is a major concern. How have these have misused in the recent past? Suggest 2016 12.5
effective guidelines to curb the above threat.
Threat from State Actors China and Pakistan have entered into an agreement for development of an
economic corridor. What thread does it dispose for India’s security? Critically 2014 12.5
examine.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is viewed as a cardinal subset of
China’s larger ‘One Belt One Road’ initiative. Give a brief description of CPEC and 2018 10
enumerate the reasons why India has distanced itself from the same.
Internal Security
21. Challenges to internal security through communication
networks, role of media and social networking
sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber
security; money-laundering and its prevention.

Act based Describe the context and salient features of the Digital Personal Data Protection
2024 10
Act, 2023 Total
Cyber security Considering the threats cyberspace poses for the country, India needs a “Digital
Armed Force” to prevent crimes. Critically evaluate the National Cyber Security 2015 12.5
Policy, 2013 outlining the challenges perceived in its effective implementation.
Cyber warfare is considered by some defense analysts to be a larger threat than
even Al Qaeda or terrorism. What do you understand by Cyber warfare? Outline
2013 10
the cyber threats which India is vulnerable to and bring out the state of the
country’s preparedness to deal with the same.
Data security has assumed significant importance in the digitized world due to
rising cyber crimes. The Justice B. N. Srikrishna Committee Report addresses
2018 15
issues related to data security. What, in your view, are the strengths and weak-
ness of the Report relating to protection of personal data in cyber space?
Discuss different types of cyber crimes and measures required to be taken to
2020 10
fight the menace.
Discuss the potential threats of Cyber attack and the security framework to
2017 10
prevent it.
Keeping in view India’s internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cy-
2021 10
ber attacks. Also discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks.
What are the different elements of cyber security ? Keeping in view the chal-
lenges in cyber security, examine the extent to which India has successfully 2022 15
developed a comprehensive National Cyber Security Strategy.
What is the CyberDome Project? Explain how it can be useful in controlling
2019 10
internet crimes in India.

Drug trafficking and its India’s proximity to two of the world’s biggest illicit opium-growing states has
Linkages enhanced her internal security concerns. Explain the linkages between drug
trafficking and other illicit activities such as gunrunning, money laundering 2018 15
and human trafficking. What counter-measures should be taken to prevent the
same?
Mob Violence Mob violence is emerging as a serious law and order problem in India. By giving
2017 15
suitable examples, analyze the causes and consequences of such violence.
Money-laundering and Discuss how emerging technologies and globalisation contribute to money laun-
Prevention dering. Elaborate measures to tackle the problem of money laundering both at 2021 10
national and international levels.
Money laundering poses a serious threat to country’s economic sovereignty.
What is its significance for India and what steps are required to be taken to 2013 10
control this menace?
Role of Media and Social Religious indoctrination via digital media has resulted in Indian youth joining
Networking sites in Internal the ISIS. What is ISIS and its mission? How can ISIS be dangerous for the internal 2015 12.5
Security Threats security of our country?
Social media and encrypting messaging services pose a serious security chal-
lenge. What measures have been adopted at various levels to address the se-
2024 15
curity implications of social media? Also suggest any other remedies to address
the problem.
What are social networking site and what security implications do these sites
2013 10
present?
Internal Security
22. Security challenges and their management in border
areas - linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
Maritime Security chal- In 2012, the longitudinal marking of the high-risk areas for piracy was moved
lenges from 65° East to 78° east in the Arabian Sea by International Maritime organisa- 2014 12.5
tion. What impact does this have on India’s maritime security concerns?
What are the maritime security challenges in India ? Discuss the organisational,
2022 10
technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve the maritime security.

Border Area Management Border management is a complex task due to difficult terrain and hostile rela-
tions with some countries. Elucidate the challenges and strategies for effective 2016 12.5
border management.
Cross-border movement of insurgents is only one of the several security chal-
lenges facing the policing of the border in North-East India. Examine the various
2019 15
challenges currently emanating across the India-Myanmar border. Also, discuss
the steps to counter the challenges.
For effective border area management, discuss the steps required to be taken
to deny local support to militants and also suggest ways to manage favourable 2020 10
perception among locals.
How far are India’s internal security challenges linked with border management,
particularly in view of the long porous borders with most countries of South Asia 2013 10
and Myanmar?
How illegal transborder migration does pose a threat to India’s security? Discuss
the strategies to curb this, bring out the factors which give impetus to such 2014 12.5
migration.
India has a long and troubled border with China and Pakistan fraught with con-
tentious issues. Examine the conflicting issues and security challenges along the
border. Also give out the development being undertaken in these areas under 2024 15
the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) and Border Infrastructure and
Management (BIM) Scheme.
The use of unmanned aerial vehicles(UAVs) by our adversaries across the bor-
ders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal 2023 10
security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat.
Organized Crime and Ter- Analyse the complexity and intensity of terrorism, its causes, linkages and
rorism obnoxious nexus. Also suggest measures required to be taken to eradicate the 2021 15
menace of terrorism.
Discuss the types of organised crimes. Describe the linkages between terrorists
2022 10
and organised crime that exist at the national and transnational levels.
Explain how narco-terrorism has emerged as a serious threat across the country.
2024 10
Suggest suitable measures to counter narco-terrorism.
Give out the major sources of terror funding in India and efforts being made
to curtail these sources. In the light of this, also discuss the aim and objective
2023 15
of the ‘ No Money for Terror [NMFT]’ Conference recently held at New Delhi in
November 2022.
Terrorism is emerging as a competitive industry over the last few decades. Anal-
2016 12.5
yse the above statement.
The banning of ‘Jamaat-e – islaami’ in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus
the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Ex-
2019 10
amine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organizations in insurgency
affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of OGWs.
The scourge of terrorism is a grave challenge to national security. What solu-
tions do you suggest to curb this growing menace? What are the major sources 2017 15
of terrorist funding?
The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with
armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such 2016 12.5
actions.
Winning of ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism affected areas is an essential step in
restoring the trust of the population. Discuss the measures adopted by the Gov- 2023 10
ernment in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir.
Internal Security
23. Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate.
Act based Human rights activists constantly highlight the view that the Armed Forces
(Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) is a draconian act leading to cases of human
rights abuses by the security forces. What sections of AFSPA are opposed by the 2015 12.5
activists? Critically evaluate the requirement with reference to the view held by
the Apex Court.
The Indian government has recently strengthened the anti-terrorism laws by
amending the Unlawful activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 and the NIA
Act. Analyze the changes in the context of prevailing security environment while 2019 15
discussing the scope and reasons for opposing the UAPA by human rights orga-
nizations.
Security Forces and Their Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Ban-
Mandates gladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the 2020 15
role played by various security forces in this regard.
What are the internal security challenges being faced by India? Give out the role
2023 15
of Central Intelligence and Investigative Agencies tasked to counter such threats.
GS-IV
1. Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, Determi-
nants and Consequences of Ethics in - Human
Actions; Dimensions of Ethics; Ethics - in Private
and Public Relationships.
2. Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and Teach-
ings of Great Leaders, Reformers and Adminis-
trators; Role of family society and educational
institutions in inculcating values.
3. Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its Influ-
ence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour;
Moral and Political Attitudes; Social Influence and
Persuasion.
4. Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities
and application in administration and governance.
5. Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philosophers
from India and World
6. Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Ser-
vice, Integrity, Impartiality and Non-partisanship,
Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service, Empathy,
Tolerance and compassion towards weaker-sec-
tions
7. Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public
Administration: Status and Problems; Ethical Con-
cerns and Dilemmas in Government and Private
Institutions; Laws, Rules, Regulations and Con-
science as Sources of Ethical Guidance; Account-
ability and Ethical Governance; Strengthening of
Ethical and Moral Values in Governance; ethical
Issues in International Relations and Funding;
Corporate Governance
8. Probity in Governance: Concept of Public Service;
Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity;
Information Sharing and Transparency in Gov-
ernment, Right to information; Codes of Ethics,
Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work
Culture, Quality of Service Delivery, utilization of
Public Funds, Challenges of Corruption.
Syllabus 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Total
1.Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, 5 4 2 1 4 2 3 1 3 1 5 31
Determinants and Consequences of Ethics in
- Human Actions; Dimensions of Ethics; Ethics -
in Private and Public Relationships.
2. Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and 3 1 1 1 3 2 11
Teachings of Great Leaders, Reformers and
Administrators; Role of family society and
educational institutions in inculcating values.
3.Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its 1 1 3 2 2 1 2 1 1 14
Influence and Relation with Thought and Be-
haviour; Moral and Political Attitudes; Social
Influence and Persuasion.
4.Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their 1 1 1 1 1 1 6
utilities and application in administration
and governance.
5.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and Philos- 3 2 2 1 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 29
ophers from India and World
6.Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil 1 1 1 1 1 2 4 1 12
Service, Integrity, Impartiality and Non-partisan-
ship, Objectivity, Dedication to Public Service,
Empathy, Tolerance and compassion towards
weaker-sections
7.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in 2 1 3 3 3 4 5 1 3 3 4 3 35
Public Administration: Status and Problems;
Ethical Concerns and Dilemmas in Govern-
ment and Private Institutions; Laws, Rules,
Regulations and Conscience as Sources of
Ethical Guidance; Accountability and Ethical
Governance; Strengthening of Ethical and
Moral Values in Governance; ethical Issues in
International Relations and Funding; Corpo-
rate Governance
8.Probity in Governance: Concept of Public 3 2 1 2 4 1 1 1 15
Service; Philosophical Basis of Governance
and Probity; Information Sharing and
Transparency in Government, Right to
information; Codes of Ethics, Codes of
Conduct, Citizen’s Charters, Work Culture,
Quality of Service Delivery, utilization of
Public Funds, Challenges of Corruption.
Grand Total 12 13 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 153
Ethics
1.Ethics and Human Interface: Essence, Determinants and
Consequences of Ethics in - Human Actions; Dimensions
of Ethics; Ethics - in Private and Public Relationships.

Applied Ethics “In Indian culture and value system, an equal opportunity has been provided
irrespective of gender identity. The number of women in public service has been
steadily increasing over the years.” Examine the gender specific challenges faced 2024 10
by female public servants and suggest to increase their efficiency in discharging
their duties and maintaining high standards of probity.
Gobal warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name
of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including
2024 10
human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this
to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment?
Impact of digital technology as a reliable source of input for rational decision
2021 10
making is a debatable issue. Critically evaluate with a suitable example.
Online methodology is being used for day-to-day meetings, institutional approv-
als in the administration and for teaching and learning in education sector to the
extent telemedicine in the health sector is getting popular with the approvals of the
2022 10
competent authority. No doubt it has advantages and disadvantages for both the
beneficiaries and system at large. Describe and discuss the ethical issues involved in
the use of online method particularly to vulnerable section of society.
Suppose the Government of India is thinking of constructing a dam in a moun-
tain valley bound by forests and inhabited by ethnic communities. What rational 2018 10
policy should it resort to in dealing with unforeseen contingencies?
The application of Artificial Intelligence as a dependable source of input for ad-
ministrative rational decision-making is a debatable issue. Critically examine the 2024 10
statement from the ethical point of view.
The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values
2020 10
which are in conflict with traditional values. Discuss.
What is meant by ‘environmental ethics’? Why is it important to study? Discuss
2015 10
any one environmental issue from the viewpoint of environmental ethics.

Consequences of Ethics Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major
components of Comprehensive National Power (CNP) viz. human capital, soft 2020 10
power(culture and policies), and social harmony.
Explain how ethics contributes to social and human well-being. 2016 10
Increased national wealth did not result in equitable distribution of its bene-
fits. It has created only some “enclaves of modernity and prosperity for a small 2017 10
minority at the cost of the majority.” Justify.
It is believed that adherence to ethics in human actions would ensure in smooth
functioning of an organization/system. If so, what does ethics seek to promote
2022 10
in human life? How do ethical values assist in the resolution of conflicts faced by
him in his day-to-day functioning?
The current society is plagued with widespread trust-deficit. What are the con-
sequences of this situation for personal well-being and for societal well-being? 2014 10
What can you do at the personal level to make yourself trustworthy?
Normative Ethics (Deontol- Human beings should always be treated as ‘ends’ in themselves and never as
ogy vs Teleology) merely ‘means’. Explain the meaning and significance of this statement, giving 2014 10
its implications in the modern techno-economic society.
With regard to morality of actions, one view is that means are of paramount
importance and the other view is that the ends justify the means. Which view 2018 10
do you think is more appropriate? Justify your answer.
Determinants of Ethics “The concept of Just and Unjust is contextual. What was just a year back, may
turn out to be unjust in today’s context. Changing context should be constantly
2024 10
under scrutiny to prevent miscarriage of justice.” Examine the above statement
with suitable examples.
Differentiate ‘moral intuition’ from ‘moral reasoning’ with suitable examples. 2023 10
Some people feel that values keep changing with time and situation, while oth-
ers strongly believe that there are certain universal and eternal human values. 2013 10
Give your perception in this regard with due justification.
Without commonly shared and widely entrenched moral values and obligations,
neither the law, nor democratic government, nor even the market economy
2017 10
will function properly. What do you understand by this statement? Explain with
illustration in the contemporary times.
Dimensions of Ethics “Ethics encompasses several key dimensions that are crucial in guiding individ-
uals and organizations towards morally responsible behaviour.” Explain the key
2024 10
dimensions of ethics that influence human actions Discuss how these dimen-
sions shape ethical decision-making in the professional context.
Essence of Ethics Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating
2020 10
them.
It is often said that ‘politics’ and ‘ethics’ do not go together. What is your opin-
2013 10
ion in this regard? Justify your answer with illustrations.

Ethics in Private and Public In the context of defence services, ‘patriotism’ demands readiness to even lay
sphere down one’s life in protecting the nation. According to you, what does patriotism 2014 10
imply in everyday civil life? Explain with illustrations and justify your answer.
The crisis of ethical values in modern times is traced to a narrow perception of
2017 10
the good life. Discuss.
The good of an individual is contained in the good of all. What do you under-
2013 10
stand by this statement? How can this principle be implemented in public life?
What do you understand by ‘values’ and ‘ethics’? In what way is it important to
2013 10
be ethical along with being professionally competent?
What does ethics seek to promote in human life? Why is it all the more import-
2014 10
ant in public administration?
Term Based What do you understand by the following terms in the context of public service?
(5 terms x 3 marks each: a) Integrity b) Perseverance c) Spirit of service d) Com- 2013 15
mitment e) Courage of conviction f) Personal opinion
Differentiate between the following (200 words); a) Law and Ethics; b) Ethical
management and Management of ethics; c) Discrimination and Preferential 2015 10
treatment; d) Personal ethics and Professional ethics
Write short notes on the following in 30 words each : (i) Constitutional morality
(ii) Conflict of interest (iii) Probity in public life (iv) Challenges of digitalization (v) 2022 10
Devotion to duty
Examine the relevance of the following in the context of civil service: (a) Trans-
parency (b) Accountability (c) Fairness and justice (d) Courage of conviction (e) 2017 10
Spirit of service.
Ethics
2. Human Values: Lessons from the Lives and Teachings of
Great Leaders, Reformers and Administrators; Role of family
society and educational institutions in inculcating values.

Innovative Measures to We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the
Curb Sexual Violence country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such inci- 2014 10
dences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.
Role of Educational institu- “Education is not an injunction, it is an effective and pervasive tool for all-round
tions development of an individual and social transformation”.Examine the New Edu- 2020 10
cation Policy,2020 (NEP,2020) in light of the above statement.
Teachings of Great Leaders “Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may per-
form very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.”
2017 10
– Napoleon Bonaparte. Stating examples mention the rulers (i) who have harmed
society and country, (ii) who worked for the development of society and country.
Discuss Mahatma Gandhi’s concept of seven sins. 2016 10
What are the main factors responsible for gender inequality in India ? Discuss
2020 10
the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard.
What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss. 2020 10
What were the major teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their relevance in the
2023 10
contemporary world.
Which eminent personality has inspired you the most in the context of ethical con-
duct in life? Give the gist of his/her teachings giving specific examples, describe how 2014 10
you have been able to apply these teachings for your own ethical development.
Value Based Questions “Corruption is the manifestation of the failure of core values in the society.” In your
2023 10
opinion, what measures can be adopted to uplift the core values in the society?
All human beings aspire for happiness. Do you agree? What does happiness
2014 10
mean to you? Explain with examples.
Social values are more important than economic values. Discuss the above
2015 10
statement with examples in the context of inclusive growth of a nation.
Ethics
3.Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its Influence
and Relation with Thought and Behaviour; Moral and
Political Attitudes; Social Influence and Persuasion.
Attitude for Civil Servants A positive attitude is considered to be an essential characteristic of a civil ser-
vant who is often required to function under extreme stress. What contributes a 2020 10
positive attitude in person.?
Attitude is an important component that goes as input in the development of
2021 10
human beings. How to build a suitable attitude needed for a public servant?
Our attitudes towards life, work, other people and society are generally shaped
unconsciously by the family and social surroundings in which we grow up. Some
of these unconsciously acquired attitudes and values are often undesirable
in the citizens of modern democratic and egalitarian society. (a) Discuss such 2016 10
undesirable values prevalent in today’s educated Indians. (b) How can such
undesirable attitudes be changed and socio-ethical values be cultivated in the
aspiring and serving civil servants?
The Rules and Regulations provided to all the civil servants are same, yet there
is difference in the performance. Positive minded officers are able to interpret
the Rules and Regulations in favour of the case and achieve success, whereas 2022 10
negative minded officers are unable to achieve goals by interpreting the same
Rules and Regulations against the case. Discuss with illustrations.
Two different kinds of attitudes exhibited by public servants towards their work
have been identified as the bureaucratic attitude and the democratic attitude.
A) Distinguish between these two terms and write their merits and demerits. B) 2015 10
Is it possible to balance the two to create a better administration for the faster
development of our country?
Wisdom lies in knowing what to reckon with and what to overlook. An officer
being engrossed with the periphery, ignoring the core issues before him, is no
rare in the bureaucracy. Do you agree that such preoccupation of an administra- 2022 10
tor leads to travesty of justice to the cause of effective service delivery and good
governance? Critically evaluate.
Mindless addiction to Form, ignoring the Substance of the matter, results in ren-
dering of injustice. A perceptive civil servant is one who ignores such literalness
2024 10
and carries out true intent. Examine the above statement with suitable illustra-
tions.
Attitude for Individuals ‘Hatred is destructive of a person‘s wisdom and conscience that can poison a
2020 10
nation’s spirit. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer.
Anger is a harmful negative emotion. It is injurious to both personal life and
work life. (a) Discuss how it leads to negative emotions and undesirable be- 2016 10
haviours. (b) How can it be managed and controlled?
What factors affect the formation of a person’s attitude towards social prob-
lems? In our society, contrasting attitudes are prevalent about many social
2014 10
problems. What contrasting attitudes do you notice about the caste system in
our society? How do you explain the existence of these contrasting attitudes?
Moral and Political Attitude Young people with ethical conduct are not willing to come forward to join active
2017 10
politics. Suggest steps to motivate them to come forward.
Organisational Attitude Discipline generally implies following the order and subordination. However, it
2017 10
may be counter-productive for the organisation. Discuss.
In the context of work environment, differentiate between ‘coercion’ and ‘un-
2023 10
due influence’ with suitable examples.
Social influence and per- How could social influence and persuasion contribute to the success of Swatchh
2016 10
suasion Bharat Abhiyan?
Ethics
4.Emotional intelligence-concepts, and their utilities
and application in administration and governance.

EI in Administration How will you apply emotional intelligence in administrative practices? 2017 10
EI X Crisis of Conscience In case of a crisis of conscience does emotional intelligence help to overcome
the same without compromising the ethical and moral stand that you are likely 2021 10
to follow? Critically examine.
EI: Concept and utility “Emotional Intelligence is the ability to make your emotions work for you in-
2019 10
stead of against you.” Do you agree with this view? Discuss.
What are the main components of emotional intelligence (EI) ? Can they be
2020 10
learned? discuss.
What is ‘emotional intelligence’ and how can it be developed in people? How
2013 10
does it help an individual in taking ethical decisions?
EQ vs IQ What really matters for success, character, happiness and lifelong achievements
is a definite set of emotional skills – your EQ- not just purely cognitive abilities
2023 10
that are measured by conventional IQ tests.” Do you agree with this view ? Give
reasons in support of your answer.
Ethics
5.Contributions of Moral Thinkers and
Philosophers from India and World

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam “If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I
strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. 2017 10
they are father, the mother and the teacher.” – A. P. J. Abdul Kalam. Analyse.
“If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I
strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. 2022 10
They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” – Abdul Kalam.
“Where there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character.
When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When
2019 10
there is harmony in the home, there is order in the nation. When there is order
in the nation, there is peace in the world.”
Abraham Lincoln Nearly all men can withstand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character,
2013 10
give him power.—Abraham Lincoln
The true rule, in determining to embrace, or reject any thing, is not whether it
has any evil in it; but whether it has more evil than good. There are few things
wholly evil or wholly good. Almost every thing, especially of governmental pol- 2018 10
icy, is an inseprarable compound of the two; so that our best judgement of the
preponderance between them is continually demand. - Abraham Lincoln.
Aristotle I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who overcomes his
2013 10
enemies.—Aristotle
Dalai Lama “Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.” Dalai Lama. 2022 10
“We can never obtain peace in the outer world until and unless we obtain peace
2021 10
within ourselves”

Erik Erikson “Life doesn’t make any sense without interdependence. We need each other,
2021 10
and the sooner we learn that it is better for us all” – Erik Erikson
Immanuel Kant “In law, a man is guilty when he violates the rights of others. In ethics, he is
2024 10
guilty if he only thinks of doing so.” — Immanuel Kant
Jawaharlal Nehru “To awaken the people, it is the women who must be awakened. Ones she is on
the move, the family moves, the village moves, the nation moves.” – Jawaharlal 2023 10
Nehru
John Rawls’s concept of Analyse John Rawls’s concept of social justice in the Indian context.
2016 10
social Justice
Kautilya Corruption causes misuse of government treasury, Administrative inefficiency
2016 10
and obstruction in the path of national Development. Discuss Kautilya’s views.
Mahatma Gandhi “A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” –
2019 10
M.K.Gandhi
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service of others .” Mahatma
2020 10
Gandhi
“The weak can never forgive; forgiveness is the attribute of the strong.” 2015 10
Anger and intolerance are the enemies of correct understanding. -Mahatma
2018 10
Gandhi
“The simplest acts of kindness are by far more powerful than a thousand
2023 10
heads bowing in prayer.” – Mahatma Gandhi
There is enough on this earth for every one’s need but for no one’s greed. Ma-
2013 10
hatma Gandhi.
Plato We can easily forgive a child who is afraid of the dark; the real tragedy of life is
2015 10
when men are afraid of the light.
Potter Stewart Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have the right to do and
2022 10
what is right to do.’-Potter Stewart .
Sardar Patel “Faith is of no avail in the absence of strength. Faith and strength, both are
2024 10
essential to accomplish any great work.” — Sardar Patel
Socrates ”A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is a mere illu-
sion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing 2020 10
true.” – Socrates.
“An unexamined life is not worth living.” – Socrates 2019 10
Swami Vivekananda ”Condemn none: if you can stretch out a helping hand do so. If not fold your
2020 10
hands, bless your brothers and let them go their own way.” – Swami Vivekanand
“Every work has got to pass through hundreds of difficulties before succeeding.
2021 10
Those that persevere will see the light, sooner or later” – Swami Vivekananda
“Learn everything that is good from others, but bring it in, and in your own way
2024 10
absorb it, do not become others.” — Swami Vivekananda
Do not hate anybody, because that hatred that comes out from you must, in the
long run, come back to you. If you love, that love will come back to you, com- 2023 10
pleting the circle.” – Swami Vivekanand.
Tirukkural Falsehood takes the place of truth when it results in unblemished common
2018 10
good. -Tirukkural
Ethics
6.Aptitude and Foundational Values for Civil Service,
Integrity, Impartiality and Non-partisanship, Objectivity,
Dedication to Public Service, Empathy, Tolerance
and compassion towards weaker-sections

Empathy and compassion Apart from intellectual competency and moral qualities, empathy and compas-
sion are some of the other vital attributes that facilitate the civil servants to be
2022 10
more competent in tackling the crucial issues or taking critical decisions. Explain
with suitable illustrations.
Foundational values Identify five ethical traits on which one can plot the performance of a civil ser-
2021 10
vant. Justify their inclusion in the matrix.
Identify ten essential values that are needed to be an effective public servant.
Describe the ways and means to prevent non-ethical behaviour in public ser- 2021 10
vants.
Indicate two more attributes which you consider important for public service.
2013 10
Justify your answer.
What do you understand by the term ‘public servant’? Reflect on the expected
2019 10
role of a public servant.
What are the basic principles of public life? Illustrate any three of these with
2019 10
suitable examples.
State the three basic values, universal in nature, in the context of civil services
2018 10
and bring out their importance.

Impartiality and Non-Parti- Should impartial and being non-partisan be considered indispensable qualities
2021 10
sanship to make a successful civil servant? Discuss with illustrations.
Why should impartiality and non-partisanship be considered as foundational
values in public services, especially in the present day socio-political context ? 2016 10
Illustrate your answer with examples.
Integrity “Integrity is a value that empowers the human being’’. Justify with suitable
2021 10
illustration.
Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, but knowledge without in-
tegrity is dangerous and dreadful. What do you understand by this statement? 2014 10
Explain your stand with illustrations from the modern context.
One of the tests of integrity is complete refusal to be compromised. Explain with
2017 10
reference to a real life example.
Integrity X Intelligence X In looking for people to hire, you look for three qualities: integrity, intelligence
Energy and energy. And if they do not have the first, the other two will you. - Warren
2018 10
Buffett. What do you understand by this statement in the present-day scenario?
Explain.
Trustworthiness and For- How do the virtues of trustworthiness and fortitude get manifested in public
2015 10
titude service? Explain with examples.
Ethics
7.Public/Civil Service Values and Ethics in Public
Administration: Status and Problems; Ethical Concerns and
Dilemmas in Government and Private Institutions; Laws, Rules,
Regulations and Conscience as Sources of Ethical Guidance;
Accountability and Ethical Governance; Strengthening of
Ethical and Moral Values in Governance; ethical Issues in
International Relations and Funding; Corporate Governance

Accountability and Ethical An independent and empowered social audit mechanism is an absolute must in
Governance every sphere of public service, including the judiciary, to ensure performance, 2021 10
accountability and ethical conduct. Elaborate.
Explain the term social capital. How does it enhance good governance? 2023 10
What do you understand by term ‘good governance’? How far recent initiatives
in terms of e-Governance steps taken by the State have helped the beneficia- 2022 10
ries? Discuss with suitable examples.
What do you understand by the terms ‘governance’, ‘good governance’ and
2016 10
‘ethical governance’?
What does ‘accountability’ mean in the context of public service? What mea-
sures can be adopted to ensure individual and collective accountability of public 2014 10
servants?

Public/Civil Service Values “Non-performance of duty by a public servant is a form of corruption” Do you
2019 10
agree with this view? Justify your answer (150 words, 10m)
In doing a good thing, everything is permitted which is not prohibited expressly
or by clear implication. Examine the statement with suitable examples in the 2018 10
context of a public servant discharging his/her duties.
Max Weber said that it is not wise to apply to public administration the sort of
moral and ethical norms we apply to matters of personal conscience. It is im-
2016 10
portant to realise that the State bureaucracy might possess its own independent
bureaucratic morality. Critically analyse this statement.
What is meant by public interest? What are the principles and procedures to be
2018 10
followed by the civil servants in public interest?
Corporate Governance Corporate social responsibility makes companies more profitable and sustain-
2017 10
able. Analyse.
In contemporary world, corporate sector’s contribution in generating wealth
and employment is increasing. In doing so, they are bringing in unprecedented
onslaught on the climate, environmental sustainability and living conditions
of human beings. In this background, do you find that Corporate Social Re- 2022 10
sponsibility (CSR) is efficient and sufficient enough to fulfill the social roles and
responsibilities needed in the corporate world for which the CSR is mandated?
Critically examine.
What do you understand by ‘moral integrity’ and ‘professional efficiency’ in the
2023 10
context of corporate governance in India ? Illustrate with suitable examples.
Conflict of interest Conflict of interest in the public sector arises when (a) official duties, (b) public
interest, and (c) personal interest are taking priority one above the other. How 2017 10
can this conflict in administration be resolved? Describe with an example.
Public servants are likely to confront with the issues of ‘Conflict of Interest’.
What do you understand by the term ‘Conflict of Interest’ and how does it
2015 10
manifest in the decision making by public servants? If faced with the conflict of
interest situation, how would you resolve it? Explain with the help of examples.
What is meant by conflict of interest? Illustrate with examples, the difference
2018 10
between the actual and potential conflicts of interest.
Laws, Rules, Regulations A mere compliance with law is not enough, the public servant also has to have a
and Conscience as Ethical well-developed sensibility to ethical issues for effective discharge of duties.” Do
2015 10
Guidance you agree? Explain with the help of two examples, where (i) an act is ethically
right, but not legally and (ii) an act is legally right, but not ethically.
Is conscience a more reliable guide when compared to laws, rules and regula-
2023 10
tions in the context of ethical decision making ? Discuss.
Law and ethics are considered to be the two tools for controlling human con-
duct so as to make it conducive to civilized social existence. (a) Discuss how they
2016 10
achieve this objective. (b) Giving examples, show how the two differ in their
approaches.
The soul of the new law, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is Justice, Equality and
Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of major 2024 10
shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system.
What do you understand by the term ‘voice of conscience’? How do you prepare
2013 10
yourself to heed to the voice of conscience?
What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? How does it manifest itself in the public
2019 10
domain?
What is meant by ‘crisis of conscience’? Narrate one incident in your life when
2013 10
you were faced with such a crisis and how you resolved the same.
What is meant by constitutional morality? How does one uphold constitutional
2019 10
morality?

Ethical dilemmas in Public Besides domain knowledge, a public official needs innovativeness and creativity
Administration of a high order as well, while resolving ethical dilemmas. Discuss with a suitable 2021 10
example.
Explain the process of resolving ethical dilemmas in Public Administration. 2018 10
Ethical Issues in Inter- ‘International aid’ is an accepted form of helping ‘resource-challenged’ nations.
national Relations and Comment on ‘ethics in contemporary international aid’. Support your answer 2023 10
funding with suitable examples.
‘The will to power exits, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and
principles of moral duty.’ Examine this statement in the context of international 2020 10
relations.
“It is not enough to talk about peace, one must believe in it; and it is not enough
to believe in it, one must act upon it” In the present context, the major weapon
industries of the developed nations are adversely influencing continuation of
2024 10
number of wars for their own self-interest, all around the world. What are the
ethical considerations of the powerful nations in today’s international arena to
stop continuation of ongoing conflicts?
“Refugees should not be turned back to the country where they would face
prosecution or human rights violation.” Examine the statement with reference
2021 10
to the ethical dimension being violated by the nation claiming to be democratic
with an open society.
At the international level, the bilateral relations between most nations are gov-
erned on the policy of promoting one’s own national interest without any regard
for the interest of other nations. This leads to conflicts and tensions between 2015 10
the nations. How can ethical consideration help resolve such tensions? Discuss
with specific examples.
Russia and Ukraine war has been going on for the last seven months. Different
countries have taken independent stands and actions keeping in view their own
national interests. We are all aware that war has its own impact on the different
2022 10
aspects of society, including human tragedy. What are those ethical issues that
are crucial to be considered while launching the war and its continuation so far?
Illustrate with justification the ethical issues involved in the given state of affair.
Strength, peace and security are considered to be the pillars of international
2017 10
relations. Elucidate.
Ethics
8.Probity in Governance: Concept of Public Service;
Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity; Information
Sharing and Transparency in Government, Right to
information; Codes of Ethics, Codes of Conduct, Citizen’s
Charters, Work Culture, Quality of Service Delivery, utilization
of Public Funds, Challenges of Corruption.Environment
Challenges of Corruption It is often said that poverty leads to corruption. However, there is no dearth of
instances where affluent and powerful people indulge in corruption in a big way.
2014 10
What are the basic causes of corruption among people? Support your answer
with examples.
Whistle blower, who reports corruption and illegal activities, wrongdoing and
misconduct to the concerned authorities, runs the risk of being exposed to
grave danger, physical harm and victimization by the vested interests, accused 2022 10
persons and his team. What policy measures would you suggest to strengthen
protection mechanism to safeguard the whistle blower?
Citizen’s Charter Explain the basic principles of citizens’ charter movement and bring out its
2019 10
importance.
Codes of Ethics and Codes Discuss the Public Services Code as recommended by the 2nd Administrative
2016 10
of Conduct Reforms Commission.
Distinguish between “Code of ethics” and “Code of conduct” with suitable
2018 10
examples.
The ‘Code of Conduct and ‘Code of Ethics’ are the sources of guidance in public
administration. There is code of conduct already in operation, whereas code
2024 10
of ethics is not yet put in place. Suggest a suitable mode. for code of ethics to
maintain integrity, probity and transparency. governance.
Information Sharing and Some recent developments such as introduction of RTI Act, media and judicial
Transparency in Govern- activism, etc., are proving helpful in bringing about greater transparency and
ment X RTI accountability in the functioning of the government. However, it is also being
observed that at times the mechanisms are misused. Another negative effect is 2015 10
that the officers are now afraid to take prompt decisions. Analyze this situation
in detail and suggest how this dichotomy can be resolved. Suggest how these
negative impacts can be minimized.
The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone, it
2018 10
essentially redefines the concept of accountability. Discuss.
There is a view that the official secrets act is an obstacle to the implementation
2019 10
of the Rights to Information act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss
Today we find that in spite of various measures like prescribing codes of con-
duct, setting up vigilance cells/commissions, RTI, active media and strength-
ening of legal mechanisms, corrupt practices are not coming under control. 2015 10
A) Evaluate the effectiveness of these measures with justifications. B) Suggest
more effective strategies to tackle this menace.

Probity in Governance ‘Probity is essential for an effective system of governance and socio-economic
2023 10
development.’ Discuss.
What do you understand by ‘probity’ in public life? What are the difficulties in
2014 10
practicing it in the present times? How can these difficulties be overcome?
What do you understand by probity in governance? Based on your understand-
2019 10
ing of the term, suggest measures for ensuring probity in government.
Utilization of public funds Effective utilisation of public funds is crucial to meet development goals. Critical-
ly examine the reasons for under-utilization and mis-utilisation of public funds 2019 10
and their implications.
There is a heavy ethical responsibility on the public servants because they occu-
py positions of power, handle huge amounts of public funds, and their decisions
2014 10
have wide-ranging impact on society and environment. What steps have you
taken to improve your ethical competence to handle such responsibility?
Quality of Service Delivery Mission Karmayogi is aiming for maintaining a very high standard of conduct
and behaviour to ensure efficiency for serving citizens and in developing oneself.
2024 10
How will this scheme empower the civil servants in enhancing productive effi-
ciency and delivering the services at the grassroots level?
Ethics
Case Studies
UPSC MAINS 2024

[Case Study 1] “There is a technological company named ABC innovation, profitability and sustainability, a strategic move is
Incorporated which is the second largest worldwide, situated in necessary that is in line with both, business objectives and eth-
the Third World. You are the Executive Officer and the majority ical obligations
shareholder this company,The fast technological improvements (a) What is your immediate response to the challenges posed in
have raised worries among environmental activists, regulatory the above case?
authorities, and the general public over the sustainability of this (b) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the above case.
scenario. You confront substantial issues about the business’s (c) Your company has been identified to be penalized by techno-
environmental footprint. In 2023, your organization had a sig- logical giants. What logical and ethical arguments will you put
nificant increase of 48% in greenhouse gas emissions compared forth to convince about its necessity?
to the levels recorded in 2019. The significant rise in energy (d) Being a conscience being, what measures would you adopt
consumption is mainly due to the surging energy requirements to maintain balance between Al innovation and environmental
of your data centers, fuelled by the exponential expansion of footprint?”
Artificial Intelligence (AI). Al-powered services need much [UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Syllabus - corporate governance. Sub-
more computational resources and electrical energy compared subject - Environment vs Technology
to conventional online activities, notwithstanding their nota-
ble gains. The technology’s proliferation has led to a growing
concern over the environmental repercussions, resulting in an [Case Study 2] “Raman is a senior IPS officer and has recently
increase in warnings. AI models, especially those used in exten- been posted as D.G. of a state. Among the various issues and
sive machine learning and data processing, exhibit much great- problems/challenges which needed his immediate attention,
er energy consumption than conventional computer tasks, with the issue relating to recruitment of unemployed south by an
an exponential increase. unknown terrorist group, was a matter at grave concern.
Although there is already a commitment and goal to achieve It was noted that unemployment was relatively high in the
net zero emissions by 2030, the challenge of lowering emissions state. The problem of unemployment amongst graduates and
seems overwhelming as the integration of Al continues to in- those with higher education was much more grave Thus they
crease. To achieve this goal, substantial investments in renew- were fulnerable and sok targets. In the review meeting taken by
able energy use would be necessary. The difficulty is exacerbat- him with senior officers of DIG Range and above, it came to light
ed by the competitive environment of the technology sector, that a new terrorist group has emerged at the global level. It has
where rapid innovation is essential for preserving market stand- launched a massive drive to recruit young unemployed people.
ing and shareholders worth. To achieve a balance between Special focus was to pick young people from & particular com-
munity. The said organisation seemed to have the clear objec- ing out a systematic search. During the search, his team managed
tive of utinsing/using them for carrying out militant activities. to overpower all the naxalites along with their automatic weap-
It was also gathered that the said (new) group is desperately ons. However, in the meantime, more than fixe hundred tribar
trying to spread its tentacles in his state. A definite/reliable in- women surrounded the village and started marching towards the
telligence tip was received by the State CD and Cyber Cell that target house.
a large number of such unemployed youth have already been They were shouting and demanding the immediate release
contacted by the terrorist outfit/group through social media of insurgents since they are their protectors and saviours. The
and local communal organisations and other contacts. The need situation on the ground was becoming very critical as the tribal
of the hour was to act swiftly ant to check these elements/de- women were extremely agitated and aggressive. Rohit tried to
signs before they assume serious proportions. contact his superior officer, IG (Special Operations) of the state
Discrete inquiries made by the police, through the Cyber on the radio set and on mobile phone, but failed to do so due to
Cell revealed that good numbers of unemployed youth are very poor connectivity.
active on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Rohit was in great dilemma since out of the naxalites appre-
On an average, many of them were spending, 8 hours eack hended, two were not only hard core top insurgents with prize
day, using electronic devices/internet, etc. It also came to light money of 7 ten lakhs on their heads, but were also involved in a
that such unemployed youth were showing sympathy and en- recent ambush on the security forces. However, if he did not re-
dorsing the messages received from certain persons, allegedly lease the naxalites, the situation could get out of control since the
the contact persons of that global terrorist group. Their social tribal women were aggressively charging towards them. In that
media accounts revealed their strong affinity such groups in as case, to control the situation Rohit might have to resort to firing
much as many of them started forwarding anti-national tweets which may lead to valuable loss of lives of civilians and would
on their WhatsApp and Facebook, etc. It seemed that they suc- further complicate the situation.
cumbed to their ploy and started propagating secessionist ide- (a)What are the options available with Rohit to cope with the sit-
ology Their posts were hyper-critical of the government’s initia- uation ?
tives, policies and subscribing to extreme beliefs and promoting (b)What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rohit ?
extremism. (c)Which of the options, do you think, would be more appropri-
ate for Rohit to adopt and why?
(a)What are the options available to Raman to tackle the above (d)In the present situation, what are the extra precautionary
situation? measures to be taken by the police in dealing with women pro-
(b)What measures would you suggest for strengthening the ex- testers?”
isting set-up to ensure that such groups do not succeed in pen- [UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Syllabus - Public Service Values
etrating and vitiating the atmosphere in the state?
(c)In the above scenario, what action plan would you advise for
enhancing, the intelligence gathering mechanism of the police [Case Study 4] “Sneha is a Senior Manager working for a big
force?” reputed hospital chain in a mid-sized city. She has been made
[UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Syllabus - Public Service Values in charge of the new super specialty center that the hospital is
building with state-of-the art equipment and world-class med-
ical facilities. The building has been reconstructed and she is
starting the process of procurement for various equipment and
[Case Study 3] “With multipronged strategy of the Central and machine. As the head of the committee responsible for pro-
State Governments specially in the last few years, the naxal- curement, she has invited bids from all the interested reput-
ite problem has been resolved to a large extent in the affected ed vendors dealing in medical equipment. She notices that her
states of the country. However, there are a, few Volpockets in brother, who is a well-known supplier of this domain, has sent
certain states where naxalite problem still persists, mainly due his expression interest. Since the hospital privately not
to involvement of foreign countries. Rohit is posted as SP (Special mandatory for her to select only the lower bidder. Also, she
Operations) for the last one year, in one of the districts which is aware that her brother’s company has been facing some fi-
is still affected by the naxalite problem. The district administra- nancial difficulties and a big supply order will help him recover.
tion has taken a lot of developmental works in the recent past At the same time, allocating the contract to her brother might
in the naxalite affected areas to win the hearts and mines of the bring charges of favouritism against her and tarnish her image.
people. Over a period of time, Rohit has established an excellent The hospital management trusts her fully and would sup-
intelligence network to get the real time information regarding port any decision of hers.
the movement of naxalite cadre. To instill confidence in the pub- (a)What should be Sneha’s course of action?
lic and have moral ascendancy over the naxalites, a number of (b)How would she justify what she chooses to do ?
cordons and search operations are being conducted by the po- (c)In this case, how is medical ethics compromised with vested
lice. Rohit, who himself was leading one of the contingents got a personal interest ?”
message though his intelligence source that about ten hard core [UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Corporate Governance. Subsubject -
naxalites were hiding in a particular village with sophisticated Conflict of Interest
weapons.
Without wasting any time, Rohit reached the target village [Case Study 5] “With the summer heat being exceptionally se-
with his team and laid out a foolproof cordon and started carry- vere this year, the district has been facing severe water short-
age. The District Collector has been mobilizing his subordinate a reputed hiotechnology company known for its cutting-edge
officials to conserve the remaining water reserves for prevent- research in pharmaceuticals. Dr. Srinivasan is heading a re-
ing the district from plunging into acute drinking water crisis. search team, working on a new drug aimed at treating a rapidly
Along with an awareness campaign for conserving water, spreading variant of a new viral infectious disease. The disease
strict measures have been taken for stopping the over-exploita- has been rapidly spreading across the world and the cases re-
tion of ground-water. Vigilance teams have been deployed to ported in the country are increasing. There is huge pressure on
tour the villages and find the farmers who are drawing water Dr. Srinivasan’s team to expedite the trials for the drug as there
from deep borewells or from the river reservoir for irrigation. is significant market for it, and the company wants to get the
The farmers are agitated by such action. A delegation of farm- first-mover advantage in the market. During a team meeting,
ers meets the District Collector with their issues and complains some senior team members suggest some shortcut for expedit-
that while they are not being allowed to irrigate their crops. big ing the clinical trials for the drug and for getting the requisite
industries located near the river are drawing huge amounts of approvals. These include manipulating data to exclude some
water through deep borewells for their industrial processes. negative outcomes and selectively reporting positive results,
The farmers allege that their administration is anti-farmer and foregoing the process of informed consent and using com-
corrupt, being bribed by the industry. The district needs to pla- pounds already patented by a rival company, rather than devel-
cate the farmers as they are threatening to ge on a prolonged oping one’s own component. Dr. Srinivasan is not comfortable
protest At the same time, the District, Collector has to deal with taking such shortcuts, at the same time he realises meeting the
the water crisis. The industry cannot be closed as this would targets is impossible without using these means.
result in a large number of workers being unemployed. (a)What would you do in such a situation?
(a)Discuss all options available to the District Collector as a Dis- (b)Examine your options and consequences in the light of the
trict Magistrate. ethical questions involved.
(b)What suitable actions can be taken in view of mutually com- (c)How can data ethics and drug ethics save humanity at large
patible interests of the stakeholders? in such a scenario?”
(c)What are the potential administrative and ethical dilemmas [UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Syllabus - Ethics and Human Interface
for the District Collector?” (Bioethics)
[UPSC 2024,20 Marks] Public Service Values. Subsubject - Re-
source management
[Case Study 6] “Dr. Srinivasan is a senjor scientist werking for
UPSC MAINS 2023

[Case Study 1] “At 9 pm on Saturday evening, Rashika, a Joint needed contribution in this important project and may ad-
Secretary, was still engrossed in her work in her office. Her hus- versely impact her emotional well-being. You have also come
band, Vikram, is an executive in an MNC and frequently out of to know from her peers that she is contemplating tendering her
town in connection with his work. Their two children aged 5 resignation.
and 3 are looked after by their domestic helper. At 9:30 pm her (a) What are the ethical issues involved in the above case?
superior, Mr. Suresh calls her and asks her to prepare a detailed (b) What are the options available to you in order to complete
note on an important matter to be discussed in a meeting in the the project as well as to retain Seema in the organization?
Ministry. She realises, that she will have to work on Sunday to (c) What would be your response to Seema’s predicament?
finish the additional task given by her superior. What measures would you institute to prevent such occurrenc-
She reflects on how she had looked forward to this posting es from happening in your organization ?”
and had worked long hours for months to achieve it. She had [UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values |
kept the welfare of people uppermost in discharging her duties. Theme: Gender equality based
She feels that she has not done enough justice to her family and
she has not fulfilled her duties in discharging essential social
obligations. Even as recently as last month she had to leave her [Case Study 3] “You hold a responsible position in a ministry in
sick child in the nanny’s care as she had to work in the office. the government. One day in the morning you received a call from
Now, she feels that she must draw a line, beyond which her per- the school of your 11-year-old son that you are required to come
sonal life should take precedence over her professional respon- and meet the Principal. You proceed to the school and find your
sibilities. She thinks that there should be reasonable limits to son in the Principal’s office. The Principal informs you that your
the work ethics such as punctuality, hard work, dedication to son had been found wandering aimlessly in the grounds during
duty and selfless service. the time classes were in progress. The class teacher further in-
(a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in this case. forms you that your son has lately become a loner and did not
(b) Briefly describe at least four laws that have been enacted by respond to questions in the class, he had also been unable to
the Government with respect to providing a healthy, safe and perform well in the football trials held recently. You bring your
equitable working environment for women. son back from the school and in the evening, you along with your
(c) Imagine you are in a similar situation. What suggestions wife try to find out the reasons for your son’s changed behaviour.
would you make to mitigate such working conditions?” After repeated cajoling, your son shares that some children had
[UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface been making fun of him in the class as well as in the WhatsApp
| Theme: profession vs personal duty group of the students by calling him stunted, duh and a frog. He
tells you the names of a few children who are the main culprits
but pleads with you to let the matter rest.
[Case Study 2] “You have just been appointed as Additional Di- After a few days, during a sporting event, where you and your
rector General of Central Public Works Department. The Chief wife have gone to watch your son play, one of your colleague’s
Architect of your division, who is to retire in six months, is pas- son shows you a video in which students have caricatured your
sionately working on a very important project, the successful son. Further, he also points out to the perpetrators who were
completion of which would earn him a lasting reputation for sitting in the stands. You purposefully walk past them with your
the rest of his life. son and go home. Next day, you find on social media, a video
A new lady architect. Seema, trained at Manchester School denigrating you, your son and even your wife, stating that you
of Architecture, UK joined as Senior Architect in your division. engaged in physical bullying of children on the sports field. The
During the briefing about the project, Seema made some sug- video became viral on social media. Your friends and colleagues
gestions which would not only add value to the project, but began calling you to find out the details. One of your juniors
would also reduce completion time. This has made the Chief advised you to make a counter video giving the background and
Architect insecure and he is constantly worried that all the cred- explaining that nothing had happened on the field. You, in turn
it will go to her. Subsequently, he adopted a passive and ag- posted a video which you have captured during the sporting
gressive behaviour towards her and has become disrespectful event, identifying the likely perpetrators who were responsible
to her. Seema felt it embarrassing as the Chief Architect left no for your son’s predicament. You have also narrated what has
chance of humiliating her. He would very often correct her in actually happened in the field and made attempts to bring out
front of other colleagues and raise his voice while speaking to the adverse effects of the misuse of social media.
her. This continuous harassment has resulted in her losing confi- (a)Based on the above case study, discuss the ethical issues
dence and self-esteem. She felt perpetually tensed, anxious and involved in the use of social media.
stressed. She appeared to be in awe of him since he has had a (b)Discuss the pros and cons of using social media by you to put
long tenure in the office and has vast experience in the area of across the facts to counter the fake propaganda against your
her work. family.”
You are aware of her outstanding academic credentials and [UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values |
career record in her previous organisations. However, you fear Theme: Social media
that this harassment may result in compromising her much
[Case Study 4] “A landslide occurred in the middle of the night the earliest. She has already started paying it back and will con-
on 20th July, 2023 in a remote mountain hamlet, approximate- tinue to do no until it is all returned.
ly 60kilometers from Uttarkashi. The landslide was caused by (a) What are the ethical issues involved ?
torrential rains and has resulted in large-scale destruction of (b) Evaluate the behavior or the bank manager from an ethical
property and life. You, as district magistrate of the area, have point of view.
rushed to the spot with a team of doctors, NGOs, media and (c) How would you react to the situation ?”
police along with numerous support staff to oversee the rescue [UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 8. Probity in Governance |
operations. Theme: Misuse of position of power
A man came running to you with a request for urgent medi-
cal help for his pregnant wife who is in labor and is losing blood.
You directed your medical team to examine his wife. They re- [Case Study 6] “Vinod is an honest and sincere IAS officer. Re-
turn and convey to you that this woman needs blood trans- cently, he has taken over as Managing Director of the State
fusion immediately. Upon enquiry, you come know that a few Road Transport Corporation, his sixth transfer in the past three
blood collection bags and blood group test kits are available in years. His peers acknowledge his vast knowledge, affability and
the ambulance accompanying your team. Few people of your uprightness.
team have already volunteered to donate blood. The Chairman of the State Road Transport Corporation is a
Being a physician who has graduated for AIIMS, you know powerful politician and is very close to the Chief Minister. Vinod
that blood for transfusion needs to be procured only through a comes to know about many alleged irregularities of the Corpo-
recognized blood bank. ration and the high-handedness of the Chairman in financial
Your team members are divided on this issue; some favor matters.
transfusion while some others oppose it. The doctors in the A Board Member of the Corporation belonging to the Op-
team are ready to facilitate the delivery provided they are not position Party meets Vinod and hands over a few documents
penalized for transfusion. Now you are in a dilemma. Your pro- along with a video recording in which the Chairman appears to
fessional training emphasizes on prioritizing service to humani- be demanding bribe for placing a huge order for the supply of
ty and saving lives of individuals. QMR tyres. Vinod recollects the Chairman expediting clearing
(a)What are the ethical issues involved in this case? of pending bills of QMR tyres.
(b) Evaluate the options available to you, being District Magis- Vinod confronts the Board Member as to why he is shying
trate of the area.” away from exposing the Chairman with the so-called solid proof
[UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 5. Emotional Intelligence | he has with him. The member informs him that the Chairman
Theme: Compassion vs Duty refuses to yield to his threats. He adds that Vinod may earn rec-
ognition and public support if he himself exposes he Chairman.
Further, he tells Vinod that once his party comes to power, Vi-
[Case Study 5] “You are working as an executive in a nation- nod’s professional growth would be assured.
alized bank for several years. One day one of your close col- Vinod is aware that he may be penalized if he exposes the
leagues tells you that her father is suffering from heart disease Chairman and may further be transferred to a distant place.
and needs surgery immediately to survive. She also tells you He knows that the Opposition Party stands a better chance of
that she has no insurance and the operation will cost about Rs. coming to power in the forthcoming elections. However, he also
10 lakh. You are also aware of the fact that her husband is no realizes that the Board Member is trying to use him for his own
more and that she is from a lower middle class family. You are political gains.
empathetic about her situation. However, apart from express- (a) As a conscientious civil servant, evaluate the options avail-
ing your sympathy, you do not have the resources to fund her. able to Vinod.
A few weeks later, you ask her about the well-being of her (b) In the light of the above case, comment upon the ethical
father and she informs you about his successful surgery and issues that may arise due to the politicization of bureaucracy.”
that he is recovering. She then confides in you that the bank [UPSC 2023,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
manager was kind enough to facilitate the release of Rs. 10 lakh Transparency in Government | Theme: corruption
from a dormant recount of someone to pay for the operation
with a promise that it should be confidential and be repaid at
UPSC MAINS 2022

[Case Study 1] “Prabhat was working as Vice President (Market- guts of Subhash Verma in having surreptitiously removing his
ing) at Sterling Electric Ltd., a reputed multinational company. own company papers and offering to the rival company for a
But presently the company was passing through the difficult job. Being an experienced person, he was examining the pros
times as the sales were continuously showing downward trend and cons of the proposal/situation and he asked him to come
in the last two quarters. His division, which hitherto had been the next day.
a major revenue contributor to the company’s financial health, (a) Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case.
was now desperately trying to procure some big government (b) Critically examine the options available to Prabhat in the
order for them. But their best efforts did not yield any positive above situation.
success or breakthrough. (c) Which of the above would be the most appropriate for Pra-
His was a professional company and his local bosses were bhat and why?
under pressure from their London-based HO to show some pos- [UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
itive results. In the last performance review meeting taken by Theme: Misuse of position of power
the Executive Director (India Head), he was reprimanded for his
poor performance. He assured them that his division is working
on a special contract from the Ministry of Defence for a secret [Case Study 2] “You are appointed as an officer heading the sec-
installation near Gwalior and tender is being submitted shortly. tion in Environment Pollution Control Board to ensure compli-
He was under extreme pressure and he was deeply per- ance and its follow-up. In that region, there were large number
turbed. What aggravated the situation further was a warning of small and medium industries which had been granted clear-
from the top that if the deal is not clinched in favour of the ance. You learnt that these industries provide employment to
company, his division might have to be closed and he may have many migrant worker. Most of the industrial units have got en-
to quit his lucrative job. vironmental clearance certificate in their possession. The envi-
There was another dimension which was causing him deep ronmental clearance seeks to curb industries and projects that
mental torture and agony. This pertained to his personal precar- supposedly hamper environment and living species in the re-
ious financial health. He was a single earner in the family with gion, But in practice. most of these units remain to be polluting
two school-college going children and his old ailing mother. The units in several ways like air, water and soil pollution. As such,
heavy expenditure on education and medical was causing a big local people encountered persistent health problems.
strain to his monthly pay packet. Regular EMI for housing loan It was confirmed that majority of the industries were violat-
taken from bank unavoidable and any default would render him ing environmental compliance. You issued notice to all the in-
liable for severe legal action. dustrial units to apply for fresh environmental clearance certif-
In the above backdrop, he was hoping for some miracle to icate from the competent authority. However, your action met
happen. There was sudden turn of events. His Secretary informed with hostile response from a section of the industrial units, oth-
that a gentleman Subhas Verma wanted to see him as he was in- er vested interest persons and a section of the local politicians.
terested in the position of Manager which was to be filled by him The workers also became hostile to you as they felt that your
in the company. He further brought to his notice that his CV has action would lead to the closure of these industrial units, and
been received through the office of the Minister of Defence. the resultant unemployment will lead to insecurity uncertainty
During interview of the candidate-Subhash Verma, he found in their livelihood. Many owners of the industries approached
him technically sound, resourceful and experienced marketeer. you with the plea that you should not initiate harsh action as it
He seemed to be well-conversant with tendering procedures would compel them their units, and cause huge financial loss,
and having knack of follow-up and liaising in this regard Prabhat shortage of their products in the market. These would obvi-
felt that he was better choice than the rest of the candidates ously add to the sufferings of the labourers and the consumers
who were recently interviewed by him in the last few days. alike. The labour union also sent you representation requesting
Subhash Verma also indicated that he was in possession of against the closure of the units. You simultaneously started re-
the copies of the bid documents that the Unique Electronics ceiving threats from unknown corners. You however received
Ltd. would be submitting the next day to the Defence Ministry supports from some of your colleagues, who advised you to act
for their tender. He offered to hand over those documents sub- freely to ensure environmental compliance. Local NGOs also
ject to his employment in the company on suitable terms and came to your support and they demanded the closure of the
conditions. He made it clear that in the process, the Sterling polluting units immediately.
Electric Ltd. could outbid their rival company and get the bid (a) What are the options available to you under the given situ-
and hefty Defence Ministry order. He indicated that it will be ation?
win-win situation for both-him and the company. (b) Critically examine the options listed by you.
Prabhat was absolutely stunned. It was a mixed feeling of (c) What type of mechanism would you suggest to ensure envi-
shock and thrill. He was uncomfortable and perspiring. If ac- ronmental compliance?
cepted, all his problems would vanish instantly and he may be (d) What are the ethical dilemmas you faced in exercising your
rewarded for securing the much awaited tender and thereby option?”
boosting company’s sales and financial health. He was in a fix [UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
as to the future course of action. He was wonder-struck at the Theme: Environmental ethics
[Case Study 3] “Rakesh was working as a Joint Commissioner red-handed two families of 12 members infiltrated with the
in Transport department of a city. As a part of his job profile, connivance of the security personnel at the border posts. On
among others, he was entrusted with the task of overseeing the further inquiry and investigation, it was found that after the
control and functioning of City Transport Department. A case migrants from neighbouring country infiltrate, their documen-
strike by drivers’ union of City Transport Department over the tation like Aadhaar Card, Ration Card and Voter Card are also
issue of compensation to a driver who died on duty while driv- forged and they are made to settle down in a particular area of
ing the bus came up before him for decision in the matter. the State. Ramesh prepared the detailed and comprehensive
He gathered that the driver (deceased) was plying Bus No. report and submitted to the Additional Secretary of the State.
528 which passed through busy and congested roads of the city. However, he has summoned by the Additional Home Secretary
It so happened that near an intersection on the way, there was after a week and was instructed to withdraw the report. The
an accident involving the a middle-aged man. It was found that Additional Home Secretary informed Ramesh that the report
there was altercation between the driver and the car driver. submitted by him has not been appreciated by the higher au-
Heated arguments between them led to fight and the driver thorities. He further cautioned him that if he fails to withdraw
gave him a a blow. Lot of passerbys had gathered and tried to the confidential ort, he will not only be posted out from the
intervene but without success. Eventually, both of them were prestigious appointment from the State capital but his further
badly injured and profusely bleeding and were taken to the promotion which is due in near future will also get in jeopardy.
nearby hospital. The driver succumbed to the injuries and could (a) What are the options available to Ramesh as the Director of
not be saved. The middle-aged driver’s condition was also criti- the Home Department of the bordering State?
cal but after a day, he recovered and was discharged. Police had (b) What option should Ramesh adopt and why?
immediately come to the spot and FIR was registered. Police (c) Critically evaluate each of the options.
investigation revealed that the quarrel in was started by the bus (d) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Ramesh?
driver and he had resorted to physical violence. There exchange (e) What policy measures would you suggest to combat the
of blows between them. menace of infiltration of illegal migrants from the neighbouring
The City Transport Department management is considering country?”
of not giving any extra compensation to the driver’s (deceased) [UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
family. The family is very aggrieved. depressed and agitated and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: National security
against the discriminatory and non-sympathetic approach of issue
the City Transport Department management. The bus driver
(deceased) was 52 years of age, was survived by his wife and
two school-college going daughters. He was the sole earner of [Case Study 5] “The Supreme Court has banned mining in the
the family. The City Transport Department workers’ union took Aravalli Hills to stop degradation the forest cover and to main-
up this case and when found no favourable response from the tain ecological balance. However, the stone mining to still prev-
management, decided to go on strike. The union’s demand alent in the border district of the affected State with conniv-
was two fold. First was full extra compensation as given to oth- ance of certain corrupt forest officials and politicians. Young
er drivers who died on duty and secondly employment to one and dynamic SP who was recently posted in the affected district
family member. The strike has continued for 10 days and the promised to himself to stop this menace. In one of his surprise
deadlock remains. checks with his team, he found loaded truck with stone trying to
(a) What are the options available to Rakesh to meet the above escape the mining area. He tried to stop the truck but the truck
situation? driver overrun the police officer, killing him on the spot and
(b) Critically examine each of the options identified by Rakesh thereafter managed to flee. Police filed FIR but no breakthrough
(c) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Rakesh? was achieved in the case for almost three months. Ashok who
(d) What course of action would Rakesh adopt to diffuse the was the Investigative Journalist working with leading TV chan-
above situation?” nel, suo moto started investigating the case. Within one month,
[UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational Ashok got breakthrough by interacting with local people, stone
Values for Civil Service | Theme: Compassion vs duty mining masia and government officials. He prepared his inves-
tigative story and presented to the CMD of the TV channel. He
exposed in his investigative report the complete nexus of stone
[Case Study 4] “Ramesh is State Civil Services Officer who got mafia working with blessing of corrupt police and civil officials
the opportunity of getting posted to the capital of a border and politicians. The politician who was involved in the mafia
State after rendering 20 years of service. Ramesh’s mother has was no one else but local MLA who was considered to be very
recently been detected cancer and has been admitted in the close to the Chief Minister. After going through the investigative
leading cancer hospital of the city. His two adolescent children report, the CMD advised Ashok to drop the idea of making the
have also got admission in one of the best public schools of the story public through electronic media. He informed that the lo-
town. After settling down in his appointment as Director in the cal MLA was not only the relative of the owner of the TV chan-
Home Department of the State, Ramesh got confidential report nel but also had unofficially 20 percent share in the channel.
through intelligence sources that illegal migrants are infiltrat- The CMD further informed Ashok that his further promotion
ing in the State from the neighbouring country. He decided to and hike in pay will be taken care of in addition the soft loan of
personally carry out surprise check of the border posts along 10 lakhs which he has taken from the TV channel for his son’s
with his Home Department team. To his surprise, he caught chronic disease will be suitably adjusted if he hands over the
investigative report to him. to Europe was rejected by their Inspecting Team due to certain
(a) What are the options available with Ashok to cope up with poor quality and was sent back. The top management ordered
the situation? that ibid consignment to be cleared for the domestic market. As
(b) Critically evaluate/examine each of the options identified by a part of Inspecting Team, you observed the glaring poor quality
Ashok. and brought to the knowledge of the Team Commander. How-
(c) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by Ashok? ever, the top management advised all the members of the team
(d) Which of the options, do you think, would be the most ap- to overlook these defects as the management cannot bear such
propriate for Ashok to adopt and why? a huge loss. Rest of the team members except you promptly
(e)In the above scenario, what type of training would you sug- signed and cleared the consignment for domestic market, over-
gest for police officers posted to such districts where stone min- looking glaring defects. You again brought to the knowledge of
ing illegal activities are rampant?” the Team Commander that such consignment, if cleared even
[UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and for domestic market, will tarnish the image and reputation of
Transparency in Government | Theme: Investigative journalism the company and will be counter-productive in the long run.
However, you were further advised by the top management
that if you do not clear the consignment, the company will not
[Case Study 6] “You have done MBA from a reputed institution hesitate to terminate your services citing certain innocuous rea-
three years back but could not get campus placement due to sons.
COVID-19 generated recession. However, after a lot of persua- (a) Under the given conditions, what are the options available
sion and series of competitive tests including written and in- to you as a member of the Inspecting Team?
terview, you managed to get a job in a leading shoe company. (b) Critically evaluate each of the options listed by you.
You have ageur parents who are dependent and staying with (c) What option would you adopt and why?
you. You also recently got married after getting this decent job. (d) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by you?
You were allotted the Inspection Section which is responsible (e) What can be the consequences of overlooking the observa-
for clearing the final product. In first one year, you learnt your tions raised by the Inspecting Team?”
job well and was appreciated for your performance by the man- [UPSC 2022,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
agement. The company is doing good business for last five years Transparency in Government | Theme: corruption
in domestic market and this year it is decided even to export
to Europe and Gulf countries. However, one large consignment
UPSC MAINS 2021

[Case Study 1] Pawan is working as an officer in the State Gov- mental torture, anguish and agony. Eventually, it badly affected
ernment for the last ten years. As a part of the routine transfer, his personal and family life. He was no longer joyous, happy and
he was posted to another department. He joined a new office contented even at home. Rather without any reason, he would
along with five other colleagues. The head of the office was a lose his temper with his wife and other family members. The
senior officer conversant with the functioning of the office. As family environment was no longer pleasant and congenial. His
a part of general inquiry, Pawan gathered that his senior officer wife who was always supportive of him also became a victim of
carries the reputation of being a difficult and insensitive per- his negativity and hostile behaviour. Due to harassment and hu-
son having his own disturbed family life. Initially, all seem to miliation suffering by him in the office, comfort and happiness
go well. However, after some time Pawan felt that the senior virtually vanished from his life. Thus, it damaged his physical
officer was belittling him and at times unreasonable. Whatever and mental health.
suggestions given or views expressed by Pawan in the meetings a) What are the options available with Pawan to cope up with
were summarily rejected and the senior officer would express the situation?
displeasure in the presence of others. It became a pattern of b) What approach Pawan should adopt for bringing, peace, tran-
the boss’s style of functioning to show him in bad light high- quillity and a congenial environment in the office and home?
lighting his shortcomings and humiliating him publicly. It be- c) As an outsider, what are your suggestions for both boss and
came apparent that though there are no serious work-related subordinate to overcome this situation and for improving the
problems/shortcomings, the senior officer was always on one work performance, mental and emotional hygiene?
pretext or the other and would scold and shout at him. The d) In the above scenario, what type of training would you sug-
continuous harassment and public criticism of Pawan resulted gest for officers at various levels in the government offices?”
in the loss of confidence, self-esteem and equanimity. Pawan [UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface
realized that his relations with his senior officer are becoming | Theme: Toxic Boss
more toxic and due to this, he perpetually tensed, anxious and
stressed. His mind was occupied with negativity and caused him
[Case Study 2] You are Vice Principal of a degree college in one b) If yours is a private hospital, whether your jurisdiction and
of the middle-class towns. The principal has recently retired decision would remain the same as that of a public hospital?”
and management is looking for his replacement. There are also [UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 5. Emotional Intelligence |
feelers that the management may promote you as Principal. In Theme: Disaster management
the meantime, during the annual examination, the flying squad
which came from the university caught two students red-hand-
ed involving in unfair means. A senior lecturer of the college was [Case Study 4] An elevated corridor is being constructed to
personally helping these students in this act. This senior lectur- reduce traffic congestion in the capital of a particular state.
er also happens to be close to the management. One of the You have been selected as project manager of this prestigious
students was the son of a local politician who was responsible project on your professional competence and experience. The
for getting college affiliated to the present reputed university. deadline is to complete the project in the next two years by 30
The second student was the son of a local businessman who has June 2021, since the project is to be inaugurated by the Chief
donated maximum funds for running the college. You immedi- Minister before the elections are announced in the second week
ately informed the management regarding this unfortunate in- of July 2021. While carrying out the surprise inspection by the
cident. The management told you to resolve the issue with the inspecting team, a minor crack was noticed in one of the piers
flying squad at any cost. They further said that such an incident of the elevated corridor possibly due to poor material used. You
will not only tarnish the image of the college but also the pol- immediately informed the chief engineer and stopped further
itician and the businessman are very important personalities work. It was assessed by you that a minimum of three piers of
for the functioning of the college. You were also given hint that the elevated corridor have to be demolished and reconstruct-
your further promotion to Principal depends on your capability ed. But this process will delay the project minimum by four to
in resolving this issue with the flying squad. In the meantime, six months. But the chief engineer overruled the observation
you were intimidated by your administrative officer that certain of the inspecting team on the ground that it was a minor crack
members of the student union are protesting outside the col- that will not in any way impact the strength and durability of
lege gate against the senior lecturer and the students involved the bridge. He ordered you to overlook the observation of the
in this incident are demanding strict action against defaulters. inspecting team and continue working with the same speed and
a) Discuss the ethical issue involved in the case. tempo. He informed you that the minister does not want any
b) Critically examine the options available with you as Vice Prin- delay as he wants the Chief Minister to inaugurate the elevated
cipal. What option will you adopt and why?” corridor before the elections are declared. Also informed you
[UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 5. Emotional Intelligence | that the contractor is a far relative of the minister and he wants
Theme: Vice Principal vs College exam cheaters him to finish the project. He also gave you a hint that your fur-
ther promotion as an additional chief engineer is under con-
sideration by the ministry. However, you strongly felt that the
[Case Study 3] The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic minor crack in the pier in the elevated corridor will adversely
has quickly spread to various countries. As of May 8th, 2020, affect the health and life of the bridge and therefore it will be
in India 56342 positive cases of corona had been reported. In- very dangerous not to repair the elevated corridor.
dia with a population of more than 1.35 billion had difficulty in a) Under the given conditions, what are the options available to
controlling the transmission of coronavirus among its popula- you as a project manager?
tion. Multiple strategies became necessary to handle this out- b) What are the ethical dilemmas being faced by the project
break. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India raised manager and his response to overcome such challenges?
awareness about this outbreak and to take all necessary actions c) What are the professional challenges likely to be faced by the
to control the spread of COVID -19. Indian Government imple- project manager and his response to overcome such challeng-
mented a 55-day lockdown throughout the country to reduce es?
the transmission of the virus. Schools and colleges had shifted d) What can be the consequences of overlooking the observa-
to alternative modes of teaching-learning-evaluation and certi- tion raised by the inspecting team?”
fication. Online mode became popular during these days. [UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
India was not prepared for a sudden onslaught of such a cri- and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Engineer vs Poor
sis due to limited infrastructure in terms of human resources, quality Bridge completion before election
money and other facilities needed for taking care of this situ-
ation. This disease did not spare anybody irrespective of caste,
creed, religion on one hand and ‘have and have not’ on the oth- [Case Study 5] Sunil is a young civil servant and has a reputation
er. Deficiencies in hospital beds, oxygen cylinders, ambulances, for his competence, integrity, dedication and relentlessness in
hospital staff and crematorium were the most crucial aspects. pursuit of difficult and onerous jobs. Considering his profile, he
You are a hospital administrator in a public hospital at the was picked up by his bosses to handle a very challenging and
time when coronavirus had attacked a large number of people sensitive assignment. He was posted in a tribal-dominated dis-
and patients were pouring into the hospital day in and day out. trict notorious for illegal sand mining. Excavating sand from riv-
a) What are your criteria and justification for putting your clini- er belts and transporting it through trucks and selling them in
cal and non-clinical staff to attend to the patients knowing fully the black market was rampant. This illegal sand mining mafia
well that it is a highly infectious disease and resources and in- was operating with the support of local functionaries and tribal
frastructure are limited? musclemen who in turn were bribing selected poor tribals and
had kept the tribals under fear and intimidation. [Case Study 6] A reputed food product company based in In-
Sunil being a sharp and energetic officer immediately dia developed a food product for the international market and
grasped the ground realities and the modus operandi followed started exporting the same after getting necessary approvals.
by the mafia through their devious and dubious mechanism. The company announced this achievement and also indicated
On making inquiries, he gathered that some of their own office that soon the product will be made available for domestic con-
employees are in hand and glove with them and have devel- sumers with almost the same quality and health benefits.
oped close unholy nexus. Sunil initiated stringent action against Accordingly, the company got its product approved by the
them and started conducting raids on their illegal operations of domestic competent authority and launched the product in the
the movement of trucks filled with sand. The mafia got rattled Indian market. The company could increase its market share
as not many officers in the past had taken such strong steps over a period of time and earned substantial profit both domes-
against the mafia. Some of the office employees who were al- tically and internationally. However, the random sample test
legedly close to the mafia informed them that the officer is de- conducted by the inspecting team found the product being sold
termined to clean up the mafia’s illegal sand mining operations domestically in variance with the approval obtained from the
in that district and may cause them irreparable damage. competent authority.
The mafia turned hostile and launched a counter-offen- On further investigation, it was also discovered that the food
sive. The tribal musclemen and mafia started threatening him company was not only selling products that were not meeting
with dire consequences. His family (wife and old mother) were the health standard of the country but also selling the rejected
stalked and were under virtual surveillance and thus causing export products in the domestic market. This episode adversely
mental torture, agony and stress to all of them. The matter affected the reputation and profitability of the food company.
assumed serious proportions when a muscleman came to his a) What action do you visualize should be taken by the compe-
office and threatened him to stop raids etc., otherwise, his fate tent authority against the food company for violating the laid
will not be different than some of his predecessors (ten years down domestic food standard and selling rejected export prod-
back one officer was killed by the mafia) ucts in the domestic market?
a) Identify the different options available to Sunil in attending b) What course of action is available with the food company to
this situation resolve the crisis and bring back its lost reputation?
b) Critically evaluate each of the options listed by you. c) Examine the ethical dilemma involved in the case.”
c) Which of the above, do you think, would be most appropriate [UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
for Sunil to adopt and why?” Transparency in Government | Theme: Lack of compliance
[UPSC 2021,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and Trans-
parency in Government | Theme: Corruption : IAS vs Mining Mafia
UPSC MAINS 2020

[Case Study 1] Rampura, a remote district inhabited by a trib- [Case Study 2] Migrant workers have always remained at the
al population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject socio-economic margins of our society, silently serving as the
poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, instrumental labour force of urban economics. The pandemic
though it is subsistence due to the very small landholdings. has brought them into national focus.
There is insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the tar- On announcement of a countrywide lockdown, a very large
geted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal number of migrant workers decided to move back from their
population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to places of employment to their native villages. The non-availabil-
migrate to other states to supplement the family income. Plight ity of transport created its own problems. Added to this was
of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labour con- the fear of starvation and inconvenience to their families. This
tractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby caused, the migrant workers to demand wages and transport
state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for pluck- facilities for returning to their villages. Their mental agony was
ing the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions accentuated by multiple factors such as a sudden loss of liveli-
in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor hood, possibility of lack of food and inability to assist in harvest-
girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms ap- ing their rabi crop due to not being able to reach home in time.
pear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the Reports of inadequate response of some districts in providing
twin issues of child labour and development of the area. the essential boarding and lodging arrangements along the way
You are appointed as the District Collector of Rampura. Iden- multiplied their fears.
tify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you ini- You have learnt many lessons from this situation when you
tiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district were tasked to oversee the functioning of the District Disaster
and to improve the overall economic scenario in the district” Relief Force in your district. In your opinion what ethical issues
[UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values | arose in the current migrant crisis? What do you understand
Theme: child labour by an ethical care giving state? What assistance can the civil
society render to mitigate the sufferings of migrants in similar ant India. He subconsciously nodded in agreement and smiled
situations? to himself as he mentally reviewed BML’s journey in the past
[UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 5. Emotional Intelligence | two decades. BML had admirably progressed from producing
Theme: Compassion in disaster first-generation anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) to design-
ing and producing state of the art ATGM weapon systems that
would be the envy of any army. He sighed in reconciliation with
[Case Study 3] Parmal is a small but underdeveloped district. his assumptions that the government would probably not alter
It has a rocky terrain that is not suitable for agriculture, though the status quo of a ban on the export of military weaponry.
some subsistence agriculture is being done on small plots of To his surprise, the very next day he got a telephone call from
land. The area receives adequate rainfall and has an irrigation the Director-General, Ministry of Defence, asking him to discuss
canal flowing through it. Amaria, its administrative centre, is a the modalities of increasing BML production of ATGMs as there
medium-sized town. It houses a large district hospital, an Indus- is a probability of exporting the same to a friendly country. The
trial Training Institute and some privately owned skill training Director-General wanted the Chairman to discuss the details
centres. It has all the facilities of a district headquarters. A trunk with his staff in Delhi next week.
railway line passes approximately 50 kilometers from Amaria. Two days later, at a press conference, the Defence Minister stat-
Its poor connectivity is a major reason for the absence of any ed that he aims to double the current weapons export levels
major industry therein. The state government offers a 10 year within five years. This would give an impetus to financing the
tax holiday as an incentive to new industry. development and manufacturing of indigenous weapons in the
In 2010 Anil, an industrialist decided to take benefits to set country. He also stated that all indigenous arms manufacturing
up Amaria Plastic Works (APW) in Noora village, about 20km nations have a very good record of the international arms trade.
from Amaria. While the factory was being built, Anil hired the As the Chairman of BML, what are your views on the following
required key labour and got them trained at the skill training points?
centres at Amria. This act of his made the key personnel very 1. As an arms exporter of a responsible nation like India, what
loyal to APW. are the ethical issues involved in arms trade?
APW started production in 2011 with the labour drawn fully 2. List five ethical factors that would influence the decision to
from Noora village. The villagers were very happy to get em- sell arms to foreign governments.
ployment near their homes and were motivated by the key per- [UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
sonnel to meet the production targets with high quality. APW and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: International re-
started making large profits, a sizeable portion of which was lations
used to improve the quality of life in Noora. By 2016, Noora
could boast of a greener village and a renovated village temple.
Anil liaised with the local MLA to increase the frequency of the [Case Study 5] Rajesh Kumar is a senior public servant, with a
bus services to Amria. The government also opened a prima- reputation of honesty and forthrightness, currently posted in
ry health care centre and primary school at Noora in buildings the Finance Ministry as the Head of the Budget Division. His
constructed by APW. APW used its CSR funds to set up women’s department is presently busy in organizing the budgetary sup-
self-help groups, subsidize primary education to the village chil- port to the states, four of which are due to the polls within the
dren and procure an ambulance for use by its employed and financial year.
the needy. This year’s annual budget had allotted Rs 8300 crores for the
In 2019, there was a minor fire in APW. It was quickly ex- National Housing Scheme (NHS), a centrally sponsored social
tinguished as fire safety protocols were in place in the factory. housing scheme for the weaker sections of society. Rs 775
Investigations revealed that the factory had been using electric- crores have been drawn for NHS till June.
ity in excess of its authorized capacity. This was soon rectified. The Ministry of Commerce had long been pursuing a case for
The next year, due to nationwide lockdown, the requirement of setting up a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in a southern state to
production fell for four months. Anil decided that all employees boost exports. After two years of detailed discussion between
would be paid regularly. He employed them to plant trees and the center and state, the Union Cabinet approved the project in
improve the village habitat. August. The process was initiated to acquire the necessary land.
APW had developed a reputation of high-quality production Eighteen months ago a leading Public Sector Unit (PSU) had
and a motivated workforce. projected the need for setting up a large natural gas processing
Critically analyse the story of APW and state the ethical is- plant in a northern state for the regional gas grid. The land is
sues involved. Do you consider APW as a role model for the de- already in possession of the PSU. The gas grid is an essential
velopment of backward areas? Give reasons. component of the national energy security strategy. After three
[UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Val- rounds of global bidding, the project was allotted to an MNC,
ues and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: corporate gov- M/s XYZ Hydrocarbons. The first tranche of payment to the
ernance: CSR Funding MNC is scheduled to be made in December.
Finance Ministry was asked for a timely allocation of an addi-
tional Rs 6000 crores for these two developmental projects.
[Case Study 4] The Chairman of Bharat Missiles Ltd (BML) was It was decided to recommend re-appropriation of this entire
watching a program on TV wherein the Prime Minister was ad- amount from NHS allocation. The file was forwarded to the
dressing the nation on the necessity of developing a self-reli- Budget Department for their comments and further processing.
On studying the case file, Rajesh Kumar realized that this re-ap- attention. The mishap resulted in a big hue and cry, forcing the
propriation may cause an inordinate delay in the execution of government to institute an enquiry.
NHS, a project much publicized in the rallies of senior politi- Your preliminary enquiry has revealed a series of anoma-
cians. Correspondingly, the non-availability of finances would lies. The material used for the construction was of poor qual-
cause a financial loss in the SEZ and national embarrassment ity. Despite the approved building plans permitting only one
due to delayed payment in the international project. basement, an additional basement has been constructed. This
Rajesh Kumar discussed the matter with seniors. He was con- was overlooked during the periodic inspections by the building
veyed that this politically sensitive situation needs to be pro- inspector of the municipal corporation. In your enquiry, you
cessed immediately. Rajesh Kumar realized that diversion of noticed that the construction of the mall was given the green
funds from the NHS could raise difficult questions for the gov- signal despite encroaching on areas earmarked for a green belt
ernment in the Parliament. and a slip road in the Zonal Master Plan of the city. The permis-
Discuss the following with reference to this case: sion to construct the mall was accorded by the previous Munic-
1. Ethical issues involved in re-appropriation of funds from a ipal Commissioner who is not only your senior and well known
welfare project to the development projects. to you professionally, but also a good friend.
2. Given the need for proper utilization of public funds, discuss Prima facie, the case appears to be of a widespread nexus
the options available to Rajesh Kumar. Is resigning a worthy op- between officials of the Municipal Corporation and the build-
tion? ers. Your colleagues are putting pressure on you to go slow in
[UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and the enquiry. The builder, who is rich and influential, happens to
Transparency in Government | Theme: fund allocation be a close relative of a powerful minister in the state cabinet.
The builder is persuading you to hush up the matter, promising
you a fortune to do so. He also hinted that if this matter is not
[Case Study 6] You are a municipal commissioner of a large resolved at the earliest in his favour there is somebody in his of-
city, having the reputation of a very honest and upright officer. fice who is waiting to file a case against you under the POSH act.
A huge multipurpose mall is under construction in your city Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. What are the
in which a large number of daily wage earners are employed. options available to you in this situation? Explain your selected
One night, during monsoons, a big chunk of the roof collapsed course of action.
causing instant death of four labourers including two minors. [UPSC 2020,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
Many more were seriously injured requiring immediate medical Transparency in Government | Theme: Corruption
UPSC MAINS 2019

[Case Study 1] In recent times, there has been an increasing After sometime a women employee launched a formal
concern in India to develop effective civil service ethics, code of complaint to the management against the marketing executive
conduct, transparency measures, ethics and integrity systems about sexually harassing her. Faced with the companies’ indif-
and anti-corruption agencies. In view of this, there is a need ference, in not taking cognizance of her grievances, she lodged
being felt to focus on three specific areas, which are directly an FIR with the police.
relevant to the problems of internalizing integrity and ethics in Realizing the sensitivity and gravity of the situation, the
the civil services. These are as follows: company called the women employee to negotiate. In that she
1. Anticipating specific threats to ethical standards and integrity was offered a hefty sum of money to withdraw the complaint
in the civil services, and the FIR and also give in writing that the marketing executive
2. Strengthening the ethical competence of civil servant and is not involved in the case.
3. Developing administrative processes and practices which Identify the ethical issues involved in this case. What op-
promote ethical values and integrity in civil services. tions are available to the women employee?
Suggest institutional measures to address the above three is- [UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
sues. Theme: gender equality based
[UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
Theme: Ethics in Civil Services
[Case Study 3] In one of the districts of a frontier state, nar-
cotics menace has been rampant. This has resulted in money
[Case Study 2] An apparel manufacturing company having a laundering, mushrooming of poppy farming, arms smuggling
large number of women employees was losing sales due to var- and near stalling of education. The system is on the verge of col-
ious factors. The company hired a reputed marketing executive, lapse. The situation has been further worsened by unconfirmed
who increased the volume of sales within a short span of time. reports that local politicians, as well as some senior police offi-
However, some unconfirmed reports came up regarding his in- cers, are providing surreptitious patronage to the drug mafia. At
dulgence in sexual harassment at the workplace. that point of time a woman police officer, known for her skills
in handling such situations is appointed as superintendent of ations. When your team reaches the affected area, the people
police to bring the situation to normalcy. there heckle and even assault some of the team members. One
If you are the same police officer, identify the various dimen- of your team members is even severely injured. Faced with this
sions of the crisis. Based on your understanding, suggest mea- crisis some team member pleads with you to call off the opera-
sures to deal with the crisis. tions freeing threats to their life.
[UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational In such trying circumstances, what will be your response? Ex-
Values for Civil Service | Theme: IPS Officer vs Drug Mafia amine the qualities of a public servant which will be required to
manage the situations.
[UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 5. Emotional Intelligence |
[Case Study 4] Honesty and uprightness are the hallmarks of a Theme: Disaster relief
civil servant. Civil servants possessing these qualities are con-
sidered as the backbone of any strong organisation. In line of
duty, they take various decisions, at times some become bona- [Case Study 6] In a modern democratic polity, there is a concept
fide mistakes. As long as such decisions are not taken intention- of the political executive and permanent executive elected peo-
ally and do not benefit personally, the officer cannot be said to ple’s representatives forms the political executive and bureau-
be guilty. Though such decisions may, at times, lead to unfore- cracy form the permanent executive. Ministers frame policy
seen adverse consequences in the long-term. decisions and bureaucrats execute these. In the initial decades
In the recent past, a few instances have surfaced wherein after independence, the relationship between the permanent
civil servants have been implicated for bonafide mistakes. They executives and the political executives were characterized by
have often been prosecuted and even imprisoned. These in- mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation, without en-
stances have greatly rattled the moral fibre of the civil servants. croaching upon each other’s domain.
How does this trend affect the functioning of the civil ser- However, in subsequent decades, the situation has changed.
vices? What measures can be taken to ensure that honest civil There are instances of the political executive insisting upon the
servants are not implicated for bonafide mistakes on their part? permanent executives to follow its agenda. Respect for an ap-
Justify your answer. preciation of upright bureaucrats has declined. There is an in-
[UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Founda- creasing tendency among the political executive to get involved
tional Values for Civil Service | Theme: Civil Servants implicated in routine administrative matters such as transfers, posting etc.
for Bonafide Mistakes Under this scenario, there is a definitive trend towards ‘politi-
cization of bureaucracy’. The rising materialism and acquisitive-
ness in social life has also adversely impacted upon the ethical
[Case Study 5] You are the heading the rescue operations in an values of both the permanent executive and the political exec-
area affected by severe natural calamity, thousands of people utive.
are rendered homeless and deprived of food, drinking water What are the consequences of this ‘politicization of bureau-
and other basic amenities. Rescue work has been disrupted by cracy? Discuss.
heavy rainfall and damaged to supply routes. The local people [UPSC 2019,20 Marks] Syllabus: 8. Probity in Governance |
are seeding with anger against the delayed limited rescue oper- Theme: politicization of bureaucracy
UPSC MAINS 2018

[Case Study 1] A big corporate house is engaged in manufactur- affected those industry which depended on the chemicals man-
ing industrial chemicals on a large scale. It proposes to set upon ufactured by it. As a senior officer entrusted with the responsi-
the additional unit. Many states rejected its proposal due to the bility of handling this issues, how are you going to address it?
detrimental effect on the environment. But one state govern- [UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
ment acceded to the request and permitted the unit close to a Theme: Environmental ethics
city, brushing aside all opposition. The unit was set up 10 years
ago and was in full swing till recently. The pollution caused by
the industrial effluents was affecting the land, water and crops [Case Study 2] It is a State where prohibition is in force. You are
in the area. It was also causing serious health problems to hu- recently appointed as the Superintendent of Police of a district
man beings and animals. This gave rise to a series of agitation notorious for illicit distillation of liquor. The illicit liquor leads
thousands of people took part, creating a law and order prob- to many death, reported and unreported, and causes a major
lem necessitating stern police action. Following the public out- problem for the district authorities. The approach till now had
cry, the State government ordered the closure of the factory. been to view it as a law and order problem and tackle it accord-
The closure of the factory resulted in the unemployment of not ingly. Raids, arrest, police cases, and criminal trials – all these
only those workers who were engaged in the factory but also had only limited impact. The problem remains as serious as
those who were working in the ancillary units. It also very badly ever. Your inspections show that the parts of the district where
the distillation flourishes are economically, industrially and edu- fulfils all the criteria except criterion ‘b’. However, any financial
cationally backward. Agriculture is badly affected by poor irriga- aid would certainly make a significant difference in their quality
tion facilities. Frequent clashes among communities gave boost of life. How should Rakesh respond to the situation?
to illicit distillation. No major initiatives had taken place in the [UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
past either from the government’s side or from social organiza- and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: services delivery
tions to improve the lot of the people. Which new approach will
you adopt to bring the problem under control?”
[UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 3. Attitude | Theme: Enforcing [Case Study 5] As a senior officer in the Ministry, you have ac-
liquor prohibition in backward area cess to important policy decisions and upcoming big announce-
ments such as road constructions projects before they are noti-
fied in the public domain. The Ministry is about to announce a
[Case Study 3] Dr X is a leading medical practitioner in a city. He mega road project for which the drawings are already in place.
has set up a charitable trust through which he plans to estab- Sufficient care was taken by the planners to make use of the gov-
lish a super-speciality hospital in the city to cater to the med- ernment land with the minimum land acquisition from private
ical needs of all sections of the society. Incidentally, that part parties. Compensation rate for private parties was also finalized
of the State had been neglected over the years. The proposed as per government rules. Care was also taken to minimize de-
hospital would be a boon for the region. You are heading the forestation. Once the project is announced, it is expected that
tax investigation agency of that region. During an inspection of there will be a huge spurt in real estate prices in and around
the doctor’s clinic, your officers have found out some major ir- that area. Meanwhile, the Minister concerned insists that you
regularities. A few of them are substantial which had resulted realign the road in such a way that it comes closer to his 20
in considerable withholding of tax that should be paid by him acres farmhouse. He also suggests that he would facilitate the
now. The doctor is cooperative. He undertakes to pay the tax purchase of a big plot of land in your wife name at the prevailing
immediately. However, there are certain other deficiencies in rate which is very nominal, in and around the proposed mega
his tax compliance which are purely technical in nature. If these road project. He also tries to convince you by saying that there
technical defaults are pursued by the agency, considerable time is no harm in it as he is buying the land legally. He even prom-
and energy of the doctor will be diverted to issues which are not ises to supplement your savings in case you do not have suffi-
so serious, urgent or even helpful to the tax collection process. cient funds to buy the land. However, by the act of realignment,
Further, in all probability, it will hamper the prospects of the a lot of agricultural lands has to be acquired, thereby causing
hospital coming up. There are two options before you: a considerable financial burden on the government, and also
1. Taking a broader view, ensure substantial tax compliance and the displacement of the farmers. As if this is not enough, it will
ignore defaults that are merely technical in nature. involve cutting down of a large number of trees denuding the
2. Pursue the matter strictly and proceed on all fronts,whether area of its green cover. Faced with this situation, what will you
substantial or merely technical. do? Critically examine various conflicts of interest and explain
As the head of the tax agency, which course of action will you what your responsibilities are as a public servant.”
opt and why? [UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
[UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: POlitical pressure
Values for Civil Service | Theme: officer’s compassion
[Case Study 6] Edward Snowden, a computer expert and for-

[Case Study 4] Rakesh is a responsible district level officer, who mer CIA administrator, released confidential Government doc-
enjoys the trust of his higher officials. Knowing his honesty, the uments to the press about the existence of Government sur-
government entrusted him with the responsibility of identifying veillance programmes. According to many legal experts and the
the beneficiaries under a health care scheme meant for senior US Government, his action violated the Espionage act of 1971,
citizens. The criteria to be a beneficiary are the following: which identified the leak of State secret as an act of treason.
1. 60 years of age or above. Yet, despite the fact that he broke the law, Snowden argued that
2. Belonging to a reserved community. he had a moral obligation to act. He gave a justification for his
3. Family income of less than 1 Lakh rupees per annum. “whistle blowing” by stating that he had a duty “to inform the
4. Post-treatment prognosis is likely to be high to make a posi- public as to that which is done in there name and that which is
tive difference to the quality of life of the beneficiary. done against them.” According to Snowden, the Government’s
One day, an old couple visited Rakesh’s office with their applica- violation of privacy had to be exposed regardless of legality
tion. They have been the residents of a village in his district since since more substantive issues of social action and public morali-
their birth. The old man is diagnosed with a rare condition that ty were involved here. Many agreed with Snowden. Few argued
causes obstruction in the large intestine. As a consequence, he that he broke the law and compromised national security, for
has severe abdominal pain frequently that prevents him from which he should be held accountable.
doing any physical labour. The couple has no children to support Do you agree that Snowden’s actions were ethically justified
them. The expert surgeon whom they contacted is willing to do even if legally prohibited? Why or why not? Make an argument
the surgery without charging any fee. However, the couple will by weighing the competing values in this case.
have to bear the cost of incidental charges, such as medicines, [UPSC 2018,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
hospitalization, etc., to the tune of rupees one lakh. The couple Transparency in Government | Theme: whistleblowing
UPSC MAINS 2017

[Case Study 1] You are aspiring to become an IAS officer and children died. These labourers are migrants of different places.
you have cleared various stages and now you have been select- The government immediately announced cash relief to the ag-
ed for the personal interview. On the day of the interview, on grieved families and arrested the builder. Give reasons for such
the way to the venue you saw an accident where a mother and incidents taking place across the country. Suggest measures to
child who happen to be your relatives were badly injured. They prevent their occurrence.
needed immediate help. What would you have done in such a [UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational
situation? Justify your action. Values for Civil Service | Theme: Duty vs illegal building(com-
[UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface | passion)
Theme: Self interest vs right to life
[Case Study 5] You are an honest and responsible civil servant.

[Case Study 2] You are the manager of a spare parts company You often observe the following:
A and you have to negotiate a deal with the manager of a large 1. There is a general perception that adhering to ethical conduct
manufacturing company B. The deal is highly competitive and one may face difficulties to oneself and cause problems for the
sealing the deal is critical for your company. The deal is being family, whereas unfair practices may help to reach the career
worked out over a dinner. After dinner the manager of manu- goals.
facturing company B offered to drop you to the hotel in his car. 2. When the number of people adopting unfair means is large, a
On the way to hotel he happens to hit motorcycle injuring the small minority having a penchant towards ethical means makes
motorcyclist badly. You know the manager was driving fast and no difference.
thus lost control. The law enforcement officer comes to inves- 3. Sticking to ethical means is detrimental to the larger devel-
tigate the issue and you are the sole eyewitness to it. Knowing opmental goals
the strict laws pertaining to road accidents you are aware that 4. While one may not involve oneself in large unethical practic-
your honest account of the incident would lead to the prose- es, but giving and accepting small gifts makes the system more
cution of the manager and as a consequence the deal is like- efficient.
ly to be jeopardised, which is of immense importance to your Examine the above statements with their merits and demerits.
company. What are the dilemmas you face? What will be your [UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational
response to the situation? Values for Civil Service | Theme: Integrity: Opinion as honest
[UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational officer
Values for Civil Service | Theme: Integrity
[Case Study 6] You are a Public Information Officer (PIO) in a

[Case Study 3] You are the head of the Human Resources de- government department. You are aware that the RTI Act 2005
partment of an organisation. One day one of the workers died envisages transparency and accountability in administration.
on duty. His family was demanding compensation. However, The act has functioned as a check on the supposedly arbitrari-
the company denied compensation because it was revealed ly administrative behaviour and actions. However, as a PIO you
in investigation that he was drunk at the time of the accident. have observed that there are citizens who filed RTI applications
The workers of the company went to strike demanding com- not for themselves but on behalf of such stakeholders who pur-
pensation for the family of the deceased. The Chairman of the portedly want to have access to information to further their
management board has asked for your recommendation. What own interests. At the same time there are these RTI activists
recommendation would you provide the management? Discuss who routinely file RTI applications and attempt to extort mon-
the merits and demerits of each of the recommendations. ey from the decision makers. This type of RTI activism has af-
[UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational fected the functioning of the administration adversely and also
Values for Civil Service | Theme: Compassion vs duty possibly jeopardises the genuineness of the applications which
are essentially aimed at getting justice. What measures would
you suggest to separate genuine and non-genuine applications?
[Case Study 4] A building permitted for three floors, while being Give merits and demerits of your suggestions.
extended illegally to 6 floors by a builder, collapses. As a conse- [UPSC 2017,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
quence, a number of innocent labourers including women and Transparency in Government | Theme: RTI
UPSC MAINS 2016

[Case Study 1] You are a young, aspiring and sincere employee energy efficient technology that will help the company to save
in a Government office working as an assistant, to the director production cost by 20%. The company’s decision goes well with
of your deportment. Since you’ve joined recently, you need to the Government policy of attracting investment to develop such
learn and progress. Luckily your superior is very kind and ready underdeveloped regions. The Government has also announced
to train you for your job. He is a very intelligent and well-in- tax holiday for five years for the companies that invest in under-
formed person having knowledge of various departments. In developed areas. However, the new plant may bring chaos for
short, you respect your book and are looking forward to learn the inhabitants of Vikaspuri region which is otherwise tranquil.
a lot from him. The new plant may result in increased cost of living, aliens mi-
Since you’ve good tuning with the boss, he started depend- grating to the region, disturbing the social and economic order.
ing on you. One day due to ill health he invited you at his place The company sensing the possible protest tried to educate the
for finishing some urgent work. You reached his house and you people of Vikaspuri region and public in general that how its
heard shouting noises before you could ring the bell. You wait- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy would help over-
ed for a while. After entering, boss greeted you and explained come the likely difficulties of the residents of Vikaspuri region.
the work. But you were constantly disturbed by the crying of a In spite of this the protests begin and some of the residents
woman. At last, you inquired with the boss but his answer did decided to approach the judiciary as their plea before the Gov-
not satisfy you. Next day, you were compelled to inquire further ernment did not yield any result.
in the office and found out that his behavior is very had at home (a) Identify the issues involved in the case.
with his wife. He also beat up his wife. (b) What can be suggested to satisfy Company’s goal and to ad-
His wife is not well educated and is a simple woman in dress the resident’s concern.
comparison to her husband. You see that though your boss is [UPSC 2016,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
a nice person in the office, he is engaged in domestic violence and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Corporate gover-
at home. In such a situation, you are left with the following op- nance
tions. Analyse each option with its consequences.
1. Just ignore thinking about it because it is their personal matter.
2. Report the case to the appropriate authority. [Case Study 4] Suppose you are an officer in-charge of imple-
3. Your own innovative approach towards the situation.” menting a social service scheme to provide support to old and
[UPSC 2016,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface | destitute women. An old and illiterate woman comes to you to
Theme: Gender equality avail the benefits of the scheme. However, she has no docu-
ments to show that she fulfils the eligibility criteria. But after
meeting her and listening to her you feel that she certainly
[Case Study 2] Land needed for mining, dams and other large- needs support. Your enquiries also show that she is really des-
scale projects is acquired mostly from Adivasis, hill dwellers and titute and living in a pitiable condition. You are in a dilemma as
rural communities. The displaced persons are paid monetary to what to do. Putting her under the scheme without are doc-
compensation as per the legal provisions. However, the pay- uments would clearly be violation of rules. But denying her the
ment is often tardy. In any case, it cannot sustain the displaced support would be cruel and inhuman.
families for long. These people do not possess marketable skills 1. Can you think of a rational way to resolve this dilemma?
to engage in some other occupation. They end up as low paid 2. Give your reasons for it.
migrant labourers. Moreover, their living is destroyed. Thus, the [UPSC 2016,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
benefits of traditional ways of community development go to and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Service delivery
industries, industrialists and urban communities whereas the
costs are passed on to these poor helpless people. This unjust
distribution of costs and benefits is unethical. Suppose you have [Case Study 5] Saraswati was a successful IT professional in USA.
been entrusted with the task of drafting a better compensa- Moved by the patriotic sense of doing something for the coun-
tion-cum-rehabilitation policy for such displaced persons, how try she returned to India. Together with some other like-minded
would you approach the problem and what would be the main friends, she formed an NGO to build a school for a poor rural
elements of your suggested policy? community.
[UPSC 2016,20 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values | Theme: Vul- The objective of the school was to provide the best quali-
nerable sections ty modern education at a nominal cost. She soon discovered
that she has to seek permission from a number of Governments
agencies. The rules and procedures were quite confusing and
[Case Study 3] ABC Ltd. is a large transnational company hav- cumbersome. What frustrated her most was the delays, callous
ing diversified business activities with a huge shareholder base. attitude of officials and constant demand of bribes. Her experi-
The company is continuously expanding and generating em- ence and the experience of many others like her has deterred
ployment. The company, in its expansion and diversification people from taking up social service projects.
programme, decides to establish a new plant at Vikaspuri, an A measure of Government control over voluntary social
area which is underdeveloped. The new plant is designed to use work is necessary. But it should not be exercised in a coercive or
corrupt manner. What measures can you suggest to ensure that her to keep quite as anyone who mentions the topic is sum-
due control is exercised but well meaning, honest NGO efforts marily dismissed. She cannot risk losing her job as she is the
are not thwarted? sole bread-winner for her family and has to support her ailing
[UPSC 2016,25 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and parents and siblings.
Transparency in Government | Theme: corruption At first, she thinks that if her seniors are keeping quiet, why
should she stick out her neck. But her conscience pricks her to
do something to save the river and the people who depend
[Case Study 6] A fresh engineering graduate gets a job in a upon it. At heart she feels that the advice of silence given by
prestigious chemical industry. She likes the work. The salary is her friends is not correct though she cannot give reasons for it.
also good. However, after a few months accidentally discovers She thinks you are a wise person and seeks your advice.
that a highly toxic waste is being secretly discharged into a river 1. What arguments can you advance to show her that keeping
nearby. This is causing health problems to the villagers down- quiet is not morally right?
stream who depend on the river for their water needs. She is 2. What course of action would you advise her to adopt and why?”
perturbed and mentions her concern to her colleagues who [UPSC 2016,25 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
have been with the company for longer periods. They advise Transparency in Government | Theme: Whistle-blow
UPSC MAINS 2015

[Case Study 1] “Case-Study: To do Drug Research on non-prof- 2. What could be the long-term solution to the issue discussed
itable disease or not? in the case?
One of the scientists working in the R & D laboratory of a 3. Every solution/action that you suggest will have a positive
major pharmaceutical company discovers that one of the com- and a negative impact on you (as CEO), the employees and the
pany’s best selling veterinary drugs, B has the potential to cure performance of the employees. Analyze the consequences of
a currently incurable liver disease that is prevalent in tribal ar- each of your suggested actions.”
eas. However, developing a variant of the drug suitable for hu- [UPSC 2015,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
man beings entailed a lot of research and development having Theme: Trade union issue
a huge expenditure to the extent of 50 crores rupees. It was un-
likely that the company would recover the costs as the disease
was rampant only in poverty-stricken area having very little [Case Study 3] You are recently posted as district development
market otherwise. If you were the CEO, then— officer of a district. Shortly thereafter you found that there is
(a) Identify the various actions that you could take; considerable tension in the rural areas of your district on the
(b) Evaluate the pros and cons of each of your actions.” issue of sending girls to schools.
[UPSC 2015,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface | The elders of the village feel that many problems have come
Theme: professional ethics up because girls are being educated and they are stepping out
of the safe environment of the household. They are of the view
that the girls should be quickly married off with minimum ed-
[Case Study 2] A private company is known for its efficiency, ucation. The girls are also competing for jobs after education,
transparency and employee welfare. The company though which have traditionally remained in boys’ exclusive domain,
owned by a private individual has a cooperative character adding to unemployment amongst male population.
where employees feel a sense of ownership. The company em- The younger generation feels that in the present era, girls
ploys nearly 700 personnel and they have voluntarily decided should have equal opportunities for education and employ-
not to form a union. ment, and other means of livelihood. The entire locality is divid-
One day suddenly in the morning, about 40 men belonging ed between the elders and the younger lot and further sub-di-
to a political party gatecrashed into the factory demanding jobs vided between sexes in both generations. You come to know
in the factory. They threatened the management and employ- that in Panchayat or in other local bodies or even in busy cross-
ees, and also used foul language. The employees feel demoral- roads, the issue is being acrimoniously debated.
ized. It was clear that those people who gate-crashed wanted One day you are informed that an unpleasant incident has
to be on the payroll of the company as well as continue as the taken place. Some girls were molested, when they were en
volunteers/members of the party. The company maintains high route to schools. The incident led to clashes between several
standards in integrity and does not extend favours to civil ad- groups and a law and order problem has arisen. The elders after
ministration that also includes law enforcement agency. Such heated discussion have taken a joint decision not to allow girls
incidents occur in public sector also. to go to school and to socially boycott all such families, which do
1. Assume you are the CEO of the company. What would you not follow their dictate.
do to diffuse the volatile situation on the date of gate-crashing 1. What steps would you take to ensure girls’ safety without
with the violent mob sitting inside the company premises? disrupting their education?
2. How would you manage and mould matriarchic attitude of justifications.”

the village elders to ensure harmony in the inter-generational [UPSC 2015,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values and
relations? Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Disaster management
[UPSC 2015,25 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values | Theme: gen-
der equality
[Case Study 6] You are heading a district administration in a par-
ticular department. Your senior officer calls you from the State
[Case Study 4] You are the Sarpanch of a Panchayat. There is Headquarters and tells you that a plot in Rampur village is to
a primary school run by the government in your area. Midday have a building constructed on it for a school. A visit is scheduled
meals are provided to the children attending the school. The during which he will visit the site along with the chief engineer
Headmaster has now appointed a new cook in the school to and the senior architect. He wants you to check out all the papers
prepare the meals. However, when it is found that the cook is relating to it and to ensure that the visit is properly arranged.
from Dalit community, almost half of the children belonging to You examine the file which relates to the period before you joined
higher castes are not allowed to take meals by their parents. the department. The land was acquired from the local Panchayat
Consequently the attendance in the school falls sharply. This at a nominal cost and the papers show that clearance certificates
could result in the possibility of discontinuation of midday meal are available from the two of the three authorities who have to
scheme, thereafter of teaching staff and subsequent closing certify the site’s suitability. There is no certification by the archi-
down the school. tect available on file. You decide to visit Rampur to ensure that all
1. Discuss some feasible strategies to overcome the conflict and is in order as stated on file. When you visit Rampur, you find that
to create right ambience. the plot under reference is part of Thakurgarh Fort and that the
2. What should be the responsibilities of different social seg- walls, ramparts, etc., are running across it. The fort is well away
ments and agencies to create positive social ambience for ac- from the main village, therefore a school here will be a serious in-
cepting such changes?” convenience for the children. However, the area near the village
[UPSC 2015,20 Marks] Syllabus: 6. Contributions of Moral Thinkers has potential to expand into a larger residential area.
| Theme: Caste system The development charges on the existing plot, at the fort, will
be very high and the question of heritage site has not been ad-
dressed. Moreover, the Sarpanch, at the time of acquisition of
[Case Study 5] There is a disaster-prone State having frequent land- the land, was a relative of your predecessor. The whole transac-
slides, forest fires, cloudbursts, flash floods and earthquakes, etc. tion appears to have been done with some vested interest.
Some of these are seasonal and often unpredictable. The mag- 1. List the likely vested interests of the concerned parties.
nitude of the disaster is always unanticipated. During one of the 2. Some of the options for action available to you are listed be-
seasons, a cloudburst caused devastating floods and landslides low. Discuss the merits and demerits of each of the options :
leading to high casualties. 1. Y ou can await the visit of the superior officer and let him take
There was major damage to infrastructure like roads, bridges a decision.
and power generating units. This led to more than 100000 pil- 2. You can seek his advice in writing or on phone.
grims, tourists and other locals trapped across different routes 3. You can consult your predecessor/colleagues, etc., and then
and locations. The people trapped in your area of responsibil- decide what to do.
ity included senior citizens, patients in hospitals, women and 4. You can find out if any alternate plot can be got in exchange
children, hikers, tourists, ruling party’s regional president along and then send a comprehensive written report.
with his family, additional jail. As secretary State and prisoners Can you suggest any other option with proper justification?
in jail. As a civil services officer of the State, what would be the [UPSC 2015,25 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
order in which you would rescue these people and why? Give Transparency in Government | Theme: corruption
UPSC MAINS 2014

[Case Study 1] Now-a-days, there is an increasing thrust on as it threatens our very survival.
economic development all around the globe. At the same time, Discuss some feasible strategies which could be adopted to
there is also an increasing concern about environmental degra- eliminate this conflict and which could lead to sustainable de-
dation caused by development. Many a time, we face a direct velopment.
conflict between developmental activity and environmental [UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface |
quality. It is neither feasible to stop or curtail the development Theme: Environment degradation
process, nor it is advisable to keep degrading the environment,
[Case Study 2] Suppose one of your close friends, who is also notice of his seniors. However, he was advised to keep his eyes,
aspiring for civil services, comes to you for discussing some of ears and mouth shut and ignore all these things which were
the issues related to ethical conduct in public service. He raises taking place with the connivance of the higher-ups. Rameshwar
the following points : felt highly disillusioned and uncomfortable. He comes to you
1. In the present times, when unethical environment is quite seeking your advice.
prevalent, individual attempts to stick to ethical principles may Indicate various options that you think are available in this sit-
cause a lot of problems in one’s career. It may also cause hard- uation. How would you help him to evaluate these options and
ship to the family members as well as risk to one’s life. Why choose the most appropriate path to be adopted?
should we not be pragmatic and follow the path of least resis- [UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 4. Aptitude and Foundational
tance, and be happy with doing whatever good we can? Values for Civil Service | Theme: demotivation in civil services
2. When so many people are adopting wrong means and are
grossly harming the system, what difference would it make if
only a small minority tries to be ethical? They are going to be [Case Study 5] You are a no-nonsense, honest officer. You have
rather ineffective and are bound to get frustrated. been transferred to a remote district to head a department that
3. If we become fussy about ethical considerations, will it not is notorious for its inefficiency and callousness. You find that
hamper the economic progress of our country? After all, in the the main cause of the poor state of affairs is the indiscipline of
present age of high competition, we cannot afford to be left be- a section of employees. They do not work themselves and also
hind in the race of development. disrupt the working of others. You first warned the troublemak-
4. It is understandable that we should not get involved in grossly ers to mend their ways or else face disciplinary action. When
unethical practices, but giving and accepting small gratifications the warning had little effect, you issued a show cause notice to
and doing small favours increases everybody’s motivation. It the ringleaders. As a retaliatory measure, these troublemakers
also makes the system more efficient. What is wrong in adopt- instigated a woman employee amongst them to file a complaint
ing such practices? of sexual harassment against you with the Women’s Commis-
Critically analyze the above viewpoints. On the basis of this sion. The Commission promptly seeks your explanation. The
analysis, what will be your advice to your friend? matter is also publicized in the media to embarrass you further.
[UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface Some of the options to handle this situation could be as follows
| Theme: need of ethics :
1. Give your explanation to the Commission and go soft on the
disciplinary action.
[Case Study 3] In our country, the migration of rural people to 2. Ignore the Commission and proceed firmly with the disci-
towns and cities is increasing drastically. This is causing serious plinary action.
problems both in the rural as well as in the urban areas. In fact, 3. Brief your higher-ups, seek directions from them and act ac-
things are becoming really unmanageable. Can you analyze this cordingly.
problem in detail and indicate not only the socio-economic but Suggest any other possible option(s). Evaluate all of them and
also the emotional and attitudinal factors responsible for this suggest the best course of action, giving your reasons for it.”
problem? Also, distinctly bring out why— [UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
1. Educated rural youth are trying to shift to urban areas; and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Bogus rape com-
2. Landless poor people are migrating to urban slums; plaint
3. Even some farmers are selling off their land and trying to set-
tle in urban areas taking up petty jobs.
What feasible steps can you suggest which will be effective in [Case Study 6] Suppose you are the CEO of a company that
controlling this serious problem of our country?” manufactures specialized electronic equipment used by a gov-
[UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 3. Attitude | Theme: attitutde ernment department. You have submitted your bid for the sup-
ply of this equipment to the department. Both the quality and
cost of your offer are better than those of the competitors. Yet
[Case Study 4] Rameshwar successfully cleared the prestigious the concerned officer is demanding a hefty bribe for approving
civil services examination and was excited about the opportu- the tender. Getting the order is important both for you and for
nity that he would get through the civil services to serve the your company. Not getting the order would mean closing a pro-
country. However, soon after joining the services, he realized duction line. It may also affect your own career. However, as a
that things are not as rosy as he had imagined. value-conscious person, you do not want to give bribe.
He found a number of malpractices prevailing in the department Valid arguments can be advanced both for giving the bribe and
assigned to him. For example, funds under various schemes and getting the order, and for refusing to pay the bribe and risking
grants were being misappropriated. The official facilities were the loss of the order. What those arguments could be? Could
frequently being used for personal needs by the officers and there be any better way to get out of this dilemma? If so outline
staff. After some time, he noticed that the process of recruiting the main elements of this third way, pointing out its merits.
the staff was also not up to the mark. Prospective candidates [UPSC 2014,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
were required to write an examination in which a lot of cheat- Transparency in Government | Theme: corruption
ing was going on. Some candidates were provided external help
in the examination. Rameshwar brought these incidents to the
UPSC MAINS 2013

[Case Study 1] Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu is known for its manufac- [Case Study 3] You are heading a leading technical institute of
turing clusters on firecrackers and matches. The local economy the country. The institute is planning to convene an interview
of the area is largely dependent on firecrackers industry. It has panel shortly under your chairmanship for selection of the
led to tangible economic development and improved standard post of professors. A few days before the interview, you get a
of living in the area. call from the Personal Secretary (PS) of a senior government
So far as child labour norms for hazardous industries like fire- functionary seeking your intervention in favour of the selection
crackers industry are concerned, International Labour Organiza- of a close relative of the functionary for this post. The PS also
tion (ILO) has set the minimum age as 18 years. In India, howev- informs you that he is aware of the long pending and urgent
er, this age is 14 years. proposals of your institute for grant of funds for modernization,
The units in industrial clusters of firecrackers can be classified which are awaiting the functionary’s approval. He assures you
into registered and non-registered entities. One typical unit is that he would get these proposals cleared.
household-based work. Though the law is clear on the use of 1. What are the options available to you?
child labour employment norms in registered/non-registered 2. Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which
units, it does not include household-based works. House- you would adopt, giving reasons.”
hold-based work means children working under the supervision [UPSC 2013,20 Marks] Syllabus: 2. Human Values | Theme: Fa-
of their parents/relatives. To evade child labour norms, several voritism
units project themselves as household-based works but employ
children from outside. Needless to say that employing children
saves the costs for these units leading to higher profits to the [Case Study 4] As a senior officer in the Finance Ministry, you
owners. have access to some confidential and crucial information about
On your visit to one of the units at Sivakasi, the owner takes you policy decisions that the Government is about to announce.
around the unit which has about 10-15 children below 14 years These decisions are likely to have far-reaching impact on the
of age. The owner tells you that in his household-based unit, housing and construction industry. If the builders have access to
the children are all his relatives. You notice that several children this information beforehand, they can make huge profits. One
smirk, when the owner tells you this. On deeper enquiry, you of the builders has done a lot of quality work for the Govern-
figure out that neither the owner nor the children are able to ment and is known to be close to your immediate superior, who
satisfactorily establish their relationship with each other. asks you to disclose this information to the said builder.
1. Bring out and discuss the ethical issues involved in the above 1. What are the options available to you?
case. 2. Evaluate each of these options and choose the option which
2. What would be your reaction after your above visit?” you would adopt, giving reasons.”
[UPSC 2013,25 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface | [UPSC 2013,20 Marks] Syllabus: 7. Public/Civil Service Values
Theme: Child Labourers and Ethics in Public Administration | Theme: Leaking informa-
tion
[Case Study 2] You are the Executive Director of an upcoming In-

foTech Company which is making a name for itself in the market. [Case Study 5] You are working as an Executive Engineer in the
Mr. A, who is a star performer, is heading the marketing team. In construction cell of a Municipal Corporation and are presently
a short period of one year, he has helped in doubling the reve- in-charge of the construction of a flyover. There are two Junior
nues as well as creating a high brand equity for the Company so Engineers under you who have the responsibility of day-to-day
much so that you are thinking of promoting him. However, you inspection of the site and are reporting to you, while you are
have been receiving information from many corners about his finally reporting to the Chief Engineer who heads the cell. While
attitude towards the female colleagues; particularly his habit of the construction is heading towards completion, the Junior En-
making loose comments on women. In addition, he regularly gineers have been regularly reporting that all construction is
sends indecent SMS’s to all the team members including his fe- taking place as per design specifications. However, in one of
male colleagues. your surprise inspections, you have noticed some serious devia-
One day, late in the evening, Mrs. X, who is one of Mr. A’s team tions and lacunae which, in your opinion, are likely to affect the
members, comes to you visibly disturbed. She complains against safety of the flyover. Rectification of these lacunae at this stage
the continued misconduct of Mr. A, who has been making un- would require a substantial amount of demolition and rework
desirable advances towards her and has even tried to touch her which will cause a tangible loss to the contractor and will also
inappropriately in his cabin. She tenders her resignation and delay completion. There is a lot of public pressure on the Corpo-
leaves your office. ration to get this construction completed because of heavy traf-
1. What are the options available to you? fic congestion in the area. When you brought this matter to the
2. Evaluate each of these options and choose the option you notice of the Chief Engineer, he advised you that in his opinion
would adopt, giving reasons.” it is not a very serious lapse and may be ignored. He advised for
[UPSC 2013,20 Marks] Syllabus: 1. Ethics and Human Interface | further expediting the project for completion in time. However,
Theme: Sexual Harassment you are convinced that this was a serious matter which might
affect public safety and should not be left unaddressed. possibility of punishment against him as well as some of his
What will you do in such a situation? Some of the options are colleagues. Non-disclosure or part disclosure or camouflaged
given below. Evaluate the merits and demerits of each of these disclosure of information will result into lesser punishment or
options and finally suggest what course of action you would like no punishment.
to take, giving reasons. The PIO is otherwise an honest and conscientious person but
1. Follow the advice of the Chief Engineer and go ahead. this particular decision, on which the RTI application has been
2. Make an exhaustive report of the situation bringing out all filed, turned out to be wrong. He comes to you for advice.
facts and analysis along with your own viewpoints stated clearly The following are some suggested options. Please evaluate the
and seek for written orders from the chief Engineer. merits and demerits of each of the options:
3. Call for explanation from the Junior Engineers and issue or- 1. The PIO could refer the matter to his superior officer and seek
ders to the contractor for necessary correction within targeted his advice and act strictly in accordance with the advice, even
time. though he is not completely in agreement with the advice of
4. Highlight the issue so that it reaches superiors above the the superior.
Chief Engineer. 2. The PIO could proceed on leave and leave the matter to be
5. Considering the rigid attitude of the Chief Engineer, seek dealt by his successor in office or request for transfer of the
transfer from the project or report sick.” application to another PIO.
[UPSC 2013,20 Marks] Syllabus: 8. Probity in Governance | 3. The PIO could weigh the consequences of disclosing the in-
Theme: project mismanagement formation truthfully, including the effect on his career, and reply
in a manner that would not place him or his career in jeopardy,
but at the same time a little compromise can be made on the
[Case Study 6] In the following questions, carefully study the contents of the information.
cases presented and then answer the questions that follow: 4. The PIO could consult his other colleagues who are party to
A Public Information Officer has received an application under the decision and take action as per their advice.
RTI Act. Having gathered the information, the PIO discovers that Also please indicate (without necessarily restricting to the above
the information pertains to some of the decisions taken by him, options) what you would like to advise, giving proper reasons. “
which were found to be not altogether right. There were other [UPSC 2013,20 Marks] Syllabus: 9. Information Sharing and
employees also who party to these decisions were. Disclosure Transparency in Government | Theme: RTI: To hide or not to
of the information is likely to lead to disciplinary action with hide.
We were the pioneers in UPSC to introduce Mentorship.
How Civilsdaily Does

Mentorship?
Third Phase Fourth Phse

First Phase Second phase
(Pre-Prelims) (Post-Prelims)
Aspirants struggle with Aspirants may

Switching to prelims Intensive preparation for
content overload and experience burnout
mindset. the Mains exam.
basic concepts. and self-doubt.
Mentors help them make Pre-tests and post-

sense of what to read, Mentors provide per- tests to discussions to
Hands-on classes and
how to approach subjects, sonalized support and assess retention and
post-test discussions.
and how to revise motivation. identify strengths and
effectively. weaknesses.
Regular tests are giv- Focus on consolidating

Personalized strategies
en to anchor marks to notes and knowledge Value enrichment sessions
for improving accuracy
understand performance gained. Introduction and X-factor notes are
and tackling difficult
through personalized to more complex and needed to gain an edge.
questions.
feedback. challenging subjects.
Double down on GS and

Answer writing practice Guidance on revising Guidance on online re-
Optional answer writing.
begins in the first few material and reflecting sources and study mate-
Frequent practice and
weeks. it in answers. rials
continuous feedback.
Key aspects of Civilsdaily’s Mentorship:
We precisely know where you are in your prep journey. We are constantly trying to ensure
that you stay on top of your preparation and hit your next milestone. Be it strategy, doubts,
post test discussions. We got your back.
CD Mentorship is not loose calls between mentors and mentees. It is a SYSTEM. Designed to
help you put your best foot forward. Our propriety technology ensures there are no lapses at
the end. Such sophisticated systems don’t exist anywhere.
Here’s how Mentor Dashboard looks like.
How do our stats look like?
As of 20th September, 2024. Our stats are as
82.3% 8.70% students are not-regular with Mentor

calls but are making progress.
students are REGULAR. They are

in touch with their Mentors, are 5.68% students are Ghost meaning they
have been absconding.
working on their targets.
These numbers flip for classroom-style Foundation programs

where 20% students quit by 2nd week. By nearly 2 months, 40% have quit.
Mentorship is a busy department.

We have had a rather busy week before Mains with our mentors being on calls around the clock.
The heart of the Civilsdaily platform is the Foundation Program and Ultimate Assessment
Program (UAP). For years, aspirants have enrolled here because they couldn’t find such depth
and passion towards quality content and Mentorship anywhere. Their search inevitably ends
at Civilsdaily. Enrollment in these programs and Mentorship also makes us accountable to
aspirants for the value they get.
In the past few years, we’ve worked quietly in the background with hundreds of aspirants;
many now serve as IAS, IPS, IFS, and more. We are very proud of what we’ve achieved.
Here are some of the

recent rankers who
show us gratitude.

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GS 1 Year-wise PYQ Analysis

Art and Culture

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

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Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

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GS 2 Year-wise PYQ Analysis

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Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

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Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

GS 3 Year-wise PYQ Analysis

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Science & Technology

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Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Science & Technology

Science & Technology

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Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks

Microthemes UPSC PYQs Year Marks